Aftermarket tuning options
Since the first aftermarket cylinder kit was launched, and created a revolution in the scooter tuning market, there has been an ongoing development and delivery programme bringing us ever-improving tuning goodies. Scooter owners are no longer reliant on just using cast iron cylinders and a hand file in an attempt to gain more power; the world of purpose-built bolt-on kits became a reality and has made the whole job much easier. Since that time there have been dozens of kits, cranks, carbs and exhausts made available, but when it comes to choosing the right one for your scooter it can be a very daunting and confusing task knowing which option to use. Perhaps there is even now an excess of items? So we at Scootering have been busy putting together aguide to what products are available and what each one offers in performance, breaking down each component category, what the item is and what it has to offer. There is a lot to look forward to in this series, from brakes and suspension, through to kits and carbs… so don’t panic if you don’t see something you like in this edition, it’ll most likely be in another part of the coming series. Over time we will cover both Lambretta and Vespa tuning options, but there is an abundance of stuff to get through, so in this edition we will start with the most popular Lambretta cylinder kits and move forward from there…
Kit name: TS1
Manufacturer: AF Rayspeed
RRP: £495
Year launched: 1987
Average estimated power output: 18-20bhp
Bore: 70mm
Stroke: 58mm
Capacity: 223cc
Standard Port timings: Exhaust 182° – Transfer 124°
Induction type: Reed-valve
Introduced in 1987, this was the first mass-production bolt-on kit for the Lambretta. Made from aluminium with a Nicasil lining and a four-petal reed-valve induction. To date, it is the biggest selling, and probably the most versatile, Lambretta kit ever made, not only proving extremely reliable but also being competitively priced. In its standard set-up it fits straight on to standard 200cc Lambretta casings without any modifications. Ideal for touring and long distances where riding two-up with luggage requires a more powerful engine than standard, a simple and effective power upgrade for any big-block Lambretta engine. It also requires a TS1 specific
