Posts published in “Laverda”

Zanèy – 1999 Laverda 650 Sport Kevlar Edition

Published December 29, 2022 by Donn

The naked Ghost Strike models are seen here more often for some reason, but in the late 90’s Laverda’s 650 Sport was good competition for contemporary supersports. This very collectible example apparently has limited edition kevlar bodywork and wicked British Racing Green paint.

1999 Laverda 650 Sport for sale on eBay UK

Laverda had a long history of parallel twins, and developed a new four-valve twin in the early 1990’s. 668 air/oil-cooled cc’s brought 70 hp to bear, with electronic fuel injection. The alloy twin-spar chassis was fabricated from rectangular tubing and side plate castings, finished in black. Appointments are excellent, with W-P upside down forks and monoshock, and 320mm Brembo brakes. The full fairing is molded in kevlar fiber, which has a certain imperfect attraction, and helped keep the dry weight to just over 400 lbs.

Evidently a personal bike from an eBay dealer with an eclectic presentation, this Laverda looks basically new and is hardly used with a hair over 2,200 miles. Somehow it has escaped the garage elves and though most parts are painted, even the bare aluminum parts hardly have surface corrosion from long term storage. A walkaround – video – runs the bike toward the end, and enthusiastic comments are part of the eBay listing –

Selling a couple of my cherry picked toys and in my humble opinion this is probably one of the lowest mileage and one of the rarest colours and being the Kevlar bodywork series with the numbered plaque it wants to be tucked away in a collection although this will really make you feel special every time you throw your leg over it, if it doesn’t you have no soul.

Up against the 748 in its day, the 748 was a bit quicker whilst the Laverda which handles like a charm with all the top spec components lavished on it, is now the much rarer bike and for the collector rare is key.

It has 3,729 kms which equates to just over 2k miles has been in a good long slumber and has been woken up and sounds great,it has been part of a collection for long enough,its not perfection but it is in terms of originality. The Kevlar panels were never perfect when new and haven’t got any better with age more like a race panel ,engine cases good etc. Marchesini wheels look superb too, it’s a piece of motorcycling history that can be used or enjoyed in a mancave forever.

The 668 was product of a revitalization effort and built at a new facility in Zanè, not for from the company’s birthplace in Breganze. Sticking with a parallel twin, it was an all new affair and suffered some reliability issues, but these were cleared up by the time this 650 Sport was built. The ask here is just under $6K, and though it still has to take a boat ride and visit DMV, pretty reasonable for a very good-looking and sporty Laverda.

-donn

2 Responses.

Waygu Wellington – Laverda 750 Sport Formula

Published December 1, 2022 by Mike

Laverda is a company that went through some pretty distinctive periods; from being family owned through the mid 1980s to the various government, corporate and investment teams that brought it back to life, to the Aprilia-owned years that saw its eventual demise. But it is the latter half of the ownership story that interests us today, the revolutionary “Zane” era Laverdas that promised a modern comeback story for the otherwise staid Italian marque. And to prove that point, we present an example of the rare Laverda 750S Formula – a bike only offered between 1998 and 1999.

Laverda 750 Sport Formula for sale on eBay

A far cry from the Jota, SFC or RGS inline triples of past Laverda history, the Sport Formula was a parallel twin, originally developed in a 650cc format. Weber-Marelli fuel injection sprayed into reworked 4-valve cylinder heads with hotter cams than the rest of the Laverda lineup. Punched out to 747cc, the new motor offered 92 HP on tap, which was competitive against other similar offerings such as the Ducati 748. The aluminum frame was crafted by legendary frame designer Nico Bakker, and the sport bodywork offered twin headlamps and a solo saddle to complete the “factory racer” look. Components are an all Italian affair: carbon exhaust cans are courtesy of Termi, suspension is all Paioli, wheels are Marchesini and brakes are the redoubtable Brembo variety. All in all, the 750 Sport is a nicely kitted out sport bike that is distinctly different from other rivals of the period.

From the seller:
For Sale a newly imported (Japan) Laverda 750S Formula

The bike is in very good condition for it’s year with only a few age related marks but nothing drastic, we have had to fit aftermarket levers as the clutch lever had a broken end, however i am sure if the new owner wishes he would be able to get a OEM set if desired

The bike has had a new battery fitted along with a fuel replenish, she starts on the button and sounds awesome.

More from the seller:
The bike as mentioned is an import and will require registering in the UK,the process on the larger CC bikes is fairly easy and along with our help should be completed within a matter of weeks

The bike comes with the Japanese de-reg certs and it’s Nova.

