Bsa Commando Mark Iii: History, Specs & Legacy

The Commando Mark III, a product of BSA Motorcycles, features a frame intimately linked to the Norton Commando, known for its isolastic suspension. This model, developed during a period when the company faced significant financial difficulties, represents an evolution from earlier designs but shares key elements with the Triumph Trident concerning engine development and mechanical architecture. Despite its innovative features, the Mark III faced challenges in the market, competing with more established models from Japanese manufacturers.

Alright, picture this: a motorcycle so iconic, it’s practically a rock star on two wheels. We’re talking about the Norton Commando. Not just any Commando, but the Mark III—the last and arguably the most refined in a legendary line. This isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a time machine that takes you back to an era of British engineering, roaring engines, and a whole lot of attitude.

Now, the Commando family has a complicated family tree (more on that later with Norton Villiers and BSA playing key roles). But the Mark III? It’s the one that got the memo about modern times. It took all the Commando’s raw appeal and sprinkled in a bit of civility. Think of it as the James Bond of motorcycles: stylish, powerful, and with just the right amount of gadgets.

We’re talking about a classic that still turns heads, a bike that sparks conversations, and a piece of history that you can actually ride. It’s the kind of motorcycle that makes you want to throw on a leather jacket, find an open road, and just…go. So, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into what makes the Norton Commando Mark III so special and why it continues to captivate hearts (and wallets) to this day.

A Brief History: Norton, BSA, and the British Motorcycle Industry

The Rise of Norton: From humble beginnings to racing glory

Norton’s story isn’t just about building bikes; it’s a proper British tale of innovation, grit, and a whole lotta oil. Picture this: the late 1800s, and James Lansdowne Norton is tinkering away, driven by a passion to create something extraordinary. From its inception as a manufacturer of motorcycle components and fittings, they quickly turned to building complete motorcycles. Early Nortons became known for their reliability and build quality (a real plus back when roads were… shall we say, “adventurous”).

But it was racing where Norton truly made its mark. Pre-WWII, the legendary Norton Manx became the bike to beat at the Isle of Man TT, a proving ground so brutal it made other races look like a Sunday stroll. This racing pedigree wasn’t just for show; it trickled down into their road bikes, giving them a performance edge and a reputation for handling that was unmatched. Norton wasn’t just building motorcycles; they were building legends.

BSA and Norton Villiers: A complicated corporate family

Right, now things get a little bit tangled up. Imagine a big family, with a few different branches, all trying to share the same garage. That’s kind of what Norton Villiers and its relationship with BSA were like.

BSA (Birmingham Small Arms Company) was a giant of British industry, making everything from rifles to, you guessed it, motorcycles. In the late 1960s, the British motorcycle industry was facing tough times, and the government decided a shake-up was needed. Norton Villiers was formed through the acquisition of Norton by Villiers, then became part of the BSA group. The idea was to create a super-group that could compete with the rising tide of Japanese bikes.

In theory, it made sense. But in practice, it was a bit of a mess. Imagine trying to get two different families to agree on what to have for dinner every night – that’s what it was like trying to get BSA and Norton to agree on motorcycle designs and production strategies. Bureaucracy, conflicting priorities, and a general lack of clear direction didn’t help matters. The Commando, thankfully, managed to survive (and even thrive) amidst all this corporate drama, but it wasn’t always a smooth ride.

The United Kingdom Motorcycle Industry in the 1970s: Facing the Rising Sun

The 1970s were a brutal time to be a British motorcycle manufacturer. For decades, Britain had ruled the roost, churning out bikes that were beloved around the world. But then, something happened: Japan entered the game.

Japanese manufacturers like Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki started producing bikes that were cheaper, more reliable, and often more technologically advanced than their British counterparts. They weren’t just building motorcycles; they were building better motorcycles, with features like electric starters and reliable electrics, which were often a bit hit-or-miss on British bikes of the era. (Let’s just say Lucas, the infamous supplier of electrical components, earned itself some colorful nicknames.)

