A 70s Laverda 450 Single - (w/Ducati) what was I looking at?

[Laverda450]

Here's my question: Owner not in sight, I saw a Laverda 450 Single at 'Marsworth Steam Rally' last weekend, this parked adjacent a Ducati 450 Single. Thing is, the Laverda was all but a Ducati? Had a Ducati 450 single engine. Its engine matched the early 70s Ducati adjacent to it on the day.

I've searched and found its Ducati equiv. - see pix. Seems that's a rare animal. This green tank Laverda badged version must be just as obsure? Schnice it was.

Google poodle reveals nil. What was I looking at?

 

[Paul Marx]

It's a home made bitsa. Ducati single in Chott cycle parts.
Been seen around quite a bit in the magazines in the UK.
Paul

 

[Laverda450]

Ah... thanks, home-brew eh? That'd explain why I can't find similar. Looks very 'factory' - had me fooled.

I like. I'll take it, send it round.

 

[GregT]

The Chott chassis has to be better than the R/T Ducati. Before he saw the light and changed frames an engine customer of mine managed while roadracing one to throw it over a spectator bank and under a parked car at Levels circuit here in NZ.

 

[sfcpiet]

That's a very nice fit, never seen it before. But, as both the Chott and 450 engines are rather fragile, I think a 250 or 350 would be better suited in the long run...

The 400 Chott would have been a fun beast, sadly apparently never passed the prototype stage!

Hoping my Chott doesn't shit itself,
piet

 

[Laverda SF]

When I was young, had a late 60's 350 Ducati Desmo Single for a few months - Great Moped - Except when you beat her up you where always adjusting the Valve Train: That's when you learn how to use Feeler Gauges - 2 Cam Lobes per Valve and NO Valve Springs ;o)