Motorcycles for the citizens of the USSR played a very important role. Often, they were the only way to gain freedom of movement. They went to work, on vacation to the sea, met children from the hospital and drove girls in the villages.
Modern bikers have switched to foreign-made sportbikes or choppers and are completely unaware of the history of domestic motor vehicles.

1. IZH Planet Sport. The fastest and most technologically advanced.
In 1973, the Izhevsk Motorcycle Plant surprised the whole country by showing the first Soviet motorcycle with a sports bias "Planet Sport". Unlike all the earlier motorcycles, which were modeled after German models, Planet Sport clearly tried to be similar to Japanese motorcycles of the 60s and 70s.

Thanks to high quality manufacture, IZH Planet Sport was actively sold in export markets, for example, in the UK, the Netherlands and Finland. Soviet bikers accelerated them to 140 km / h, which was an incredible speed in those days.

2. Sunrise. The most rustic.
Motorcycles "Voskhod" began to be produced in the city of Kovrov, Vladimir region, in 1957. These were very unpretentious single-cylinder motorcycles (173.7 cm3 engine). The Dyagterev plant constantly improved this model, launching it on the market after Voskhod upgraded versions Voskhod-2, Voskhod-3, Voskhod-3M. The last Voskhod motorcycle was the 3M-01 model with a 15 hp engine.

Because of their reliability, the Voskhod motorcycles have become true toilers in thousands of Soviet villages. Even now, one can easily find a Voskhod motorcycle in good condition there.

3. M-62. The choice of the police.
The Soviet militia, fair and incorruptible, in the 50s-60s mainly moved on motorcycles with a sidecar. The M-62, produced by the Irbit Motorcycle Plant, was the most popular choice of servants of the law. Its four-stroke engine produced 28 hp.

An interesting fact is that ordinary citizens of the USSR were not allowed to operate the Urals without a wheelchair at that time. Still, these bikes were pretty heavy to handle. But the police used motorcycles without wheelchairs, which looked very cool in the eyes of Soviet boys. How can you not want to become a policeman!

4. Tula-200. For hunters and fishermen.
The Soviet motorcycle industry did not produce ATVs (some small-scale models, however, were still produced, read below), but a very unusual Tula-200 motorcycle with wide off-road wheels was produced for the needs of hunters and fishermen. The mass distribution of such motorcycles fell on 1986-1988.

The engine was taken from the Tulitsa scooter, increasing its power to 13 hp. This made it possible to accelerate at 200ke to 90 km / h. 10-12 thousand of these bikes were produced per year, the last of which left the assembly line of the plant in 1996. By the way, even a trike was produced on the basis of Tula-200!

5. IZH-49. The most tenacious.
Reliable, tenacious, beautiful. The sound of its engine to the ear of a Soviet person was akin to the sound of a Harley-Davidson engine to Americans. Their release began in 1951. Basically, it was an improved design of the German motorcycle DKW NZ 350. IZH-49 won great love of the population and were used in all corners of the vast Soviet Union.

On its basis, versions with a side stroller were produced, as well as sport motorcycles for motocross and road racing. Now IZH-49 are collectible items. Prices for them start at 100 thousand rubles.

6. M-1A "Moscow". First post-war.
After the war, the Moscow Bicycle Plant mastered the production of a copy of the German DKW RT125 motorcycle with a 125 cc engine. M-1A "Moskva" became the first post-war motorcycle of the USSR. It was a simple and lightweight motorcycle that did not require a lot of metal and rubber to produce.

Such motorcycles were used in huge numbers to train motorcyclists in DOSAAF schools. Perhaps your grandfather studied just like this. In 1951, production was transferred to Minsk to a bicycle factory built there. An almost identical model was produced in Kovrov under the designation K-125.

7. Jawa 360. The most beautiful.
In the 70s, every third motorcyclist rode Java. In total, more than 1 million Jawa motorcycles were delivered to the USSR different modelsbut 360 was the most beautiful of them all. Cherry motorcycles with chrome gas tanks are now called "The Old Lady". Especially valuable are specimens with a side carriage made of fiberglass. They produced versions with a 1-cylinder engine (250/260) or with a 2-cylinder (350/360).

By the way, Java often got into various films. For example, it is on Jawa 360 that Gesha Kozodoev is taking Semyon Semyonovich Gorbunkov on a fishing trip to White Rock in the film The Diamond Arm.