The impact was devastating. British manufacturers, weighed down by outdated factories, labor disputes, and a reluctance to embrace new technology, struggled to compete. Dealerships began to stock Japanese bikes, and riders, understandably, began to buy them. The British motorcycle industry, once a source of national pride, was on the ropes. The Commando, with its innovative Isolastic frame and distinctive styling, was one of the last great hopes of the British motorcycle industry. But even it couldn’t stem the tide forever.

Engineering Marvel: The Isolastic Frame and Its Impact

Decoding the Isolastic Frame: A Stroke of Genius

Picture this: It’s the late ’60s, and British motorcycles are notorious for one thing—vibration. Not the good kind that makes you feel alive, but the kind that rattles your teeth and blurs your vision. Along comes Norton with a truly brilliant idea: the Isolastic frame. Instead of bolting the engine and gearbox directly to the frame, Norton’s engineers decided to mount them on rubber bushings. Yes, rubber.

The idea was simple but revolutionary: isolate the engine and gearbox from the main frame to keep those nasty vibrations from reaching the rider. Think of it as putting your washing machine on a padded mat so it doesn’t shake the whole house! These rubber bushings acted as shock absorbers, soaking up the vibes and leaving you with a much smoother ride. The engine and gearbox were connected via a sub-frame with these cleverly placed rubber mounts, effectively isolating the powertrain from the main frame.

Vibration Reduction: A Game Changer

So, what did this magical Isolastic frame actually do? It drastically reduced vibration! Suddenly, long rides weren’t endurance tests anymore. Riders could actually feel their hands after an hour on the road. But the benefits didn’t stop there. By reducing vibration, the Isolastic frame also improved handling. Without the engine shaking the whole bike, the chassis could do its job properly, resulting in a more stable and predictable ride. And let’s not forget about comfort! Less vibration meant less fatigue, so riders could stay in the saddle longer and enjoy the open road.

Taming the Beast: Engineering Challenges and Triumph

Designing the Commando wasn’t all sunshine and roses. One of the biggest challenges was taming the vibration from that big, powerful engine. Motorcycle design is a delicate balancing act. You need a frame that’s stiff enough to handle the engine’s power but also flexible enough to absorb bumps in the road. The Isolastic frame was Norton’s answer to this challenge. It allowed them to use a relatively simple frame design while still providing a smooth and comfortable ride. Getting the Isolastic frame just right was crucial. Too much isolation, and the bike would feel wobbly. Not enough, and the vibration would come roaring back. It took a lot of fine-tuning, but in the end, Norton nailed it. The Isolastic frame wasn’t just a clever idea; it was a practical solution to a real problem, and it helped make the Commando one of the most beloved motorcycles of all time.

The Commando Mark III: A Closer Look at Key Features and Improvements

The Commando Mark III wasn’t just another motorcycle rolling off the line; it was a statement. It represented a turning point, a “we’ve been listening” moment from Norton to its loyal (and sometimes long-suffering) riders. Let’s be real; it was an effort to compete in a market that was quickly becoming very hard to compete in. This bike took the already impressive Commando lineage (Mark I, Mark II, and the almost mythical Mark V) and sprinkled it with some serious fairy dust—or, you know, engineering improvements. We’re talking about enhancements that weren’t just cosmetic; they were fundamental, designed to make the riding experience smoother, more reliable, and, dare we say, even enjoyable? What makes the Mark III stand out in a sea of classic bikes? Let’s dive in and see.

Electric Start: A Modern Convenience (Finally!)

Let’s face it: kicking a big British twin into life could be an adventure, and not always the fun kind. The introduction of the electric start on the Commando Mark III was nothing short of a revelation. No more awkward stumbles trying to find top dead center, no more risking a wrenched ankle. Just a simple press of a button, and voilà, you were ready to rumble.

