- Introduces “make-to-order” premium Norton motorcycles initially via direct import
- The Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer is the first model offered
- Priced at INR 23 lakh (ex-showroom, India) with a booking amount of INR 11 lakh
Iconic British motorcycle manufacturer Norton has just announced their arrival in India. It was founded in 1898 as a manufacturer of "fittings and parts for the two-wheel trade". In 1968, the new 750 cc Norton Commando Model appeared, with the engine/gearbox/swingarm unit isolastically insulated from the frame with a series of rubber mountings.(unique to Norton). This kept the vibrations from the rider, giving a smooth comfortable ride. The Commando was a best seller, and voted #1 Motorcycle of the Year a number of times in Britain. Eventually the company faced several political troubles that led to its closing downfall before a resurrection in 2008.
Under new ownership from England, Norton introduces its brand to India, initially via direct import followed by local production towards the end of 2018. The first model available is the Commando 961 Cafe Racer inspired by the classic British cafe racers of the past. Only one unit is presently available, as Norton believes in a “make-to-order” offering.
Powering the Cafe racer is a 961cc, parallel-twin motor with 2-valve head and push-rod actuation. Power figures have been quoted by Norton as 80bhp and 90Nm of torque. However, the India-spec Commando 961 will get a lower state of tune with power figures of 72bhp and 67Nm of torque.
India’s vibrant and growing premium motorcycle market gets more competitive with this new addition and it will be interesting to observe Norton’s upcoming growth and localised product line-up.