8. IZH Planet. The founder of the series.
In 1962, the Izhevsk Motorcycle Plant launched the production of a fundamentally new model for itself Izh Planet. It was the first generation of these motorcycles that set the vector for the development of the whole family, which was produced until 2008 (IZH Planet 7).9. Jawa 350/638. Roaring 90s motorcycle.
The last of the JAWs sold in the USSR, the Jawa 350 638, also became a “people's” motorcycle. Having managed to come out just before perestroika, in 1984, this model often appeared in the harsh films of the late 1980s and early 1990s. So "Java 350 638" can be seen in the drama "Accident - the daughter of a cop" and the action movie "Rats, or the Night Mafia". The motorcycle is even dedicated to the song "Java" by the popular group "Gas Sector" in those years.10. Vyatka VP-150. Italian elegance.
The last one in our review is not a motorcycle at all, but a scooter. Vyatka VP-150, the prototype of which was the Italian Vespa scooter, is rightfully considered the most elegant two-wheeled vehicle in the USSR.

BONUS!

11. Riga-13. The first moped of Soviet boys.

Mopeds at the Riga plant "Sarkana Zvaigzne" began to produce back in 1958. Many boys dreamed that their parents would give them a moped for their birthday. So they did, so mopeds, and especially Riga-13, became the first means of transport for many.

Riga-13 began to be produced in 1983. Equipped with a 1.3 hp engine, it accelerated to just 40 km / h. For starting from a place and moving uphill, the "biker" was recommended to help the engine by rotating the pedals. Riga-13 was produced until 1998, becoming the most mass model factory.

12. "Ant". A truck for everyone.
On the basis of "Tula" scooters, the Tula Machine-Building Plant produced a huge number of three-wheeled cargo scooters "Muravei". It was a breakthrough for the Soviet Union, because the sale of vans and station wagons to citizens of the USSR was prohibited. So these scooters were almost the only way to transport small consignments of goods.

TMZ has produced a huge number of such scooters. They were equipped with side platforms, dump bodies, vans and even tanks. They are still popular now.

13. ZID-175 4ShP. The first Soviet ATV.
Surprisingly, in our country, despite the complete absence of roads in places, ATVs have never been mass produced. Almost the only more or less serial copy was the ZID-175 4ShP, produced at the Dyagterev Plant.

The design was not very successful: weak engine, complex transmission elements. This is probably why such ATVs were not widely used.

The end of the revolution that swept Japan in 1867-1868. instilled in serious changes. This dynamic was noticed by Taraguchi Yamaha and he soon founded the company Nippon Gakki for the production of musical instruments for Europe. The second world War made its own adjustments, the company was redesigned and produced components for military aviation, but after the defeat, all specially created production was stopped for a long time. So far, at a meeting of the board of directors, a decision was not made to invade a new intensively developing segment of the production of personal vehicles. For the name of the company, the name of the creator was taken, the logo of the Yamaha company was left unchanged - the view of three intersecting tuning forks.

History of Yamaha Motorcycle Development

The history of Yamaha motorcycles begins in 1955, when the first YA-1 model was released, it was simply a copy of the German DKW RT 125 model, which underwent minor revisions: the three-speed gearbox was replaced with a four-speed one; single-cylinder - 123 cc two-stroke 5.5 hp engine, simply attached to a single tubular frame. Next, the VC-1 model is released and a decision is made at the director level to bring the motorcycle into a separate production structure of Yamaha Motor Co.
At the end of 1956, the motorcycle model was radically modernized: a forced engine was installed on the YA-2, with a power of almost 7 hp. The chassis was completely modernized, the frame was specially designed and stamped, the forks became short-lever. 1957 saw the release of a new two-cylinder two-stroke modification Yamaha YD-1 with a 247 cc engine, and a power of -15 hp, which also served as a prototype of the German Adler MB250.

Japanese buyers enthusiastically received new brand motorcycle, inspired by the first success, the company executives decided to compete with the production concern Honda. However, at that time, even the top Yamaha motorcycles were seriously inferior to the competitor: both in dynamics, and in rigidity and reliability. frame structure.
In 1959, the YD-2 motorcycle frame design was thoroughly modified, reinforced with a tubular coupler, and then the first YDS-1 sport bike was produced, in the engine of which a system of two carburetors was used, this increased the power to - 20 hp. the package included a five-speed gearbox, the main achievement was a new tubular frame. The YDS-1 sportbike entered the world arena in 1960 and immediately became the company's business card.

In 1960, Japanese consumers were offered a couple more original novelties: the first single-cylinder 49-cc, two-stroke MF-1 model, the power of which amounted to some 3.5 hp. the second futuristic model was the SC-1 scooter with a volume of 174 cm3, the power of which was 10.5 hp. with a new automatic, hydromechanical transmission. The drive on this device was cardan shaft... Unfortunately, which, as it turned out, was too expensive, and was discontinued, as for the first novelty of the Yamaha MF-1 scooter, it did not lose its position after numerous modifications. Today, they are produced in various variations with two- and four-stroke power units - from 49 cm3 to 89 cm3.

