Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Norton Commando 850
82/100 Overall
68 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Norton Commando 850 vs Suzuki GSX-R1100
Norton Commando 850 scores 82/100 overall against Suzuki GSX-R1100 on 86/100. On the road: 68–77. As classics: 95–95. Overall result: Suzuki GSX-R1100.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
86/100 Overall
77 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Norton Commando | Suzuki GSX-R1100 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 10 | Suzuki GSX-R1100 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 8 | Suzuki GSX-R1100 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 8 | Suzuki GSX-R1100 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 5 | Norton Commando |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Norton Commando |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki GSX-R1100 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Norton Commando if…
you want a fast, handsome British twin with excellent road manners and the distinctive Isolastic riding experience.
Choose the Suzuki GSX-R1100 if…
you want huge real-world performance, lightweight race-replica intent and the muscular character of Suzuki's big GSX-R.
Background
History
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.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
The Suzuki GSX-R1100 was produced from 1986–1998 and used a Air/oil-cooled DOHC inline four, later liquid-cooled. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance and performance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
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.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
- Its production span in this library runs from 1986 to 1998.
- The recorded engine description is: Air/oil-cooled DOHC inline four, later liquid-cooled.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance and performance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
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.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki GSX-R1100. 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.
Before you buy
Buying checks
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.
Suzuki GSX-R1100
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor or fuel-injection balance, charging output, cooling and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- 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 Norton Commando
Rivals to the Suzuki GSX-R1100
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki GSX-R1100 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Suzuki GSX-R1100 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.