Registration No: 891 XVL
Frame No: 175TV 1197
Engine No: 175TV 1198
CC: 175
MOT: Exempt

• Well restored early production TV Series 1
• In running condition according to the vendor
• Correct engine and frame numbers
• Ignition, steering lock and toolbox keys present
• Most original parts retained
• V5 for use on UK roads

The Lambretta TV175 Series 1 was launched in September 1957 and was a very different kind of scooter than all that had gone before it. It was the first scooter of the Li range and appeared some 7 months before the Li. The new 4-speed TV machine was able to reach an unprecedented 103kmh (64mph) which was a significant improvement on the 3 speed LD models which it replaced. However, the new engine was not without its problems and various changes to the design were made during its short production run to improve things. It had a large carburettor with a diaphragm and a complicated kickstart arrangement. Early examples had cable adjusters on the handlebar levers. The rear suspension had a combined spring and hydraulic shock which allowed the engine to swivel silent mounts. The wheel rims had chrome edging. The rear light had a triple bulb arrangement with an Orange lens either side of a Red centre. The new enclosed chain-driven engine had an increased capacity and the crankshaft, barrel, piston and gearbox ratio were changed. The front forks were fitted with external shock absorbers. The rear plate and fork links were redesigned to cope with the extra power. The TV175 models were fitted with a Veglia 120kmh speedometer face and a dual seat. The ‘Lambretta’ and ‘TV175’ side panel badges were attached to the panels with small nuts as opposed to the riveted badges on the Series 2 Li panels. Often referred to as the ‘tourer’, it had a superb performance coupled with beautiful styling and has been hugely sought after for many years by collectors.

This early example was purchased 4 years ago at an Italian parts fair for a sum, with transport in excess of £10,000. She has been subject to a third-party restoration costing several thousands of pounds and has an additional parts bill alone of £2,524. She is road registered with a V5C. Many of the original important and hard-to-find TV175 Series 1 components are present and re-used including: Series 1 carburettor and fuel tap assembly, Series 1 rear hub, original KMH speedometer, Aquila Continentale seat (recovered), levers and adjusters, completely original engine rebuilt with new piston. The new parts used are sourced from Rimini Lambretta Centre, and Scooter Restorations at a cost of over £2,500 alone.

The Lambretta TV Series 1 is a hard model to find particularly in excellent state and working order. This example has been standing unused for over a year and needs a small amount of finishing. She does, however, present herself as a very good purchase indeed.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Diamond
info@vintagescooters.co.uk
07768 313001