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 has not been 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

History yamaha motorcycle begins in 1955, when the first model YA-1 was released, was simply a copy of the German model DKW RT 125, 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-end Yamaha motorcycles were seriously inferior to the competitor: both in dynamics, and in the rigidity and reliability of the frame structure.
In 1959, the design of the YD-2 motorcycle frame was thoroughly modified, reinforced with a tubular coupler, and then the first YDS-1 sportbike 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 trademark.

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 even 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 power 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 with 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 historical development yamaha, became the two-cylinder 24-horsepower motorcycle YDS-Z, which debuted in 1964, with a volume of 245 cm3 and separate lubrication. Soon, Yamaha launches mass production of the 305, a cubic version of the YM-1 with 28 horsepower. 1967 saw the debut for the more powerful 30-horsepower 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-cylinder" for racing! 1969 saw the release of new, modernized versions: Yamaha TA-2 and TD-2 with 124, 246 and 347 cc engines with 24, 44 and 54 hp. respectively. In the history of these production motorcycles, Yamaha won 14 championship titles from 1970 to 86 with engine displacement of 125, 250 and 350 cm3.

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 twin-cylinder sportbike.
And since 1968, the developers of the Yamaha company have offered for the first time 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 Yamaha in the 1970s, developed quite successfully, on the Yamaha DT 250 motorcycle they update the old engine with a modernized power unit with a reverse lobe valve, this noticeably increases the maximum engine power - up to 24 hp, which positively affected 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 later, almost all two-stroke engines companies 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 lineup 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 in a four-stroke performance debuted in early 1969.
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 the Japanese motorcycle became significantly superior to the English in technical terms. After a while, motorcycles were equipped with disc brakes and began to install an electric starter. Buyers 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 forward-tilted cylinders; this model was the first in the world to have a balance shaft, which significantly reduced vibration. Since 1973, the model range has been replenished with the 483-cc, 48-strong novelty TX 500. This was the first production model in the world to have a four-valve cylinder head.

But at the Tokyo show in 1971, Yamaha introduced two new concepts: the first RZ 201 had a twin-rotor 68-horsepower engine, and the second was the GL750-4, the 743-cc 70-horsepower, which was powered by a two-stroke, four-cylinder liquid-cooled power unit.
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 with a working volume of 1100 cm3, whose power 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 for housewives, introduced in 1977, the single-cylinder 49-cc, two-stroke model was 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. Experimenting with the 123cc 15hp Tracy sports scooters. liquid-cooled. 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 serial 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 XVZ 1300A Royal Star cruiser in 1995, a couple of years later a 96-horsepower engine was installed on the XVZ 13TF Royal Star Venture tourist cruiser.
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 engine, engine power was 70 horses. At the heart of both models were new backbone frames. A four-stroke, V- shaped motor air cooled.

The classic model soon dropped out of range, which was not the American style model, and 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, released in 1978 by the Yamaha XJ 650 series with a four-cylinder in-line air-cooled power unit.

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 sport 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 sports bike 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.

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 sports bikes or choppers and are completely unaware of the history of domestic motor vehicles. We decided that it was time to stop for a couple of minutes and recall the 10 most popular, most beloved and most popular motorcycles from the distant USSR.

1. L-300 "Red October". The very first.

The very first serial Soviet motorcycle was the L-300 "Red October".
the first motorcycle of the USSR
At the beginning of 1930, Leningrad designers prepared its drawings, inspired by the most reliable bike of that time - the German DKW Luxus 300. And in the fall of the same year, the first batch of L-300 was ready.
The motorcycle was produced until 1938, and then no less legendary IZH-8 was created on its basis. This "descendant" of the L-300 even got on the silver coins ... of New Zealand.
By the way, the name IZH-7 was borne by the same L-300, which, in parallel with the Leningrad enterprise "Krasny Oktyabr", were produced in Izhevsk.

2.M-72. The most fighting

The M-72 was not the first army motorcycle in the USSR. In 1934, the assembly of the first Soviet heavy model PMZ-A-750 began, and in 1939 - the "backup" of the British BSA and, as it is believed, the best pre-war motorcycle in the Union TiZ-AM-600.

