
Photo: Ronald Saunders from Warrington, UK · CC BY-SA 2.0
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Laverda 1000 3CL scores 84/100 overall against Triumph Trident T150 on 81/100. On the road: 72–67. As classics: 95–95. Overall result: Laverda 1000 3CL.

Photo: Ronald Saunders from Warrington, UK · CC BY-SA 2.0

Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
The numbers
| Category | Laverda 3CL | Triumph Trident | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 8 | Laverda 3CL |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 6 | Laverda 3CL |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 6 | Laverda 3CL |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 7 | Triumph Trident |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 6 | Laverda 3CL |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Laverda 3CL |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Triumph Trident |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
you want a muscular Italian triple with endurance-racing presence and a close family link to the celebrated Jota.
you want distinctive three-cylinder performance and one of the last great sporting designs of the British motorcycle industry.
Background
The Laverda 1000 3CL was produced from 1975–1981 and used a 981cc air-cooled inline triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, character, performance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
The Triumph Trident T150 was produced from 1968–1975 and used a 740cc air-cooled OHV inline triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Present-day appeal
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Laverda 1000 3CL. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph Trident T150. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Period opposition
Final result
Laverda 1000 3CL wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Laverda 1000 3CL takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.