Lambretta Model 175 TV Series 2

LAMBRETTA MODEL 175 TV HISTORY

Since Innocenti was extremely satisfied by the performance of the LI motor, the new Lambretta TV was equipped with a larger version of that engine rather than trying to update the original TV motor, which did not meet its original expectations. With this new engine and a few esthetic alterations, the Lambretta 175 TV became the Series II version and was officially inaugurated at the beginning of 1959. Compared to its predecessor, this new version lost a little bit of power for a more functional shifting system even though the actual displacement was increased from 170cc to 175cc by changing the size of the bore and stroke.

The new version was lighter, a sensible move to make the power to weight ratio more favorable with the top speed over 100 km/h and a reduction in its gas consumption. The air-flow system was considerably simplified by using a paper filter, which would need periodical changing. The most interesting esthetic change was the return of the moveable front headlamp that shifted with the handlebars. Beginning with the old 125 LC, Innocenti had decided that it preferred a staid front headlamp on all the fully-enclosed models, and not until ten years later did it realize that the moving headlight is safer and certainly move efficient than the fixed one.

With the introduction of this new handlebar unit, the brake and clutch levers were also modified to be the same as the LI series.

Probably to save expenses, the wheel rims were now completely painted the same color as the bodywork. Looking through the brochures of the time reveals that the actual price of the second series was reduced by 5,000 Italian lira compared to its predecessor.

As far as the paint schemes were concerned, the Italian market was offered two single colors, blue or mustard, and one two-tone version in sage and brown.

At the end of 1959, a bigger and brighter taillight was mounted to conform to the new Italian vehicular laws. At the same time, the horn was enlarged as well as the speedometer gauge. More than 40,000 units were sold, far exceeding expectations and making the 175 TV Series II one of the best-selling sporting scooters.