Zundapp K500W

History

Back in 1932, with the R4, BMW acquired the right to train and use motorcycles for the Bundeswehr revived in the 1930s. But other suppliers - albeit less well known - also contributed to the mechanization capabilities of German ground forces - especially motorcycle units. These included Zundapp in Nuremberg, which offered its civilian-oriented light K500W model, mainly for training (though the necessity of the war pushed them into a dispatch role they weren't intended for, and suffered losses as a result).

Procurement of the K500W motorcycle was extended from 1934 to 1938.

The military model retains the form and function of the civilian model. A 2-cylinder, four-stroke, reverse engine was used, putting out 16 hp at 4,800 rpm. The motor sits under the rider as usual, and the bikes frame is finished with a stamped steel process. Road speeds can reach 105 km/h.

Like other German warships, this series was used until the last days of the war.

Specification

Basic

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Performance

Armor

None.

Changes