However, it was the M-72, the design of which was "spied" from the German BMW R71 (the Wehrmacht was equipped with it), which came out in the tragic 1941 year, and were produced throughout the war. And then they also seriously served the people for civilian purposes - the last copies left the assembly line as early as 1960.
From 1941 to 1945, the M-72 carried fighters armed with anti-tank missile systems, machine guns or light mortars. From the first post-war years - and long after that - these motorcycles became the main police transport. And since 1954, ordinary Soviet citizens could buy them for their own needs.
"Descendants" M-72 at the beginning of "zero" ordered the Republican Guard of Saddam Hussein. But she did not have time to use it - and combat motorcycles "went to the people." At the request of customers, Iraqi auto repair shops put additional "active and passive protection" on the Urals - armor and a machine gun.

3. "Minsk M1A". First Belarusian

To this day, the most “popular” motorcycle in Belarus is the “Minskachi”. They run along the roads of the entire former Soviet Union, and not only. But most of them, of course, are at home.

The half-century anniversary of the motorcycles "Minsk" has skipped a long time ago (the first models already deserve the name "vintage"), and very soon, on July 12, they will celebrate their 61st birthday.
The first Belarusian "bike" was Minsk M1A, which had many "relatives" not only in the USSR, but also abroad. The "ancestor" of the motorcycle was developed in 1939 by the Germans. The DKW RT125 turned out to be so successful that under various names the analogs of this motorcycle were produced in 7 countries of the world, including the USA, England and Japan.
By the way, one of the old "Minskers" in harsh conditions was tested by one of the hosts of the famous British show Top Gear Richard Hammond. He drove almost all of Vietnam from south to north on it. The summary of the charismatic “auto-maniac”: “This is the AK-47 among motorcycles - reliable, simple, easy to repair. It is specially made for those countries where there are no roads. "

4. 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 its high quality workmanship, 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.

5. 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 plant named after Dyagterev 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 there in good condition.

6.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. Him four-stroke engine gave out 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!

7. 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 motorcycle Tula-200 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!

8. 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, they produced versions with a sidecar, as well as sports motorcycles for cross-country and road races. Now IZH-49 are collectible items. Prices for them start at 100 thousand rubles.

9. М-1А "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 "Moscow" became the first post-war motorcycle of the USSR. It was a simple and lightweight motorcycle that did not require much 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.

10. Jawa 360. The most beautiful.

In the 70s, every third motorcyclist rode Java. In total, more than 1 million were delivered to the USSR jawa motorcycle different models, but 360 was the most beautiful of them all. Now cherry motorcycles with chrome gas tanks are called "Old Woman". 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 Semenovich Gorbunkov on a fishing trip to White Rock in the film The Diamond Hand.
11. IZH Planet. The founder of the series.

In 1962, the Izhevsk Motorcycle Plant launched the production of a fundamentally new model 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).

12. Jawa 350/638. Motorcycle roaring 90s.

The last of the "Java" sold in the USSR, 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 "Crash - 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.

13. 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 THE USSR.

It was a quiet and very comfortable scooter that even women could drive with ease. On the basis of Vyatka, they made a whole range of three-wheeled scooters with various bodies, which were actively used in urban cargo transportation.

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 production 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.

15. "Ant". A truck for everyone.

On the basis of the Tula scooters, the Tula Machine-Building Plant produced a huge number of three-wheeled cargo scooters "Ant". It was a breakthrough for the Soviet Union, because the sale of vans and station wagons to citizens of the USSR was prohibited. So such 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.

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: a weak engine, complex transmission elements. This is probably why such ATVs were not widely used.

Most Popular Motorcycle Models Made in Great Britain in the 50s of the Last Century

PartVI

ACE motorcycles of the fifties

In the 1950s, British industry produced an average of 135,000 two-wheelers. More than 20 brands of domestic motorcycle companies, some of which were part of the conglomerate. One such group was Associated Motor Cycles (AMC), based in London. Another important player was the large BSA Group in the West Midlands.

