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 FormulaThe 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 weeksThe 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!!
MI
seriously under-rated bikes. Frame by Nicco Baker, Paoli shocks, Marchesini wheels, Termignoni exhausts, letterbox style gas tank. Parts are available from 3C Moto in Italy or former RSBFS writer marting g. Also very active community on groups.io (zanelist).
Also – nice photos from the seller!
I agree, a real sleeper with interesting history. Unusual with the drive on the right side as well.