Sportbikes
1981Laverda 500 SFC
19 fields on record
The 1981 Laverda 500 SFC is a lightweight sport twin suited for enthusiasts seeking nimble handling and classic Italian character. Its 496cc air-cooled engine delivers responsive performance while the compact 194kg frame excels in carving through twisty roads. Known for mechanical simplicity and distinctive styling, it appeals to riders valuing heritage and engaging ride dynamics over raw horsepower.
- Capacity
- 496.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 194.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 45.0 HP (33.1 kW) @ 8200 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built primarily as a sporty, twin-cylinder cafe racer for spirited backroad riding and occasional track days rather than utilitarian commuting.
- Built for
- Delivers a raw, mechanical, high-revving twin-cylinder character typical of early-80s Italian performance bikes, with direct feedback and a distinct exhaust note.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking plush touring comfort, passenger-friendly ergonomics, or any kind of off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 496.0 ccm
- Power
- 45.0 HP (33.1 kW) @ 8200 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2320 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 72.0 x 61.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.2:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 182.0 km/h (113.1 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 100/90-18
- Rear tyre
- 110/90-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 496 cc | 496 cc | 496 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 14.5 L | 14.5 L | 14.5 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Laverda 500 SFC?
The 1981 Laverda 500 SFC has a Capacity of 496.0 ccm (30.27 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Laverda 500 SFC have?
The 1981 Laverda 500 SFC has a Power of 45.0 HP (33.1 kW) @ 8200 RPM.
How many gears does the Laverda 500 SFC have?
The 1981 Laverda 500 SFC has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Laverda 500 SFC weigh?
The 1981 Laverda 500 SFC has a Wet weight of 194.0 kg (427.7 pounds).
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