1980 Laverda Jota

This September 1980 model is showing only 20,557 genuine miles, and is in truly exceptional condition. Its current custodian is only its third owner, and has owned the bike since 2005. Early on in his ownership it had some sympathetic restoration work and has benefited from recent new valve seats.

UGT is in lovely original condition, with its standard Brembo twin disks up front, Marzocchi ‘piggyback’ rear shocks, and (unusually for Italian bikes of the time) quality Japanese Nippon clocks and switch gear.

Jotas were made for demolishing long distances on fast open roads and this bike has the useful half fairing which makes distance that bit more comfortable as well as adding to the sleek looks of the bike. However with its rear set footrests, right hand gear change, heavy clutch and uncompromising riding position, it could never be classed as a sedate tourer.

The lumpy cams and high comp pistons make the DOHC inline triple an engaging ride. Although a simple and fairly basic layout, Laverda spent many years refining the concept making this later version a much better rider’s bike, than the early versions.

As a superbike object of desire from the 1970s, the Jota has few peers. Although its 90 or so BHP doesn’t sound too much in today’s world of 200 horsepower superbikes, the way the power is delivered with a crescendo of juddering torque, and the sheer size and presence it has, is the reason these bikes are still lusted after by collectors the world over. And that loud off-beat triple ‘thrum’ is so unique in the biking world, it could only be a Jota.

It has the all-important engine and frame numbers showing however, they're not matching. This can be registered as a Historic Vehicle so VED is free and it doesn’t need an MOT of course.

This bike certainly has character and you will never be short of admirers at bike meets, rides out and even just nipping to the petrol station, you will be guaranteed to have a barrage of admirers and questions. And let’s face it, isn’t that why you are looking at a classic thoroughbred like the Jota, rather than a modern, ‘civilised’ superbike?

We estimate this bike will sell for between £17,000 - £24,000.

Inspection is always encouraged (within Govt. guidelines of course), and this particular car is located with the vendor in Somerset; to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.