The David Collier Collection, 1979 Laverda 981cc Jota

• 7,677 miles
• Iconic hyperbike
• Low mileage
• Great originality and remarkable condition
• One owner for the last 38 years

"PERFECTION, sheer perfection" - these were the opening words of Motorcycle Sport's Laverda Jota road test in July 1977. The Jota was THE hyperbike of the late 1970s combining ridiculously good looks with massive performance. This 1979 example has had only two owners and displays just 7,677 miles on its odometer. It must surely be one of the most original examples in existence. It is accompanied by its new vehicle order form, V5, owner's manual, March 1986 MOT certificate (mileage then 6,786), and the dealer Moto Prince's letter regarding the crankshaft recall inspection. The first owner's notebook (supplied) records "26.8.80 Jota taken to Mo-Todd in Croydon for new crankshaft". Minor scuffs are visible on the frame from that day when the engine was removed and refitted by the Laverda factory technicians at Mo-Todds. His last entry in the notebook reads "19.10.86 Sold Laverda to Dave Collier. Heartbreak to see it go".

David bought the bike to complete his ultimate Italian threesome: Guzzi Le Mans, 900SS (also in the sale), and Laverda Jota. In the same above mentioned notebook David recorded that on 19.6.88 he rode the Jota for 12 miles – which took its mileage to the reading that we see today. It hasn't been ridden since that day 36 years ago, has been dry stored in heated conditions ever since, and has been recommissioned over the last 12 months. The clutch was overhauled, and there has been a full hydraulic overhaul of the brakes. A new battery is fitted. All carburettor components were cleaned, and the float valves were replaced, but while it carburates well, it has proved difficult to set a reliable idle. In retrospect David thinks that he should also have replaced the pilot jets – and this, as well as fitting new tyres, remains a job for the new owner. The original toolkit is under the seat, as well as the little oil can which came with the Jota when new.

Because he was able to ride on trade plates David never registered the bike in his own name. We urge interested bidders to view the running video on our website. Such is his confidence in the machine that, subject to his health allowing it, David is happy to provide technical support and advice over the telephone to the new owner. This is a not to be missed opportunity to acquire an exceptionally original low mileage Jota. Prospective bidders should satisfy themselves as to the motorcycle's completeness and mechanical condition prior to bidding. Sold strictly as viewed.
Offered with key