Entries by Philipp

Update 7 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 12.09.2024

At this point we will regularly inform you about the exchange campaign for the affected shock absorbers and answer your questions:

Update 7 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 12.09.2024

Good news! We are expecting a huge delivery of shock absorbers every hour (it is currently dependent on customs clearance). This means that we have all the types of shock absorbers that were affected back in stock as tested new goods in sufficient quantities. If you have already sent in your shock absorbers, the new shock absorbers will be sent to you immediately.

If you have waited so that you can install a new damper when you remove the vehicle, we can also deliver immediately. Just send us an email and we will help you without any hassle.

At this point, once again a huge thank youe for your patience and understanding. This recall was the biggest challenge for us since the founding of Scooter Center in 1992.

Update 6 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 16.08.202427

Today more shock absorbers arrived that you and we have been waiting for:
BGM7788NB VESPA GTS front
BGM7789NB GTS rear
BGM7782 Vespa PX rear
BGM7780B Vespa V50/PV front

Update 5 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 16.08.2024

Finally we have more shock absorbers that we can offer you as replacement:

 BGM7742B    Vespa PX rear without expansion tank

BGM7742BS Vespa PX rear without expansion tank

In week 36, another large delivery will arrive, including BGM7788NB ( Vespa GTS front )

Recall bgm shock absorbers 08.08.2024

Dear customers and dealers,
We would like to inform you about the current status of our shock absorber recall campaign.
Unfortunately, at the end of week 31 we have BGM7788NB not received as advertised.
However, these are on their way to us and should reach us shortly.

Despite this delay, we have already been able to replace many shock absorbers and are well on the way to supplying all affected vehicles with new shock absorbers as quickly as possible.
We thank you very much for your understanding and patience in this matter.

Update 4 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 24.07.2024

We now also have the Vespa GTS shock absorber BGM7749NB   behind available as a replacement.

If you have already sent in yours, we will automatically send you a new pair.

If you still drive the old ones but need replacements in advance to get the conversion done immediately, send us an email to recall@scooter-center.com

At the end of next week (week 31) we will get BGM7788NB ( Vespa GTS front ) as a replacement.


Update 3 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 19.07.2024

Fortunately, production of replacement dampers is in full swing.

We have received the first replacement deliveries of the following shock absorbers and are in the process of shipping the shock absorbers:

Vespa PX front and Largeframe rear:

BGM7781B and BGM7782B

Vespa GTS front:

BGM7788NB

Next week we hope to be able to offer you additional shock absorbers as replacements.

Thank you again for your understanding. We are doing what we can, but we are dependent on the manufacturer, who is currently producing around the clock and sending the goods to us via UPS.


Please fill out the form if you have an affected shock absorber.


Update 2 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 05.07.2024

  • Since some customers are confused: only the shock absorbers where the article number is included in the list (in the case of BGM7788NB and BGM7749NB the B is not lasered onto the shock absorber) AND the described serial number is on the cover are affected. Shock absorbers with the same article number but a different serial number and shock absorbers with the same serial number but a different article number are not affected.
  • Shock absorbers that are offered by some colleagues as lowered (usually PK front) are probably not affected because the colleagues dismantled them and re-glued them. Please clarify this with the dealer concerned.
  • Shock absorbers that you have disassembled, for example to powder coat the spring, are also excluded from the recall because they are no longer in their original condition.
  • For customers who need a workshop to replace the shock absorbers: we are working hard on a dealer network that we will publish next week and which will support us and you and can carry out the conversion easily.
  • We expect a first replacement delivery in smaller quantities next week. The manufacturer is working hard on the new production.

Here is the current status of the shock absorbers we have in stock and the alternatives:

PK

Type Item number Serial numbers Color available equivalent available color variant alternative damper YSS Alternative basic YSS Alternative Gas Bitubo Gas
PK front
BGM7743B
SC23J
black
JA
PK rear
BGM7784B
SC24A
black

PX

Type Item number Serial numbers Color available equivalent available color variant alternative damper YSS Alternative basic YSS Alternative Gas Bitubo Gas
PX front
BGM7781
SC23A – SC23C – SC23K
titanium
PX front
BGM7781B
SC23D – SC23H – SC23J – SC23K – SC24A
black
PX rear
BGM7782B
SC23K – SC23H
black
PX rear
BGM7742B
SC23K – SC23H
black

GTS

Type Item number Serial numbers Color available equivalent available color variant alternative damper YSS Alternative basic YSS Alternative Gas Bitubo Gas
GTS front
BGM7788NB
SC22F – SC23H – SC23K
black
GTS rear
BGM7757B
SC23K – SC23H
black
GTS rear
BGM7749NB
SC23H
black

We are working hard on your emails. Please give us some time, we won't forget any emails and will answer them all.


