2013 Norton 961 cold starting

Raincityrider · May 8, 2024

Hello,

I've recently purchased a 2013 Norton Commando and absolutely love riding the thing. The only issue is the bike is so dang cold blooded. It typically takes 5 or 6 attempts to get the bike idling after which I let it warm up before riding. Perhaps my bike does not have the remapped ECU? Anyone know of reputable place to send the ECU?

Thank you!

kev · May 9, 2024

Mine used to be the same and fresh fuel and a new battery have solved my issues. Maybe doesn't start on the first click, but get's going on the 2nd.

Another tip I only recently learnt.....do NOT use the throttle to get going. Get it started and LEAVE IT for a minute. Don't touch the throttle. If you do this it should run right. If you blip the throttle it screws up the fueling and it'll be lumpy/cut out at lights/etc. I've done that for a while now and it runs a lot better.

Raincityrider · May 12, 2024

kev said:
Mine used to be the same and fresh fuel and a new battery have solved my issues. Maybe doesn't start on the first click, but get's going on the 2nd.

Another tip I only recently learnt.....do NOT use the throttle to get going. Get it started and LEAVE IT for a minute. Don't touch the throttle. If you do this it should run right. If you blip the throttle it screws up the fueling and it'll be lumpy/cut out at lights/etc. I've done that for a while now and it runs a lot better.

Thanks for the advice Kev. The battery is older but I do keep it on a tender. Might have a friend with a dyno do some tuning.

Stephen_Spencer · May 12, 2024

The Coote’s Throttle Control manual explains the 961 starting procedure and its importance. For some reason it is not included to the resources area of this site - not sure why. It can be found here:

https://coloradonortonworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Throttle-Control-Norton-961-web.pdf

kev · May 13, 2024

Yeh that's a better explanation of what I said! Genuinely been a game-changer for me with 961 ownership. Such a simple tip but well worth remembering

Raincityrider · May 13, 2024

Stephen_Spencer said:
The Coote’s Throttle Control manual explains the 961 starting procedure and its importance. For some reason it is not included to the resources area of this site - not sure why. It can be found here:

https://coloradonortonworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Throttle-Control-Norton-961-web.pdf

View attachment 114292

Thank you! I've been giving the bike throttle every time which would explain the rough running. Appreciate the help guys.

Stephen_Spencer · May 13, 2024

Raincityrider said:
Thank you! I've been giving the bike throttle every time which would explain the rough running. Appreciate the help guys.

Good spot by Kev as your potential problem. Throttle Control manual added to ‘resources’ area.

Clive · May 20, 2024

Of course it will be very dependant on which ECU you have. Basically try all combinations and find the one which works for you. Best things I did was to to keep it on trickle charge and fit a decent starter motor.......

2013 Norton 961 cold starting

Similar threads