Like many other moto-companies, Lambretta is still shaking off the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, the classic marque has confirmed the V350 Special and X300 scooters are finally going to make it to market—but not for Canadians.
The V350 Special has slightly retro looks (definitely not an all-out homage to the past like much of the Vespa lineup, or the just-reintroduced to Canada Honda Giorno). However, the mechanical bits are all modern, with EFI, ABS, LED lighting, and even a TFT screen. The liquid-cooled engine (actually 330cc) makes a bit more than 27 hp and just under 20 lb-ft of torque. Maybe not the thing for Ontario’s 400-series roads, but anything else, you should be OK.
As for the X300, this gives you more storage but less engine (only 25 hp and 18 lb-ft of torque from the liquid-cooled 275cc single). Like the V350 Special, it’s equipped with EFI and LED lights, but there’s an LCD display instead of TFT, and seemingly no mention of ABS either. Think of this as the sporty, utility version, especially considering its more modern aesthetics.
Both scooters bear the Lambretta badge but neither are made in Italy, like the step-throughs of old. Lambretta went bust in 1972; its machinery shipped to India at that point, and the newly revived company has been building its scoots around Taiwanese-made Sym engines. While that may offend the purists, Sym is a company that deserves some respect as well, as it’s long been a partner of larger mega-manufacturers; it had a deal with Honda for years, and still produces faithful re-interpretations of classic Japanese designs (see here).
For now, Lambretta isn’t doing business in Canada, and we haven’t heard of any indication that might change. However, scooters are gaining in popularity right now in North America, after more than half a decade in the doldrums of un-coolness. So, there’s hope. Visit LambrettaScooters.com for more details and photos.
but not for Canadians. When will motorcycle maker keep stop treating Canada as a cash cow market ? if it only makes up 300 to 500 bucks we ll not be bring our scooter to you. It’s sad USA got the passport , pcx 160 and adv 150 . What the hill did we get ? Oh it’s so cute Niva 110 etc. Not meant for hwy or for anyone over 4 feet . I m going to LMAO when honda , yamaha etc end in the same boat HD has. Everyone that buys there brand is dying off and they failed for 30 plus years to snag a new batch of riders.
My Aprilia Scarabeo 200 (actually 183CC) has no issue keeping up with traffic on 400 series highways.
Although I wouldn’t know what those small tires are like going 120km/h, it certainly has more than enough power to shred on the 401 lol.