BMW R11 Series 1 vs Norton Commando (1969)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the BMW R11 Series 1stacks up against the Norton Commando. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecBMW R11 Series 1Norton Commando
Model year19301969
Price——
Engine745 cc749 cc
Horsepower18 hp55 hp
Weight—190 kg
Fuel capacity3.7 L—
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission3-speed—
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)—
Tires3.25-26.00 / 3.25-26.00 3.25-19 / 4.00-18

BMW R11 Series 1 vs Norton Commando — which should you buy?

Picking between the BMW R11 Series 1 and the Norton Commando usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the BMW R11 Series 1 brings 18 hp, while the Norton Commando counters with 55 hp at 190 kg.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: