When “Easy Rider” exponentially increased the popularity of choppers around the world, it was inevitable that certain businesses would try to ride the way. What was surprising was that one of those companies was Norton, who created the “Hi-Rider” variant of the Commando to counteract the popularity of big Japanese motorcycles like the Honda CB750. It looked silly – in a ’74 review, Cycle magazine called it “hilarious” – but time heals all wounds and now there are riders who like it simply because of how rare and absurd it was.
There is indeed a charm to this bike if you’re a fan of ugly ducklings – some consider this to be the first mass-produced custom bike. 1971 was the first year of the production run, and it lasted through 1975. It featured the small (2.3 gallon) fuel tank from the SS, raised handlebars, and a curved seat that made it just about impossible to have a passenger on the back. For more information on this odd factory custom, check out this article on Motorcycle Classics.
Thought it was built in ’71, this bike was registered in 1975. The seller says the paintwork is beautiful but the rest of the bike shows the “patina of age.” The rims and headlamp bucket could benefit from being rechromed and the tachometer does not work but both are relatively easy fixes. Find this Hi-Rider for sale in Gloucestershire, England for approximately $12,250 here at We Sell Classic Bikes.
This bike-uriousity brought to you by David S!