Lambretta Model F

LAMBRETTA MODEL F HISTORY

Even after the Lambretta 125 E stunned Italy as a sensational commercial flop, Innocenti did not give up with the idea of selling a super economic scooter. At the beginning of 1954, the Lambretta 125 F was presented to the world at the same low price for 108,000 Italian lira.

This new model was essentially a refurbished 125 E conserving all of its positive technical attributes, such as its high gas mileage and its performance. The outboard motor styled pull start string was finally thrown out and replaced by a kick starter; the rear dual cones were mounted on a ball bearings; and the shifting was smoother and more immediate due to an improved clutch. Most of the first 125 Fs off the production line were actually refurbished 125 Es, and its not uncommon to still find the "E" written on the frame with the bottom line scratched off to look like an "F".

After just a few months, this new model was modified with a new elegant color, dark green, and the seat was changed to be the same as the 125 D.

At the beginning of 1955, to sell off the remaining stock in the factory, a second version of the 125 F was released calling it the second series. Coinciding with the debut of the Lambretta 48 moped, this new model was officially presented to the public in mid 1955 and had many technical improvements, more comfort, and a more reliable motor.

To perfect this model, Innocenti gave it the more efficient fork and front fender of the 125 D, the handlebars were raised slightly to improve the position of the driver, and the electrical system was made more powerful by adding a high-powered coil and condenser next to the magneto.

In spite of these important improvements to the Lambretta 125 F second series, it couldn not shed the unfortunate scar left by the ill-fated 125 E. Sales slumped, and the figures could not justify keeping the 125 F on the market. At the beginning of 1956, production was halted after less than one year from the Fs debut.