The presentation, which took place in 1961, of the new 125cc YA-5 with a capacity of 10.4 hp. went quite well, Yamaha had its own development of injection disc spools, which was very different from its previous prototype DKW. Released in 1964, the YA-6 was equipped with a motor that had cylinders with an inclination of 45 °, and separate lubrication was applied.

Yamaha's motorcycle history was built by its bestsellers, in 1963 it was the Yamaha YG-1 - a light version, with a back stamped frame, to which a 73 cc two-stroke power unit, with a capacity of only 6.6 hp. This unit has become the basis for a whole family of new motorcycles.

The most important step in the historical development of Yamaha was the two-cylinder 24 horsepower motorcycle YDS-З, which debuted in 1964, with a volume of 245 cm3 and separate lubrication. Soon, Yamaha launches serial production of the 305, a cubic version of the YM-1 with 28 horsepower. 1967 saw the debut for the more powerful 30 - strong and modern motorcycle YDS-5: aluminum cylinders and cast iron liners were used in the engine design.
Yamaha YDS series motorcycles become the base for the TD-1 250cc sportbike. From the middle of 1963, a completely new generation of devices began to be produced, the engines of which were liquid-cooled. Japanese racer Fumio Ito in a 250cc Yamaha TD-1 takes an honorable third place.

Since 1968, FIM has banned the use of four-cylinder 125 and 250 cc engines. The Yamaha company played into the hands of the company, as they had two-cylinders for racing! 1969 saw the release of new, modernized versions: Yamaha TA-2 and TD-2, with a volume of 124, 246 and 347 cc engines with a capacity of 24, 44 and 54 hp. respectively. In the history of these production motorcycles, Yamaha won 14 championship titles from 1970 to 1986 with engine displacements of 125, 250 and 350 cc.

Since the beginning of the 60s, off-road competitions have become very popular, this has become the impetus for the production of road models of motorcycles, the so-called "scramblers". Yamaha initially exhibits the Yamaha 70 YP-1 single-cylinder and the 305 YDS-3C two-cylinder sportbike.
And since 1968, the developers of the Yamaha company have for the first time offered a variant of a motorcycle with advanced capabilities, devices perfectly adapted for driving on rough terrain. Such a single-cylinder, two-stroke 246 cc was the DT-1 with a capacity of 18.5 hp, with a five-speed efficiency, with an impressive ground clearance of -240 mm. and weighing -110 kg. The Yamaha DT-1 immediately becomes a hit, which generates a lot of imitators.
In the early 70s, Yamaha's plans are based on the development of analogues with a difference in working volumes, starting with 50 cube models and up to 400 inclusive.

The history of the Yamaha company in the 1970s, developed quite successfully, on the Yamaha DT 250 motorcycle is updated old motor on a modernized power unit with a reverse petal valve, this significantly increases the maximum engine power - up to 24 hp, which has a positive effect on the performance in operation at medium and low speeds. This technique was used in the production of two-stroke engines, it is worth noting that only the developers of the Yamaha company achieved 100% efficiency. And subsequently, almost all two-stroke engines of the company began to use the innovation, but today it is an integral part of the two-stroke engine.
The increased interest in track motorcycle racing, forcing the Japanese concern was engaged in alteration of models that had a dual purpose, and soon a 250 cc 30 horsepower DT-1 MX, specially designed for cross-country competitions, was presented.
On which he won the first champion title in 1973.
In 1974 produced motocross bikes Yamaha YZ, which covered almost the entire spectrum from 80 to 500 cm3.
Yamaha motorcycles, released since 1975, became the owners of gas-filled monoshock absorbers. Since 1975, cross-country sports bikes have been expanding their range with a modification - 1T.

Yamaha almost until the end of the 60s specialized and produced models exclusively with two-stroke engines, however, the American and then the European market began to be intensively filled with four-stroke engines. Yamaha executives caught the positive dynamics for four-stroke engines in time. In addition, these engines were not new for the company, it already had experience in the production of engines for cars. The first Yamaha XS-1 motorcycle made its debut in early 1969 in a four-stroke design.
Motorcycles Yamaha XS-1 did not differ much from the British "classics", used in-line two-cylinder, 653 - cc, engines with a capacity of 53 hp. But japanese motorcycle significantly surpassed English in technical terms. After a while, motorcycles were equipped with disc brakes and began to install an electric starter. Customers are happy to accept the update, and Yamaha is also launching two more twin-cylinder bikes. The TX 750 model debuted in the middle of 1972, the motorcycle was equipped with a powerful, 743 - cc, 63 horsepower engine. The originality was that the design of the engine had cylinders inclined forward, this model was the first in the world to be equipped with a balance shaft, which significantly reduced vibration. Since 1973 the lineup is being replenished with the 483cc, 48bhp new TX 500. This was the first production model in the world to have a four-valve cylinder head.

