Polini Item number: P2002036R
Polini
Version POLINI Original Racing 2 sports exhaust in classic "banana" look for Vespa Smallframe
Character More torque at the bottom, more revs at the top, very clean power delivery
Manifold New, enlarged manifold Ø38 mm, optimized gas flow
Tailpipe Larger diameter tailpipe for a clearer outlet and "full" sound
Cylinder compatibility Designed for all POLINI cylinder kits with flange spacing 52-56 mm
Optics Compact design with classic side guide and embossed POLINI lettering
Frame For smallframe frames from approx. 1976 with small side cover (e.g. 125 Primavera, 125 Primavera ET3)
239,00 €*
Available from 12/20/2025
Shipping weight 3,5 kg

POLINI Original Racing 2 sports exhaust - Vespa Smallframe PV/ET3

With the POLINI Original Racing 2, the legendary smallframe "banana" gets a completely revised successor model. The aim: more torque, more revving pleasure and a very clean power curve - without giving up the typical, inconspicuous Polini look.

Evolution of the Polini Original / RS Racing New manifold Ø38 mm For tuned Vespa Smallframe engines Classic look, moderate sound Flange distance 52-56 mm

Application range & compatible models

The Original Racing 2 is designed for performance-oriented Vespa Smallframe engines with a side "banana". It is officially approved for theVespa 125 Primavera ET3 (VMB1T). Thanks to the compact design and the variable flange distance of 52-56 mm, the exhaust can generally be used on all Smallframe frames from around 1976 with a small side cover, e.g:

  • Vespa 125 Primavera (VMA2T, late model years with small side cover)
  • Vespa 125 Primavera ET3 (VMB1T)
  • corresponding conversions with Polini cylinders and PV/ET3 exhaust flange

For early V50/90/100 frames or exotic setups, the clearance in the frame(side cover, tires, stand) should be checked before ordering.

Construction & performance character

The heart of the Racing 2 is the newly developed manifold with an outer diameter of 38 mm. It has been completely redesigned to significantly improve the gas flow from the exhaust into the system. Together with the enlarged tailpipe, this results in a noticeably stronger pull from the rev range, coupled with more revving pleasure in the upper range.

The result is a system with powerful pre-reso, a clean transition into the resonance band and a significantly extended usable rev range. The sound remains typical Polini: sporty and full, but pleasantly controlled compared to many reso bags.

Design & suitability for everyday use

Visually, the Racing 2 remains true to its origins: the compact silhouette, the side-mounted tailpipe and theraised, embossed POLINI lettering ensure the familiar "Polini banana" look. The system fits inconspicuously under the smallframe, but looks much more modern than a standard part.

Designed for Polini cylinders with PV/ET3 flanges, the Racing 2 is particularly interesting for more powerful tuning setups (Polini 130/133, Evo etc.) that require a broad, easy-to-ride power band for road, country roads and track days.

Mounting & Setup

The Racing 2 is attached to the original exhaust bracket on the engine housing. The two-piece manifold with variable flange spacing makes it easier to adapt to different cylinder heads and timing. As with all more powerful exhaust systems, we recommend adjusting the jetting and, if necessary, the ignition in order to exploit the potential of the system and keep the engine thermally in the green zone.

Note on cylinder compatibility

The POLINI Original Racing 2 has been developed for Polini cylinder kits with a flange distance of 52-56 mm. In practice, it also works very well on many other smallframe tuning cylinders with comparable exhaust geometry.

In the case of engines with very different timing or special manifolds, the set-up (ignition, carburetor, gear ratio) should always be checked on the test bench or at least with careful test rides.

FAQ

The Racing 2 is based on a completely new internal structure with an enlarged 38 mm manifold and larger tailpipe. As a result, it increases torque in the lower and middle range and offers more rev reserves than the previous Original/RS Racing, while still maintaining a fairly civilized noise level.
Yes. The Racing 2 has been developed explicitly for the 125 Primavera ET3 with a small side cover. The prerequisite is a cylinder with a suitable flange distance (52-56 mm), e.g. Polini 130/133.
In many cases, installation on V50/90/100 frames is technically possible if the engine uses a PV/ET3 cylinder with a suitable flange. As the available space varies depending on the frame, tire and stand combination, the clearance should be checked in advance or the installation should be assessed by an experienced workshop.
The Racing 2 has a fuller, sportier sound than a standard banana, but remains much more unobtrusive than many pure resonance systems. It is designed for performance-oriented road use and track days, not for maximum volume.
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