The KM is 13478 which equates to 8375 miles

These bikes are becoming as rare hens teeth and are a great collectors items which will only go up in price in the years to come.

A deposit of 20% will be required within 24 hours of the end of the auction, with the balance payable on collection

The winning bidder will require a van or trailer for collection, however we can arrange a courier at cost to the new owner

The Laverda 750 Sport Formula can be considered the pinnacle of Zane era – and offered the promise of a successful rebirth. Sadly the firm was unable to successfully pull off a financial win, and only 7 years into an ambitious plan the famed Laverda name was sold again (and for the last time). Today’s example of the 750S Formula comes to us by way of England, although the bike originally came from Japan. That is a pretty multi-national journey for an Italian motorcycle, but such is the way for collectible bikes. Offered on eBay for the equivalent of just over $7,700 USD starting bid, this black and orange beauty is looking for a new home. You can check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

2 Responses.

Curator Alert – 1983 Laverda Jota 1000 – 120°

Published October 16, 2022 by Donn

The Jota 1000 – 120° might be the best Laverda for any riding collector, well-developed in every regard. While an occasional short spin might be in order, lira to cannoli’s this striking restoration will never turn another wheel in anger.

1983 Laverda Jota 1000 – 120° for sale on eBay

The ultimate development of a more -70’s machine, the 120-degree crank was somewhat smoother riding, and revised heads delivered 97 hp. The triple was air-cooled, which fit perfectly with the twin-downtube chassis, but required innovations like rubber isolators to protect the Dell-Orto’s from engine heat. For the rider, period low handlebars and smallish seat are sporty if not great for a long haul. Along the same lines, the pegs, pipes and stands tuck up well for great cornering clearance.

Presented by a San Francisco Vespa specialist, this Jota was restored at the Museo Moto Laverda, a new restoration and display facility just paces from the old Breganze factory. It does show 31,000 kilometers but appears better than new in all other respects. Even the usual orange or red paint has been re-done in a very classy scheme never before seen by this Laverda watcher. Just part of the notes from the eBay auction:

This Laverda is the first bike created by our partnership with the new Museo Laverda in Breganze, Italy, home of the original Laverda factory.
This meticulously restored Laverda Jota is a remarkable example of a special motorcycle.
Previously owned by Piero Laverda himself, who sold the bike to the Museo seven months ago.
He recently saw our finished restoration and declared the bike “Better than when it left the factory!”.

A remarkable example of a unique Italian sports bike in excellent condition … a great addition to any serious collection and a real experience to ride.
If you want the very best and can afford it, this is your Laverda.

This Euro-Spec Laverda has been fully restored by the Museo Laverda team of experts in Italy.
Very low original mileage.
Overall cosmetic condition is literally better than new, restored to a Concours standard in all regards.
Paint, bodywork, seat, wheels, chrome, instruments, tires etc. all in “as new” condition.
This bike is very faithful to the original specifications.
Completely rebuilt and serviced, runs and rides like new.
Extremely fast, very rare, serious and extreme – a machine for skilled riders only.

Earlier Jotas were quite capable and won the English production racing championship in 1976 then ’79-80. Time did everything but slow down though, and while the Jota was competitive with the R90S and 850 LeMans, new technological solutions from larger manufacturers kept coming. This example has the added panache of having been owned by Piero Laverda, which along with its sparkling restoration will be great for its next caretaker.

-donn

3 Responses.

Be the Speed – 1983 Laverda RGS1000 with 7,671 Miles !

Published August 4, 2022 by Donn

In the moto business since 1949 ( and agricultural engines way before that ), Laverda saw the lights of the oncoming bullet train in the late 1960’s and set to developing a three-cylinder engine. The RGS featured new developments all around and this example looks just about as delivered.

1983 Laverda RGS1000 for sale on eBay

Laverda’s air-cooled triple had been in the line-up since 1969, and the RGS had the latest double overhead cams and 120-degree crankshaft. A conservative 83 hp were on rubber isolators, with 32mm Dell’Orto carbs and a 5-speed transmission. Marzocchi dampers and 280mm Brembo brakes were premium components for the time, along with 18-inch alloys. Innovative footpeg carriers and fuel filler were distinctive and complemented the bodywork which flowed from headlight to tailcone.

