14 August. Friday 2026
Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II - 2019 Specifications and Reviews
The 2019 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is a retro-styled middleweight that appeals to riders seeking classic British character with modern reliability. Known for its distinctive cafe racer aesthetics, authentic instrumentation, and lightweight construction at 203.5 kg, it delivers accessible performance with genuine vintage appeal. The bike excels for enthusiasts who prioritize style and handling over outright power.
General information | |
| Category | Classic |
| Year | 2019 |
| Model | Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Stainless steel |
| Emission details | Euro 3 compliant with multiple 3 way catalytic converter |
| Driveline | 525 “O†ring chain |
| Clutch | Wet multi-plate |
| Transmission type | Chain (final drive) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | 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 | 90.0 Nm (9.2 kgf-m or 66.4 ft.lbs) @ 5200 RPM |
| Power | 80.0 HP (58.4 kW) @ 6500 RPM |
| Engine details | Push rod, hydraulic roller lifter |
| Engine type | Twin, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Stainless steel spoked polished rim |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Brembo, 2 piston calliper |
| Diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Brembo, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line†axial callipers |
| Rear tire | 180/55-17 |
| Front tire | 120/70-17 |
| Rear wheel travel | 110 mm (4.3 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, reload, compression and rebound |
| Front wheel travel | 115 mm (4.5 inches) |
| Front Suspension | 43mm Ohlins USD - 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 | |
| Oil capacity | 3.30 litres (3.49 US quarts) |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 4.00 litres (1.06 US gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 17.03 litres (4.50 US gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm (55.1 inches) |
| Seat height | 810 mm (31.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.4255 HP/kg |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 203.5 kg (448.6 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 188.0 kg (414.5 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Electrical | 300 watt hi-output charging system. |
| Instruments | Analogue speedo and tachometer. Multi-function display including mileage, trip, battery voltage and time. |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Galatic Black/Gold Pinstripe, Titanium Grey/Black Pinstripe, Royal Red/Gold Pinstripe, Manx Silver/Red/Black Pinstripe, Steel Green/Black Pinstripe, English White/Black Pinstripe |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
80 hp
Peak Power
4.2s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track55%
City55%
Cornering80%
Daily Riding50%
Touring40%
Passenger30%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to experienced riders who appreciate a characterful, torquey parallel twin with old-school clutch and throttle feel rather than modern electronic aids. |
| Purpose | Built for spirited backroad riding and café racer style, blending classic British twin heritage with premium Ohlins and Brembo componentry for genuine cornering ability. |
| Rider Fit | The low, forward-leaning cafe racer stance and 810mm seat height demand reasonable flexibility and wrist strength, making longer rides more physically demanding than on an upright standard. |
| Character | A soulful, mechanical-feeling machine that rewards deliberate, engaged riding with tactile feedback rather than outright modern refinement or electronic sophistication. |
| Not Ideal For | Not for riders seeking long-distance touring comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, or 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 2019 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is a stunning motorcycle that combines classic style with modern performance. With its sleek and stylish design, this bike is sure to turn heads wherever you go. The 961cc parallel-twin engine delivers plenty of power and a smooth, responsive ride. The Cafe Racer Mk II also features high-quality components, such as Brembo brakes and Ohlins suspension, offering excellent handling and stopping power. Whether you're cruising around town or hitting the open road, the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II delivers an exhilarating riding experience. Overall, the 2019 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is a fantastic motorcycle that offers a perfect blend of style, performance, and quality. From its retro-inspired design to its powerful engine and top-notch components, this bike is a true standout in the cafe racer category. If you're in the market for a stylish and high-performing motorcycle, the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is definitely worth considering.Add a Comment
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