Though Laverda's fortunes were largely in the 90's rear-view mirror, the company breathed new life into its mid-size parallel twin, commissioning a sporty jack-of-all-trades. The Ghost Strike had a fine chassis and premium appointments, and can't be beat in the rarity dept.
1998 Laverda 668 Ghost Strike for sale on eBay
Laverda differentiated the Ghost Strike from their other multi-purpose machines with its Nico Bakker designed aluminum frame and WP suspension. Motive force came from a DOHC parallel twin, expanded to 668cc and updated with Marelli injection and 70 hp. Fuel is centralized under the seat and the airbox is in the "tank".
Not much detail about this Houston-based Laverda, but it has only 12,000 miles and looks good. Not sure about the non-standard appearing left side cover and dash fasteners though. From the eBay auction:
Great looking 1998 Laverda Ghost Strike. It starts, runs and drives well. Paint and seat are in excellent shape. Mileage on speedometer is in km, so I used a conversion for miles. This is a unique classic motorcycle. Have fun with it!
The 668's tight handling and relaxed riding position won points, only to give them up for a notchy gearbox and too loud exhaust. The name was soon to be retired after being purchased by Aprilia and then Piaggio, but the late Ghost Strike is a singular Euro machine perfect for the fan or collector.
-donn
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