The original Laverda prototype – With Phil Aynsley
This 75cc four-stroke OHV Laverda prototype was built by Francesco Laverda in 1947 to 1949
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-007-1024x861.jpg)
It is not often you get to see, let alone photograph, the very first motorcycle ever produced by a major manufacturer – but here is the start of the Laverda line!
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-013-1024x683.jpg)
Francesco Laverda constructed his 75cc prototype in his garage between 1947-49. His aim was to produce an economical (60km/litre), low cost bike to fill the transport needs of the post war public.
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-010-719x1024.jpg)
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-008-683x1024.jpg)
Notable design features include the pressed steel frame, a 4-stroke OHV motor (rather than a 2-stroke) and the unusual final drive system – by chain and gears in an enclosed alloy casting.
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-005-1024x716.jpg)
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-004-1024x707.jpg)
This drive system was to ensure low maintenance as it was envisioned the bike would be used mainly on unsealed roads.
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-012-707x1024.jpg)
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-006-1024x716.jpg)
However by the time the 75 went into production in 1951 a normal chain drive was substituted for cost reasons.
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-001-1024x673.jpg)
Power of the prototype was 3hp at 5,250rpm. Dry weight 65kg. A 3-speed gearbox was used giving a top speed of 70kph. The bike is still in family hands being a part of Piero Laverda’s collection.
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-009-1024x771.jpg)
![1947-1949 original Laverda 75cc Prototype](https://www.mcnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/PA-Original-Laverda-75-003-1024x683.jpg)