GOING GEARED

While Warren was building and racing his Runner, he was also spannering for friends competing on production Lambrettas. It was inevitable that Warren would try his hand, but how did he find the transition from auto to geared? “At first it felt like I was sat on the floor!” he began. “I was told that the Lambretta’s handling took some getting used to but the lower centre of gravity seems to suit my style. One thing I can’t get on with are cutdowns, there’s far too much weight on the wrist. The general riding position and excess vibration, in my opinion, make them an excruciating ride. Friends said there was no way I could make a full-bodied machine go as fast as a cutdown. A challenge I readily accepted!”

Although he’s undoubtedly a talented rider it’s also clear that Warren’s obsession with detail has played a large part in his success. “There’s strong competition out there,” said Warren, “and every fraction of a second counts. Most of my dyno work is on Lambrettas and through that I realised how important it is to have well set-up controls. I really rate MB’s brass headset kits, quality cables are vital and the Targa Line swivels give a really positive feel.”

I think so. After all, it will be his generation that decides whether scootering grows or dies. That he’s managed to combine a passion for autos with an interest in Lambretta bodes well for all concerned.

For those still not convinced I’ll add one final thought. When the traffic light turns green a 183cc Wilkinson Special will show the average Lambretta street racer a clean pair of heels. If that’s not a metaphor for the future I don’t know what is.

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Words: Stan Images: Stan/Wilkinson Racing

Warren has worked on numerous Lambretta auto conversions. His pipe, manufactured in-house, retains the classic Lambretta expansion pipe look.

Workshop or operating theatre? You decide.

Warren’s a big fan of Keihin, manifold is his own design.