Rimini Lambretta Centre: Open Day 2024
The Rimini Lambretta Centre (RLC) has been a Mecca for the international Lambretta scene for years. Not only is the workshop with its meticulous original restorations known beyond the borders of Rimini, but above all the racing team and the self-developed parts under the Casa Performance label are causing an international sensation.
So it's no wonder that the RLC Open Day attracts guests from all over Europe. Marco, Lorenzo, Micky and their team invited guests early in the year. The last weekend in April is no guarantee of good weather, even in sun-kissed Italy. The Open Day starts on Saturday morning and ends with a ride on Sunday. It is still cloudy and raining lightly until midday on Saturday, and the sky only clears up in the afternoon. Those who are not deterred by the weather will be rewarded with real treats from the Lambretta world. Numerous exhibitors and visitors have brought exhibits worth seeing. From rare originals and elaborate custom creations to historic racing vehicles.
World record on the Lambretta
The highlight of the day was the Lambretta Ancillotti Special 250cc, with which Alberto Ancillotti set the world record for the fastest scooter in 1966. 106 MPH, or 170.6 km/h, was written on the official certificate at the time. Record-breaking rider Alberto Ancillotti presented the legendary scooter himself and was available for interviews. A rare opportunity for Lambrettisti with a passion for racing.
Another highlight was a two-cylinder conversion from the 70s. Tonino Sanchini from Rimini brought the one-off to the event. Built in 1974 by Roberto Baffone, the scooter has two original 125cc cylinders. A second crankcase was flanged to the original one. Crankshaft, exhaust system, casing - all custom-made. The best thing about the scooter is that it works perfectly. When Tonino brings the Lambretta DL to life with the first kick, the unique sound immediately attracts a crowd.
In addition to interesting scooters and their owners, RLC provided a rich supporting programme. Various dealers presented themselves and their products at their stands. Outside, there was a large Tent with its own kitchen and good Italian food. At the front of the Tent, a DJ spun the turntables. Next to the building was a custom show with a special TV 1 series exhibition and inside the building there was a detailed insight into the products and work of RLC and Casa Performance. Even without the typical Italian weather, it was a beautiful and entertaining day.
In the evening, the RLC hosted a soul night in a nearby club. Good music, good drinks, good people, good atmosphere - a seamless continuation of the day's programme.
Into the mountains on a Lambretta
Those who wanted to could also spend Sunday with the RLC crew. Breakfast was served in the morning, followed by a ride into the nearby mountains. This included a stopover and Aperitivo against the picturesque backdrop of a small castle with sweeping views over vineyards and valleys. The end point of the trip was a restaurant with local specialities and another unique view of the sea. And it was almost always sunny.
An open day like this is above all a meeting place and the quality of the event depends on the company you keep there. In this respect in particular, the event was a complete success. The 300 or so guests were a very international mix: English, Germans, Austrians, Greeks, French and of course Italians. Everyone was in a good mood, friendly and had a lot of fun talking shop about Lambretta (and sometimes Vespa). Including many interesting personalities from the scene. It was a very nice weekend and makes me want to come again!
Video Rimini Lambretta Centre: Open Day 2024
Picture gallery Rimini Lambretta Centre: Open Day 2024
