RAPTOR RAPTURE
Fancy a 450cc-geared scooter? Read on. Scooterists with a long memory will recall that the Scomadi story began with a limited run of hand built conversions from Lambretta frames. It’s a measure of how established the brand has become, that RetroTech Racing is now producing a limited run of, you guessed it, hand built re-engineered Scomadis. As RetroTech’s Dave Wilson explained, these have truly spectacular potential. “Engine conversions are nothing new,” he said. “The problem is that very few have been properly executed. The Raptor is engineered without compromise. The prototype is fitted with a Husqvarna 450 enduro engine, which produces 53bhp, though we’re also developing a cradle to house the 40bhp Gas Gas 250. As we’re only using new Scomadi frames, we’re able to comply with their type approvals, meaning that registration will be a very straightforward process.”
As many budding engineers have discovered, there’s more to producing a viable conversion than simply welding in a few brackets. The Raptor features an innovative tank design that’s offset into the unused space behind the right-hand-side panel, and the prototype cush driven rear hub alone cost over £1500 to machine. “Although we’ve geared thehe prototype for 100mph, there’s no reason that higher speeds can’t be achieved,” continued Dave.
“Initially we’ve concentrated on clicktronic gear change, but there’s also the possibility of fitting a more traditional hand change.”
Just like the original Scomadis, the Raptor is planned as a limited run of 30 machines with a target price of £8500, which includes the donor machine. Further details can be found on RetroTech’s Facebook page..