Kawasaki Z1300
84/100 Overall
77 On the road90 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki Z1300 vs Norton Commando 850
Kawasaki Z1300 scores 84/100 overall against Norton Commando 850 on 82/100. On the road: 77–68. As classics: 90–95. Overall result: Kawasaki Z1300.
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 Z1300 | Norton Commando | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki Z1300 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 6 | Kawasaki Z1300 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 5 | Kawasaki Z1300 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 8 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 7 | Kawasaki Z1300 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 10 | Norton Commando |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki Z1300 if…
you want colossal six-cylinder presence, effortless performance and one of Japan's most ambitious heavyweight classics.
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 Z1300
The Kawasaki Z1300 was produced from 1979–1989 and used a 1286cc liquid-cooled inline six. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, performance, historic importance. 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 Z1300
- Its production span in this library runs from 1979 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 1286cc liquid-cooled inline six.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, performance, historic importance.
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 Z1300
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki Z1300. 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
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 Z1300
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- 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 Z1300
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Final result
The verdict
Kawasaki Z1300 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Norton Commando 850 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Kawasaki Z1300 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.