1978 Other Makes 1200 Jota America

Clear

The Laverda triple was a highly esteemed superbike of the 1970s even if it was rarely seen in the USA. They developed a reputation for speed, handling, and durability on the race track, winning multiple superbike championships in Britain and Europe. They blew minds when in a British magazine test it went 140MPH, making it the fastest production bike of the era. Look it up in a Guinness Book of Records from the late '70s. This particular Laverda, a 1200 Jota America with a build date of November 1977, is a fine rider and attracts attention wherever it goes. I have owned it since 2009, and I enjoy it on club rides and quick trips over the “Dragon”. It runs very strongly and has been very reliable for me. After I bought it I went over it, checking the valve clearances (OK) , cleaning/tuning the carbs, and fixing a slippy clutch. I replaced the plates and springs and the triplex primary chain for good measure. I checked the compression when the engine was dead cold and found all cylinders within two lbs. of 157psi. I confirmed that the cams were the coveted 4C, but I did not pull the heads to see what pistons were in it. I suspect they are higher than the stock compression. I have changed the oil and cleaned the screen several times. I am now running Mobil 1 20w50 motorcycle oil. It is fresh. It has several desirable mods: rear-sets, Jota handlebar, Jota exhaust (I suspect they may be the original ones from England- they are light as a feather with no baffles), modern four-piston Brembo calipers, drilled rotors, braided SS brake lines, SFC fairing, Progressive shocks, the 4C Jota cams, and Moto-Witt ignition. It also has the bum-stop Jota seat, but it has a small tear in it. I have owned five Laverda triples and this one is the fastest. I hate to see this rorty beast go, but my old body finds the riding position too sporty and I just don't ride it enough to justify keeping it. It is a fine-looking beast with tons of charisma. I had the exhaust pipes and mufflers re-chromed recently and the oldish paint is still thick and shiny but there are nicks in several places that have been touched up. She makes a very presentable rider – not a show bike. The engine and frame numbers match- it is no. 1697 and is titled as a 1979 model. I just went out to the garage and started her up for the first time since October, when I drained the carbs. She started right away with the distinctive, spine-tingling roar that is unique to these 180-degree triples. I am sure I have forgotten something here, so don't hesitate to email if you have a question. Winning bidder is responsible for shipping and please do your own research on shipping charges. I will cooperate with the shipper of your choice. The winning bidder must pay a deposit of $200 through Paypal within 24 hours of auction's end. Full payment due in seven days. If you search Youtube for Laverda 1200 Jota America you will find several short clips of this bike that my daughter shot last winter.