1998 Laverda 668 Diamante

"Take this Laverda Diamante, for instance. It's typically Italian – noisy, brightly coloured and flash... Actually, it's not totally Italian; the little half fairing is specially made for the British market, as the cute Union Jack/tricolore badge next to the clocks goes to show. The standard version, the Ghost, is unfaired and comes with straighter, higher handlebars giving a less extreme riding position. But importer Three Cross decided that riders in this country would prefer a slightly less posey, more sporty version..." - Top Gear.

Having established its performance credentials with a succession of big three-cylinder sports bikes during the 1970s, most notably the fire-breathing Jota, Laverda emerged from a succession of financial upheavals with a new range of machines for the 1990s. The first of these was the 650 Sport, which used a 668cc development of the old Alpino '500' 8-valve twin-cylinder engine housed in a state-of-the-art aluminium twin-spar chassis designed by frame and suspension guru, Nico Bakker. This was followed by the Ghost streetfighter - intended to compete with Ducati's immensely successful Monster - Strike, Ghost Legend, Ghost Strike and 668 Sportster models. Completing this family of closely related machinery was the Diamante, a half-faired version of the Ghost featuring the latter's tubular steel frame.

Currently displaying a total of 19,632 kilometres on the odometer, this Diamante was purchased by the late owner from Jemspeedshop of Batley in 2016. No previous history is known. Used sparingly and dry stored for the last few years, the machine was in running condition when stored but will require recommissioning - including a new battery - before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. The Laverda is offered from a private collection of motorcycles which were run regularly up to 2022 when the late owner's ill health prevented any further work or use. All of the machines were purchased from dealers and had been fully serviced prior to joining the collection. None have been ridden since they were confined to storage apart from a short trip to a local show where they were displayed. Accompanying documentation consists of a V5C Registration Certificate; the 2016 purchase receipt; sundry invoices; an owner's manual; specification and technical information; and a quantity of old tax discs and expired MoTs.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.