Production in 1959 reached an all-time high of 234,300 vehicles. In the same year, the total number of motorcycles, mopeds, scooters, sidecars and motorcars on the roads of Great Britain approached 1,750,000. Government elections in the 59th year contributed to the adoption of laws to reduce taxes, which in turn led to lower prices for rental and purchase of vehicles. And above all, it was an exceptionally long and dry summer.

The advent of affordable vehicles has spurred consumer demand to a large extent. During 1959 BritishMotorCorporation (BMC) launched four-wheel novelties on the marketMorrisMini- MinorandAustinSeven... Affordable, roomy enough for its size, and still very fashionable by the standards of its time, MINI from the very beginning began to take away potential customers from two-wheeled vehicles. At this point, the prerequisites were laid for a decline in demand for motorcycles in the future.

AJS, Matchless "Ajay"and "Matchbox"

The two brands formed the Associated Motor Cycles (AMC) holding, formed in 1937. Unified models, differing in color and emblems, were produced under the two brands AJS and Matchless. Sales were negatively impacted by AMC's refusal to provide the press with motorcycles for road tests.

Following the example of the Triumph, starting in 1949, models with two-cylinder engines remained in the production line. Single-cylinder machines were intended for export deliveries. The 500cc AJS Model 20 Spring Twin and Matchless G9 Super Clubman models were equipped with a swing-arm rear suspension and padded seats for comfortable travel. The main difference between the engines and the rest of the British twins was the presence of an additional bearing in the middle crankshaft... The middle bearing created another support that prevented the shaft from bending at high rpm.

Between 1956 and 1958, the large 600 cc twin AJS Model 30 and Matchless G11 were produced. There were several light sport versions of the CS (Competition Spring frame) motorcycle and its road version of the CSR, but these were mostly exported. This is the first time that a G11 CS road bike with a two-cylinder engine has passed an unusual test. Experts from the Motor Cycle magazine drove it along the sports track at a speed of 160 km / h for one hour. In 1958, the manufacturer announced the permissibility of operating motorcycles with 650cc Model 31 and G12 engines at a speed of 160 km / h. Practice has shown that crankshafts of engines with increased displacement do not withstand long-term operation. Motors with a massive generator rotor at the end of the shaft are especially prone to breakdowns.

In the late 40s and early 50s, the single-cylinder 350-cc Matchless G3L, supplied in large numbers from 1941 to 1942 in the army, received the general name ACE (ace). The G3L preceded the later AJS and Matchless cars with 350 and 500 cubic centimeters engines, which were very pleasant and fast enough to drive, but it was unrealistic to perform a "ton" on them.

AMC contributed to the production of a large number of "quarters" in 1958. During this period, the singles AJS Model 14 and Matchless G2 were released. The mass of one car was 148 kg. and she was capable of accelerating to 110 km / h!

Ariel

The most famous product of the Birmingham plant, which has been part of the BSA Group since 1944, is the liter 4G Square Four. The name comes from the unusual square arrangement of two rows of cylinders. Over the years, the parallel twin twin was the only 4-cylinder motorcycle made in the UK. The smooth shapes of the silhouette of the device served as an outward expression of the smooth and calm character of the motorcycle. It was not for nothing that he enjoyed constant popularity among wheelchair users. The throttle response is one of the amazing engine abilities. Without a sidecar, a motorcycle in the highest fourth gear could easily accelerate from a speed of 16 km / h.

Like everyone else in the UK, Ariel had an initial volume of 200 cubic centimeters. Heavy "six hundred" were intended for use with a side carriage. The gap was filled with 350 and 500 cubic centimeters. The latter were the most popular among the "cafe raisers".

The most unusual British motorcycle Ariel Leader 250cc appeared in 1958. A steel fairing with a fuel tank inside completely covered the driver's legs and the engine body. A decent sized windshield towered above the top of the fairing. Tires with "whitewalls" were installed on the motorcycle, as on the fashionable cars of the 50s.

