Classic and Modern Scooterist caught up with the well known Italian Lambretta restorer Tino sacchi for a short interview on his new Imola 185cc kit whilst he was attending the Euro Lambretta 2000 Rally in Durham   Tino has spent the past year and driven 5,000 kilometers developing what sems to be the answer for those Scooterists who have difficulties in obtaining a 200 lump. The kit can be bolted onto a 125/150 lambretta crankcase using your original crank and converts your 125cc into a respectable 185cc go-faster machine. The kit comprises a carb, inlet manifold, barrel, piston and rings and a performance standard looking exhaust for a series 3. The engine boasts of an impressive power curve which boosts the engine output to around 16hp and does not drop off when running at peak revs. Tino compared the kit to a TS1 in design especially with the reed valve fitted as standard and the different porting configuration. The kit fits nicely within the frame without the need to modify any panels and you wouldn't know any difference by sound when ticking over or speeding alng (olf in sheeps clothing). Tino had the Kit fitted to an SX150for demonstration which certainly appeared to be impressive on the day. As for reliabilit only timewill tell. The kithas also been designed sothat the standard panework does need to be cut in order to accomodate the conversion, so retaining the original Lambretta lines. Tino has no UK dealers at the present time (although he is looking for some), so for the moment, the kit can be purchased in single items or as the whole unit from Tino for around £400. Personally if I were to purchase this kit I would put a new crank in as the dramatic increase in power output could certainly knock the old crank out in next to mo time. Add an electronic kit you and have a very nice 200+ alternative for under £600. Contact Tino on Tel/Fax 0039029063179 or 03355444929 or internet: www.lambretta.it