Lambretta Li 125
Series 1
The teething troubles were eradicated with the introduction of the Lambretta Li 125 and Li 150. Both scooters became big sellers. The newly developed engine ran smoothly and flawlessly, having learned from the mistakes of the 175 cc engine.
The first models were still built without a chain tensioner and with only one shaft seal in the maghousing, which was lubricated by the petrol/oil mixture. This is changed towards the middle of production. At around the same time, the engine also receives the oil throw disk under the front sprocket to relieve the oil seal on the drive side. Both the chain tensioner and the 'self' lubricating Maghousing bearing are retained until the end of Innocenti scooter production. The improvements mainly concerned the engine, with the crankshaft and its bearings being reinforced.
Apart from minor differences, the bodywork is the same as that of the TV 175, with small details helping to distinguish the models from one another. For example, the 150cc has tread strips with rubber inserts and tread strip end pieces, while the 125cc has aluminum tread strips. The handlebar elements are painted on the 125cc models, while they are polished on the 150cc models. All rubber parts and cables are also gray on both vehicles. Apart from the kickstand feet and the kickstarter rubber, which are black. The seal under the rear light is white.
The Li 125 is available in two-tone grey, while there are many more color options for the Li 150. The body is painted gray and can be matched with side covers and cascade in blue, green or red.
With over 150,000 units built, the Series 1 (LI & TV) is a great commercial success for Innocenti.
Li - 1st version
(April 1958 to September 1958)
The air is sucked in through the frame, the air inlet is under the pillion saddle. The air filter consists of a metal mesh. The chain tensioner in the engine is not adjustable. The very first LI 150 models have the TV Series 1 side covers with the oval openings. The rider's seat has no grab handle. The first Li 125 models have neither handlebar lock nor leg shield rubbers.
Li - 2nd version
(September 1958 to December 1958)
The cylindrical air filter is replaced by a paper filter. The rider's seat is fitted with a grab handle. The chain tensioner in the engine is now adjustable.
Li - 3rd version
(December 1958 to October 1959)
The air is no longer sucked in through the frame, the air filter is now oval. Air is drawn in under the front saddle. The tank is now ventilated via the tank cap. The brake pedal has an additional splash guard.
(*1) = 1-color finish
(*2) = 2-color finish, color frame
(*3) = 2-color finish, color side covers