Update 1 – Recall bgm shock absorbers 01.07.2024

As a precautionary measure, we are recalling all shock absorbers where we cannot rule out a manufacturing defect.

FAQ1: How do I know if the shock absorbers installed on my vehicle are affected?

You can tell this by the article number and the serial number. You can find both on the dampers:

Article number is actually BGM7788NB. The B stands for the color variant black. 

Serial number is here SC-23K

The following types are affected by the recall:

Type Item number Serial numbers
Vespa GTS front
BGM7788NB
SC22F – SC23H – SC23K
Vespa GTS rear
BGM7757B
SC23K – SC23H
Vespa GTS rear
BGM7749NB
SC23H
Vespa PX front
BGM7781
SC23A – SC23C – SC23K
Vespa PX front
BGM7781B
SC23D – SC23H – SC23J – SC23K – SC24A
Vespa PX rear
BGM7782B
SC23K – SC23H
Vespa PK front
BGM7743B
SC23J
Vespa PK rear
BGM7784B
SC24A
Vespa PX rear
BGM7742B
SC23K – SC23H

Any shock absorbers and serial numbers not listed may be excluded by the manufacturer.

The serial numbers of the shock absorbers are relatively easy to see even when installed. On the Vespa GTS, the helmet compartment has to be removed for the rear shock absorber. Then you can see the serial number from above. On the front shock absorber, you can see it just below the edge of the fender.

GTS bgm shock absorbers

Vespa GTS rear. Easy to see after removing the helmet compartment:

Vespa GTS front. Also quite easy to recognize. If necessary, take a mobile phone and a lamp with you:

PX and PK bgm shock absorbers

On the Vespa PX and PK models, shine a flashlight on the piston rod/plate area on the front shock absorber.

Vespa PX front. Also easy to see at the right angle and with a lamp:

The number is also easy to see on the rear shock absorber. It is relatively easy to read from underneath. If you have help, it is even easier if you hold the Vespa at a slight angle.

If your shock absorbers are very dirty, the easiest thing to do is to use a cloth or cotton swab and perhaps some brake cleaner or warm water with dishwashing liquid.

FAQ2: When is replacement for my shock absorber available:

 

BGM7743B Vespa PK front: We have replacements in stock and can exchange them immediately.

BGM7742B Vespa PX rear black: Here we have the black/silver version in stock and can exchange it immediately.

For all other affected variants, production is underway or replacement struts are already on their way to us. We are currently having everything produced and delivered by express so that we can provide you with replacements as quickly as possible.

FAQ3: Do I have to send in my shock absorber before I get a replacement?

 

NO: If we can trace your purchase from us using your customer number, we will send you a replacement shock absorber on account before removing it. You can then replace the shock absorber and then return the affected shock absorber. We will then cancel the invoice after receiving the defective shock absorbers. 

If the purchase cannot be traced, we will need the shock absorber back before exchanging it to prevent misuse. But even then the exchange will be processed with absolute priority.

FAQ4: I urgently need a replacement and cannot wait for an exchange:

If we cannot deliver replacements quickly enough and you no longer have your old shock absorber, we will provide you with YSS replacement shock absorbers free of charge. This will at least allow you to continue riding during the season. If you would like this option, please send an email to Recall@scooter-center.com

FAQ5: I have an affected shock absorber from the batch but was not contacted

This is only possible if you did not buy the shock absorber directly from us, but from another dealer. This is not a problem and the entire process is handled by us. In this case too, please write an email to Recall@scooter-center.com

FAQ6: How long do I have to contact us and replace the shock absorber?

There is no time limit on the exchange. It is unlimited and can be carried out whenever it suits you.     

FAQ7: I wrote an email but haven’t received a reply yet.

We are working on the enquiries in an enlarged team and are trying to organize everything. Unfortunately, not all cases are the same and answering and processing in the background takes time.

FAQ8: I have one of the affected shock absorbers but my dealer said I don't have to worry because he glued it himself.

We cannot judge the dealer's execution of the bonding. However, the bonding is fundamentally unquestionable as long as it is done correctly and with the right adhesive.

FAQ9: I lowered the shock absorber myself.