But the exhibition in Tokyo, Yamaha in 1971 presented two new concepts: the first RZ 201 had a twin-rotor 68 - strong engine, and the second was the GL750-4, 743 - 70 cc - strong, which was equipped with a two-stroke, four-cylinder power unit with liquid cooled.
The models did not go further than the concept, however, two-stroke engines are becoming the base for all sportbikes in the class of motorcycles from 500 to 750 cm3. In 1975, Italian rider Giacomo Agostini managed to win the championship title for the first time on a Japanese 500 cc bike, but that's not all, American rider Kenny Roberts won the crown in the 500 cc class three times in 1978, 1979 and 1980.

The history of Yamaha motorcycles in the 70s.

The serious situation with the outbreak of the fuel crisis on the market confirmed the chosen course of the company's management. This period became the debut for three new families.
The model in the middle class was the Yamaha XS 360, which was equipped with a two-cylinder 358 - cc engine with a capacity of 34 hp. with 6-speed efficiency Next comes the 250-cc 27-horsepower XS 25. The new, third released model XT 500, with a single-cylinder, four-stroke 500-cc power unit, whose power was 30 hp, opened up completely new horizons. The Yamaha XT 500 stood out from its predecessors for its economy, which was quickly appreciated by motorcycle travelers. It was the participation of these motorcycles in rally-marathons that brought well-deserved victories at the "Paris - Dakar".
In 1975, the 64 strong, three-cylinder, four-stroke XS 750 was produced, the system of which already included a cardan drive. The leading position in this model line since 1977 was taken by the XS1100, which has a four-cylinder power unit, the working volume of which was 1100 cm3, the power of which was 95 hp; the device is able to develop ball 225 km / h, accelerated only - 4 seconds.
The company's engineers closely monitored market demands, and in the mid-70s Yamaha launched the production of custom models, typical American style, with a high-raised steering wheel, the saddle looked like a "step", the shape of a gas tank in the form of a drop.
In 1977, the company began developing single-cylinder, four-stroke and economical models.

But the biggest victory in the history of Yamaha motorcycles was the Passol scooter model for housewives, presented in 1977, the single-cylinder 49-cc, two-stroke model turned out to be very simple and extremely economical to operate: the scooter did not have a gearbox, an automatic centrifugal clutch system was used. The model immediately generated increased demand, which propelled copycats to take off, and Yamaha remained at the top. From 1981 to 1990 the company's engineers have constantly improved and modernized scooter models. We experimented with Tracy sports scooters with a volume of 123 cubes and 15 hp. with liquid cooling. A little later, the company released the super popular 50 cc model of the Jog scooter - which by the end of 1990 had sold 1.5 million copies.

80s Yamaha motorcycles.

In the 80s, a completely new generation debuted - a two-cylinder 347cc Yamaha RD 350LC with a 6-speed efficiency. developing power of 50 hp

In 1982, the Yamaha XL was launched into series production, with a 653 cc turbocharged power unit, the power of which reached 85 hp. The Yamaha XJ 650 Turbo featured a more powerful fairing.
The history of Yamaha motorcycles in 1982 was marked by the release of the 854 cc Yamaha XJ 900 motorcycle with an output of 96 hp.
The 1097 cc FJ 1100 sports and touring motorcycle had a four-cylinder power unit, air-cooled, with a capacity of 126 hp. The set included a half fairing, which had a large windshield... 1198 - the cube model of the XVZ 12TD Venture Lux Tourer was equipped with a V-shaped four-cylinder water-cooled engine with a similar power of 96 hp, almost all motorcycle components were covered with a lining, the set included a stereo radio, a board computer, and three luggage cases. Its engine in a forced version, which reached 145 horsepower, was registered on the Yamaha V-Max model, which debuted in 1984, a unique combination of a dragster in conjunction with a cruiser.
The V-4 engine's journey did not end there. Derated engine - 74 hp was installed on the 1294-cc cruiser XVZ 1300A Royal Star in 1995, a couple of years later a 96-horsepower engine was installed on the tourist cruiser XVZ 13TF Royal Star Venture.
In 1983, the RD 500LC, a two-stroke V-shaped four-cylinder engine, debuted with a volume of -499 cm3 developing 225 km / h, accelerating in 4 seconds.

Yamaha Sport Motorcycles

The first two new models became a real sensation of Yamaha motorcycles in 1980, the first Yamaha XV 750 Special with a volume of 749, with a capacity of 65 hp, it fully corresponded to the American style, the second XV 1000 TR-1 adhered to the "classic" - with a 981 cc motor, engine power was 70 horses. Both models were based on new backbone frames... A four-stroke, V- shaped motor air cooled.

