Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP vs Norton Commando 961 California (2020)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Moto Guzzi V 1000 SPstacks up against the Norton Commando 961 California. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP | Norton Commando 961 California |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 1982 | 2020 |
| Price | — | — |
| Engine | 948 cc | 961 cc |
| Horsepower | 61 hp | 80 hp |
| Torque | — | 90 Nm |
| Weight | — | 188 kg |
| Seat height | — | 32 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 6.3 L | 4.5 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed | 5-speed |
| Front brakes | Dual disc | Double disc |
| Rear brakes | Single disc | Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper. ABS. |
| Tires | 100/90-18 / 110/90-18 | 120/70-17 / 180/55-17 |
Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP vs Norton Commando 961 California — which should you buy?
Picking between the Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP and the Norton Commando 961 California usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Moto Guzzi V 1000 SP brings 61 hp, while the Norton Commando 961 California counters with 80 hp at 188 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: