Beschreibung
H&H Classic Auction @ National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
29th Mar, 2023 12:00
1959 Lambretta Li150 Series 1
Time warp with British provenance
Estimate
£4, 000 - £5, 000
Registration No: Unregistered
Frame No: 628646
Engine No: 788402
CC: 150
MOT: Exempt
Previously British registered from new and only 2 owners
Original buff log book
Correct engine and frame numbers
Completely original and untouched for 56 years
London scooter for all of its life
The Lambretta Li Series 1 was launched in April 1958. Some 7 months after the TV175 Series 1 was launched. By then Innocenti had eliminated most of the engine problems that the TV175 series 1 had had. The Li150 was a dramatic departure from the shaft-driven LD range that had preceded it. The new enclosed chain-driven engine was centrally positioned under the frame and had more power than the LD. With larger 10 inch wheels and beautifully designed panel work, it was a superb scooter to ride and was instant hit, along with beautiful styling, it has been hugely sought-after for many years by collectors.
This time warp example was first registered by E. S Motors of Chiswick and the first owner was a Malcolm Lever who then sold it in June 1960, to Leon Steiner of Romford who used the scooter as his ‘everything’ transport up until 1967, at which point it was taken off the road and stored ever since. Mr Steiner explained to our vendor that he was 16 when he acquired it (his mother had to sign for it). This 1959 Series 1 was his only transport, clocking up circa 37k miles on the clock commuting to work, holidays each year and everything in between. He also said that it ‘never once broke down’.
Upon examination we noted that the originality is indeed impressive. There is a steering lock key and the lock still retains its original flap. An original tool kit is still present and we believe it is possible that even the tyres are the originals. The original cables have never been removed and still retain original concertina rubbers above the engine. The hand levers are the correct type with the slotted cut-out. With original seats, it does appear to have been very well looked after. With no attempt being made to start the Series 1, it is offered with the original buff log book and a selection of very old MOT certificates. Originally registered as ‘374 WHX’ any attempt, by a new custodian, at re-registration to this number will need to be applied for by using the original buff log book, as the number is not currently on the DVLA system. This is could be regarded as a rare opportunity to acquire a British registered, London-area time warp example of a most sought after model.
