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 Triumph X-75 Hurricane
Norton Commando 850 scores 82/100 overall against Triumph X-75 Hurricane on 81/100. On the road: 68–62. As classics: 95–100. Overall result: Norton Commando 850.
Triumph X-75 Hurricane
81/100 Overall
62 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Norton Commando | Triumph Hurricane | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Triumph Hurricane |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Norton Commando |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 6 | Triumph Hurricane |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 6 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 4 | Norton Commando |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Triumph Hurricane |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 10 | Triumph Hurricane |
| 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 Triumph Hurricane if…
you want dramatic factory-custom styling, British triple character and a rare machine with exceptional period presence.
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.
Triumph Hurricane
The Triumph X-75 Hurricane was produced from 1972–1973 and used a 740cc air-cooled OHV inline triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, collector appeal and historic importance. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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.
Triumph Hurricane
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 740cc air-cooled OHV inline triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, collector appeal and 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.
Triumph Hurricane
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph X-75 Hurricane. 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
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.
Triumph Hurricane
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the fuel, ignition, charging and cooling systems operate correctly under load.
- 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 Triumph Hurricane
Final result
The verdict
Norton Commando 850 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Triumph X-75 Hurricane wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Norton Commando 850 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.