Why was this such a big deal? Well, beyond the obvious convenience, it signaled a commitment to modernity. It meant Norton was paying attention to what riders wanted: ease of use and reliability. The technological advancements that made this possible weren’t just about slapping a starter motor on the engine. It involved refining the electrical system and ensuring that the bike could handle the extra load. It was a game-changer, pure and simple.

Left-Side Gear Change: A Matter of Preference and Design

Now, let’s talk about the left-side gear change. This might seem like a small detail, but it was a pretty significant shift for riders accustomed to the traditional right-side setup. Imagine years of muscle memory telling you to shift with your right foot, and then suddenly, you’re doing it with your left. It’s like trying to write with your non-dominant hand – a bit awkward at first, but eventually, you get the hang of it.

So, why the switch? Well, there were a few factors at play. For starters, it aligned the Commando Mark III with the industry standard, making it more appealing to a wider range of riders, especially those coming from other brands. Ergonomics likely played a role, too. A left-side gear change can be more intuitive and comfortable for some riders, especially in certain riding positions. It was a bold move, but one that ultimately helped the Commando Mark III feel more contemporary and user-friendly.

Legacy and Enduring Appeal: The Commando Mark III as a Classic

A Timeless Icon on Two Wheels

Let’s face it, some motorcycles just ooze cool, and the Norton Commando Mark III is definitely one of those bikes. It’s not just a vintage machine; it’s a bona fide classic that has stood the test of time. The sleek lines, the distinctive engine note, and the undeniable Britishness all contribute to its legendary status. The Commando Mark III isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a rolling piece of history, a symbol of a bygone era when British bikes ruled the roads. It represents iconic design, robust performance, and a story etched in motorcycling history. Its significance goes beyond mere transportation; it’s a piece of art, a statement, a conversation starter.

Keeping the Legend Alive: Maintenance and Restoration

Owning a classic like the Commando Mark III isn’t just about polishing the chrome and going for a Sunday ride (though that’s definitely part of the fun!). It’s also about preserving a piece of history. Thankfully, keeping these beauties on the road is easier than you might think.

Where to Find Help:

• Online Communities: The internet is your friend! Forums and social media groups dedicated to Norton Commandos are treasure troves of information, tips, and shared experiences. You can find answers to almost any question, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and even find rare parts.
• Parts Suppliers: Several specialized suppliers are dedicated to providing parts for classic British bikes, including the Commando. They offer everything from original replacement parts to high-performance upgrades. A good parts supplier is worth their weight in gold!
• Specialist Repair Shops: Sometimes, you need a professional. Specialist repair shops with experience in classic British motorcycles can handle complex repairs, engine rebuilds, and restorations.

So, You Want to Buy a Commando Mark III?

Thinking about adding a Commando Mark III to your collection? Excellent choice! But before you hand over your hard-earned cash, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Check the Isolastic System: The Isolastic frame is a defining feature of the Commando, but the rubber mounts can wear out over time. Make sure to inspect them for cracks or excessive play. Worn mounts mean more vibration, which defeats the whole purpose!
• Look for Rust: Like any classic bike, rust can be a problem, especially in areas prone to moisture. Pay close attention to the frame, fuel tank, and exhaust system.
• Ask About Maintenance Records: A well-maintained Commando is a happy Commando. Ask the seller for any maintenance records or documentation they may have.
• Test Ride It!: The best way to get a feel for a Commando is to take it for a spin. Listen for any unusual noises, check the handling, and make sure everything feels right.
• Common Issues: Keep an eye out for oil leaks (they’re British, after all!), electrical gremlins, and carburetor issues. These are common problems with Commandos, but they’re usually fixable with a little time and effort.

Buying a classic motorcycle is an adventure. Do your homework, be patient, and you’ll be rewarded with a machine that’s as fun to ride as it is to look at!

So, whether you’re a history buff, a military enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good piece of engineering, the Commando Mark III is definitely worth a closer look. It’s a fascinating slice of history, and who knows, maybe you’ll even be inspired to track one down for yourself!