Classic model soon dropped out of range, which is not an American-style model, the motorcycle spawned a highly popular separate family of cruisers. In 1981, the new family gets its own name Virago, and includes motorcycles from 549 to 1070 cm3.
Road sports motorcycles of the XZ series released in 1981 with 550 cc engines with 64 horsepower, and 398 cc with 45 hp. did not gain recognition, they were discontinued in the mid-80s.
Much greater success was achieved by 653 cc, 73 strong, developing 190 km / h. road-sports model from the 1978 Yamaha XJ 650 series with a four-cylinder in-line power unit air cooling.

In 1984, for the first time in the world, Yamaha unveiled the 749, a 100 hp FZ 750 cube concept road bike with a five-valve cylinder head. It was a logical continuation of this development, which was the debut of the Genesis sportbike in 1986. Complete with fairing made of aluminum alloy. The FZR 750 motorcycle was equipped with an engine inherited without significant modifications. The 1000cc, 135 horsepower FZR1000 model was equipped with an exhaust control system, which made it possible to increase the maximum power of 145 hp.
The main technological breakthrough in motorcycle industry is considered to be 1992, when the GTS 1000 touring motorcycle with a specially designed Omega frame, with a four-cylinder 1002-cc engine with a developing capacity of 100 hp, was produced.
And the YZ 400F model, developed in 1997 for the sports tracks, won the victory in motocross in world competitions.
In addition, the YZF-R1 sports bike, which was soon developed, was a recognized benchmark among classmates for a long time: it had a four-cylinder 998-cc power unit whose power was equal to 150 hp. the weight of the sportbike was 180 kg.
Today, Yamaha holds the second place in the world in the production of motorcycles, has high-tech equipment, its own design bureaus, modern factories located in 45 countries.

Many industries in the USSR were of impressive scope and quality. This also applies to motor-building, because Soviet bikes are still customized and exported for good amounts. Motorcycles of the USSR are both a special spirit of the roads of a huge country, and originality, and often the only possible remedy movement.
The first Soviet motorcycles were created based on the German military equipment for purely utilitarian purposes. With the development of motor-building, more and more models of Soviet motorcycles appeared, which sometimes had excellent design and deserved the warm love of the owners. A considerable part of the older generation of today's bikers began their acquaintance with the world of steel horses from the old Dnieper, Voskhod or Minsk and has many fond memories of Soviet motorcycles. Let us also recall the two-wheeled legends of a bygone era.

Izh - a song in the hearts of bikers

Vitality, unpretentiousness, popularity - all these qualities were possessed by the equipment of the Izhevsk Design Bureau. 11 million Soviet motorcycles of this brand were produced during the existence of the design bureau - from 1946 to 2008.
One of the most recognizable motorcycles of the USSR IZH is model 49. After the release in 1951, the song of its engine became familiar to any experienced biker. The car with a single-cylinder engine and a four-speed gearbox was both modified with side carriages and produced in modifications for motorsport. Now these cars are sold to owners of private collections.

Soviet motorcycle Izh 1

In 1973, the fleet of Soviet motorcycles was replenished with such a chic unit as IZH Planeta Sport. A caressing eye today, at one time, he made a real sensation. Many noted in it the design features of Japanese bikes. The Soviet motorcycle IZH Planet Sport was not only the first in this country to have a sporty character. After all, this is also the first Soviet motorcycle with separate fuel and engine oil filling. 140 km / h top speed, 32 horses and 11 from acceleration to hundreds - all this made it a popular export model in other countries.

Motorcycle IZH Jupiter 5

Dnipro - unlimited cross-country ability and tuning

The brainchild of the Kiev Motorcycle Plant, the USSR Dnepr motorcycles belong to the heavy class. The Dnepr-11 unit proved to be the best Soviet motorcycle of this brand. Two-cylinder four-stroke engine, four gears, including reverse, rated 105 km / h and actual 140 maximum speed, a sidecar equipped with a brake, and brilliant off-road qualities, before which the disadvantage of significant gluttony fades.

Another advantage that distinguishes the Soviet motorcycle Dnepr is the ease of tuning. It is because of her that you can still find Dnieper units on the roads of Russia, or even find them at a famous motorcycle festival. It is definitely worth looking at the modernization of these USSR motorcycles - the photos sometimes boggle the imagination!

Ural - for the police and not only

Another obvious off-road vehicle is the Soviet Ural motorcycle. Irbitsky MZ produced this heavy truck from 61 to 65 years. These Soviet motorcycles were used by the militia of the USSR as the main technique. Also, the Ural motorcycle in the USSR was popular among summer residents, mushroom pickers, and village residents. 28 horses, a modernized gearbox, shock absorbers with increased travel and a comfortable stroller are not all of its advantages. The unit was able to accelerate without problems to a hundred and a quarter of a ton of cargo - an outstanding indicator for that time.