If the shock absorber no longer corresponds to the delivery condition, e.g. due to lowering, the shock absorber is no longer affected by the recall. 

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Lambretta Offroad Cup – September 20-22.09.2024, XNUMX

International 6-hour off-road endurance race in Frankenthal / Germany on Lambretta

In September, the start of an international off-road race on the Lambretta will take place in Frankenthal. The idea was presented by JP-Corse's Jürgen Pippig at the LCD's AGM in Wipperfürth in 2023. The feedback is sensational, not only considering the fact that it is the opening event.

What?      International 8-hour race on an off-road track, of course in a team only for Lambretta.

When?    20. - 22. September 2024

Where?        AMC Frankenthal 

How?       Absolutely LOW-BUDGET. In contrast to the asphalt races, the financial outlay should be kept as low as possible. 

This is something you shouldn't miss, at least as a spectator. The starting field is truly international. Teams from Belgium, Spain, England, Austria, Ireland, France and of course Germany have already registered.

Here are the impressions of the first track test in August 2023:

Presentation of the Lambretta Offroad Cup at our Open Day 2023:

The off-road terrain at a glance:

Recall campaign BGM Pro shock absorbers front and rear for Vespa GTS, PK and PX – Copy

At this point we will regularly inform you about the exchange campaign for the affected shock absorbers and answer your questions:

For 15 years now, the company has been selling Scooter Center BGM shock absorbers for Vespa scooters and has continuously developed them. Despite permanent quality control by the manufacturer and the strict controls on incoming goods at Scooter Center, we unfortunately discovered a safety-relevant defect that led to the failure of 2 shock absorbers. 

 

When mounting the adjustment wheel on the piston rod, in some cases the amount of activator for bonding was too low, which in the worst case can lead to the screw connection of the damper becoming loose.

Since this safety-relevant defect cannot be seen from the outside, we are recalling the following shock absorbers for inspection as of the date of sale 01.2023 as a precautionary measure.

 

 

 

– Vespa GTS front: BGM7788NB

Serial number: SC22F, SC23H, SC23K

– Vespa GTS rear: BGM7757B

Serial number: SC23K, SC23H                                              

– Vespa PX front: BGM7781

Serial number: SC23A, SC23C, SC23K

– Vespa PX front: BGM7781B

Serial number: SC23D, SC23H, SC23J, SC23K, SC24A

– Vespa PX rear: BGM7782B

Serial number: SC23K, SC23H

– Vespa PX rear: BGM7742B

Serial number: SC23K, SC23H

– Vespa PK front: BGM7743B

Serial number: SC23J

 

 

(The serial number is located on the oil reservoir cover next to the piston rod)                                                                                                                            

The use of the shock absorbers must therefore be stopped immediately to avoid damage to property and personal injury

 

The safety and honest dealings with our customers are very important to us,

Please send the shock absorbers back to us as soon as possible. For this purpose, we provide free return labels in this email. 

An invoice is not necessary. We can clearly identify the shock absorbers using the serial number engraved on the lid of the oil container. 

 

The following options are available for processing: 

 

If you have the shock absorbers Scooter Center bought:

  

-Exchange for new shock absorbers with full warranty. This is from the end of July 2024   

  possible  

-Credit about the invoice amount. An invoice is not required in this case either, as we can determine the purchase via your customer account. This method is only possible if you purchased from us using an existing customer account.

 

If you bought the shock absorbers from other companies

-Exchange for new shock absorbers with full warranty. This is possible from the end of July 2024.

 

If the shock absorber is no longer in your possession, please forward this letter to the new owner or give us his address so that we can contact him. 

 

If you have any questions regarding the process or if you need a transition shock absorber, please send us an email to  

 

recall@scooter-center.com 

 

 

We would like to sincerely apologize for the effort and trouble this action has caused you and ask for your understanding for this unfortunately necessary step.  

 

There can be no compromises when it comes to personal safety. 

 

Thank you and best regards 

 

 

Ulf Schroeder

Managing Director

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The 33rd Eurolambretta, venue Magny Cours, France

From June 14 to 16, 2024, the national Lambretta clubs met near the Magny Cours racetrack for the annual EL.

Around 1.200 participants celebrated the best scooter in the world for four days. The Lambretta Club France put on a great event on a perfect site. The LCGB had by far the largest contingent, with around half of the participants. 60 participants traveled from the Lambretta Club Germany.

Thanks to the custom show, dynamometer, workshop, film screening, ride, chopper custom show, food trucks (from oysters to kebabs to India), DJs, live music and an excellent gala dinner on Saturday evening, there was not a single minute of boredom. 

