Norton Commando 961 SS vs MV Agusta Brutale 989R (2009)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Norton Commando 961 SSstacks up against the MV Agusta Brutale 989R. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecNorton Commando 961 SSMV Agusta Brutale 989R
Model year20092009
Price
Engine961 cc982 cc
Horsepower80 hp139 hp
Torque88 Nm96 Nm
Weight188 kg185 kg
Seat height32 mm
Fuel capacity4.5 L5.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed6-speed
Front brakesSingle disc. BremoDouble disc. 4-piston caliper
Rear brakesSingle disc. bremoSingle disc. 4-piston caliper
Tires120/70-X17 / 180/55-x17 120/70-ZR17 / 190/55-ZR17

Norton Commando 961 SS vs MV Agusta Brutale 989R — which should you buy?

Picking between the Norton Commando 961 SS and the MV Agusta Brutale 989R usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Norton Commando 961 SS brings 80 hp in a 188 kg package, while the MV Agusta Brutale 989R counters with 139 hp at 185 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: