The project that we present today is curious to say the least. Named by its owner and creator under the nickname “NorCeptor”, we find a chassis and chassis from a 1973 Norton Commando along with the V4 mechanics of a Honda Interceptor. In the words of the ideologist of this monstrosity, we are faced with “my favorite engine in a favorite chassis”. There is no doubt about the originality of the preparation, but… What is behind it?
Once again, as happens on so many occasions, it has been the friends of Bike Urious who have found this “NorCeptor” for sale on the famous Ebay ad portal. A priori, the images tell us about a half-finished project, although the seller, despite giving little information about the motorcycle, explains that: “It worked fine when I built it. Everything fits perfectly.”
“NorCeptor”: Halfway between the United Kingdom and Japan
The Norton Commando is one of those bikes that every petrolhead has always dreamed of owning. Curiously, it was the last model of an industrial stage that was ending, that of the English twin cylinders, after the arrival of the competitive Japanese led by the Honda CB750 Four. It is curious how 50 years after that, the owner of the NorCeptor decided to install precisely a V4 engine of Honda origin.
This 1973 example was originally equipped with an 828 cc air-cooled OHV parallel twin engine, associated with a 4-speed gearbox. The brand then declared 60 HP at 6,200 rpm for a dry weight of 188 kilograms. The Commando was then a benchmark in terms of sportiness, thanks to the Norton genetics printed on the model since 1967.
However, “NorCeptor” suffered an unexpected swap at some point. Specifically, a Honda Interceptor V4 engine was attached to it. According to the description of the advertisement, we are talking about the 750 cc version from the mid-80s, so it should have a power figure of around 86 HP, taken to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox.
The latter is not confirmed, since its owner only explains about the motorcycle that: “Custom built Honda Interceptor v4, installed on a Norton Commando chassis: Norceptor. Clubman bars. I’m looking for the seat. Everything fits perfectly. Another easy project. The chassis welds need attention to get them running again. Easy work. Just add fuel, oil and battery. My favorite engine in a favorite chassis. You will never see another. It’s worth double. Just bill of sale.”
The “NorCeptor” is for sale in Dallas, Texas, USA and its starting price is $2,490, although the seller is open to offers. If you always wanted to have a Commando with a certain Japanese flavor, perhaps I have given you the opportunity of a lifetime. Of course, it seems that it will take a lot of work to make it look the way it deserves.
