Cagiva · 1978–1986
Cagiva SST and SXT: history and buying advice
The two-strokes with which Cagiva began in the old Aermacchi factory.
History
In 1978 the brothers Claudio and Gianfranco Castiglioni bought the AMF Harley-Davidson factory at Schiranna near Varese, the old Aermacchi factory. There they continued building the two-strokes Harley-Davidson had launched in 1975. The SST was the last AMF Harley-Davidson and the first Cagiva. Until 1980 it was called HD Cagiva, after that Cagiva. The SXT was the off-road version.
It was a simple naked bike with a two-stroke single, in 125, 175, 250 and from 1978 also 350 cc, with lines reminiscent of the Harley Sportster. The SST 125 sold best, as a first bike for sixteen-year-olds. In 1980 it got a front disc brake and a rev counter, in 1981 a dual seat and cast wheels, and in 1982 electronic ignition.
Key data
| Engine | 1 cylinder two-stroke, reed valve inlet, air-cooled |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 123 cc (125), 243 cc (250), 342 cc (350) |
| Versions | SST (road), SXT (off-road), also Lowrider versions |
| Production | 125 and 250 until 1985, 350 until 1986 |
What to check when buying
- Determine the year: disc brake and rev counter from 1980, cast wheels from 1981, electronic ignition from 1982.
- They are two-strokes. Ask about the condition of piston and cylinder and do a compression test.
- Check the reed block and the crankshaft seals; leaking seals cause an uneven idle.
- An SXT has often been used off-road. Check the frame for cracks and distortion.
- Many parts are the same as on the Harley-Davidson SS and SX, which makes searching easier.
- Compare the frame and engine numbers with the papers.
SourcesCybermotorcycle: Cagiva SST (English)Wikipedia: Cagiva (English)