1972 Norton 750 Commando Mark IV ‘Combat’
With Phil Aynsley
The Norton Commando was introduced in 1967 as the replacement for the company’s 750 Atlas.
![1972 Norton 750 Comando Mark IV](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-004-1024x797.jpg)
It was originally intended to have a completely new 800 cc DOHC parallel-twin engine but that was abandoned, as was a cheaper redesign.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-001-1024x681.jpg)
In the end a modified Atlas motor was used, with the biggest visual difference being the forward angled cylinders.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-015-847x1024.jpg)
Design consultants Wolff Ohlins came up with the look of the fibreglass tank/seat and ex-Rolls Royce engineer Dr Stefan Bauer (who had been involved with the 800 cc engine) produced a new frame that featured rubber mounting for the motor.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-011-1024x644.jpg)
Later the company’s Chief Engineer Bernard Hooper had to modify the frame and thus the company’s “Isolastic” frame was born.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-003-1024x683.jpg)
The original Commando was renamed the Fastback in 1969 and evolved through to the 1973 Mark V version. The bike seen here is a 1972 Mark IV.
![Norton Commando](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-010-1024x675.jpg)
It has the “Combat” motor that proved to be somewhat problematic in the reliability stakes, despite providing 65 hp at 6500 rpm.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-006-1024x948.jpg)
Other 750 cc Commando models included the ‘R’, ’S’, Interpol police version, Roadster, ‘SS’, Hi Rider and Interstate.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-016-1024x651.jpg)
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-018-762x1024.jpg)
850 cc models were also developed with the final Commando being produced in 1977.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-012-1024x683.jpg)
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-019-683x1024.jpg)
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-002-1024x644.jpg)
![1972 Norton 750 Commando Mark IV 'Combat'](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/PA-1972-Norton-750-Comando-Mark-IV-008-881x1024.jpg)
Norton 750 Commando Specifications
Norton 750 Commando Specifications | |
Engine | Air-cooled, four-stroke parallel-twin, push-rod OHV, two-valves per cylinder |
Capacity | 745 cc |
Bore x Stroke | 73 x 89 mm |
Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 |
Induction | Dual 30 mm Amal concentric carbs |
Max Power | 65 hp @ 6500 rpm |
Gearbox | Four-speed |
Front Suspension | Telescopic forks |
Rear Suspension | Dual rear shocks, five-way preload adjustable |
Brakes | Front disc brake, rear drum brake |
Tyres | 4.10 x 19in F/R |
Weight | 203 kg dry |