Lambretta Model A

The Lambretta Model A is the first production model of Lambretta scooters. It was Ferdinando Innocenti's idea of a cheap type of transport for Italy in the mid-late 1940s.[3]

Lambretta Model A[1][2]
ManufacturerLambretta
Production1947-1948
PredecessorNone
SuccessorLambretta Model B
ClassScooter
Engine123 cc, two-stroke, single cylinder
Bore / stroke52mm x 58mm
Top speed44 mph (71 km/h)
Power4.3 hp (3 kW; 4 PS)
Transmission3-speed, Foot Operated
SuspensionNone (rear), two bushings (front)
BrakesDrum brakes
Tyres3.50*7
DimensionsL: 1620mm
W: 650mm
H: 880mm
Weight60kg (dry)
Fuel consumption110 mpg‑imp (2.6 L/100 km; 92 mpg‑US)

Overview

The Lambretta Model A was the first production scooter from Ferdinando Innocenti's Lambretta. It was designed because Ferdinando Innocenti realised the importance of cheap transport to rebuild Post-War Italy.[4] The bike's design was radical for its time but was also easy to operate.[3] The bike was produced from October 1947-October 1948 and sold 9,669 units.[3]

Design

The tubular frame was made of 2 sections; the front end was made of pressed steel connected to the steering and front forks.[3] It came with a tool box, gear indicator, foot pedal gears and an oil measuring jug integrated into the petrol tank cap.[3] The 123cc engine was shaft driven and direct air cooled.[3] The Model A also came with a 3-Speed Gear Box, the front forks consisted of 2 bushes only and there was no rear suspension.[3] It came with drum brakes and 7 inch chrome wheel rims.[3]

Sales and Production

The Lambretta Model A sold badly in the first 2 months only moving 47 units but production picked up and in the last 5 months they were producing over 1,000 units a month.[3]

Month and Year Production
October 1947 22
November 1947 25
December 1947 105
January 1948 143
February 1948 342
March 1948 658
April 1948 758
May 1948 890
June 1948 1198
July 1948 1205
August 1948 1100
September 1948 1750
October 1948 1473
Total 9,669

References
  1. "Lambretta Model A", Lambretta Club of Great Britain. Retrieved 29 July 2013.
  2. "Lambretta A 125", Lambretta Motorcycles. Retrieved 29 July 2013.
  3. "Lambretta Model A". www.ilambretta.co.uk. Retrieved 2015-11-11.
  4. "The Florentine - article » Ferdinando Innocenti". www.theflorentine.net. Retrieved 2015-11-11.
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