At the Eurolambretta Market we met many good friends:

  • Marco has the Rimini Lambretta Center and Casa Performance Products presents.
  • Sam from Lambretta finder not only offered used original parts for sale, but also put them to the test.
  • Lambretta Club Spain has made our mouths water with more goodies. Is there something new soon here comes
  • Lambretta Club Belgium
  • Lambretta Club Scotland with advertising for the 34th EL in Scotland
  • Lambretta Club Germany has promoted the Lambretta Offroad Cup massively and well. There is here at the place more information coming soon.
  • Jaime Supereibar has, after various parts and the standard reading on Eibar Lambretta, conjured up a film out of the hat. More on this soon.

Scooter Center / bgm status

We are always happy to support this legendary Lambretta meeting. A sure bet at every Eurolambretta was our friend Andy from Andy Francis Scooters. He often secured support with spare parts on his own. As this is no longer possible due to the restrictions imposed by Brexit, we decided at short notice to try it. So we booked around 150 kg of spare and wear parts and packed them pre-sorted into the delivery van and set off early on Friday morning. Enough to deliver the first spare parts on Friday as well as our new Lambretta bgm catalogue to distribute.

After a short night in the van, we head straight to the Lambretta spare parts service on Saturday morning. It was exhausting but also great to see so many old and new friends again. The only downside was that the time was far too short.

We would like to thank all participants and especially the Lambretta Club France for the great organization!

See you in Scotland 2025!

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Scooterist Meltdown 2024 10th Anniversary

The first February weekend of the year is an absolute one
Mandatory appointment for everyone Real Scooterist at. The scooterist Meltdown in Kalkar
is an all-inclusive weekender in a class of its own. Depending on what is booked
Packages range from five days to just one nighter or the big one
Custom and dealer show on Saturday.

The
The program is designed in the best Scooterist tradition. Friday from 20 p.m. and
The nighter starts on Saturday at 19 p.m. In 3 locations (Main Room,
Indie Room & Ska Bar) can dance at its best until 3.00 a.m
Northern Soul, R'n'B, Ska, Reggae, Madchester & Brit Pop as well as Alternative
Tunes can be swung. You can also chill out in the hotel bar or
bowling.

Live
Bands on both Friday and Saturday round off the program.

 

Am
On Saturday there is traditionally the big custom and trade show during the day.
And this year the framework is complete with 70 exhibitors from all over Europe
blown up. There has never been so much going on and we can judge it quite well
We were able to attend nine out of ten Meltdowns with our SC stand.

So
We were able to spend the day with around 2.000 visitors, customers and friends
exchange the hottest news and the latest gossip from the scene. And one
It's already clear: next year is definitely booked!

 

a lot of
Thanks and congratulations to the Scooterist of 84 crew on turning ten! 

Converting a lui 50 to lui 75 specification – with dyno testing of Casa's 80 cc and CP's ONE05 kits

The lui range is not just a ground-breaking design, it is also a hell of a lot of fun to ride. At least as long as the engine is not to original specs. The original 50 cc engine is a pain with 1.5 hp at the crankshaft and a top speed said to be 38.5 km/h / 24 mph.

Compared to the lui 50 the 75 models are a much more grown up affair. The big headlight unit with hi and low beam, a rear brake light and other features make it look much more grown up. And also work like that.

Thanks to the hype and craze about the lui range probably started with the first Lui Dolomiti Experience the spare and tuning part situation is better than ever. And you can easily turn your 50 into the specs of the 75 one.

For more details here is the model history for both models in one link:

We started a wish list with the major components to carry the conversion out:

Also in this listing is the new Casa Lambretta 80 cc kit. We did something on that before ->

DYNO

Finally, we had it on the dyno with the SH20 original carb, air filter box and the lui 75 original exhaust. The SH20 was jetted like this for best performance and reliability:

Main jet:             65
Idle jet:                48
Atomiser:            5899-5

A very good result with the Innocenti prototype turned into reality by Casa Lambretta. Especially considering this test earlier with the 75 cc cylinder kit give a maximum of 4.9 hp at the rear wheel. At here we have on a fresh -not settled in- engine and kit 5.5 hp straight away. 

If you fancy more power on a 50 cc or 75 cc lui engine the Casa Performance ONE05 kit is the way to go. We also tested it with on the lui 75 with original exhaust and the SH20 carb.

