Vehicle Description
During the late 1960s and early 1970s Laverda faced intense
competition, not just from the Japanese makers with their flashy
multi-cylindered superbikes, but also from more local rivals like
Benelli, Ducati and Moto Guzzi. So, in 1968, and while launching
its new range of 750cc twins, the Breganze company started work on
Massimo Laverda's brainchild - a new, big-capacity three-cylinder
motor. First revealed in prototype form at the 1969 Milan and
Geneva shows, the chain-driven single overhead cam 1,000cc, 120�
triple was essentially a 750 twin with an additional cylinder.The
new five-speed could hold its own in any company. With 80hp it
could match the Z1's 130mph top speed. The conservative but brutish
styling was appealing, as was its distinctive engine and exhaust
note while a sportier riding position, beefy forks and superior
rear suspension units allowed it to out-handle the Oriental
flexi-flyers of the day. The matching-numbers 3C here was first
registered in 1973 and was one of the first homologated for road
use in June/July 1973, shortly before motorcycle production
transferred to a new factory. These facts are confirmed in a 2008
letter from Piero Laverda to the then owner. This 3C has also been
treated to a full restoration, to correct specifications, with work
completed in 2008. It has spent its entire life in Italy, with the
current owner purchasing it shortly after the restoration. With
Laverda in long-term hibernation at the behest of the owning
Piaggio Group, this is a rare opportunity to acquire a beautiful
early example of what is arguably the marque's greatest model. �
For sale by auction on Saturday 23 September 2017 with Historics at
Brooklands, Brooklands Motor Racing Circuit, Weybridge, Surrey,
Call 01753 639170