Offered by an eBay consigner, this Lav is reportedly in Illinois and looks pampered. Might be ridden occasionally but at 39 years young, not very far. Just the 3-into-1 exhaust, oil cooler, fork brace and what seems to be a Corsa brake upgrade catch the eye, besides the overall unrestored beauty. Some of the detailed comment in the eBay auction –

The cosmetic condition of this machine is just as good as it looks in the photos. Every finish on the machine is original. No part of the bike has been re-finished. The running condition of the machine is flawless, starting immediately. This bike has been part of the owner’s collection for a while and is ridden on a regular basis. It runs and rides with absolutely no issues.

As you can also see from the photos, the machine has had absolutely no restoration performed to any part of it. The condition is exactly what it looks like in the photos. I have been a fan of Laverda for some time, and have had two of these RGS machines in the past as well as this one.

The paint on the tank, side covers, and cowl is, as far as I can tell, original, and have never had any type of paintwork or touchup. The bike has never been in any type of accident or been dropped at any time.

The machine has 7,671 original miles on it, and is in perfect running condition with a compression test having being recently performed. The cosmetic condition of the engine finishes, apart from some minor age freckling, is very nice, with the aluminum and cast parts being particularly beautiful for their age.

The seat is original and in perfect condition, and the rear cowl is easily removable, allowing for two up riding. The wheels are original to the machine, are the rarer and more desirable gold version, stamped Laverda, and are in very nice original condition. Please note the original specification smoked windscreen is present and in beautiful original condition.

The RGS 1000 runs and rides the way you expect a machine with this type of mileage to run. All of the mechanical components have been checked over to ensure they work properly including the clutch and brakes, which were recently serviced and adjusted. The carbs were completely gone through this season and function perfectly, and there is a new battery installed.

Laverda had a long racing history and produced some beautifully equipped road bikes, but without a gazillion smaller bike sales to fund development, even their latest designs were a little quirky and relatively expensive. But sometimes a fascinating, Euro-centric design with provenance is just the ticket, and if this era and continent strike a chord, it might be a while before a nicer example is available.

-donn

One Response.

Featured Listing: 1983 Laverda RGS 1000

Published July 14, 2022 by Mike

Update 7.22.2022: Seller has confirmed this bike has SOLD! Auction ended at $13,850CAD, or roughly $10,750USD. Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc

The epitome of Italian speed and style, the Laverda RGS has been an underrated darling for too long. Revered by riders in the know for its legendary 3 cylinder power, comfort, and relaxed attitude at higher speeds, the RGS brings with it a taste of the exotic and rare in a world filled with plastic scooters and me too bikes.

1983 Laverda RGS 1000 offered at NO RESERVE!

The heart of the beast is a relatively simple air-cooled triple displacing an actual 981cc. The heads are of two-valve per cylinder design, breathing through a tri-power of Dell’Orto carbs. Crank throws are evenly spaced at 120 degrees, which was a departure from the earlier Jota’s 180. The result was a smoother, more even power delivery befitting high velocity travel. Exhaust gasses flow through a svelte 3-into-two system, offering just the right amount of civilized noise. The bodywork is classic Italian – flowing and sensuous, yet purposeful The tank cover is devoid of fuel cap, as the fairing incorporates a slick automotive style door and fill mechanism that is much cleaner than traditional designs. The rest of the components exude class, including the Brembo binders and Marzocchi air-assistend forks and air-adjustable rear shocks. The Laverda RGS was built as a quality machine, taking on the world not via outright performance, but by doing everything well – and looking good in the process.

From the seller:
1983 LAVERDA RGS 1000
A rarely seen Italian touring motorcycle, fitted with a handful of well-chosen upgrades for greater everyday usability. It is powered by a 981cc DOHC triple, delivering 90bhp through a five-speed transmission.
This 1983 Laverda RGS 1000 is said to have been owned by enthusiasts and members of the Canadian Vintage Motorcycle Association from new, has been displayed at several shows, and was invited to the Cobble Beach Concours event.

More from the seller:
This RGS 1000 is finished in Laverda Red with gold wheels and a black seat. It has been fitted with Executive fairing extensions, a DMC electronic ignition system, and Oxford heated handlebar grips, but is reported to retain its original exhaust. The bike also features the original Brembo disc brakes, original Marzocchi adjustable shock absorbers, Dell’Orto carburettors, and original Bayflex moulded bodywork and Perspex front screen. A number of spare parts are included, including a front sprocket, clutch lever, and carburettor crossover pipe and fasteners.

Also accompanying the sale is the electronic ignition manual, Laverda Ricambi spare parts catalogue, two Laverda caps, a Laverda T-shirt, Laverda hoodie, display signage, and a leather and enamel Laverda keyring, made in England.

