The Bikes - 750 SFC Bol D’Or 1972

Following the popularity of the 5000 series SFC amongst Europe’s racing fraternity, the factory pooled the knowledge it had gained through the factory’s endurance racing efforts and incorporated it into what was effectively the first production run of the SFC . The second batch of approximately 75 machines, known as the 8000 series, was still a little bit rough around the edges [compared to the superbly finished road machines] but was every inch the tough, reliable endurance racer upon which the factory was building its reputation as a high performance bike manufacturer. The tank was now made of GRP and the ground clearance issues present on the 5000 series were addressed with the introduction of longer down pipes creating more clearance for cornering. As standard the machine was fitted with the 2nd series Laverda drum brakes. The engine had its normal careful preparation at the factory and was now equipped with a true close ratio gearbox. This was a true low volume production racer and the SFC soon became the dominant force in long distance endurance races.

Like its predecessor, almost all the 8000 series machines were destined to become racers and to many they represent the definitive competition SFC. To promote the new bike the works team took part in selected races. Roberto Gallina and Augusto Brettoni were entered in the 1972 Bol D’Or and after leading the race the team dropped down to 5th place in spite of Gallina’s heroic efforts to regain the lead during which he lapped at night just as fast as he had during the day. After 15 hours the team were forced to retire from the race, they may have lost this battle but the endurance racing war was far from over and the SFCs successful racing career continued well into the mid seventies.

 

Technical Specs

 

Type;  SFC ‘Bol D’Or 1972
Year; 1971
Displacement ; 744cc
Engine type; SOHC 2 valve, twin cylinder
Frame type; steel backbone
Transmission;  5 speed
Power output; 70bhp
Maximum speed; 220kph
Number produced;  3