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 Yamaha DT125LC
Norton Commando 850 scores 82/100 overall against Yamaha DT125LC on 77/100. On the road: 68–68. As classics: 95–85. Overall result: Norton Commando 850.
Photo: Jybumaat · Public domain
Yamaha DT125LC
77/100 Overall
68 On the road85 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Norton Commando | Yamaha DT125LC | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 6 | Norton Commando |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 7 | Yamaha DT125LC |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 7 | Yamaha DT125LC |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 6 | Norton Commando |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Norton Commando |
Choose the Norton Commando if…
you want a fast, handsome British twin with excellent road manners and the distinctive Isolastic riding experience.
Choose the Yamaha DT125LC if…
you want a lively trail-style 125 with strong 1980s appeal, useful road ability and proper two-stroke character.
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.
Yamaha DT125LC
The Yamaha DT125LC was produced from 1982–1988 and used a 123cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
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.
Yamaha DT125LC
- Its production span in this library runs from 1982 to 1988.
- The recorded engine description is: 123cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, character, styling.
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.
Yamaha DT125LC
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha DT125LC. Its library score for collector appeal is 9/10. 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.
Yamaha DT125LC
- 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 or premix arrangement, crank seals 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.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Rivals to the Yamaha DT125LC
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. Norton Commando 850 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Norton Commando 850 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.