More from the seller:
There is no known bodywork or frame damage. The Laverda Red paintwork is in excellent overall condition, save for some small cracks and chips on the fairing extensions, wear at the bottom of the pillion seat, and general age-related ‘patina’ on the front forks. No mechanical or electrical faults have been detected.

The seller reports that this RGS 1000 underwent an oil change and carburettor service at approximately 17,500 miles by the previous owner, who was an Italian motorcycle collector. The bike has been stored inside the seller’s home and has been connected to a battery charger during his year-long ownership.

First displayed in dealer showrooms in 1982 and gone by 1985, the Laverda RGS had a short, underappreciated run. With only an estimated 2,500 units built worldwide (and only 250 officially imported in the US), the RGS is rare, rare, rare anywhere you can find one. Die hard collectors tend to gravitate to the earlier Jota or the latter SFC and write the RGS off as too civilized. But that is *exactly* what makes the RGS so great.

Here is your chance to snag this beautiful example of a 1983 Laverda RGS with tasteful enhancements in a NO RESERVE auction. The overall condition looks great, and the mileage is reasonably low for the age. This bike is located in Ontario Canada, and most certainly qualifies for the “over 25” exemption for used motorcycles in most states. Check out the details here, including the 130+ quality pictures of this beauty. Good Luck!!

Florida Orange – 1979 Laverda Jota 1000

Published January 25, 2022 by Donn

Air cooled early superbikes are becoming rarer by the minute, especially built in Italy and tarted up in England. Today’s Jota has an owner or two’s worth of miles but apparently was restored at some point and still looks great.

1979 Laverda Jota 1000 for sale on eBay

Laverda had been making motorbikes since 1949, and their 750 twin was a great success, especially in endurance racing. As new competition from Japan was arriving, the company created a 980cc triple, with double overhead cams and 32mm Dell’Orto carburetors. English importer Slater Bros. saw more potential and commissioned higher lift cams and 10-to-1 pistons resulting in a whopping 90 hp. A strong steel backbone accompanied the light-looking downtubes, making for a solid foundation for the usual Ceriani suspension units. Handlebars are adjustable but not too much higher, due to the 140 mph speeds expected.

Presented by a Miami dealer, this Laverda looks like a survivor that had some quality restoration work. Some light corrosion has crept in since then, but a quick clean-up should do wonders. Though most ( and this one ) have been converted, Jota’s originally came with left brake and right shifter. Paint work is excellent and includes a full fairing which apparently has never been mounted. Comments from the eBay auction:

A beautiful specimen immaculately maintained and cared for by its second owner for the last 32 years. This is a rare Slater Brothers 180 degree crank and the the 7th bike imported into the states. It was purchased in 1990 in San Diego from a retired US Navy officer who bought it new while stationed in Europe in 1979. Slater Bros. in Tacoma Washington informed him that they had imported 6 Jota’s in ’79 and that this was the seventh they knew of.

The bike was immediately taken to Lance Weil in Burbank California who was the undisputed Laverda guru And who went through the bike from ground up and restored it. Lance rated the motor at over 90hp then and it has covered small mileage since. Runs Now as it did then. The sound of these is unique and memorable to all who have heard it. These hardly ever come up for sale. Don’t miss this opportunity.

A “no stories” bike, this is one of the top collector bikes out there and the fastest of its time. Comes with super rare full fairing which looks amazing fitted. A few spares and another set of matte black silencers. The right brake set is not original but is fitted for better performance and safety. The original one comes with the bike. The back brake is spongy right now and might need slight attention. Books and manual too.

The Jota got glowing reviews for power and handling, but the overall build quality vs. the premium price took some lumps. Either way the factory was positioned more as a boutique than volume manufacturer. At this level of ask, some further contact with the seller might be in order, not to mention verifying the advertised running condition. Could be ready for concours season if it checks out.

-donn

1984 Laverda RGS1000 with 5,400 miles

Published November 20, 2021 by Dan

Here’s a very sharp and low mileage RGS1000 available in the Chicagoland area. Sounds like the seller is assisting a collector in thinning out their collection.

1984 Laverda RGS1000 for sale on eBay

from the seller:

Frame Number: ZLVMVDHA0E0000009
Engine Number: LAV.1000RGS2682
Build Date: 2/1984

The Laverda RGS was among the last all-new designs produced by Moto Laverda in Breganze, Italy. Francesco Laverda built his first motorcycle in 1947-1948, and began serial production of a 75cc single, the Turismo, in 1950.

