Norton Commando 961 California vs Excelsior 20R (2020)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Norton Commando 961 Californiastacks up against the Excelsior 20R. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecNorton Commando 961 CaliforniaExcelsior 20R
Model year20201925
Price
Engine961 cc974 cc
Horsepower80 hp
Torque90 Nm
Weight188 kg
Seat height32 mm
Fuel capacity4.5 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear brakesSingle disc. Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper. ABS.
Tires120/70-17 / 180/55-17

Norton Commando 961 California vs Excelsior 20R — which should you buy?

Picking between the Norton Commando 961 California and the Excelsior 20R usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Norton Commando 961 California brings 80 hp in a 188 kg package, while the Excelsior 20R counters with its own power figure.

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: