Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV
80/100 Overall
62 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV vs Norton Commando 850
Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV scores 80/100 overall against Norton Commando 850 on 82/100. On the road: 62–68. As classics: 98–95. 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 H2 | Norton Commando | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 10 | 7 | Kawasaki H2 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 5 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 6 | Norton Commando |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 5 | Kawasaki H2 |
| 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. | 9 | 10 | Norton Commando |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki H2 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki H2 |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki H2 if…
you want explosive two-stroke acceleration, notorious 1970s superbike attitude and maximum theatre.
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 H2
The Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV was produced from 1972–1975 and used a 748cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
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 H2
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1975.
- The recorded engine description is: 748cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, historic importance, collector appeal.
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 H2
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV. Its library score for performance 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 H2
- 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.
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 H2
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Final result
The verdict
Norton Commando 850 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Norton Commando 850 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.