1973 Laverda 750 SF1

1973 Laverda 750 SF1
Registration no. CCJ 33L
Frame no. LAV.750SF*13622*
Engine no. 750*13622*
Founded in 1873, Laverda started out making farm machinery, only turning to motorcycle manufacture in the immediate aftermath of WW2. Lightweights, scooters and mopeds continued to form the mainstay of Laverda production up to the late 1960s when the small Italian concern, hitherto little known outside its home country, astonished the motorcycling world by introducing a 650cc parallel twin. After fewer than 100 had been made, the engine was taken out to 750cc and a team of 650 and 750 Laverdas duly walked away with the 1968 Moto Giro d'Italia. The first 750 GT (touring) and 750 S (sports) models spawned the 750 SF late in 1970. 'SF' stood for Super Freni (super brakes) and marked a switch from Grimeca stoppers to Laverda's own superior drum brakes. With the arrival of the SF1 version (as seen here) in 1972, the model benefited from an extensively revised engine; larger carburettors; Conti silencers (replacing Lafranconi); and Lucas switch gear, while the Nippon Denso instruments had been introduced the previous year.

Offered with an old-style V5C and expired MoT (August 2011), this beautifully restored example represents an exciting opportunity to acquire a rarely seen Italian classic that can only become increasingly collectible. A copy of 'Laverda Twin and Triple Repair and Tune-up Guide' is included in the sale.