Paul Dunstall’s motorcycle business was humming by the time the 70s rolled around, and he was so successful that he had started shipping completed motorcycles over to contracted delaers in the United States. By the mid 70s, he was almost exactly splitting his production between Norton and Hondas, though he was definitely more famous for his work with the British firm. Here’s a Commando built by Fred Case (columnist in Minnesota Motorcycling Monthly magazine) with parts he collected in the 70s in the attempt to “build the ultimate Dunstall-equipped Norton.”
Per the seller, “this Norton is a beautiful example of 1970s period hot-rodding and Brit-Bike, cafe racer culture. Fred sought to build the ultimate Dunstall-equipped Norton. In the mid-70s, he sourced engine parts and Dunstall livery for this project from the famous New England British bike speed shop FAIR SPARES. Built around a 1974 Commando frame, the bike features a bench-tested engine fed by a single DelOrto PHBE 34mm carburetor. The beefed up bottom end was built for a supercharger that was never added, so this is stronger than a stock Norton Commando engine, able to handle any additional horsepower its build may have added. The engine is fitted with built-up crank, stronger big end bearings, hot cam, Carrillo rods, lightened tappets, large exhaust valves, Hi-Pro springs, Hi-Pro flowed RH4 head and exhaust, 850cc cylinders, high output oil pump, high output charging system, Trispark electronic ignition, J&E pistons, Quaife Motosport gearbox, RGM primary belt drive, and Tommaselli quarter turn throttle.”
“The bike is further equipped with authentic Dunstall exhaust and controls: Decible mufflers, footpeg hangers, footpegs, and clip-on handle bars. The bodywork is also authentic Dunstall—fuel tank, half fairing, seat pan, and side covers—all in beautiful original condition, including original Dunstall yellow paint and “810” decals (actual engine displacement is 850cc). The interior of the glass fiber tank has been professionally coated to accept all types of fuel without damage. Cat face tail light is an original period 60s item that Fred added during the build. New British Avon RoadRider tires were fitted by Blue Cat Motorcycle in 2018 to the Akront rims–18″ rear and 19” front. True mileage is unknown, but it is unlikely that the indicated 6666 miles on the clock represents actual mileage. The fresh state of the engine and clean overall condition suggest few miles beyond the engine’s break-in.”
Find this Commando for sale in Saint Paul, Minnesota with bidding up to $7,800 and the reserve not yet met or a BIN of $12,500 here on eBay.