With the standard 75 air filter box the jetting of the SH20 was:

Main jet:             76
Idle jet:                45
Atomiser:            5899-5

With a modified 75 air filter to 6T's Tuning Manual spec the jetting of the SH20 was:

Main jet:             85
Idle jet:                50
Atomiser:            5899-5

And on the dyno with the later setup it looked like this:

So some choices here and we have -sadly- not yet tested the ONE35 kit!

So stay tuned!

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Back with a bang! Scooter Rally Toscano – Isola d'Elba 2024 – 3/5 May

Rumors had been circulating for some time that the Green Onions would return to Elba in 2024! In mid-November the time had come and it was finally official! The international Rally will take place on the beach of Morcone near Capoliveri on the first weekend of May. Below is the official information from our friend Gegio from Scooterismo.it, including recommendations for accommodation.

Here is a small picture gallery from 2007 from the Scooter Center archives. Including the presentation of the first bgm products and the back as new Lambretta catalog. 

Scooter Rally Toscano 2024

Morcone Bay – Isle of Elba – 3/5 May 2024 – Back with a bang!

For the people involved into classic scooters during the last 20 years the name Scooter Rally Toscano stands for one of the most important events in Europe! The youngest ones meanwhile can only dream about it hearing the tales from the veterans….

However, for everyone the wait is finally over! The Original Scooter Rally Toscano Organized by Green Onions Scooter Club with a little partnership from Scooterismo.it is back with a bang!

When? From 3 to 5 May 2024!

Where? @ Mandel Club – Morcone Bay – Capoliveri – Isle of Elba (LI)ud.it

 

Imagine the daily ferries to the Isle of Elba from Piombino overwhelmed by hundreds Scooterists from all over Europe, hundreds of Vespa and Lambretta parked towards the beach of Morcone or buzzing around the breathtaking streets around Capoliveri!

Beers and food stalls directly on the rally site, all-day long beach dj set + 2 All-Nighters @ Mandel Club with the best Italian Selecters in Soul, Jamaican and Scooterist's finest sounds, market area with records, spare parts, vintage and classic streetwear clothes & accessories.

custom show for the best scooters and massive prizes for the winners, a raffle and The Cleopatras live concert on the beach!

Choose between more then 10 accommodation facilities with special prices: hotel, camping, bungalow, B&B or apartments (see the list below and ask for Scooter Rally Toscano Discount)!

Plus Saturday massive scooter run, free ride-out and partner restaurants for your best Scooter Rally Toscano experience!

IMPORTANT! Pre-Registration will be available very soon and until 31 March 2024 on the official website: www.scooterrallytoscano.it !

It includes the complete Scooter Rally Toscano package at a discounted price, only 30€ instead of 33€, and the exclusive features are:

Friday and Saturday all-nighter tickets, Official rally patch, Weekend wristband for rally site entrance, Saturday scooter run and will give access to special prices for ferry's tickets!

Then, no worries, it is possible to subscribe directly on the Rally site with standard prices!

 

More info TBA!

FB: Green Onions Scooter Club

Email: 🇮🇹 🇬🇧 info@scooterrallytoscano.it

Website: www.scooterrallytoscano.it

Selected accommodation facilities are:

Eugenio Degli Innocenti
Boss ▪︎ Scooterismo.it – Distretto Ruote Piccole

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New electronic ignition for the Lambretta lui & Junior series from Vape!

Now New!

There are only two original ignitions for the Lambretta lui and Junior series: one for all models with 50 cc displacement 4-pin ignition system from Dansi and for the models with more displacement (lui 75 and J100-125) one 6-pin Ducati ignition.

The power output of both ignitions is very manageable: the Dansi ignition is included 6V / 18 watts and the Ducati version at least with it 6 V / 33 W .

The 50s models have - in a negative sense - absolutely minimal electrics, which usually don't even have a brake light. An upgrade is impossible due to the non-existent performance of this Lambretta alternator.

Comparison of the power output of the ignition systems

Ignition Ducati 6-pin J 100, J 125                  6V / 33W

Ignition Ducati 6-pin lui 75                        6V / 33W

Ignition Dansi 4-pin J 50, lui 50                  6V / 18W

Ignition Vape lui 50-75, J 50-125           12 V / 110 W

vape 80 watts, near 2.000 U / min

vape 110 watts, near 6.000 U / min

This means that the new lui and Junior Vape ignition is a more than contemporary update 12V and 110 watts Perfomance. In addition, there is the unbeatable advantage of everyone electronic ignition: There are neither capacitors that burn out nor breakers that are subject to wear. Maintenance work and a weak ignition spark are a thing of the past.
Due to the very high ignition energy at low starting speeds, the vape ignition offers better starting behavior. The CDI is suitable for all original and tuned engines with a static ignition timing.

