Honda NS400R
85/100 Overall
72 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Honda NS400R vs Norton Commando 850
Honda NS400R scores 85/100 overall against Norton Commando 850 on 82/100. On the road: 72–68. As classics: 98–95. Overall result: Honda NS400R.
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 | Honda NS400R | Norton Commando | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 7 | Honda NS400R |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 9 | 8 | Honda NS400R |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 6 | Honda NS400R |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 5 | Honda NS400R |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 7 | Norton Commando |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Honda NS400R |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Honda NS400R if…
you want a compact, beautifully balanced Honda race replica with unusual V3 character and strong 1980s collector appeal.
Choose the Norton Commando if…
you want a fast, handsome British twin with excellent road manners and the distinctive Isolastic riding experience.
Background
History
Honda NS400R
The Honda NS400R was produced from 1985–1987 and used a 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and styling. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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?
Honda NS400R
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 387cc liquid-cooled two-stroke V3.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and styling.
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
Honda NS400R
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda NS400R. Its library score for character 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
Honda NS400R
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection system, crank seals, cooling system and exhaust condition carefully.
- 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 Honda NS400R
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Final result
The verdict
Honda NS400R wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Honda NS400R wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Honda NS400R takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.