LAMBRETTA RACING AT: SAN REMO XXVII
The San Remo XXVII held on September 3-4 was a great opportunity for everyone to get their classic race machines out and actually ride them on the road as competitively, if desired, and as fast as they wanted! In Italy the law is strict on bikes and scooters when it comes to modifications, racing, and noise so some of these machines rarely see the light of day.
For the visitor it was an opportunity to get up close and personal with some historic dream machines of yesteryear and their riders. The event in the past has drawn some real historic names such as Agostini, and this year was no exception with Freddie Spencer and Michael Redman in attendance.
This year also brought out some historic race winners such as TT winning Manx Nortons, MV Agustas, Ducatis, and even a few classic Yamahas and Hondas! The oldest bike raced was a 1924 Terrot, however the majority were from the 1950s and 60s.
Not to be outdone, four serious Italian Lambretta owners brought their original 1950s Model D racers. From left to right in the line-up were Gerardo Villani, Luigi Montrucchio, Luigi (Gigi) Bisio, and Sandro Di Girolamo. Now these beautiful old machines are not slugs! For example despite only being 125cc they can reach 120kph – about 72mph! Modifications include 10in wheels, Dellorto SS30 carbs, aluminium barrels, performance exhausts, race cylinder heads and 12 litre aluminium petrol tanks. They can pull about 9000rpm.
One of the scooters, number 11, was owned from new by Luigi (Gigi) Bisio’s father who was the Lambretta dealer in Alexandria which is just north of Genoa. Gigi was kind enough to show some fab original pictures from ‘back in the day’ of his father racing! These guys were so full of passion and love for their bikes, but we’re also really keen to share the joy. Proper gentlemen!
Okay so no races were won by the scooters as they were up against a large field of all motorbikes, but they certainly raised a few eyebrows and brought smiles to all. Thanks to the Italian Lambretta team for their warm hospitality! Molto Grazie!