TEAM S EQUIPE AND THE RISE OF THE S-TYPE

Launched in ’63, the Arthur Francis S-type was one of many ’60s dealer special scooters. It’s thought by many that the dealer special concept was first introduced to the scooter scene via Arthur Francis and his S-type, which was originally based on the TV/Gt200. Taking a stock model then enhancing, tailoring, even improving the production model by offering optional changes to suit individual customers’ own requirements. Optional extras included a two-tone paint job, 12v lighting, spotlight(s) mounted on the legshields, rev counter, Sebring rack (which was initially made by Arthur Francis, before aftermarket item manufacturers introduced a similar carrier). From his Watford base, Arthur Francis had been offering engine tuning services before the launch of the S-type; needless to say, Arthur Francis S-types were available with a tuned engine as well as an uprated carburettor and exhaust system. During the ’60s a number of dealers offered their own dealer specials, the idea being potential customers looking to buy a new scooter would be attracted by something better than a mere standard machine. Dealer specials certainly drew inquisitive potential customers into dealership showrooms, with a plethora of options to choose from; customers could have a new scooter not only to suit their own needs but also one that was semi-bespoke. Dealer specials proved popular with some scooterists, but what took the S-type to legendary heights as well as (arguably) gave it longevity spanning more than five decades was the resounding success of S-type Lambrettas at Isle of Man scooter week ’67 and ’68. Brothers John and Norman Ronald had already won gold medals in the Isle of Man scooter week Manx 400. The two brothers already knew Arthur Francis and, with Snetterton high-speed regularity trial approaching, they found themselves without a scooter to enter the event on. A spare S-type TV200 was loaned, the Snetterton event was won and the basis for what would become Team S Equipe was born. Regulations for Isle of Man scooter week prohibited ‘works’ teams from entering. Arthur came up with the name as well as the distinctive logo, (which was incorporated on to legshield banners, used when competing); Arthur didn’t realise that the French word equipe, translated into English, is team! Nonetheless history was made and the two Ronald brothers were joined by Nev Frost, who worked for Arthur at the time. Each one of the trio was (obviously) riding and competing on an Arthur Francis S-type; they took the first, second and third places, with Team S Equipe winning the premier team award on their first time out (as a team). An achievement the three riders repeated at the following year’s Isle of Man scooter week, as well as notching up prestigious victories elsewhere. Scooter media of the time treated Isle of Man scooter week to a similar amount of blanket coverage as that bestowed on the Isle of Wight scooter rally in more contemporary times. Team S Equipe’s triumphs were a perfect and unquestionable form of advertising for the Arthur Francis S-type. After Arthur himself retired, mechanic and successful scooter racer Ray Kemp took over the business in Watford. Ray continued with and further developed the S-type Lambretta. Initially from Watford, he eventually rebranded as AF Rayspeed and relocated to Yorkshire, where AF Rayspeed has been located since the very early ’80s.