Formed in 1919 in Czechoslovakia, CZ started with producing firearms before adding in bicycles and motorcycles in the late 1920s and early ’30s. In the 50s and 60s, CZ was at the top of its game. After World War II, it was the second largest manufacturer of motorcycles in Europe, plus it was dominating motocross competition worldwide.
In 1974, Jaroslav Falta came within 6 points of winning the 250cc World Championship. It all came down to the final round of the Championship, during which Falta had a slim deficit to overcome to go from 2nd place to 1st overall. Many believe that Russian riders kept ganging up on Falta to protect Russian KTM rider Gennady Moiseyev, the holder of first place. Falta was still able to win, but the Russians protested saying Falta had jumped the start. FIM agreed with the Russians, which is why we can’t say that Falta won the 250cc World Championship in 1974. To commemorate this almost-victory, CZ released “Falta Replicas” in 1975 as 250 and 400 models.
With the exception of engine displacement (250cc and 380cc), the Falta reps were basically the same. Features included air shocks with alloy bodies, alloy rims, and a leather belt to keep the aluminum “coffin” gas tank in place. For more on the Falta replicas, check out this profile on Motorcycle Action Mag.
This example is VIN: 9818001021, Engine #: 9815001021. The seller acquired it from a private party through a Mecum auction in 2017.
During his ownership, the seller started it once and then put it in storage. There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
The previous listing notes that it was raced until 1978 with a sponsorship from Mid valley Motorcycle Shop in Van Nuys, California (just 5 miles down the street from Iconic’s headquarters).
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Fail
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok (Age Unknown)
2T Oil Level: Premix
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Dirty
Headlight High Beam: N/A
Headlight Low Beam: N/A
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: N/A
Brake Light (Front Switch): N/A
Brake Light (Rear Switch): N/A
Plate Light: N/A
Horn: N/A
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: Drum Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: Drum Ok
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: Dry Rotted
Tire Date Code Rear: Dry Rotted
Tire % Remaining Front: 90% Dry Rotted
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90% Dry Rotted
Tire Press. Front: 27 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 0 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: N/A
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: N/A
Running Condition: Kick No Start
Test Ride Completed: None Taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Fuel tank needs to be cleaned
-Chain is dirty
-Intake Manifold boot is cracked
-Carburetor is leaking
Recommendations:
-No Start Diagnostic
-Fuel tank needs to be cleaned
-Chain Service
-Replace intake manifold boots
-Replace hoses
-Refurbish Fuel system
-Front and Rear Tires
-Carburetor Rebuild
-Etc.
Modifications:
Arnaco LTR-1 shocks.
Hi-Point Falk front fender.
Preston Petty rear fender.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Barum tires that have aged out.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this CZ is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Falta Replica stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
