1970 LAMBRETTA GP200

This Lambretta GP200 is an appealing example of the Italian icon, benefiting from a comprehensive restoration and Shelby Cobra-inspired paint finish. It utilises a two-stroke, 200cc engine mated to a four-speed, chain-driven manual gearbox. The odometer reads 2,110 miles, though this is not the correct mileage since new.

First registered overseas on 31 December 1970, this Lambretta has been cherished and diligently maintained by the current owner for nearly six years. It was first registered in the UK in July 2003, and has just one previous registered keeper on these shores.

The scooter underwent comprehensive restoration between 2003 and 2006, taking inspiration from the Shelby Cobra. In 2006, shortly after the restoration, it won the ‘Best Street Racer’ category at the Isle of Wight Scooter Rally, and was featured in several magazines including the October 2006 issue of Scootering. The vendor reports that over £25,000 has been spent on this GP200 to date, mainly on the engine, gearbox and exhaust system.

Resplendent in Shelby Cobra blue with matching white racing stripes, the Lambretta presents well with a deep metallic shine. There is some minor wear from regular usage, with some chips and cracks on the colour-matched mudguard under the bike, while two deeper scratches are present on the engine cover. A dashing of stone chips is also present in this area.

The 10-inch wheels retain their chromed finish and are in very good condition, with only small scratches present on the front disc brake cover. All brightwork presents in very good condition. The plush seat has been reupholstered with black vinyl and synthetic suede, and is in good order with no rips or tears to the fabric.

The GP200 benefits from a full engine rebuild carried out in October 2016 by Readspeed Scooters of Worcestershire. In March of the same year, the TS1 cylinder received a new steel liner, 70mm piston and GP200 Tameni crankshaft.

The main bearings, oil seals and all gaskets were replaced, along with the gearbox oil and fitment of a new tyre. The scooter was cosmetically refreshed with a new GP-spec glass headlight, and repainting of the top panel section, with all work completed by Discodez Scooters of Worcestershire. Receipts for this work are in the history file, backing up the considerable maintenance to date. Regular oil changes have been carried out by the vendor.

Now exempt from annual MOT testing on the basis of age, the most recent test was on 16 December 2014, approximately 700 miles ago. This resulted in a clean pass with no advisories.

The Lambretta rides on Bridgestone tyres with approximately 4mm of tread remaining on both. These are in good condition with no sidewall damage, with one having been replaced in 2016.

Combining Italian chic with a high-quality restoration and a custom aesthetic, this Lambretta GP200 is a charming little scooter with several unique touches. It would make for an attractive addition to any car and bike collection, and would be ideal as a retro daily ride on warm spring and summer days.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.