1968 Norton Commando

This is a very early production 20M3 Commando.   VIN 126844 makes it the 719th Commando built in 1968.  It is titled as a 1969 as that is the year it was first licensed. According to Norton Owners Club copies of the factory records. this bike was shipped to Berliner Corp. the US distributer. on May 8th. 1968 and my title shows it was first registered in Feb 1969. It has matching frame. motor and transmission numbers. These early Commandos did not have a VIN plate riveted on the frame as the later ones used. the numbers were stamped directly onto the frame  headstock. I have owned it since 1986 and although it was completely rebuilt to its current condition about 16 years ago. it has had a more recent repaint. It was put on the road briefly. and then went into storage.    There are currently just about 1600 miles on the build. It came to me without a working speedometer so I have no idea of the total mileage. This Norton has retained the Atlas model type unpolished valve covers. as cast and un-chromed footrest supports. brake. shift and starter levers that were used on these very early Commandos.   Also has the unique to 1968-1969 primary drive cover.   The mufflers are new old stock.   All chrome is mostly good with exception of two small pieces that flaked off from front rim and the NOS mufflers have some minor “shelf wear”. Motor was rebuilt with superblend mains. new rod bearings. new pistons. head also completely reconditioned.   Bike received new clutch center. clutch plates. primary chain. and alternator rotor.   The frame has been professionally repaired and has both the original weak headstock gusset in place and the later type tube gusset. Frame is straight and the bike handles very well. Speedometer and tach have been rebuilt and new speedometer drive installed. Switchgear. horn. etc. work well. New Yuasa AGM battery.

A few items on the bike that are not original spec:  

·        Steel reproduction gas tank.   I have a good fiberglass tank. it was removed to preserve it and will go with the bike.   See picture of the original tank. It was painted with rest of bodywork so it matches.

·        Boyer ignition

·        520 o-ring chain conversion

·        External oil filter as used on the later models

·        Oil pressure gauge in place of ammeter in headlight

·        MK3 type adjustable isolastics

·        AMR carburetor modification which consists of boring out the body for  Mikuni brass slides

·        Front brake has the stiffening plate and works pretty good for a Norton two leader.

·        Lots of stainless steel fasteners were used in the build.

I have a good Arizona title.   The buyer to pay $500 deposit via paypal within 48 hours and balance by cash/cashier’s check if picking up locally or cashier’s check if having it shipped. within 7 days of auction end.

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