At that time, the new concept went to meet the idea of \u200b\u200bcreating a motorcycle for every day, which was at odds with the approach to developing motorcycles for pleasure. Young riders needed semi-finished products to build their own perfect car, the majority of ordinary consumers wanted to get inexpensive and reliable motorcycles... Many city racers looked at scooters and bonded motorcycles with disdain, calling the drivers of such vehicles "scooters" and "mama's boys."

The "Leader" did not have dizzying acceleration, but it steered well, kept the road well, however, it braked poorly and emitted a lot of smoke from its two-stroke engine.

BSA

Founded in the 19th century as a weapons manufacturing company, the company has grown to become one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers. During the Second World War, the BSA plant produced hundreds of thousands of weapons and motorcycles. In 1948 BSA produced 50,000 motorcycles, many of which were exported.

In 1946, the new A7 Star Twin 500cc was born with a parallel twin, similar in design to the pre-war Triumph 5T Speed \u200b\u200bTwin, 1938. From 1951 to 1961, a sports version of the A7SS Shooting Star motorcycle was produced, capable of accelerating over 145 km / h.

BSA has developed a range of 650cc parallel-cylinder motorcycles especially for export deliveries. The A10 Golden Flash hit the market in 1951, a reliable and versatile sidecar motorcycle. In the mid-50s, he got a rear pendulum suspension. Especially for speed lovers, the Road Rocket (maximum speed 170 km / h) went into series in 1955. Production of this model ended with the introduction of the Super Rocket in 1958. The last model was produced from 1958 to 1961.

The "cafe" elite included BSA Gold Star. Upper-shaft, airy singles made of light-alloy materials with a volume of 350 and 500 cubes were produced in small quantities especially for connoisseurs of weekend rides. The emerging demand for the Clubmans TT and Thruxton Nine Hour street racers pushed BSA to push ahead with the development and production of the Clubmans Goldie in 1956. This uncompromising "street hooligan" accelerated in second gear to 140 km / h. As expensive as anything new, with a difficult engine start, noisy as Jericho Trumpets, Goldie was the perfect vehicle for a ton until the DBD34 500 appeared. The maximum speed in the DB32 350cc version is close to 160 km / h.

The manufacturer did not forget about ordinary citizens moving at a low speed. Motorcycles for beginners and rides with a passenger with an engine capacity of 250, 320 and 500 cubic centimeters appeared on the conveyor. Thousands of drivers have learned about the Bantam, a 125cc replica of the German DKW RT125. This two-stroke was produced in several versions with a volume of 150 and 175 cubic centimeters. Big bike devotees despised the small, smoky and smelly Beesa Bantam, but that didn't stop it from finding home in half a million homes in the UK and abroad.

Douglas "Duggie"

In the fifties, the Bristol brand specialized in the production of two-cylinder, opposed 350-cc cars. The Douglas Plus 90, built from 1950 to 1954, lived up to its "fast" name. A torsion bar suspension was installed on the Douglas Plus. In 1955, it was replaced by the unusual-looking tourist Dragonfly, capable of accelerating to 113 km / h. But after three years of unsuccessful sales, the plant switched to licensed production of the Italian Vespa.

Norton

The popularity of the "Nortons" is associated with the sporting success that they managed to achieve in the period from the early 30s to the mid 50s. The brand was founded in 1902 by enthusiast James Norton, who by 1912 ran out of money to develop the company. The collapse was avoided thanks to the automaker RT Shelley.

The most popular motorcycles at the Birmingham plant in the middle of the last century were the Dominator parallel twin roadsters, popularly known as the Dommies. The firstborn in 1949 was the Model 7 500cc with a top speed of 160 km / h. The Dominator 88 followed him from the factory stocks in 1952. A feature of the sports "Eighty-eighth" was a lightweight frame, the model was offered for sports teams. The Featherbed frame was mainly exported. Good handling and stable directional stability of the model had a positive effect on the overall brand reputation. Introduced in 1956, the Dominator 99 with a 600 cubic centimeters engine raised the top speed bar to 160 km / h.

