Overview Lambretta 150 LI Series 1

The LI Series 1, Innocenti's flagship model, was in many respects more like a prototype and revealed some weaknesses when used on the road. The larger 150 cc version was launched in April 1958, closely followed by the smaller 125 cc version in June, both of which immediately met with great interest from buyers. This series set standards with its innovative frame and engine design, which were taken up in all subsequent models.

Model history Lambretta 150 LI Series 1

Innocenti's Series 1, consisting of the LI and TV models, achieved considerable commercial success with over 150,000 units produced. The initial models in this series were known as "Framebreathers" after their air intake system, which drew air in through the rear. This system consisted of a Grill at the rear and an Air Bellow that channelled the air to the Dellorto MB18 Carburettor on the 125cc Model (or the MB19 on the 150cc Model). The air was channelled through an Air Filter Casing, which for the first time in the second series contained an easily replaceable disposable paper filter, as opposed to the previous washable filter. It is rumoured that this framebreather system was later abandoned, as the riders' clothing could cover the Air Intakes and thus lead to misfiring. Later Models therefore received an Air Scoop between the Seats, which channelled air to a Filter between the Tank and Tool Box, while the rear grille was retained.

There were three different versions in this first series:

1. Li - 1st version (April 1958 to September 1958): The air intake was through the frame under the pillion saddle, with a metal mesh serving as an Air Filter. The Chain Tensioner in the Engine was not adjustable. The first LI 150 models had TV Series 1 Side Panels with oval openings and the rider's seat had no Grab Rail. The first Li 125 Models had neither handlebar lock nor leg shield rubbers.

2. Li - 2nd version (September 1958 to December 1958): A paper filter was added to the cylindrical Air Filter, the rider's seat was given a Grab Rail and the Chain Tensioner in the Engine became adjustable.

3. Li - 3rd version (December 1958 to October 1959): The air intake was now no longer through the Frame but under the front Single Seat and the Air Filter was oval shaped. Tank ventilation was realised via the Tank Cap and the Brake Pedal was given an additional Mud Flap.

Differences between the 125 cc and 150 cc models can be found in the details: The 150 cc models have Floor Runners with rubber inserts and End Pieces, while the 125 cc models have aluminium Floor Runners with Rubber Pad. Both models have a decorative plate with Lambretta lettering on the Side Panels. The Innocenti emblem is located between the Headlight Unit and horn grille, while the left-hand side of the Legshield features the chrome-plated, two-line Badge "Lambretta LI 125". The English models also have a brass badge with the St George's dragon below the Badge.

The Engine of the Lambretta 150 LI Series 1

An innovative engine was developed, which was available in both a 125 cc and a 150 cc version. The Cylinder was positioned horizontally for the first time on this Engine. In addition, a chain drive was inserted and the transmission was equipped with four gears. The drive system works via a chain sprocket connected to the Clutch Basket, which in turn drives a set of Gear Cogs and four separate Gear Cogs via a Shaft. This design, which was originally developed as a solution to problems with the larger 175 cc Engine of the TV series, became established as the standard for future Lambretta models.
The first versions of these models were manufactured without a Chain Tensioner and only with a single Oil Seal lubricated by the petrol/oil mixture in the maghousing. However, improvements were made in the course of production: A Chain Tensioner and a self-lubricating Bearing in the Maghousing were added, as well as an Oil Retainer Cup under the front Drive Sprocket to relieve the Oil Seal on the drive side. These improvements, particularly to the Chain Tensioner and the self-lubricating Maghousing Bearing, remained in place until Innocenti discontinued scooter production. The main improvements focussed on the Engine, especially the Reinforcement of the Crankshaft and its bearings.

Used Lambretta 150 LI Series 1 market situation

Where do you look for this vehicle?

• At your favourite Lambretta dealer

• Classified adverts in the local newspaper

• Markets and trade fairs such as Mostra Scambis in Italy

• Online marketplaces such as www.mobile.de, www.autoscout24.de etc.

Miscellaneous Lambretta 150 LI Series 1

The bodywork of the new "wide style" Lambrettas is largely similar to that of the TV 175, with the small difference that the cooling slots in the Side Panels have been omitted. However, a small number of vehicles were still delivered with the slotted TV Side Panels. To make room for the redesigned Kickstart Lever, cut-outs were made in the right Footboards and in the Side Panels. The design of these Lambrettas is characterised by gently flowing lines. A generously curved Mudguard is emblazoned at the front, complemented by a second, smaller Mud Flap underneath to protect the cables from dirt. The Headlight Unit, as on the older LD models, is integrated into the horn cascade of the Legshield. A speedometer is installed in the Steering Head as standard, which was replaced by an aluminium plate in Italy to save costs, as there was no speedometer light there. There is also a Steering Lock on the Steering Head, covered by a chrome-plated plate. The larger 10-inch wheels and the new front suspension with internal Springs and rear shock absorber promise improved riding comfort and more stable road holding.
The Tool Box is conveniently located under the front Single Seat and is accessible through a flap between the rider's legs. The tank has been enlarged and now holds just under 8 litres, equipped with baffles to minimise fuel sloshing.

The colours of the Lambretta 150 LI Series 1

For the Li 150, it is possible to combine a grey base paint finish for the bodywork with colour-coordinated Side Panels and Horn Covers in blue, green or red.

Colour	Colour name	Colour code	Colour info
	Grigio Chiaro	8019
	Grigio Fiume	8014
	Azzurro Flaminia	8032
	Bleu Inghilterra	8031
	Verde Nilo	8015
	Rosso Rubino	8047
	Rosso Corallo	8046