Norton Commando 961 SF Mk II - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Norton Commando 961 SF Mk II is a middleweight retro-sportster that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with modern performance. Known for its air-cooled parallel-twin engine, composed handling, and premium British craftsmanship, it delivers accessible power with authentic character. Best suited for experienced riders who value heritage and agility over raw speed.

2016
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General information

CategoryClassic
Year2016
ModelNorton Commando 961 SF Mk II
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemBlack chrome front pipes and reverse cone silencers
Emission detailsMultiple 3 way catalytic converter.
DrivelineConstant mesh. Final drive 525 “O” ring chain.
ClutchWet multi-plate hydraulic lifter
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
IgnitionCrank fired electronic
Fuel systemInjection
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x Stroke88.0 x 79.0 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches)
Compression10.1:1
Torque90.00 Nm (9.2 kgf-m or 66.4 ft.lbs) @ 6000 RPM
Power80.00 HP (58.4 kW) @ 7700 RPM
Engine detailsPush-rod valve actuation, 3 bearing crank and balancer shaft.
Engine typeTwin, four-stroke
Capacity:961.00 ccm (58.64 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

SeatOptional dual seat
WheelsBlack rims, wire spoked
Rear brakes diameter220 mm (8.7 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Brembo system, 2 piston
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
Rear tyre180/55-17
Front tyre120/70-17
Rear wheel travel110 mm (4.3 inches)
Rear SuspensionOhlins twin shocks
Front wheel travel115 mm (4.5 inches)
Front Suspension43mm Ohlins USD - adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping
Trail99 mm (3.9 inches)
Rake (fork angle)24.5°
Frame typeHand welded seamless tubular steel with integral oil tank

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity3.30 litres (0.22 quarts)
Fuel capacity17.00 litres (4.49 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, etc203.0 kg (447.5 pounds)
Dry weight188.0 kg (414.5 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsCarbon front mud guard, chain guard, rear wheel hugger, rear number plate hugger, headlight mounting, front and rear wheel.
InstrumentsNorton electronic analogue speedo and tachometer
StarterElectric
Color optionsBlack, red, white, green, grey, light blue

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

80 hp
Peak Power
4.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track45%
City55%
Cornering78%
Daily Riding55%
Touring45%
Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits an experienced rider who appreciates classic British twin character over outright modern performance.
PurposeIt is built for spirited backroad riding and café-racer style cornering rather than commuting, touring, or off-road use.
Rider FitA firm 813mm seat height and moderate 203kg wet weight demand reasonable rider fitness and confident low-speed handling but nothing extreme.
CharacterIt delivers a raw, torquey air-cooled parallel twin feel wrapped in premium Ohlins and Brembo componentry, rewarding a rider who values engagement and mechanical soul over electronics and refinement.
Not Ideal ForIt is not suited to riders seeking long-distance touring comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, or any off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Norton Commando 961 SF Mk II 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 2016 Norton Commando 961 SF Mk II, 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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