Description
This motorcycle is Lot 163 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 163
The Andy Chapman Collection
1982 Laverda 981cc Jota
Registration no. LAB 521X
Frame no. LAV. 1000* 7753*
Engine no. 1000* 7753*
Blessed with one of the most evocative names in motorcycling history, the Jota was the bike that really put Laverda on the map. Its direct progenitor was the tuned version of the Italian firm's 3C triple - the 3C(E) - developed for production racing by the UK importer, Slater Brothers. The production Jota was both more highly tuned and quicker, its 140mph maximum making it the world's fastest road-going production motorcycle at the time of its launch for 1976. It was also pretty handy on the racetrack, winning the UK's Avon championship in 1976 and 1978 in the hands of Pete Davies. Few major changes were made to the Jota prior to 1982 when a heavily revised version was introduced, complete with a 120-degree crankshaft that made for a more even firing order than the original's 180-degree 'flat' crank. Today, the Jota is one of the most collectible of Italian classics, particularly the first '180' version.
This '180' Jota comes with the all-important letter of confirmation from Slater Bros and has belonged to the vendor since 2018. Following a period of inactivity, the machine will require re-commissioning to a greater or lesser extent, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Accompanying paperwork consists of sundry invoices, old/ current V5C documents, and some expired MoTs.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
