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 Benelli 750 Sei
Norton Commando 850 scores 82/100 overall against Benelli 750 Sei on 82/100. On the road: 68–68. As classics: 95–95. Overall result: A draw.
Benelli 750 Sei
82/100 Overall
68 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Norton Commando | Benelli 750 Sei | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 7 | 8 | Benelli 750 Sei |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 7 | Norton Commando |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 6 | 8 | Benelli 750 Sei |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 5 | 6 | Benelli 750 Sei |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 5 | Norton Commando |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Norton Commando |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Benelli 750 Sei |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| 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 Benelli 750 Sei if…
you want the world's first production six-cylinder motorcycle, with exotic styling, sound and rarity.
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.
Benelli 750 Sei
The Benelli 750 Sei was produced from 1974–1978 and used a 747cc air-cooled inline six. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, character, styling. 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.
Benelli 750 Sei
- Its production span in this library runs from 1974 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 747cc air-cooled inline six.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, character, styling.
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.
Benelli 750 Sei
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Benelli 750 Sei. Its library score for historic importance 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.
Benelli 750 Sei
- 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.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Norton Commando
Rivals to the Benelli 750 Sei
Final result
The verdict
On the road the motorcycles finish level. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Their evenly weighted overall scores are tied, so the better choice depends on whether the rider values road ability or classic appeal most.