Readspeed Lambretta Supergrip 5-Plate Clutch Set – Grip, Reliability & Real-World Performance
If you’ve tuned your classic Lambretta, you already know that the clutch can quickly become the weak link. Once you start adding power—whether it’s a bigger kit, a better pipe, or simply giving your scooter a bit more stick—the stock 4-plate clutch starts to slip and struggle.
That’s where the Readspeed Supergrip 5-Plate Clutch Kit comes in: a well-priced, high-quality upgrade designed to give your Lambretta the grip and reliability it deserves.
🔧 Why Upgrade to a 5-Plate Clutch?
The clutch is what transfers your engine’s power to the rear wheel. More plates mean more friction area, which means more grip and less slippage under load.
A standard 4-plate setup is fine for stock or mildly tuned engines. But as torque rises, so does the chance of the clutch slipping—especially in higher gears or when carrying a passenger.
A 5-plate setup like the Readspeed Supergrip increases contact area by around 25%, allowing you to hold more torque without needing ultra-stiff springs that make the clutch lever feel like a hand-grip workout.
🧰 What’s in the Readspeed Supergrip Kit?
The Readspeed Supergrip 5-Plate Clutch Kit is a complete replacement clutch pack designed for Lambretta LI, SX, TV, and GP models.
Typically, the kit includes:
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Five friction plates (high-quality cork compound for maximum grip)
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Four steel plates (precision-cut for even pressure distribution)
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Heavy-duty clutch springs (engineered for improved return and consistent pressure)
Everything is built to factory spec tolerances and ready to drop into your existing clutch basket—though, as with all 5-plate conversions, a quick check of clearances is always recommended.
⚙️ Performance & Real-World Benefits
Owners report noticeable improvements right away:
✅ More grip, less slip – You can launch harder and accelerate smoother without fear of clutch fade.
✅ Better heat tolerance – The extra plate spreads the load, reducing heat buildup and wear.
✅ Improved durability – Friction material and spring strength designed for long life.
✅ Smoother engagement – Less “grabby” than some race-spec setups.
Many riders say the lever pull remains reasonable too—stiff enough for performance, but not uncomfortable for daily use.
“I’ve built several clutches using Readspeed friction discs. They worked well, no slip, nice feel—just need careful setup.” – user on ILambretta forum
🧩 Installation Tips
Installing a 5-plate clutch is a fairly straightforward job for anyone familiar with Lambretta engines, but attention to detail makes all the difference:
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Check clearance – Ensure your clutch bell/basket can take the extra plate thickness. Some setups need slight machining or a thinner top steel.
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Soak plates in gearbox oil overnight before fitting—this prevents glazing and helps bedding-in.
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Alternate plates correctly: cork → steel → cork → steel, ending with cork on top.
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Adjust free play at the clutch lever once installed—too tight = slip, too loose = drag.
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Run-in gently for the first 200–300 miles before full-throttle launches.
Taking your time here ensures smooth engagement and maximum longevity.
🏁 Verdict – A Great Upgrade for Tuned or Touring Lambrettas
The Readspeed Supergrip 5-Plate Clutch Kit hits a sweet spot between performance, price, and practicality.
It offers a major step up from the stock clutch without going full race-spec—and it’s backed by Readspeed’s solid reputation in the scooter tuning scene.
If you’re running a mildly to moderately tuned Lambretta and want reliable power transfer with a manageable lever feel, this kit is an excellent choice.
