Naked Motorcycles

2016Norton Commando 961 SF Mk II

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The 2016 Norton Commando 961 SF Mk II is a middleweight retro-sportster that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with modern performance. Known for its air-cooled parallel-twin engine, composed handling, and premium British craftsmanship, it delivers accessible power with authentic character. Best suited for experienced riders who value heritage and agility over raw speed.

Capacity: 961.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 188.0 kg
Seat height: 813 mm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.4 kW) @ 7700 RPM

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Other years 2016 2017

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering78%

City riding55%

Daily riding55%

Touring45%

Two-up40%

Track45%

Best for: It is built for spirited backroad riding and café-racer style cornering rather than commuting, touring, or off-road use.
Built for: It delivers a raw, torquey air-cooled parallel twin feel wrapped in premium Ohlins and Brembo componentry, rewarding a rider who values engagement and mechanical soul over electronics and refinement.
Not ideal for: It is not suited to riders seeking long-distance touring comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, or any off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 813mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Norton Commando 961 SF Mk II, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 961.0 ccm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.4 kW) @ 7700 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 3 CO2 g/km
Torque: 90.0 Nm (9.2 kgf-m) @ 6000 RPM
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.4255 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.0 x 79.0 mm
Compression: 10.1:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Crank fired electronic
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-plate hydraulic lifter

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1420 mm
Seat height: 813 mm
Dry weight: 188.0 kg
Wet weight: 203.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Oil capacity: 3.30 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Hand welded seamless tubular steel with integral oil tank
Front suspension: 43mm Ohlins USD - adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping
Rear suspension: Ohlins twin shocks
Front wheel travel: 115 mm
Rear wheel travel: 110 mm
Rake (fork angle): 24.5°
Trail: 99 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-17
Rear tyre: 180/55-17

Other

Color options: Black, red, white, green, grey, light blue
Comments: Carbon front mud guard, chain guard, rear wheel hugger, rear number plate hugger, headlight mounting, front and rear wheel.

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.