Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer - 2011 Specifications and Reviews

The 2011 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer appeals to riders seeking classic British styling with modern reliability. Its air-cooled parallel twin engine delivers 80 horsepower and 90 Nm of torque, providing characterful mid-range performance. Best known for authentically reviving the legendary Commando nameplate with retro aesthetics and genuine mechanical heritage.

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General information

CategoryClassic
Year2011
ModelNorton Commando 961 Cafe Racer
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemCafe Racer Sports Exhaust.
Emission detailsEuro 3 compliant with electronic fuel injection and multiple 3 way catalytic converter
Driveline525 O ring chain
ClutchWet multi-plate hydraulic lifter
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
IgnitionCrank fired
Fuel systemInjection
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke88.0 x 79.0 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches)
Torque90.00 Nm (9.2 kgf-m or 66.4 ft.lbs) @ 5200
Power80.00
Engine detailsParallel twin with push-rod valve actuation, dry sump, 3 bearing crank and balancer shaft.
Engine typeTwin, four-stroke
Capacity:961.00 ccm (58.64 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsFront wheel: 36 spoke 3.50 x 17" Black Rim. Rear wheel: 40 spoke 5.0 x 17" Black Rim
Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Full Brembo system, 2 piston Gold Line calliper
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Full Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston Gold Line axial callipers
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-17
Rear suspension travel110 mm (4.3 inches)
Rear suspensionOhlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, reload, compression and rebound
Front suspension travel115 mm (4.5 inches)
Front suspension43mm Ohlins USD - Adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping.
Rake (fork angle)24.5°
Frame typeSteel tubular with integral oil tank

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity3.30 litres (0.22 quarts)
Fuel capacity17.03 litres (4.50 gallons)
Wheelbase1,420 mm (55.9 inches)
Seat height813 mm (32.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.4255 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc204.0 kg (449.7 pounds)
Dry weight188.0 kg (414.5 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsBlack/gold, Red/gold, yellow/black, silver/red/back
InstrumentsNorton electronic analogue speedo and tachometer
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

76.8 hp
Peak Power
4.6s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track55%
City55%
Cornering80%
Daily Riding50%
Touring40%
Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to an experienced rider who appreciates classic mechanical character over outright modern performance.
PurposeBuilt for spirited weekend rides and cafe racer style cornering rather than commuting or long-distance touring.
Rider FitThe low, forward-leaning cafe racer riding position and firm suspension demand a reasonably fit rider comfortable with wrist and wrist load on longer stints.
CharacterA charismatic, old-school parallel twin with premium Ohlins and Brembo hardware that rewards a rider who values feel and heritage over raw numbers.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for new riders, pillion-focused riders, or anyone wanting long-haul touring comfort or off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2011 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 813mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2011 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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