Lambretta Preservation: Part 1

Keeping a Lambretta in original factory condition is saving its history for future generations. Customising it will mean the history is gone forever, so which to choose?

- Stu Owen

Finding an old Lambretta or any scooter for that matter in an old garage or shed is a dream we all have. To some it does become a reality, but it raises the question of what should be done with it. Should it have a total restoration from bare metal upwards or perhaps left as it is from the day it came out of the factory? Many factors make up the final decision. Is the paint free from rust and the majority of it still intact? Does the engine turn over or is it seized solid? Is everything still connected ready to work after cleaning up? If the answer to these questions is yes then preservation is by far the best option.

Why should you preserve rather than restore

The last Innocenti Lambretta rolled off the production line almost 50 years ago. Since that time the amount left that are still in original untouched condition has rapidly declined. Many thousands of examples since having being restored. No one can be blamed for this happening. Who was to know that the Lambretta would gain such popularity after production had finished? These days if one is found how it left the factory then it seems everything is done to preserve it. This decision is dictated by the fact that its value is greater than if it's restored, certainly for the rarer and more sought-after models.