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LOT 616 N

1959 Lambretta 125cc Li Racing Scooter Frame no. 125LI 533525 Engine no. 125LI 507332

Sold for £7,475 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 616N

1959 Lambretta 125cc Li Racing Scooter
Frame no. 125LI 533525 Engine no. 125LI 507332

1959 Lambretta 125cc Li Racing Scooter
Frame no. 125LI 533525
Engine no. 125LI 507332

Manufactured by the Italian industrial giant Innocenti, the Lambretta scooter gained instant acceptance in the immediate post-war years, its cleanliness and convenience in particular appealing to those who regarded the true motorcycle with suspicion. Following the unreliable TV 175 Series 1, Lambretta went back to the drawing board to create one of its all-time greats: the Li. Built as a 125 or 150, the classic Li used the bore/stroke dimensions of the preceding 'D' Series but housed its entirely new engine in modern bodywork similar to that of the TV. Motor scooters have been raced since their earliest days, not the least in Italy, and this Lambretta Li was built by Giancarlo Morbidelli specifically to compete in the 1994 historical rerunning of the famous Milan-Taranto long-distance road race. The Lambretta was one of four machines entered by the Binova-Cucine team and was ridden by Giampiero Findanno, who led the race into the final day only to be delayed by an engine seizure; even so, he managed to finish 1st in class and 2nd overall. Its surprising result notwithstanding, the Morbidelli-prepared Lambretta was the most talked-about machine in the field, being much admired for its technical innovation. Still carrying its Milan-Taranto competitor's plates, this unique machine is offered with a selection of contemporary press cuttings and photographs.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

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  • 12 August 2020, 13:00 - 17:00 BST

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NNOVA declaration
If purchased by a UK resident, this machine is subject to a NOVA declaration, whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee of £350 + VAT to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice.

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