The Commando was introduced to the world in 1967 winning “Machine of the Year” for five straight years and valiantly fought off the Japanese competition during the years ’68 – ’72.  This particular bike was discovered, purchased, reclaimed by Federal Moto out of Edmonton, Alberta.  [More photos below from Silodrome]

Like seemingly all incredible stories of historic motorcycles rediscovered this one begins on a farm in Rimbey, Alberta.  This 1974 Norton Commando 850 is said to have been hanging on by a thread yet still had a bad attitude – the sign of a tough individual.  By maintaining the original soul of the motorcycle, Federal Moto rebuilt the bike as a surf style tracker.  By capturing the era of the bike they settled on 2×19 inch Coker Diamond Tread Tires.  As with most historic builds, any original parts managed to be salvaged – are.  Same goes for this one.  And, when it comes to needing old and original parts, having a widely stretched network of legends in the art of building motorcycles always helps.  It did here.

The engine is all original minus a new electronic ignition.  The cone exhaust is a 17″ Reverse Megaphone from Modern Motorcycle Company from The Land Down Under.  For lights, four bullet signals and bullet break light with a 5 3/4 in black headlight.  There’s a lot more story to this build.  Enjoy the rest of the photos and picture yourself riding this piece of history.