Photo: Bryn Pinzgauer · CC BY 2.0
BMW R100RS
88/100 Overall
85 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R100RS vs Norton Commando 850
BMW R100RS scores 88/100 overall against Norton Commando 850 on 82/100. On the road: 85–68. As classics: 90–95. Overall result: BMW R100RS.
Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Norton Commando 850
82/100 Overall
68 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R100RS | Norton Commando | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 7 | BMW R100RS |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 6 | BMW R100RS |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 5 | BMW R100RS |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 8 | BMW R100RS |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 7 | BMW R100RS |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Norton Commando |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | BMW R100RS |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 10 | Norton Commando |
Choose the BMW R100RS if…
you want landmark wind-tunnel fairing design, long-distance ability and durable airhead BMW engineering.
Choose the Norton Commando if…
you want a fast, handsome British twin with excellent road manners and the distinctive Isolastic riding experience.
Background
History
BMW R100RS
The BMW R100RS was produced from 1976–1984 and used a 980cc air-cooled opposed twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, styling, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Norton Commando
The Norton Commando 850 was produced from 1973–1977 and used a 828cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, character, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
BMW R100RS
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1984.
- The recorded engine description is: 980cc air-cooled opposed twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, styling, reliability.
Norton Commando
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 828cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, character, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
BMW R100RS
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the BMW R100RS. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Norton Commando
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Norton Commando 850. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
BMW R100RS
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Norton Commando
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the BMW R100RS
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Final result
The verdict
BMW R100RS wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Norton Commando 850 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R100RS takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.