A rare pre-war sports Norton International with overhead, single-cylinder power plants with a volume of 350 and 500 cubic meters, received new life... Especially for Inter, they developed their own version of the Featherbed frame, which was used for the last five years of production until 1958. With the mufflers removed, "International" squeezed out "a ton", but heavy loads led to oil leakage from the engine.

Conglomerate AMC acquired Norton in 1952. AT lineup the single-cylinder Model 50 350cc and the touring ES2 500cc appeared. Together with them, in 1958, entry-level two-cylinder motorcycles were born with a 250 cc engine. But Jubilee, with its top 113 km / h, has never been in the same league as the Dominators.

Panther

P&M, headquartered in Yorkshire, is known for its 600cc and 650cc single-cylinder Panthers. "Partners" with strollers were especially popular among traders. Starting the low-speed engine was not easy. Therefore, there was even a common joke about it: "It's easier to start a telegraph pole!" Less well-known models are considered "Panthers" with two-stroke single-cylinder engines of 200 and 250 cc.

RoyalEnfield

Despite their advanced technology, Anfield has never been as popular as AMC, BSA, Norton and Triumph. The motorcycles were assembled in Redditch, Worcestershire, and the name was taken from the old Royal Small Arms Factory in Anfield, Worcestershire. The company, whose slogan is Made like a Gun goes like a bullet (Assembled like a weapon, rides like a bullet), constantly conducted resource tests of its equipment during long international travels. The main models were the single-cylinder Bullet 350 and 500 cubic centimeters, intended for tourism. The company's engineers paid special attention to the development of two-cylinder motorcycles, traditional for the British. In 1948, a rear pendulum suspension appeared on the "five hundred".

By the mid-fifties, large two-cylinder Meteor 700cc motorcycles (maximum speed 153 km / h) were released, and then Super Meteor with a maximum speed of 180 km / h. Between 1958 and 1962, the Constellation 700cc twin-carburetor was produced. The two-cylinder engines were assembled in an underground factory previously used as a secret military facility in Bradford-upon-Avon, Wiltshire.

In Madras, India (now Chennai), a plant was built for the production of a 350-cc "Bullet" and a 175-cc two-stroke under license. The Indian facility is currently producing older, four-stroke Bullet models. The surviving plant is part of the large industrial group Eicher.

Sunbeam ‘Beam’

Produced under the BSA brand. They reached their apogee in the 20s of the last century. The majestic Sunbeam S7 and the Sunbeam S8 that followed it were two-cylinder touring "five hundred" with puffy tires. The motorcycles were not commercially successful, production of the C8 ceased in 1958.

Triumph ‘ Trumpet’

The BSA Group holding acquired Triumph in 1951. However, the "Triumf" cars produced at the Meridenes plant, located near Coventry, retained their individuality. Most of them used a two-cylinder parallel twin, designed by Edward Turner and first installed in 1938 on the Speed \u200b\u200bTwin. Under Turner's guidance, the company focused on manufacturing products for the American market. The challenge of capturing America's rich market required the development of powerful, stylish, yet inexpensive motorcycles. The first models sold were popular for their speed. However, the machines that appeared in the 40s and 50s did not fully satisfy the requirements of consumers. Triumph did not have racing teams that were so necessary for testing new technical solutions.

The sports version of the Tiger 100 with a 500 cc engine, called the Speed \u200b\u200bTwin, was reissued after the war. Its declared top speed was 160 km / h. In 1951, a model with a lightweight aluminum alloy engine entered the market. A special motorcycle tuning kit is available for sale at dealerships, designed for American fans to ride on weekends "with a breeze."

American companies sold motorcycles with an engine capacity of 1,200 cubic centimeters, the British "five hundred" looked small against their background. Especially for the Americans, Turner developed a 650cc motorcycle called the Thunderbird. New model developed a maximum speed of 160 km / h. Sales jumped up. Overseas racers began to take Triumph seriously.

