Lambretta D & LD 125
In December 1951, Innocenti introduced the 125 D models with a completely redesigned frame and significantly improved suspension. The tank, glove box, and seat solution remained unchanged. Essentially, the D is an improved C model. Besides the frame, the appearance is also very close to the C models.
The engine is a completely new design with an MA18 carburetor. The cylinder is cast iron, and the air-cooled cylinder head is aluminum. The three-speed gearbox is operated via Teleflex cable. Power increases to 5 HP and the speed reaches nearly 80 km/h.
Ribbed brake drums front and rear improved braking performance. The rear brake on early versions was still operated via linkage as found on the C & LC. The front suspension is integrated into the fork, a concept that Innocenti consistently retained up to the DL. At the rear, a torsion suspension is used.
Chromed handlebar with aluminum end caps, front brake like the C, rear brake via linkage with small pedal (from mid-1952 larger pedal operated by cable), black two-position light switch with chrome cover, horn with 'flower' cover, flat fork cover (from mid-1952 with cut-outs for larger bushings), rigid engine mount (from mid-1952 with silent blocks). LD only: side panels with chrome grilles, Lambretta aluminum logo on the leg shield and Innocenti emblem above the headlight.
Adjustable aluminum handlebar, plastic brake and clutch levers, front brake enlarged to 125 mm, passenger strap, ivory plastic light switch with two positions, horn with standard cover (from February 1953). LD only: side panels with plastic grille and plastic LD emblem on the leg shield. (Early 1953 LD models still had version 1 side panels.)
Brake and clutch levers with adjusters for the cables, dark green seat covers, white three-position light switch with chrome cover (from mid-1954), grips with end pieces. LD only: larger seats, front closed (from mid-1954) with dark green covers, by late 1954 the LD received rubber covers for the cables at the handlebar.