Description
For Sale: 1979 Slater‑Supplied Laverda Jota
A beautifully sorted, rideable classic with exceptional provenance.
This stunning matching numbers bike was first registered in May 1979 by Motorcycle City - Farnborough, having been supplied to them directly from Slaters, the importer (original sales receipt included). It's evident that it has been the owners pride and joy it's entire life. There is extensive documentation with this motorcycle that allows you to follow its pampered life. I’m and ILOC member and you will be able to see much of the work carried out under my ownership on their forums and social media channels.
This beautiful Jota received the holy grail of restorations: in 1987 it was entrusted to Three Cross Motorcycles, official Laverda dealers, for a full, nut‑and‑bolt rebuild of the engine, cycle parts, coatings and paint. Nothing was skipped. Nothing done cheaply. The cost of that work ultimately exceeded the sale value of the bike at the time (over £3000) — a testament to just how comprehensively it was rebuilt.
Every aspect of that rebuild is fully documented, down to the finest detail, adding real depth and confidence to its provenance.
That restoration has completely stood the test of time, being a credit to both the workmanship and the sympathetic care it has received since. The rebuild also included a full stainless‑steel Jota Corsa exhaust system, still in superb condition today and sounding exactly as a proper 180 should.
When I bought the bike, it was a shiny garage queen — lovely to look at, but not set up for the riding experience these machines deserve. My intention was very clear: to create a rideable classic, using the very best parts available, always respecting its Slater heritage while making it the most enjoyable and reliable machine I could. Everything has been done carefully, thoughtfully, and always with reversibility in mind if required.
It has covered only around 5, 000 miles since the 1987 rebuild, all of them with gentle hands on the bars and a keen eye on mechanical sympathy.
- Upgrades and Mechanical Work
All carried out to enhance usability, reliability and safety — never at the expense of originality.
- Engine, Ignition & Fuel
Full Redax ignition and generator upgrade – the gold standard for the 180°, transforming starting, charging and running. – see pics
Complete carburettor rebuild, returned to factory specification by Ducati Paddy. – see pics
Brand‑new carb inlet stubs.
Valve clearances checked and re‑shimmed. See pics, showing correct 4C cams
New “Twin Air” air filter
- Controls & Usability
Standard throttle refitted, replacing an inappropriate quick‑action unit.
Extended clutch actuator arm, present when I bought it, then re‑engineered for smoother, lighter, more efficient operation.
Joe Geoghan side‑stand conversion – the best, safest side stand solution for these bikes.
Centre stand retained.
- Brakes & Handling
Brembo front brake master cylinder and lever from an Aprilia RSV‑R – a significant improvement in braking performance while maintaining correct aesthetics.
Original Brembo unit included or can be refitted in minutes for the buyer
Cosmetics
Re‑enamelled Laverda tank badges, organised through Malcolm Cox — superb craftsmanship and a perfect finishing touch, stunning - see pics
- In Summary
This is an opportunity to become the owner of a rare, much‑acclaimed and genuinely cherished classic.
A machine that has received the best people, the best parts and the best attention throughout its life, making it not only stunning to look at, but a truly fantastic bike to ride.
A quietly proud custodian for the past 6 years, I’m now ready to pass her on for the next chapter in her story.
