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 RG500 Gamma
Norton Commando 850 scores 82/100 overall against Suzuki RG500 Gamma on 89/100. On the road: 68–77. As classics: 95–100. Overall result: Suzuki RG500 Gamma.
Photo: Thesupermat · CC BY-SA 4.0
Suzuki RG500 Gamma
89/100 Overall
77 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Norton Commando | Suzuki RG500 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 10 | Suzuki RG500 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 10 | Suzuki RG500 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 9 | Suzuki RG500 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 7 | Suzuki RG500 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 5 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 5 | Norton Commando |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki RG500 |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Suzuki RG500 |
| 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 RG500 if…
you want a road-going Grand Prix experience, extraordinary two-stroke performance and blue-chip collector status.
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 RG500
The Suzuki RG500 Gamma was produced from 1985–1987 and used a 498cc liquid-cooled two-stroke square four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, performance, 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?
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 RG500
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1987.
- The recorded engine description is: 498cc liquid-cooled two-stroke square four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, performance, historic importance.
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 RG500
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki RG500 Gamma. 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
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 RG500
- 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 Suzuki RG500
Final result
The verdict
Suzuki RG500 Gamma wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Suzuki RG500 Gamma wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Suzuki RG500 Gamma takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.