The Laverda RGS 1000 is one of the last versions of the big triple, which tamed the “peaky” Jota engine, isolated the rider from vibrations with rubber mounts from the engine, and added the half-fairing. It was a true sport tourer, best on fast roads with long sweepers, taking you from city to city in style and with ease. This one’s…a little bit different.
Some felt that the engine lost a bit of character in the process, but it became a much easier bike to tour on – especially with the half fairing. There was also an “Executive” model with more wind protection and bags, but this bike is not so equipped. The RGS production ran between 1982-1985, and approximately 2,500 bikes were built. The 981cc triple was paired with a 5-speed transmission, and the whole thing weighs over 550 pounds wet. For more on the RGS, check out this profile on Motorcycle Classics.
This example (VIN: LAV1000RGS *1901*) was customized by Murayama Motors (a former Laverda dealer) with an extensive list of modifications:
“1116cc displacement
TT-F1 camshaft
Carrillo connecting rod
Cylinder head bottom surface polishing
Intake and exhaust port processing
Primary belt specifications
DMC ignition system
Keihin FCR carburetor
3 piece muffler
Front and rear Brembo brake system
hydraulic clutch
Ohlins suspension front and rear
Vito R&D magtan wheel
frame reinforcement
aluminum swing arm
Aluminum upper and lower three-pronged
aluminum back step
STACK meter”
There’s a running video in the listing that you should check out as well. If I bought this I’d ditch the blue stripe and put filters on the carbs, then enjoy a pretty interesting restomod. I think the price is aggressive, but it’s just so cool that I couldn’t help sharing it with you.
Find this Laverda for sale in Osaka, Japan with an unmet opening bid of $30,000 or a BIN of $39,000 here on eBay.