At the heart of the 1974 Norton MK2A 850 Commando Roadster sport motorcycle, Norton utilizes a 828 cc (50.5 cu in) air-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 60 HP (43.8 kW) at 6,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 72.5 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the MK2A 850 Commando Roadster measures 199.6 kg (440 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.3 HP/kg (3.33 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 787 mm (31 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,440 mm (56.7 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 11.36-liter (3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.11 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 222 km (138 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 190 km/h (118 mph).
Specific Output
72.5 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.3 HP/kg (3.33 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~222 km (138 mi)
Engine
Displacement828.0 ccm (50.52 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSame engine as the Interstate
Power60.0 HP (43.8 kW)) @ 6250 RPM
Compression8.5:1
Bore x Stroke77.0 x 89.0 mm (3.0 x 3.5 inches)
Valves/Cylinder2
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Twin Amals
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
Ignitionpoints
LubricationDry sump
CoolingAir
Max RPM7500
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet multiplate
Performance
Top Speed189.9 km/h (118.0 mph)
0-400m13.00 seconds
Fuel Consumption5.11 litres/100 km (19.6 km/l or 46.03 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases118.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustDouble chrome pipes
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble cradle, large back bone steel, with Isolastic vibration system
Front SuspensionTelescopic
Front Travel152 mm (6.0 inches)
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Rear Travel76 mm (3.0 inches)
Wheelbase1440 mm (56.7 inches)
Ground Clearance152 mm (6.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
WheelsSpoke
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight188.2 kg (415.0 pounds)
Weight incl.199.6 kg (440.0 pounds)
Power/Weight0.3187 HP/kg
Seat Height787 mm (31.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2235 mm (88.0 inches)
Fuel Capacity11.36 litres (3.00 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel3.79 litres (1.00 US gallons)
Oil Capacity3.00 litres (3.17 US quarts)
Other
StarterKick
Color OptionsBlue, Red, Black
Electrical12v dc
Notes
English bike. Last of the kick start Commandos. Shifts on the right side. 1 up 3 down
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.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
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.
