5-9 Update: Find this Laverda Jota for sale in Dripping Springs, Texas with bidding up to $8,100 and the reserve not yet met or a BIN of $14,795
Laverda had been enjoying some decent success with its 3C model, a 1,000cc triple that provided more power than the twins it succeeded with minimal extra weight. The British importer of Laverda, Roger Slater, suggested they create a high-po version – which became the famous Jota (named after a Spanish dance). Built from ’76 to ’82, the Jota was a commercial success, due in part to the fact that from ’76-’77, it was the fastest production motorcycle to date.
The 981cc triple produced 97 horsepower, yielding a blistering 131 mile per hour top speed. From a review from Motorcycle Specs:
It is a tough, brutal and uncompromising machine. The clutch lever is numbingly stiff while the five-speed gearbox needs a positive change if any progress is to be made. The brakes—twin 11-inch Brembo discs at the front, a single disc at the rear—are fierce and positive. The net result is that the Jota is a taut and frill-free machine, definitely not the kind of bike for a gentle Sunday afternoon ride. The engine begs to be revved and the handling makes it difficult to resist throwing the Jota round every bend which the rider encounters.
This specific Laverda Jota (VIN: 5900) has just 1,503 miles and is being offered by a passionate Laverda fan who has owned three previous examples of the marque. Originally setup as a racebike at Riverside in the 80s, it never got a chance to race thanks to AMA rule changes. Because of this, there are a couple of modifications, including a frame reinforcement near the air filter which eliminates the possibility of using the stock air box. There’s also an extra cross tube, and custom made levers for shifting and braking. You also don’t get a few things, including the horns and turn signals. This is an excellent example of a rare bike, and the race prep must make it a joy to ride.
Find this Laverda Jota for sale in Austin, Texas with bidding up to $7,605 and the reserve not yet met or a BIN of $19,950