The cosmetic condition of this machine is just as good as it looks in the photos. Every finish on the machine is original. No part of the bike has been re-finished. The running condition of the machine is flawless, starting immediately. This bike has been part of the owner’s collection for a while and is ridden on a regular basis. It runs and rides with absolutely no issues.

Again, everything on this motorcycle is original, with the exception of the exhaust system, which was removed and replaced with the ultra-rare race exhaust. The seat is also in original condition and is beautiful. The original and complete Laverda tool kit is also included.

As you can also see from the photos, the machine has had absolutely no restoration performed to any part of it. The condition is exactly what it looks like in the photos. Owner has been a fan of Laverda for some time, and has two of these RGS machines at the moment.

The paint on the tank, side covers, and cowl is, as far as he can tell, original, and has never had any type of paintwork or touchup. The bike has never been in any type of accident or been dropped at any time.

The machine has 5,400 original miles on it, and is in perfect running condition with a compression test having being recently performed. The cosmetic condition of the engine finishes, apart from some minor age freckling, is very nice, with the aluminum and cast parts being particularly beautiful for their age.

The seat is original and in perfect condition, and the rear cowl is easily removable, allowing for two up riding. The wheels are original to the machine, stamped Laverda, and are also in very nice original condition.

Please note that the owner has the original spec smoked windscreen, which will be included with the sale of the motorcycle. He preferred riding with the clear windscreen, but the new owner can decide between the two.

The RGS1000 runs and rides the way you expect a machine with this type of mileage to run. All of the mechanical components have been checked over to ensure they work properly including the clutch and brakes, which were recently serviced and adjusted. The carbs were completely gone through this season and function perfectly, and there is a new battery installed.

The tires currently installed have comparatively few miles on them, and have plenty of service life left, but if you plan to ride it hard, tires should be replaced. There is absolutely nothing else you will have to do to this motorcycle to ride and enjoy it this season.

Note the seller borrowed a portion of our copy from this post by Mike in 2018. While always flattering, it’s polite to note your sources 🙂

Hat tip to Jack P. for the forward!

5 Responses.

Classic Italian: 1977 Laverda Jarama 3CL

Published October 7, 2021 by William

The late 1970s were an interesting time for the Laverda brand. Competition from all angles resulted in lackluster sales numbers and a fading appeal in the market. For the 1978 model year a new name was introduced to the North American market, Jarama. Instead of being named after a dance as was the case with the Jota, the Jarama was named after a race track. Production numbers are unclear, but most agree it was in the 200-300 range. Many of these bikes were converted in period to “Jarota” specifications. Basically combining the updates of the Jarama with the performance parts of the Jota.

Known for being reliable and easy to live with, owners are fiercely loyal to the brand, even decades latter. It is not uncommon to find used bikes that have covered tens of thousands of miles over the years, a real testament to have usable these bikes are.

From the Seller’s eBay Listing:

1977 Laverda Jarama 3CL, 1000cc triple, bike has the expensive and hard-to-find Jota 4C cams and Dellorto 36mm PHF carbs (Jarota), runs very strong, starts easily and handles well. New fork seals just installed and bike has adjustable Jota Breganze bars as shown in second photo. I may add a running video later weather permitting. Horns need a relay, as always, which I may install prior to selling, otherwise all lighting is functional. Clean fresh oil, and I’ve only used non-ethanol premium gas. Ready to ride but would put new tires on soon. These bikes are over-built and bulletproof and they handle really well. The 180˚ triple sound is amazing. Faint ripple in paint near left side emblem and scuff on left sidecover corner from seat but otherwise very nice. Look carefully at the photos.

For some reason “Make an Offer” does not seem to appear in the preview. I am happy to hear offers and will end the auction early, bring them on.

NY State title in previous owner’s name with bill of sale and other transfer of ownership docs from him and will also be sold with additional official VT bill of sale from me on this matching numbers vehicle. Bike is titled as a 1978 and was an original US import Jarama. Check your state’s requirements before bidding. Laverda Registry: http://www.laverdamania.net/registre180.htm

Bike is being offered with a Buy It Now price of $13,000 and in todays market that does not seem unreasonable for a clean, rare, interesting Italian classic bike. Seller states that he has the original airbox not pictured, but interested buyers should confirm the current state of the title as well as your local laws before closing a deal. Sure to stand out at your local Cars and Coffee event for a similar price to a ubiquitous SOHC CB750.

4 Responses.