Classic Motorcycle Build

Norton Commando Build

After sitting non-running and partially disassembled for 20 years, this 1974 Roadster is getting a complete overhaul front to back.

1974 Norton Commando restoration

Even after decades of neglect, this classic British motorcycle still stands tall and proud.

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Engine Teardown and Inspection

Although it's a low mileage bike (most of them are), it's still half-a-century old and sat unused for a long time. So, engine teardown and inspection was in order.

Norton Commando cylinder head removal

Cylinder Head Removal

engine teardown Norton Commando 850

Timing Cover Removal and Installation

classic British motorcycle restoration

How To Polish Aluminum Engine Parts

Commando clutch removal

Clutch Removal

Norton primary chain removal

Primary Chain Removal

motorcycle engine removal

Engine Removal

remove pinion gear Triumph

Pinion Gear Removal

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Front End

Both fork tubes were badly pitted, and the only solution was to remove and replace.

classic British motorcycle restoration

Front Fork Disassembly

vintage British motorcycle restoration

Front Forks Overhaul

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Brake Caliper Overhaul

Fifty-year-old brake calipers do not come apart without a struggle. Since the bike had sat for so long, there was concern about the caliper pistons being stuck and corroded.

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Before and After Caliper Overhaul

polished aluminum brake caliper

Brake Caliper Overhaul

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Cleaning Spoke Wheels

Both front and rear wheels had considerable rust built up on the rims and spokes. First, the heavy rust was removed with steel wool.

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During the front forks overhaul, the front wheel was propped up on the workbench and given a thorough cleaning.

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After removing the brake rotor, each spoke and nipple was scrubbed with a scuff pad soaked in full-strength degreaser.

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This was followed by rinsing with water, then back up on the workbench for a second cleaning, this time with a scuff pad soaked in half-strength degreaser, followed by rinsing with water.

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motorcycle repair tools

Read: What Are Whitworth Tools?

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Norton Commando Articles:

Cylinder Head Removal
Clutch Removal
Primary Chain Removal
Timing Cover Removal and Installation
Pinion Gear Removal
Engine Removal
Brake Caliper Overhaul
Remove Fork Tubes
Front Fork Disassembly
How To Polish Motorcycle Forks
Front Fork Assembly
Norton Commando Upgrades
Norton Commando history

Read: Norton Commando History