New motorcycle Ural

Now the Soviet Ural motorcycles are a success as an export product and are assembled piece by piece for good money for American (mostly) customers.

Minsk - the reliability of the Kalashnikov assault rifle

Motorcycles Minsk in the USSR was a popular transport among Belarusians, but they traveled in considerable numbers in other republics. 6,500,000 units have been sold all over the world in more than half a century of the plant's existence. Richard Hammond once left traces of bike treads on the roads of all Vietnam and later called the Soviet motorcycle Minsk "AK-47 in the world of bikes." Indeed, simplicity, reliability, ease of use and repair, coupled with affordability, make these Soviet motorcycles universal units.

Sunrise - simplicity and affordability

Soviet motorcycle Sunrise

In Kovrov at the M. Degtyarev produced, perhaps, the most popular motorcycles of the USSR - Voskhod. Since 1957, many modifications of an unpretentious machine have been produced with an engine power of up to 15 horses. The Soviet motorcycle Voskhod could be found in almost every village; for many, it became the first steel horse in their life.

Java motorcycles popular in the USSR were one of the the best optionsthat a biker of those times could get. Most of all, Java 360 captivates the eye - a cherry-colored unit with an abundance of chrome on the gas tank and other details, equipped with a sidecar. These Soviet motorcycles in the photo delight with the exterior, and in life they also give out extraordinary 26 horses and 120 km / h.
In fact, the Soviet motorcycle Java is only like that in spirit and the country of greatest sales - it was produced in Czechoslovakia and was sold not only in the country of the Soviets. It is familiar to all lovers of Russian cinema of the 80s and 90s, where these motorcycles of the Soviet Union are often present.

Soviet motorcycle Java 350

Times have irreversibly changed, old motorcycles of the USSR were replaced by monsters of foreign production and went to small villages and garages of connoisseurs. However, many models of motorcycles of the USSR are familiar to everyone who grew up in the CIS and evoke nostalgia and fond memories.

The first commandment of the Soviet motorcyclist is this: I'm not sure - don't go far, the second - always take the necessary parts with you to get home. But there are still amateurs who like the old technology, many people began to ride exactly on Soviet mopeds and motorcycles ...

The production of motorcycles in the USSR was established on a grand scale. Irbit, Izhevsk, Kovrov and Minsk became the main centers of bridge building, and the motorcycles themselves, including imported "Java" and "Chezetas", became an integral part of the culture. Perhaps it is worth starting with a small excursion into the history of Soviet motor-building.
IZH
At the end of the 1920s, experimental motorcycles "IZH" were created, in the 30s small-scale production began, and only in the late 40s - early 50s really large-scale production was launched.


The first motorcycle models are associated with the name of the designer Peter Mozharov, but real popularity came to IZH after the war, when the documentation for the German DKW NC-350 motorcycle fell into the hands of the designers.


After a thorough modernization, the motorcycle was named IZH-49. The legendary model was equipped with a telescopic fork and hydraulic shock absorbers. The motorcycle became popular in bad roads.


The next model - IZH-56 was no less popular, but real recognition came with the advent of IZH-Jupiter, IZH-Planeta and IZH-Planeta-sport, which were intended for tourist and sports trips. IZH-PS received a separate engine lubrication system and could accelerate to 100 km / h in 11 seconds.


In the 60s the first motorcycles "IZH Jupiter" (two-cylinder engine) and "IZH Planeta" (single-cylinder engine) were produced. The Degtyarev Plant produces a 175 cc "Kovrovets", which later turned into "Voskhod".


The IZH motorcycle in popularity in the USSR could compete with the most famous imported vehicles. In the 70s, the plant produced up to 350,000 motorcycles per year.

Minsk

The history of the creation of "Minsk" also goes back to the DKW RT-125. The first M1A motorcycles were produced in Moscow, and in 1951 production was transferred to a bicycle factory in Minsk.


In 1956, the plant produced new model M1M with a pendulum suspension, spring shock absorbers, a short-link fork and a 5 hp engine that developed a speed of 75 km / h.
In 1961, the new M-103 appeared with hydraulic shock absorbers and a telescopic fork. Manufacturing was oriented towards the countryside, which explained the popularity of motorcycles.


Further upgrades resulted in more power and speed. For example, the MMVZ-3.111 model, released in 1973, could accelerate to 90 km / h and had a power of 9.5 hp. And MMVZ-3.112 had 12 hp.