The handling of the motorcycle improved with the introduction of the pendulum suspension in 1954. Next model received the name Tiger 110 650cc. Motor Cycling magazine reported reaching the 190 km / h mark, albeit with specially fitted sports camshafts. Fans of speed have appreciated the powerful picks and the loud sound of the agile Top Ten.

In 1956, a landmark event for the Triumph took place on the Bonneville Salt Lake, Utah, a sports projectile with a 650 cc engine from Thunderbird was able to reach a speed of 345 km / h. Triumph products received wide publicity. In the 59th there was a confusion in the names, "T110" began to be called Bonneville with the "T120" index, indicating the maximum speed. The Triumph Bonnie went down in history as the most famous "road igniter".

Produced from 1957 to 1966, the Triumph Twenty One 350cc became a milestone in motorcycle production - for the first time the gearbox was in the same block with the engine. However, the popularity of the model was negatively affected by the form of metal protection from dirt, called "bath" or "skirt". An unsportsmanlike looking motorcycle could accelerate to 120 km / h. The Tiger 100A 600cc was produced from 1959 to 1961.

Velocette "Velo"

A progressive and successful racing manufacturer in the 1930s, Veloce Ltd. was located in Birmingham. After the war, Velossete developed a “motorcycle for everyone”. The smooth and almost silent LE twin with guards and footrests, with a difficult engine start, has gained popularity among city police and in low-speed countries.

The black-painted post-war Velocettes were considered sedate bikes, with the exception of the Viper 350cc and Venom 500cc, both introduced in the mid-1950s.

Vincent ‘Vin orVinny’

The motorcycles, assembled in small batches at Vincent HRD's Stevenage plant, had a strong charisma. The company began its work under the leadership of Philip Vincent, who began his career under the direction of Austrian engineer Phil Irving, who designed products for exploration riders. Too expensive for the average user, Vincent stood out from the crowd. The post-war line of motorcycles with V-shaped, liter engines began with the Rapide Series B. The main features of these machines were cast aluminum engines and a gearbox interlocked with the engine in a common housing. The factory engineers did not use a conventional tubular frame; the cornerstone of the entire structure was the power plant, which acted as a support for the entire chassis. The cantilever rear suspension was the forerunner of the monoshock system that became widespread in the 70s. But the Girdraulic front fork looked archaic next to the emerging front telescopes.

Except for some export machines the corporate color was considered black. Produced from 1948 to 1955, the Black Shadow was painted completely black, including the engine. Cruising speed "Shadows" was 145-160 km / h, top speed - 201 km / h! With the exception of a few racing cars from the time, nothing could compare to the Black Shadow.

"Vincents" differed in their driving qualities. The downsized motorcycles were obedient and economical machines, but their disadvantage was the passenger seat, mercilessly tormenting the rear fulcrum of the passenger on the bumps.

Born in 55, the Black Prince had a fixed seat and moldings all over the body, a windshield, and weather protection for the legs. With a somber appearance, he was selected as a police vehicle, and also took part in the filming of the movie based on the novel by George Orwell in 1984. "Cafe racers" did not appreciate this model at its true worth, recognition came to it after 10 years.

Vincent went bankrupt in 1955, but Black Shadow never lost its sacred status. The whimsical design of the large V-twin has been called "engineered for engineers." The company produced one-cylinder "five hundred" cars that developed 145 km / h, and this was during the period of the craze for parallel two-cylinder motorcycles.

In the 50s, two-stroke 250 cc British two-wheeled cars became widespread. This class includes those built by Francis-Barnett or James, plus Cotton, DMW, Dot, Excelsior, Norman and Sun. Italian cars were imported in small quantities, but due to high cost they did not receive much distribution.

Highway of youth

On December 5, 1958, British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan drove 13.5 km. on the section of the UK's first Preston Bypass Freeway, marking its opening for road traffic... Later, this road became part of the M6.

Construction of high-speed Highways were slated to begin in the 1930s, when Germany began building highways, Italy was building highways, and highways were being built in the United States.

The first planned 108 km section of the M1, which became part of the London-Yorkshire motorway, passing between Berrigrove (Jackson 5) near Busy Bee Cafe, located near Watford in Northamptonshire, opened in 1959.