Thanks to the 12 magnets in the magnet wheel and the 9 coils on the ignition base plate, a high current output is available even at low speeds and the flickering of the light when idling is no longer present. The maximum output of the alternator is 110 watts.

This means that the models with 50 cc displacement can also be perfectly upgraded to the features of the larger models such as high and low beams and a brake light. Additional consumers (USB socket, exhaust gas temperature and the like) are of course no problem either.

The ignition magnet wheel is one-piece, manufactured to a high quality and balanced. The fan blades are CNC milled. The design of the fifteen fan blades has been optimized for higher cooling performance. The weight of the magnet wheel with fan blades is 1,2 kg.

Weight of the pole wheels in comparison

Flywheel Ducati 6-pole (Innocent number 00840134) J 100, J 125 1,35 kg

Polrad Ducati 6-pole (Innocenti number 00860038) lui 75 1,35 kg

Polrad Dansi 4-pole (Innocenti number 00860030) J 50, lui 50 1,4 kg

Polrad Vape with CNC milled fan blades lui 50-75, J 50-125 1,2 kg


Here we have put together the essential components - in addition to the ignition - for converting the on-board electrical system from J 50 to J 100 / J125:


A special feature of the J50 models is the limited space available with the original 50 rear light. A flat LED universal rear light can be the solution here.

When upgrading the lui 50 to lui 75 electrics it looks like this:

The lui 75 terminal board is - so far - only available for the original contact ignitions. When converting to electronic ignitions, all plug connections should be bridged together so that regulated 12 V is available across all of them.

Only green must not be combined with the other colors; here the engine is switched on and off.

The 6 volt horns/buzzers can be retained on all models. However, it is important to avoid honking in the future, otherwise the component will be damaged.

Lui and Junior Vape Ignition:

Holding plates:

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Parts market Novegro – Mostra Scambio from November 3rd – 5th, 2023

It's the end of October and in just a few days it will be ready Parts market in Novegro 2023, Milan. Always a nice trip to look for parts and scooters.

Audacity loses!

A week before, an unpleasant report made the rounds on Facebook and in some Whatsapp groups.

In the Bologna area, two Lambretta lui 50s are stolen from Roberta and Simone. Pictures and the frame numbers of the white and turquoise Lambretta are doing the rounds.

After heavy rain from Thursday to Friday November 3rd, the gates to a well-soaked Novegro area opened. Suddenly there is a bit of a hustle and bustle between the usual suspects: Lambretta nuts. It quickly turns out that a delivery truck with several Lambretta scooters was also loading Roberta and Simone's lui scooters in the parking lot. Sam from Lambrettafinder, Marco from Rimini Lambretta Center, Carlos from Swiss Tony Scooter Spares, Jon Gilbert from JG Scooters, our friend Dean Orton and a few others clarify the situation and inform the rightful owners, Novegro security personnel and the police. 

In addition to the lui scooters, the corresponding bags, license plates and keys were also found in the B*****'s delivery van. So if that's not enough, another stolen Lambretta turns up in the form of a Model D.

Happy end! Scooters are back and hopefully the brazen idiot will get the appropriate punishment!

Unclear ownership number two

Some people have noticed a yellow lui 50 on the market. A color reserved for the Innocenti family's vehicles. On the steering head the sticker from Vittorio Tessera's Casa Lambretta. Most people thought nothing of it or thought the Lambretta was a reproduction, fake or whatever.

It later turns out that the scooter actually comes from Vittorio's Museo Scooters & Lambretta comes from. Vittorio loaned the lui for an exhibition to a friend who died in the meantime and his widow sold the lui without knowing the ownership structure.

But here too, a happy ending is in prospect. The buyer and Vittorio are in contact with each other and last week Vittorio bought a perfectly preserved lui 50 in orange to swap.

Here are a few more impressions from Novegro!

Gallery Novegro 2023

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Breaking news! Lambretta lui / vega 75 exhaust finally available as a repro!

While news for the more modern scooters is currently being presented at the EICMA, last weekend at the Mostra Scambio (November 3rd - 5th, 2023) there was long-awaited news for many Lambretta friends.

The lui 75 is by far the most complex Lambretta exhaust to produce, but also by far the one that works best on the lui models. (Resonance systems are left out.)

