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Classic · 2013

Commando 961 Sport

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MotoLibrary Score
53 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.43 hp/kg
Torque
80 Nm
Engine
961 ccm

2013 Norton Commando 961 Sport Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Norton's classic motorcycle lineup, the 2013 Norton Commando 961 Sport features a 961 cc (58.6 cu in) air-cooled twin, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 80 HP (58.4 kW) at 7,700 rpm while maximum torque reaches 80 Nm (59 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 83.2 HP per liter and a 1,700 rpm working window between peak torque (6,000 rpm) and peak power (7,700 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the Commando 961 Sport measures 188 kg (414 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.43 HP/kg (2.35 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 813 mm (32 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,420 mm (55.9 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.

Within MotoLibrary's Norton archive, this model family spans 8 indexed model years from 2010 to 2025, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
83.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.43 HP/kg (2.35 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
6,000–7,700 rpm
Standover Height
813 mm (32 in)
Engine
Displacement 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches)
Engine Type Twin, four-stroke
Engine Details Parallel twin with push-rod valve actuation, 3 bearing crank and balancer shaft.
Power 80.0 HP (58.4 kW)) @ 7700 RPM
Torque 80.0 Nm (8.2 kgf-m or 59.0 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Compression 10.0:1
Bore x Stroke 88.0 x 79.0 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel System Injection. EFI
Ignition Crank fired
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Wet multi-plate hydraulic lifter
Driveline Constant mesh 5 speed
Performance
Emission Details 3 way catalytic converter. Euro III.
Chassis
Frame Type Steel tubular with integral oil tank. Swing arm: Twin-sided steel construction.
Rake 24.5°
Trail 99 mm (3.9 inches)
Front Suspension 43mm Öhlins conventional forks - Adjustable preload, compression damping.
Front Travel 115 mm (4.5 inches)
Rear Suspension Twin-sided steel swing arm. Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, preload, compression
Rear Travel 100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheelbase 1420 mm (55.9 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 120/70-17
Rear Tyre 180/55-17
Front Brakes Double disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
Front Brake Ø 320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper
Rear Brake Ø 220 mm (8.7 inches)
Wheels Front wheel: 36 spoke 3.50 x 17” Chrome Rim. Rear wheel: 40 spoke 5.0 x 17” Chrome Rim
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 188.0 kg (414.5 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.4255 HP/kg
Seat Height 813 mm (32.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Fuel Capacity 17.00 litres (4.49 US gallons)
Other
Starter Electric
Color Options Black, red, silver
Instruments Analogue speedo and tachometer
Electrical 300 watt hi-output charging system.
More from Norton
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
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Weight
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Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
🏍️
Best For
General Purpose
📏
Seat Height
81.3 cm / 32 in
⚖️
Handling
Medium weight — some experience needed
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