Sunrise

"Voskhod" became iconic motorcycle among youth and adolescents. He conquered with unpretentiousness, low fuel consumption, lightness and remanufacturing. The motorcycle did not have much reliability, but with its help they learned to repair the internal combustion engine.
Production of "Voskhod" was deployed after the war at the plant. Diagterev. The prototype was the German DKW RT-125 motorcycle. In 1946 the plant produced 286 K-125 motorcycles.


Since 1957, the plant began to produce a completely new motorcycle "K-175" with a 175 cc engine. This motorcycle was named "Voskhod" and gave birth to a whole family.


The most popular models were "Voskhod-2", "Voskhod - 2M." The last model of the "Voskhod", created in the USSR, was called the M3-01. In addition, the plant produced limited editions of motorcycles for motocross, and in the 80s created several interesting developments of sports bikes.

Ural

The history of Ural motorcycles from the late 30s to 1964 was the history of a military motorcycle. Even after the motorcycle began to be sold to ordinary people, the owner of the "Ural" was obliged to register for military service, and the State Traffic Inspectorate forbade to operate the motorcycle without a sidecar.


Because of this, "Ural" has not won fame among young people. He found his niche as a heavy utility motorcycle. It was used for walks under the moon, and for transporting goods, and for trips to the taiga, and even for motorcycle tourism.
The IMZ motorcycle was equipped with a 650cc four-stroke engine and was considered reliable among Soviet motorcycles. Engine power, depending on the model, ranged from 31 to 36 hp. The maximum speed when used with a sidecar is 105 km / h.


In 1985, the two-millionth motorcycle model "M-67" rolled off the assembly line of the plant. In the 90s, the plant managed to survive. Most of the motorcycles are now exported.

Java (Jawa)

A brand of road motorcycles manufactured in Tinets nad Sazavou (Czechoslovakia). The USSR was the main importer of Java. In total Soviet Union more than a million motorcycles of various models have been delivered. In Soviet times, Jawa motorcycles were considered the best available for sale in the USSR.

One of the popular names for the Java 360 model was "Java-old woman" or simply "old woman". "Old women" with a single-cylinder engine were popularly called "chekushki" because of the volume of 250 cubic centimeters.


There are several modifications that can be divided into motorcycles with 6V and 12V electrical equipment. The 6V variant has less powerful engine and a weak generator, but subjectively motorcycles equipped with 6V equipment are prettier. "Jawa" are motorcycles of the same class as "Jupiter", but more pleasant to use.


The most fashionable model in the USSR was the Java-368, which was launched in 1984. The Java had a 343 cc two-stroke two-cylinder engine. and a power of 26 hp, the maximum speed of the motorcycle was 120 km / h.

"Pannonia"

The Pannonia motorcycle has become another iconic motorcycle among urban youth and motorcycle tourists.
Production of Pannonia began in 1954 at the Chappel plant in Budapest. Pannonia became the first new motorcycle of the plant. The motorcycle was equipped with a single-cylinder 250 cc two-stroke engine, a four-speed gearbox. New features include a closed chain drive and a duplex frame.


From 1954 to 1975, 286,959 motorcycles were delivered to the USSR.
The Pannonia 250 TLF became the most popular model. Weighing 146 kg, the motorcycle produced 18 hp, was not picky about fuel, had an 18 liter tank and a reliable electrician. In addition, the plant produced a model with a 350 cc engine and a sidecar.


The beauty and perfection of the motorcycle lines still make connoisseurs of rarities look for the surviving bikes.
In 1968 the plant released a new motorcycle model, copied from the Yamaha YDS-2, but the USSR decided that the motorcycle was too complicated and stopped exporting, after which the plant closed.

"Chezet"

The history of the legendary Cezet goes back to pre-war times, when the Czechoslovak arms factory Ceska Zbrojovka (CZ) decided to start producing motorcycles. In 1936, the plant produced prototypes of "Cheseta", on the basis of which motorcycles with engines of 250 and 350 cc were later developed.


In 1960, CZ launched Cheset motorcycles into series production. In the USSR, CZ was waiting for an unprecedented success. Along with the Java, this motorcycle was a hit with rockers, and the black Cheset became the dream of an entire generation.


The famous crossover Cezet was born in 1962. The motorcycle was powered by a 250cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine. Ceseta's finest hour lasted until the end of the 60s. Racers from the USSR, Belgium and the GDR took part in it and won championships.

Mopeds

In Soviet times, mopeds were incredibly stylish and fashionable personal vehicles. Especially among the youth. The line to purchase a car lasted for years, prices bite. The motorcycle was also expensive and yet required garage storage. And a moped, like a bicycle, was often brought into the apartment.


