1973 Norton Commando - 1st yr 850 - Candy Apple Red - Ready to Enjoy

1973 Norton Commando 85012k miles - Collector Care1st year (MK1) of 850
Well preserved, argely original -- ready to roll!
Available for bid is a legend that needs little introduction. 1973 ushered in some necessary engine upgrades. The new 850 answered the call. Many of the British bikes of this era underwent some pretty significant modifications. For those who appreciate the design and engineering cues of the original, ou're in luck -- this one is largely unscathed.
Close inspection of the engine will reveal a Mikuni carb. This is a very common upgrade and was installed quite some time ago. The tank was recently flushed. New petcocks were installed and new fuel lines. A brand new intake was also fitted to the carb. A very careful eye will notice a few parts are "wired" to the engine. Done as a tribute to the racing heritage of this bike -- more fun than function. This bike is ready to enjoy.
Color is always a bit subjective. I personally, eally like these bikes in black too. But, have to admit, he red on this bike is not only very period specific, ut offsets the beautiful polished aluminum very well too. It certainly stands out in a lineup of classic bikes. It was repainted to the original color to very high standards. Glass like finish, and painted decals and striping -- very sharp.
Other recent mechanical work includes updating to some wiring. Over time, ome of the wiring was looking a bit tattered, ut it was all sorted out with top notch parts.It is just about to roll over to 12,200 miles. The slightly faded seat emblem and overall presentation speak to a really well preserved, paringly used original. One that survived the thrashing so many bikes receive.
Front disc brake was also added to the Norton in 1973 (if I recall correctly). It's a good thing. Bikes with this displacement and power capability really deserve/need them. Bikes from this era are very easy to strip down to the frame. With the tank off, he massive top tube of this bikes frame is revealed. It's a sight to behold. The "isolastic system" is another interesting chapter in British motorsports "chassis" engineering. Fun topic to research, f you haven't already.
The VIN on the headset plate may be a bit difficult to read. It was tough to photograph. It matches the number stamped on the crankcase. The 489th made in the new for '73 MK1 850.
I've tried to capture the bike thoroughly through this description and the photographs. My goal is to give everyone interested a very complete and accurate impression of the bike. Overall it is really sharp. The kind of bike that would be very difficult to restore to this level for reserve price. If you have any questions at all or would like to arrange to see the bike, lease call or text me at (816) 786-7534.
Bidding, hipping, tc. --
Bidding -- the reserve price is not included out of respect for the bidding process. Simply bid the amount you feel comfortable investing in a classic bike with this level of restoration and preservation. If you have any questions, lease call.
The Norton Commando has a strong following. There will be quite a few interested parties involved in this auction. Please treat the bidding process as the serious contract to purchase that it is. Have your finances in order before, tc. Everyone benefits when this is done. Thanks in advance for your respect.
Shipping -- shipping or local pickup is the responsibility of the buyer. I will make the basic logistics very easy on my end.
Thanks for your interest and good luck bidding!

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