FRT Evo Reinforced Clutch Arm – Vespa Smallframe, Ø10 mm, three cable mounting points
The reinforced FRT Evo clutch arm is an advanced solution for high-performance Vespa small-frame clutches. At its core is the Ø10-mm release shaft, which is case-hardened and precision-ground, providing a robust and wear-resistant bearing surface.
The system is designed for dual-bearing mounting and is compatible with both modified clutch covers and original Vespa HP clutch covers. The Evo version adds three different mounting points for the clutch cable to the lever. Especially with clutches featuring high spring force, the more stable guidance of the clutch arm ensures more precise power transmission and reduces the tendency of the release shaft to tilt.
FRT Evo
Ø10 mm
double-bearing
case-hardened
ground
HP compatible
3-way adjustable
Key Benefits
10-mm release shaft: robust foundation for high clutch forces
Double-bearing design: improved guidance of the clutch arm and reduced tendency to tilt
Case-hardened surface: high wear resistance at the bearing points
Ground shaft: precise surface for clean and smooth bearing operation
HP compatible: also suitable for original Vespa HP clutch covers
3-way adjustable cable mount: three mounting points for balancing low hand force with a short actuation travel
For tuned clutches: particularly useful with increased spring and release forces
FRT Evo – three mounting points for the clutch cable
The key difference from the standard reinforced FRT version lies in the clutch arm itself. The Evo version features three different mounting points for the clutch cable. This allows the mechanical gear ratio of the clutch actuation to be adjusted to personal preference and the specific clutch being used.
Hand force or actuation travel – freely selectable
Outer mounting point: longer effective lever arm, resulting in lower required pulling force—but more cable travel is needed
Middle mounting point: a balanced compromise between hand force and travel
Inner mounting point: shorter cable travel required, but higher hand force required
This allows the same clutch to be tuned differently depending on the desired riding feel: more comfortable with less hand force or more direct with a shorter lever travel. This adjustment option is a significant advantage, especially with very powerful clutch springs.
Ø10 mm for high clutch forces
In high-performance small-frame clutches, the forces acting on the release mechanism increase significantly. A larger, more rigidly guided shaft reduces bending and surface stress in the bearing area.
The FRT Evo version features a shaft diameter of 10 mm and a usable length of 107 mm. The shaft is case-hardened and ground, making the bearing surfaces particularly durable.
Dual Bearing Mounting for Precise Guidance
The system is designed to be converted to a double-bearing configuration. This guides the clutch arm via two bearing points, providing more stable guidance compared to a version supported on only one side.
Why dual bearings are beneficial
reduces lateral tilting of the coupling arm
distributes the forces acting on the system across two bearing points
Enables more precise clutch operation
Particularly useful with stiff clutch springs and high-performance setups
Bearing with needle rollers or a self-lubricating bushing
The 10-mm bearing diameter is designed for the corresponding bearing arrangement. Depending on the version, the shaft can be guided by needle rollers or a self-lubricating bushing.
It is crucial that the shaft is guided cleanly, without play, and yet smoothly. Especially with high clutch forces, care should be taken to ensure precise machining of the clutch cover and correct alignment of the bearing seats.
Also compatible with original Vespa HP clutch covers
The FRT Evo System is also compatible with original Vespa HP clutch covers. This makes the reinforced clutch arm suitable for both specific modifications and existing HP-based release systems.
Note on Modification
For clutch covers that are not already designed for the 10-mm diameter or dual-bearing configuration, corresponding mechanical machining may be required. Bearing positions, alignment, and free play must be checked before final installation.
Technical Specifications
| Manufacturer | FRT |
|---|
| Component | Clutch Arm / Release Shaft |
|---|
| Vehicle Series | Vespa Smallframe |
|---|
| Shaft diameter | Ø10 mm |
|---|
| Effective length | 107 mm |
|---|
| Bearing diameter | Ø10 mm |
|---|
| Shaft surface | Case-hardened and ground |
|---|
| Bearing arrangement | Double guide / bearing arrangement |
|---|
| Cable attachment | 3 positions for adjusting manual force and actuation travel |
|---|
| Possible bearing types | Needle rollers or self-lubricating bushings, depending on the model |
|---|
| Compatibility | Also compatible with original Vespa HP clutch covers |
|---|
What’s Included
Reinforced FRT clutch arm with a 10-mm shaft
Return spring
Thrust plate / Rallino
Bearing and guide components included in the kit, depending on the model
Installation Instructions
Check the clutch cover for compatibility with a 10-mm shaft or for any necessary modifications
Align both bearing locations so they are exactly in line
Check the shaft for smooth, play-free movement before final assembly
Check that the pressure piece and clutch pressure plate are in proper contact
Select the desired cable attachment point based on the required operating force and desired travel
Then adjust the clutch cable or actuator properly
Conclusion
The reinforced FRT Evo clutch arm is a logical upgrade for Vespa small-frame clutches with increased disengagement forces. The 10-mm-diameter shaft, the hardened and ground surface, and the dual-bearing design create a more robust and precise foundation for clutch operation.
The additional stability is a particularly useful advantage for high-performance engines and powerful clutch springs. At the same time, the system remains compatible with original Vespa HP clutch covers.
FAQ on the FRT Evo Clutch Lever
The FRT Evo clutch arm uses a sturdy 10-mm-diameter shaft and is designed for a double-bearing configuration. This provides more stable guidance for the arm and allows it to better absorb high clutch forces.
Yes. According to the product specifications, the clutch arm is also compatible with original HP clutch covers.
If the clutch cover is not already designed for the 10-mm shaft or dual-bearing configuration, machining may be required. The bearing seats must be precisely aligned.
Case hardening increases the surface’s wear resistance. The subsequent grinding creates precise bearing surfaces for smooth shaft guidance.
The conversion is particularly beneficial for high-performance small-frame engines with clutches that generate high spring and disengagement forces.
The three positions allow you to adjust the lever ratio. The outer point reduces the required hand force but requires more cable travel. The inner point shortens the required cable travel but increases the required hand force. The middle position lies between the two options.
DE | €
