Re: Rickman Metisse Norton

Previously Nicholas wrote:

Does anyone know the owner of this very handsome dark blue Rickman Metisse with Commando engine? I'd be very interested in speaking with them if so as I am in the process of putting together a similar bike.

The picture appears to have been taken at Goodwood in 2008 based on the information from Flickr.

Nicholas, I will own up its mine.

I salvaged the engine and box from my 1972 Fastback after a big smash in 94. After lots of hospital food and a pay out I took the engine & box to MRD Metisse in Bristol & Pat French built me a bespoke MK1V frame kit/rolling chassis in 97/98.I have improved a few bits over the years and last used it to go to the Ardingly event where it was parked in the muddy field after a wet ride there. It goes well and the handling is great due to the lightweight and brakes pretty good as well. Jon.

Will I be in trouble if I suggest it looks better than a Commando?! ð

The frame will no doubt be better!

Previously john_hall1 wrote:

The frame will no doubt be better!

hello you have now hit the nail on its head commando frames are like rubbrab yours anna j

Okay I'll bite.

Anna, I know you come from the land of the rhubarb triangle but having owned and ridden a range of 12 different motorcycles over the years my 750 Roadster Norton Commando I purchased in 2015 handles just fine.

How do you explain all the wins in Club. National and International production races by the original Norvil Production racers? AFAIK all these had standard Commando frames.

Dan...well I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I reckon these Rickmans look better with Triumph 500 or 650 engines. The Commando looks like too much engine to me.

Your mileage may vary.

Andy