SHED MAGAZINE Issue No. 34
As you know, the Lambretta has evolved so much since its birth in the 50's. In the quest for more speed, the decades have seen the introduction of reed valve, nicasil barrels, tuned cranks and the like. My own interest in scooters began in the early eighties. Alongside the need to get a fishtail parka, on turning 16 I bought my first scooter, a Vespa PK50. This was the start of things and I have since owned a number of Vespa and Lambrettas. The 80's was the decade where choppers, cut-downs and standard machines were all evident. In those days bolting on a big carb seemed to be the first order of the day. As time progressed I developed an interest in sports bikes and owned a few of these. Whilst I retained my liking for scooters and the scooter scene.
I wanted something with a higher level of performance.In recent years my passion for scooters has resurfaced and the Japenese plastic fantastics are a thing of the past. One of the things that quickly became evident was that engine tuning and performance parts had developed way beyond what I remember. This stimulated my interest, not only as an avid scooterist who wanted more speed, but as an engineer with an understanding of the work and expertise required to develop the new products on offer. However, it seemed to me that the chassis has remained very much the same. Therefore alongside building and painting scooters I started to formulate ideas on how things could be improved. My goal was to develop a frame engineered to a higher standard incorporating lighter panel work. We wanted a scooter with accurate and precise steering that had the ability to handle the extra horses.
At EDM we have spent more than two years developing what we think is the ultimate chassis, something that will compliment the modern day high performance Lambretta engine.
CHASSIS DEVELOPMENT Built using a specially constructed laser line jig, it has been possible to build a frame with components that are exactly in line and symmetrical, something that is rarely evident on standard frames. The steering column, engine mount and rear suspension mounting have all been attention to order to produce a frame that is true and straight.
Starting with a brand new frame tube that accurately replicates the shape of the original, a new steering column is tig welded in place using the laser line jig. Every attention is given to making sure that the steering column is in line with the frame tube. This is an essential part of the process. On some standard items, the steering column has been twisted off centre by as much as 15-20 mm. The steering column is also attached as per the standard angle of rake so that original fitments forks are retained.
On some frames we have come across, the engine mounting was wrongly attached off centre from the frame tube, and was not set at the correct angle. We felt that this was unsatisfactory. The modifications made by us ensure that when you fit your engine into one of our frames, the rear wheel is perfectly aligned in the centre, and the wheels are true and in line. In additio, the engine mounting has been lowered by 10mm in order to give greater clearance for reed valves and access to the barrel without the need for eccentric engine mount cones.
Once the major parts of the frame are attached and checked, it is modified further in order to accept the other specially made components.
BODYWORK This is constructed from ligth weight GRP resulting in panel work that is significantly lighter than the original parts. The leg shields incorporate a large capacity built in tool box. The choke lever is mounted to this making it more accesible.
FUEL TANK Made from 1mm mild steel, the tank has a 10.25 litre capacity and alloy aircraft style filler cap. The fuel delivery tube has been designed to ensure the carburettor is not starved of fuel when the bike is leant over through corners, even when fuel levels are low.
REAR BRAKE PEDAL The laser cut 
pedal has a longer bush on the pivot pin to minimise lateral movement that is sometimes evident. It also has been redesigned to increase leverage when pressure is aplied and has a more direct cable route.
AIR SCOOP Constructed from light weight GRP, it has been created to provide extra cooling to the cylinder by collecting and directing cool air to the cylinder head.
Complete evolution kit comprises :
Evolution Frame (finished to your requirements)
Long range fuel tank (finished to your requirements) with delivery tube and fuel tap
Rear brake pedal (powder coated)
GRP rear bodywork, legshields, horncast, front and rear mudguards, Choke lever with extended cable, Extended rear brake cable, Air scoop, Stand and wiring harness.
Steering race bearings, side panel flashes, horncast badge, Evolution brass name plate with unique model number, Evolution hooded fleece.
TOTAL KIT PRICE £2450