Laverda 200 Twin
With Phil Aynsley
Laverda’s first multi-cylinder motorcycle was the 200cc twin that was debuted in 1961 and entered production the following year.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Laverda-200-Twin-PA-Laverda200-006-1024x881.jpg)
The bike was designed as an “everyday” model and the pushrod motor put out 11 hp at 6500 rpm. It featured a large ‘plunger’ type oil pump that ran off the rear of the crankshaft assembly.
The chassis was a combination of a tubular front cradle that was connected to a pressed steel rear section, giving the bike quite an overall “smooth” appearance. Weight on the Laverda 200 Twin was 120 kg and top speed reached 115 km/h.
![](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Laverda-200-Twin-PA-Laverda200-009-1024x649.jpg)
Production finished in 1967 after some 4,500 were built – with this bike being the last off the line. It wasn’t sold until 1971.