Photo: Carsamar · CC BY-SA 4.0
Kawasaki KLR650
75/100 Overall
77 On the road73 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki KLR650 vs Norton Commando 850
Kawasaki KLR650 scores 75/100 overall against Norton Commando 850 on 82/100. On the road: 77–68. As classics: 73–95. Overall result: Norton Commando 850.
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 | Kawasaki KLR650 | Norton Commando | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 6 | 7 | Norton Commando |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 5 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 10 | 8 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 8 | 7 | Kawasaki KLR650 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 7 | 10 | Norton Commando |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Norton Commando |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 6 | 9 | Norton Commando |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 10 | Norton Commando |
Choose the Kawasaki KLR650 if…
you want durable, practical long-distance trail-bike ownership with excellent parts support and uncomplicated character.
Choose the Norton Commando if…
you want a fast, handsome British twin with excellent road manners and the distinctive Isolastic riding experience.
Background
History
Kawasaki KLR650
The Kawasaki KLR650 was produced from 1987–2007 and used a 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for ownership appeal, reliability and character. 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?
Kawasaki KLR650
- Its production span in this library runs from 1987 to 2007.
- The recorded engine description is: 651cc liquid-cooled DOHC four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are ownership appeal, reliability and character.
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
Kawasaki KLR650
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KLR650. Its library score for ownership appeal 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
Kawasaki KLR650
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check starting technique, top-end noise, decompressor operation, vibration-related fasteners and oil circulation.
- 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 Kawasaki KLR650
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki KLR650 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Norton Commando 850 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Norton Commando 850 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.