Engineering:Lambretta Model B
_cropped.JPG) 1948 Lambretta B at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, Hampshire, England | |
| Manufacturer | Lambretta |
|---|---|
| Production | 1948-1950 |
| Predecessor | Lambretta Model A |
| Successor | Lambretta Model C |
| Class | Scooter |
| Engine | 123 cc, Two Stroke, Single Cylinder |
| Bore / stroke | 52mm x58mm |
| Top speed | 44 mph (71 km/h) |
| Power | 4.3 hp (3 kW; 4 PS) |
| Transmission | 3 Speed, Handlebar Twist Grip |
| Suspension | Spring Suspension (front & rear) |
| Brakes | Drum |
| Dimensions | L: 1680mm W: 650mm H: 900mm |
| Weight | 60kg (dry) |
| Fuel consumption | 110 mpg‑imp (2.6 L/100 km; 92 mpg‑US) |
The Lambretta Model B was the second production model of Lambretta scooters, produced from November 1948 to January 1950. It was similar to its predecessor, the Lambretta Model A but was refined to improve the ride.[1] It was made because of the success of the Model A.[1]
Overview
After the success of the Model A Ferdinando Innocenti needed a refined bike so the Model B was very similar to its predecessor. The main aim was to improve ride quality and comfort while keeping the scooter a low cost form of transport. It was just as simple as the Model A, but the improvements mean it cost more. The Model B was more successful than the Model A selling 35,014 units compared to the 9,669 units of the A.
Design
The Model B is a more refined version of its predecessor the Model A. Its main improvement is in the suspension; the front and rear now has spring suspension, and there is a horizontally mounted coil spring damper on the engine to allow the rear of the engine to pivot.[1] The handle bars have been moved forward and the saddle has been raised, allowing for a larger fuel tank for a more comfortable riding position.[1] The gear changes had been made easier with a handlebar gear changer, which will become standard on all future models.[2] It also had a legshield-mounted speedometer. The tyres were made bigger for greater ride quality, from 3.50*7 to 3.50*8.[1]
Sales and Production
Production of the Model B lasted 15 months, and was over three times greater and three months longer than the Model A.
| Date and Year | Production |
|---|---|
| November–December 1948 | 1,854 |
| January–December 1949 | 31,320 |
| January 1950 | 1,840 |
| Total | 35,014 |
See also
- List of motorcycles of the 1940s
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 "Lambretta Model B". http://www.ilambretta.co.uk/lambrettascooters/modelb.html. Retrieved 2015-11-11.
- ↑ "Cambridge Lambretta Workshops - Guide to Lambretta scooters". http://www.lambretta.co.uk/models.html. Retrieved 2015-11-11.
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