Photo: Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd · Owned by Classic & Classy Motorcycles Ltd
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead
74/100 Overall
58 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead vs Norton Commando 750
Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead scores 74/100 overall against Norton Commando 750 on 83/100. On the road: 58–68. As classics: 90–98. Overall result: Norton Commando 750.
Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Norton Commando 750
83/100 Overall
68 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Harley-Davidson FLH | Norton Commando 750 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 7 | Norton Commando 750 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 4 | 8 | Norton Commando 750 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 6 | Norton Commando 750 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 5 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 7 | Harley-Davidson FLH |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Norton Commando 750 |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Norton Commando 750 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 8 | 9 | Norton Commando 750 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Harley-Davidson FLH if…
you want relaxed long-distance presence, unmistakable American V-twin character and traditional Harley styling.
Choose the Norton Commando 750 if…
you want the original Commando experience, combining Isolastic smoothness, strong road performance and iconic British styling.
Background
History
Harley-Davidson FLH
The Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead was produced from 1966–1984 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Norton Commando 750
The Norton Commando 750 was produced from 1968–1973 and used a 745cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance and styling. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Harley-Davidson FLH
- Its production span in this library runs from 1966 to 1984.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, historic importance.
Norton Commando 750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1968 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 745cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance and styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Harley-Davidson FLH
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson FLH Shovelhead. 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 750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Norton Commando 750. 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
Harley-Davidson FLH
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- 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 750
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary-drive or final-drive condition, charging output, engine mounts and signs of persistent 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 Harley-Davidson FLH
Rivals to the Norton Commando 750
Final result
The verdict
Norton Commando 750 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Norton Commando 750 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Norton Commando 750 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.