Gaines, Michigan (December 1, 2009) – The Michigan Norton Owners (MNO) has resurrected a 1974 850cc Norton Commando Roadster to benefit the Fowler Center in nearby Mayville, Michigan. All proceeds will benefit the camp, which offers programs for children with cognitive and physical disabilities. Dozens of members and vendors contributed time, parts and technical expertise to bring about a Cinderella-like transformation for the 45-year old bike.
The work was done in the backyard workshop of Dan Clark, a club member and resident expert Norton mechanic. “We named the bike ‘Finessa’,” Dan explained. “British bikes of this vintage were all hand assembled and you need to ease all the parts into place. It took some ‘finesse.’” Dan explained that the Fowler Center was selected by the group for its fine work—especially with the special needs daughter of a club member. “We are very happy to support the Fowler Center,” Dan said.
The project took over a year to complete from a rolling chassis purchased at a nearby swap meet. The 1974 Commando is generally regarded as the most desirable model due to its combination of performance, handling and adherence to tradition; it has been a favorite of screen actor Keanu Reeves since he rode one in My Private Idaho.
The work included all the technical upgrades that vendors and club members have accumulated over 35 years of ownership of similar models. The bike will be shipped to Nevada for the Las Vegas Vintage Motorcycle Auction to be held January 7-9, 2010. For more information, visit http://www.midamericaauctions.com/ or email Barry Armitage at barmitage@wowway.com.
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