In accordance with the rules that existed at that time, the maximum permissible speed was 115 km / h, but on new highways the maximum speed was not limited. According to contemporaries, when Transport Minister Ernest Marples saw cars rushing along the M1 at high speed, he exclaimed: “Oh God! What have I done?"

The new M1 highway was ideal not only for motorcyclists who decided to complete the "ton", but also for racing races between sports bikes and cars. Motorcycle factories in the Midlands, such as Triumph and Norton, have decided to use the M1 to demonstrate the speed capabilities of its two-wheeled vehicles and evaluate new tires.

The construction of the road north to Leeds proceeded in stages. In parallel with this, the construction of the southern end of the highway was underway. In May 1967, the M1 was connected to the Great Northern Road in the Mill Hill area, which is about 8 kilometers from ACE CAFE. True, by that time, for several months, national legislation limited the speed of 115 km / h on highways and two-way roads.

Translation by Igor Kuzin

BONUS!

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

A motorcycle is a very popular and even "romantic" vehicle. Today many powerful bikes are produced with interesting designs. However, they all go to the "classics" of the second half of the XX century. We have collected several such "legends" in our review.

1.1936 Harley-Davidson EL

At the time of its creation in 1936, the Harley-Davidson EL was one of the most powerful motorcycles in existence. Its technical excellence lies in the fact that it is the first motorcycle in the history of the automotive industry to use a V-engine with valves located at the top. Subsequently, the standard set by EL began to be actively used, both in the entire series and by other manufacturers.

2. Triumph T120 Bonneville

Today the Triumph T120 Bonneville is considered one of the "classic" motorcycles. Launched on the market in the early 60s of the last century, this device remained "relevant" until the 80s, the market began to fill with more advanced and affordable japanese motorcycles... However, it was decided to revive the Triumph Bonneville line back in the early 00s.

3. Honda CB750

At one time, the Honda CB750 was a real revolution, ending the use of two-cylinder motorcycles. Despite the fact that the "Japanese" was quite exotic in technical terms, it was very easy to manufacture and operate it, which allowed the CB750 to gain a foothold in the market for a long time.

4. Honda CT70

This motorcycle is remembered for its small size. It was so small that children could ride it. Despite its somewhat strange appearance, the Honda CT70 was a very popular vehicle. This motorcycle was on the market until 1994. Over 100 thousand of them were sold for the whole time. At the same time, the first model was rolled off the assembly line back in 1970.

5. Honda GL1000 Gold Wing

Speaking of "classics", one cannot but recall such a motorcycle as the Honda GL1000 Gold Wing. At the time of 1975, he managed to set a qualitatively new standard for power. In technical terms, the motorcycle stood out with a new fluid system cooling. Subsequently, this motorcycle has been upgraded several times.

6. Harley-Davidson Low Rider

Far 1977 and the Harley-Davidson Low Rider. A single large muffler, a sinuous manifold, wrinkled leather design, large-diameter aluminum alloy wheels - this and much more was presented to the family by the Harley-Davidson Low Rider, which today can rightfully be considered one of the most attractive "classic" models in the family.

7. BMW R 80 G / S

Not the sexiest, but at the same time one of the most famous "oldies" - BMW R 80 G / S. The motorcycle is "tourist", and therefore is equally well suited both for off-road driving and for driving along narrow city lanes. It was created in 1981.

8. KAWASAKI ZX900 NINJA

The KAWASAKI ZX900 NINJA motorcycle had a very unusual design for its time. Released in 1984, it was able to become one of the most powerful sport motorcycles... An interesting solution in the first models was the use of a plastic body. In the next three years after its release, it also held the title of the fastest motorcycle in the world.

9. SUZUKI GSX-R 750

The SUZUKI GSX-R 750 racing bike is a true legend. Launched in 1985, it was the first motorcycle for the company to fully comply with the American Motorcycle Association's rules. This, in turn, made it possible to use it in competitions of various levels.

It will be interesting to find out about who can swim.