mismatched numbers

hey all, i'm looking at buying a commando 850 with a 71 frame & a 69 motor. i'm looking for input on how much mismatched numbers alter the bike's value.
thanks!
kristin

Hi! and welcome to the forum!

Number 1 is the bike's value to you.

But there is no such thing as a 71 850 since the 850 came out in 73. It's possible to open up the 71 cases to accept an 850 barrel but there are other significant differences with the 71 and earlier cases mostly the cam and cam driven breather out the end of the left side case. Also the 850 had beefier swing arm and the rear frame loop was gussetted.

This bike seems to be made of mis-matched pieces so I wouldn't value it it the same as a stock 73, 74 850 for sure. Still if it is well put together and the price is right it's still a Norton. It really depends on the condition. I bought a 71 that had had the bottom end blown so the p/o replaced the engine cases with new ones which were the 73 castings so to me that was way better than the 71 castings. There are a lot of variables to consider. Serial numbers and photos help evaluate something like this.

thecopperchick said:

a commander

Click to expand...

Norton (Motors) did make a "Commander" model, but that's totally different to a Commando.

thanks! i'll see what other info he can offer me.
also, commando. i mistyped. :wink:

Kirstin, All else being equal (it never is!) a matched numbers bike will command a higher price than a mismatched one, however these are not very expensive bikes compared to some other classics - My own observation is that good ones seem to be available for between $5,000 to $8,000 - so there might be a difference of $1,000 or so for a good runner with mismatched components (the gearboxes on Commandos are also numbered at the top, so you can see whether this matches either the frame or the engine). Rennie has already given useful information regarding earlier and later models etc. However what you will find by reading through this and other forums is that people don't just collect Commandos they ride them, regularly and far and quickly, so it is important that you first and foremost get a good one, regardless of it's purported provenance. Do try to post some pictures as there is much that can be discerned from a simple photo. I would try to find someone in your area that has some knowledge of Commandos and bring them along when you buy your bike, also I would consider buying from a British bike dealer if there is one in your area. Good luck with your search, you will undoubtedly enjoy owning and riding a Commando.

I would probably pay more for a properly sorted mismatched numbers bike than a completely stock numbers matching one. The fact that the cases were replaced indicates something was drastically wrong with the original. Since a mismatch is probably cheaper, you are possibly getting a good deal.

Hi Kristin,

Welcome to the forum and good luck with your search!

As the guys said, condition is more important than matching numbers or model year. If you can post some photos of the bike that would help people give you a better idea of its value.

If you can find a Norton owner's club in your area it would be a really good idea to hook up with them. And if you could bring along another Norton owner to help you look at the bikes that would be even better.

Debby
72 750, non matching numbers
74 850, built up from parts

It might be important to consider whether or not you feel up to doing the detective work to figure out what was done with the bike. There are people in this forum that have a ton of experience and would have no trouble sorting out a bike that was put together from multiple sources. Then there are us mortal types that need more help. Even if the bike is well put together you may find it frustrating if it was done in a manner that won't allow you to use manuals to fix it. It can be a bit of a chore figuring out parts for even the more standard bikes.

Russ