No driving license was required to drive a moped. Mopeds cost from 100 rubles in the USSR.
The sale of mopeds was carried out in motorcycle stores, almost always by appointment. It was required to check in line for a moped every morning for a month or six months.
Mopeds were produced at the Penza Bicycle Factory (light moped ZIF), Lviv Motorcycle Plant (Verkhovyna moped, mokik Karpaty), Riga Motorcycle Plant (moped Riga, mokik Delta).

Mopeds Riga-1/16

The first Soviet motorcycle was produced in 1958 at the Riga Motorcycle Plant "Sarkana Zvaigzne": Riga-16.

The model was not very successful. After practice at the Czech motorcycle factory JAWA in the sixties, the serial production of the first mopeds in the USSR, Riga-1, began.

Riga mopeds have been constantly modernized. In the film Adventures of Electronics, Syroezhkin cut it on a RIGA moped.
The Riga plant "Sarkana Zvaigzne" in 1966 began production of a light moped "Riga-5" with a D-5 engine with a capacity of 1.2 liters. from. The car has a very simple chassis... The mechanical brakes of the moped guarantee quick braking and trouble-free driving. Brake control front wheel and the throttle is installed on the right side of the steering wheel, the clutch lever is on the left.


To brake the rear wheel, depress the pedal in the opposite direction. The trunk is located above rear wheel and is designed for 15 kg of cargo. The front fork is telescopic. The saddle pad is made of spongy rubber.
Riga-5 has successfully passed the tests on various roads. it convenient tool transport for the city, as well as for country roads... The capacity of the fuel tank (5.5 liters) allows quite long distances to be covered.

Light moped "Riga-7" (1969-1975)

The Riga-7 moped has been produced since 1969. By the end of 1971, it completely replaced the Riga-5 moped. Unlike the "Riga-5", it was supplied with the "D-6" engine, which made it possible to connect a headlight and a rear marker light to it.
Removed decorative protection drive chains... The Riga-7 moped had a special rail installed to prevent frame breakage in cases of emergency braking.


The plant workers H. Akermanis (electrician) and Yu. Bankovich (mechanic) proposed and tested, both at the stand and in practical driving conditions, a frame design with a reinforced rear suspension without a rack. The proposal was accepted, within the timeframe stipulated by the legislation, the royalties were paid, but in 1976 the Riga-7 moped was discontinued, replacing it with the Riga-11.
The light moped Riga-12 has been produced since 1974. The elegant design of the two-wheeled car was developed by the designer Gunar Gludinsh.
The moped was equipped with the simplest 2.2-horsepower 50-cc Sh-57 motor with a paper air filter... At the service of two riders - a comfortable saddle 43 cm long. The 5.5-liter fuel tank made it possible to drive about 235 km at one gas station.

The maximum speed of Riga-12 was 50 km / h. Since 1977, the "restyled" Riga-16 with a kick-starter and improved trim (pictured) began to roll off the assembly line.
Mokik "Delta" is practically a new development after the Riga series. The original frame and successful engine made this particular model a favorite for a long time.


In the new B-50 engine, the shortcomings of the previous models were taken into account, the clutch was strengthened, the gearbox shafts began to rotate in the bearings, and the foot gear shifting in the B-501 engine aroused admiration among buyers for a long time.

"Carpathians"

It was produced at the Lviv Motor Plant, has a 50 cc engine, and, as a result, you can drive it without driving license cat. AND.


The engine is low power, but great for kids and learning the technical side. Analogs - "Verkhovyna" and "Delta".

Mini-mokik "Mini"

In 1983, the Riga plant "Sarkana Zvaigzne" opened new class on 10-inch wheels - mini-mokiki. The first model was called "Mini", it had adjustable steering wheel and seat height.
At first there was no rear suspension, then a couple of shock absorbers were installed. The mokik weighed only 50 kg and with the steering wheel folded it went into the trunk of the car.

Mini-mokick "Stella"

One of the most stylish and advanced serial "fifty kopecks" of the Soviet era. Produced from the late 80s to the mid 90s. Mokik was equipped with both the domestic V-501M engine (with foot shift) of the Shauliai Bicycle and Motor Plant “Vairas”, and various imported units: Czechoslovakian Jawa, French Peugeot and Polish Dezamet.
In the photo, next to a girl in a swimsuit, a modification of Stella Babetta with a Jawa motor is shown, distinctive feature which was the horizontal arrangement of the cylinder.

Moped Riga-19C

The Riga-19S road-ring micromotorcycle was produced in a small edition in 1982. Despite its modest size and low weight (just over 60 kg), it was a full-fledged racing car.
The sports moped was equipped with a highly accelerated 50 cc 2-stroke water-cooled engine SHK-50 with an incredible power of 17 hp. That is, the liter output of such an installation reached 340 hp. per liter of working volume!
The engine was paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Thanks to the massive aerodynamic fairing, the Riga-19C could easily reach speeds of over 100 km / h.