Beschreibung
H&H Classic Auction @ National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
12th July, 2023 10:00
1952 Lambretta D125 Mk1
With PAV41 trailer
Estimate
£3, 500 - £4, 500
Registration: Unregistered
Frame No: unclear
Engine No: 125D 113136
MOT: Exempt
Early restored example
In running condition
Complete with PAV41 trailer and accessories
Formerly displayed at Beaulieu and Goodwood.
During World War II Ferdinando Innocenti ran a steel tubing factory in the Lambrate district of Milan in northern Italy, producing components for the Italian Air Force and construction. After the war, Innocenti needed to find a new product in order for his business to survive. Inspired by the Cushman scooters that the US army imported into Italy, Innocenti realised he could apply many of the parts that the factory was already producing to motor scooter production. Innocenti started production of Lambretta scooters in 1947, the year after Piaggio started production of its Vespa models.
The Lambretta Model D Mk1 was first introduced in 1951 as a successor to the Model C as a 125cc scooter. It had a tubular frame and because the engine did not now have to support the 2 halves as the C did the engine could now move and had the addition of a torsion bar. This feature remained on all Lambrettas until 1958. The D also had springs enclosed in the front forks. The rear brake was rod operated and the gears used a single teleflex cable. The whole ride experience was much improved and the D was subsequently a very popular model.
This example is a nice specimen and has been subject to a restoration some years ago. We understand that the previous owner performed the restoration and exhibited the scooter regularly at Beaulieu and Goodwood and we could see the entry labels on the handlebars to substantiate this. Unfortunately, little else is known of the story and it does not have any documents. The frame number is present but due to the thick paint we were unable to discern the numbers. However, these could be revealed for the registration process if desired. We noted that the scooter is fitted with a number of interesting accessories. The optional Veglia speedometer appears to be original. Also supplied are: Super style spare wheel holder, picnic hamper, period Smiths 6-day clock, and period style fly screen. We noted that many original parts have been retained including possibly the control switch. The PAV41 trailer is in excellent condition and comes with its locking key. Also supplied is the wiring kit needed to wire the lights to a scooter. We were able to see the scooter start and run.
