14 August. Friday 2026
Norton Commando 961 Cafe - 2023 Specifications and Reviews
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe is a retro-styled middleweight that appeals to riders seeking classic British character with modern reliability. Powered by a 961cc air-cooled twin producing 77 horsepower, it excels at delivering approachable performance and nostalgia in a manageable package. Best known for blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary engineering, it suits enthusiasts who value style and heritage equally.
2023
General information | |
| Category | Classic |
| Year | 2023 |
| Model | Norton Commando 961 Cafe |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Stainless steel exhaust system with multiple 3-way catalytic converter |
| Driveline | Constant mesh |
| Clutch | Wet multi-plate |
| Transmission type | Chain (final drive) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Oil & air |
| Lubrication system | Dry sump |
| Ignition | Digital |
| Fuel control | Pushrods |
| Fuel system | Injection. Crank-fired, electronic injection |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 |
| Bore x Stroke | 88.0 x 79.0 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches) |
| Compression | 10.1:1 |
| Torque | 81.0 Nm (8.3 kgf-m or 59.7 ft.lbs) @ 6300 RPM |
| Power | 76.8 HP (56.1 kW) @ 7250 RPM |
| Engine details | Push-rod valve actuation, 3 bearing crank and balancer shaft. |
| Engine type | Twin, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Seat | Colour-matched seat cowl |
| Wheels | Polished aluminium rims Dunlop Sportmax tyres. |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston, ABS. |
| Diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston callipers. ABS. |
| Rear tire | 180/55-ZR17 |
| Front tire | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Rear wheel travel | 100 mm (3.9 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | Twin-sided steel swing arm.43mm Öhlins upside-down forks – adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping |
| Front wheel travel | 115 mm (4.5 inches) |
| Front Suspension | 43mm Ohlins upside-down forks - adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping |
| Trail | 99 mm (3.9 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 24.5° |
| Frame type | Steel tubular with integral oil tank. |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 15.00 litres (3.96 US gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm (55.1 inches) |
| Seat height | 810 mm (31.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 230.0 kg (507.1 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Comments | Also called Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer. |
| Electrical | 300 watt hi-output charging system. |
| Instruments | Analogue speedo and tachometer |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Black, Platinum |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
76.8 hp
Peak Power
4.3s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track45%
City55%
Cornering75%
Daily Riding50%
Touring40%
Passenger35%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to an experienced rider who appreciates a characterful, torque-driven classic twin rather than outright modern performance. |
| Purpose | Built for spirited café-racer style rides, twisty backroads, and looking good doing it rather than long-distance touring or track domination. |
| Rider Fit | The low, cafe-style seat and moderate weight make it manageable, though firm suspension and a forward-leaning riding position demand decent core and wrist strength on longer rides. |
| Character | A traditional British twin with premium Ohlins and Brembo componentry, offering old-school soul wrapped in modern chassis performance. |
| Not Ideal For | Not the right choice for riders wanting plush touring comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, or any serious off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
Total comments: 1
MotorcycleDB Review
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe is a stunning and powerful motorcycle with a classic design that harkens back to the brand's heritage. With a 961cc engine and top-notch suspension and braking systems, this bike offers a smooth and exhilarating ride. The Cafe model features a sleek and stylish aesthetic, with a retro-inspired color scheme and premium leather seat. Whether you're cruising through the city streets or hitting the open road, the Norton Commando 961 Cafe commands attention and delivers an unforgettable riding experience. Norton has truly outdone themselves with the 2023 Commando 961 Cafe, offering riders a perfect blend of performance, style, and nostalgia. The modern engineering and classic design make this motorcycle a standout choice for enthusiasts who appreciate both power and aesthetics. With its impressive features and iconic look, the 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe is a must-have for any rider looking for a timeless and thrilling motorcycle experience.Add a Comment
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