Lambretta lui exhaust – the structure:

And here again in a beautiful drawing from the classic:

In addition to the complicated interior, there are two heat shields screwed onto the outside and a chrome finish on the exhaust itself. An effort that is second to none and really makes reproduction a challenge.

Our surprise in Novegro was all the greater that two Italian manufacturers presented the exhaust as a reproduction.

The structure looks plausible:

We have ordered the systems and as soon as they have received their chrome bath, they will come to us and will be available in the shop.

The competing product from Tutto Lambretta was available for purchase and our exhaust is currently still in Dortmund. (Thanks Corina & Marco for the transport.)

As soon as the others are here, it will be put to the test.

A big thank you also to Dottore Markus for his translation skills in Novegro!!!

Stay tuned!

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Lambretta GP 200 electronic seat by bgm PRO

Of the Lambretta dl 200 or called GP 200 in England there were roughly 9.400 units built. Unknown is the quantity of the dl and GP 200 electronics that left the factory.

In our history for every model, we can find this quote in the dl / GP model history section:

“But the ultimate improvement for the DL 200 was the introduction of an electronic ignition, which was developed in co-operation with Ducati. The DL 200 Electronic is easily recognized by a sticker on the legshields. The GP 200 electronic for the English market also has a specific seat. This newly shaped seat with its structured cover is a clear reminder of the 70s sports car interiors. Unfortunately no production numbers of the Electronic are known, as it was produced from 1970 onwards alongside the standard version with points ignition.”

Vittorio Tessera of CASA LAMBRETTA and MUSEO SCOOTER & LAMBRETTA fame takes a closer examination of the quantities of the dl and GP 200 electronic build in the brilliant: 

A must read for any Lambretta nut!

Our red bgm CDI unit was meant as a homage to the original electronic ignition. But the seats for the Lambretta GP 200 electronic had always been rare as hen's teeth.

With a growing demand, we started to look into having these seats remade. Easy was to source the company to do that. Whom else to trust than our Italian artisans to have them Handmade in Italy.

The hard task was to get the project started with one good sample. Luckily we find help from our friend Martin Robinson from England who dropped off on his way to the Milano-Taranto Race not one sample, but three original seat frames and two seat covers. Now the detective work in England, Italy and Germany started and we looked into sizes, measurements, angles and materials.

We are more than happy with the outcome and can offer complete seats and seat covers directly from the SC shelf. We had them made with the factory original black stitching and a vintage version with white stitching. The original black cotton lisle fades out over the decades. Something we looked into earlier in the SC blog: 

Available NOW OR SOON

Seat bgm PRO Lambretta GP 200 electronic

Black                                                  BGMGP200E

 

  Vintage black with white stitching                           BGMGP200EV

 Seat cover bgm PRO

Lambretta GP 200 electronic

Black           BGMGP201E

 Vintage black with white stitching                BGMGP201EV

Lambretta SEATS, COVERS & ACCESSORIES

For almost every application, there is the right, period correct and perfect looking Lambretta seat available. Standard seats for the spot-on restoration, sport seats to go with the racing style or just a personal touch. The Pegasus, the standard seats, and their derivation should leave nothing to be desired.

COMPLETE LAMBRETTA SEATS

SPORTS SEATS

LI FAMILY

LUI & J-RANGE

PEGASUS SEATS

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England was the only market where Lambretta sales exceeded Vespa sales. The main reason for this is the excellent marketing strategy of the Lambretta Concessionaires. The success story of the Lambretta is documented in Stuart Owen's book about the Lambretta Concessionaires extensively and in great detail (SC article no. 3332513). Besides special models, special color combinations, there was also the Pegasus seat. This was used on the Rallymaster, Series 2, TV 175 and GT (TV) 200 models. During the production, there were different versions and specifications. All our Pegasus seats are handmade in Italy. The frame is pressed from metal, the upholstery is made from high quality foam and also otherwise corresponds to the original. The Pegasus with its metal frame and sponge is regarded as one of the most comfortable seats by many.

STANDARD SEATS

The standard seats that we offer are all handmade in Italy. They came as complete units consisting of frame and cover fitted. Beside the standard seats there are also slightly variations available. Like the bgm one with Alfatex sides that is clearly a homage to one of the existing Lambretta SX 200 Twincylinder prototypes. The seat cover for this is also available on it's own to fit on Series 3 standard seat frames.

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LUI & J-RANGE


SEAT COVERS

All our seat covers are sourced from Vittorio's Casa Lambretta or exclusively made for us in Italy. Fitting these to an existing frame is easy, but you should be prepared to take some time and a helping hand can also be an advantage.

