A lustworthy Norton
Recently, our friends at Revivial Cycles posted this jaw-dropping Norton cafe racer for sale. Not only is the build extremely well done, this bike belongs to Tim Lopez of multi-platinum recording artist and Grammy-nominated Plain White T’s. Tim has put a lot of love and care into this bike, and the details really are stunning. I’m sorry to report that the bike has already sold…but I’m certainly not surprised.
The bike is a 1973 Norton Commando Combat 750cc with matching numbers. It’s a complete frame-off rebuild by West Coast Racing. The engine and transmission were completely rebuilt by Colorado Norton works with just under 1000 miles on the work – just through the break-in period!
The black powder coated from, and black dual high pipes are a great contrast agains the polished rear sets and chrome heat shields.
The bike looks sharp from every angle. The modern upside down forks (off a GSXR) and Brembo brakes somehow don’t look out of place one bit on this ’73 Commando. New rear Works Performance shocks balance out the bike.
In the cockpit, the view is pretty minimal with Renthal clip-ons, a GPS speedometer, a black and gold steering dampener and a single rear mirror in view.
Numerous components are custom made in brass such as the front and rear fenders, kickstand, as well as the brake and clutch levers. Oil is stored in a bobber “bomb” style oil tank tucked neatly under the custom distressed leather seat.
To complete the black & gold theme, the bike boasts a period correct metal commando tank in black with gold pinstriping and logos.
The bike rolls on black spoked wheels with a custom black and gold rear hub wrapped in Avon Venom X rubber.
Personally, just reading about all the gold and copper, my first reaction would be that it’s too much, but after pining over these photos, I only wish I had the spare $30k to snatch this Norton Commando Combat 750cc up before some other lucky bloke had the chance. We just hope the new owner will love it and ride it like it’s meant to be ridden.
Now go listen to some Plain White T’s and stop drooling over these pics.
