49 hp, 745 cc OHV twin-cylinder engine.

The 1950s Norton Dominator evolved from 500 cubic centimeters to 600 cubic centimeters, and then it became the 750-cubic centimeter Atlas in 1964. The increased displacement increased the amount of vibration, so an ingenious solution was developed: an “isolastic” suspension of the drivetrain as a separate unit, attached to a large top tube via rubber mounts. The result was handsome, fast, and successful.

The Norton Commando was soon introduced in 1968. There would be numerous variations, the high-pipe S, roadster, and fastback, and even the ape-hanger, Hi-Rider for the U.S. But the Commando that is most prized is the original model, like the very nice example offered here. With only 11,681 indicated miles, it is finished in black with gold striping and fitted with a Mikuni carburetor upgrade.