A good idea on standard seat covers is to incorporate the seat cushion foam from bgm, this makes the seats more comfortable and nicer to use on long distance riding.

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LUI & J-RANGE


SEAT STRAPS

The next thing from Italy are the seat straps. They come in the same shade of the specific seat cover / seat color.


SEAT FRAMES

Also made in Italy and like the originals. If your frame is rotten by rust, this is the right choice. Easy replacement part.

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LUI & J-RANGE


SEAT FRAME RESTORATION

We think that we stock all the parts to restore a seat frame properly. From the locking hook to the complete spring set and rubber components. And –sorry if this gets boring- all sourced in Italy.


FASTENER

Complete kits for fixing a seat are available as each single part on its own.


SEAT BRACKETS

All seat brackets are available as spare parts, just in case they got lost. On new seats or seat frames these are always included in the delivery.

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LUI & J-RANGE


SEAT BADGES

The badge with INNOCENTI was used until the year 1968. From 1968 until the dl / GP range turned up the reading showed LAMBRETTA INNOCENTI. With the dl / GP range there was a big writing of LAMBRETTA on it.

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Lambretta rear shocker bgm PRO V3 by Rob Gray

In 2008 –fifteen years ago- we released one of the very first bgm PRO Lambretta products our rear shocker.

Over the years it got some upgrades and refinements, like rubber bushes for the mounting points. And also some first off ever things like the very clever height adjustment. Copied by many others. The second version of the BGM7772 Black edition was introduced already in 2010 and was so good that we left it untouched until last year.

We had been in contact with Rob Gray of @kickbackgarage fame anyway, then and now. As he offered us his help on redefining the settings of our rear shockers, we did not hesitate one fraction of a second.

The combination of a Lambretta riding suspension technician was hardly to beat, so we provided samples, drawings and everything else he needed and Rob started his mission in improving the setup.

Some new shims and new rebound needle later…

… Rob was happy and did a back to back test against the previously favored rear shocker. And this is Rob's direct comparison:

This super-clever refinements of a real suspension professional lead to a strictly limited edition:

Rob Gray Kick Garage

“The other shock is good but the bgm sample I have followed the road better than it.

 The other is slightly overdamped and still skips and jumps on the road even when set up correctly as high speed compression is too harsh.

 The new bgm has gained some really nice mechanical grip with my mods.

 These are the highlights of the new shock:

  •   Can be set up quite firm without being harsh for faster engines or 2 up.
  •  Rebound control is not just better, but also easier to set up.
  •  The damper shaft might be thinner than on other dampers, but this is good because it doesn`t displace as much oil. This means the oil will not overheat and there is more space for more oil. (win win)
  •  Can be used on Series 1 and 2 and Series 3 without compromising on the stroke length.
  •  The use of more but thinner shims gives more control and the added bonus of pyramid shim stack is that they are progressive. This means that if you hit a hard square edge you automatically have firmer high-speed compression control. A faster movement on the shock gives more support through-out the shock stroke.
  •  We have cured the top-out issue! Yay! No funny noise and better rebound damping.
  •  Because of the shim stack configuration, we do not need to use progressive spring rates. This gives the illusion that the stroke is longer than it is and although we can use the full stroke, it doesn`t bottom out harshly.
  •  I recommend 15-20% say when setting up the shock, and I also recommend just 2-5 turns on the spring preload. 2 =75kg rider 5 =110kg rider. A spring always behaves better under less preload. I used 3 turns but backed it down to 2.5 (82kg with gear) I also have rebound set at 14 clicks from fully open.

Rob

At the time of writing five of these only are left and all of them come or came with this note from Rob:

“Thank you for purchasing, what I believe is the best off the shelf, rear shock for your classic Lambretta scooter.

I have combined my knowledge as a suspension technician and scooter rider to enhance and improve the overall ride characteristics.

Only after countless hours of real world, riding on some of the worst Scandinavian back roads was I happy with the final result.

The magic carpet ride quality is sporty but with fantastic small bump compliance.

This gives great mechanical grip, comfortable and confidence inspiring handling.

 

Enjoy and Happy Scootering.

Rob Gray

- Kick Garage

As the limited Series is gone or will be gone shortly we are happy to announce that this improved inners are available from now on in serial production:

For all the lui – vega – cometa afficinados, we offer the silver / chrome ones in a set with the reduction bushes by our friends from Cas