The 100 anniversary of the founding of Zündapp is one of the special themes during the Bremen Classic Motor Show. Those responsible for the large classic fair in the northern German city - which is held from 3 to 5 February 2017 - pay ample attention to the illustrious brand. In Hall 1 of the Messe Bremen an appealing show is organized around the history of the Bavarian two-wheeler brand.
Zündapp dates from 1917. The initial business activities did not consist of building motorcycles. The company set up in Nuremberg was engaged in the manufacture of ignition mechanisms for grenades. After the First World War, Zündapp decided to develop a motorcycle for the people. Zündapp debuted with the motorcycle with reinforced frame grafted on the Levis Popular.
Flying start
The Z22 gave Zündapp a flying start and was considered an adult product.
The "Zünder-und-Apparatebau-Gesellschaft mbH" soon expanded the range. The S300 was an example of this. The motorcycle with a British four-stroke 500cc is one of the historic products that the Sonderschau in Bremen will liven up.
Motors with pressed frames
Under the leadership of founder Fritz Neumeijer and designer Richard Küchen, Zündapp developed further. It decided in the 1930s to continue to focus on motorcycle construction. With success, because the engines with pressed frames designed by Richard Küchen had beautiful lines and strong power sources. The four-stroke boxer engines and the two-stroke singles made it difficult for BMW and DKW to compete. Some engines from that era - such as the DK200, the KKS500 and the legendary K800 with a four-cylinder boxer engine - will make their appearance in Bremen.
Reconstruction
After the Second World War - in which Zündapp focused on the production of military equipment - the Bavarian company again focused on regular production. Mopeds gave Zündapp cautious hope again in the reconstruction. The successful Bella Scooters turned out to be a hit in the 1950s. Yet Zündapp greeted a new setback after attempting to turn the Janus into a well-selling automobile. The Janus adventure even cost Zündapp the factory in Nürnberg.
Munich fertile soil
In Munich, Zündapp continued to build on an unbridled future. The 250 became the most beloved motorcycle in America in its class, and the KS50 wrote history as a moped. Meanwhile, Zündapp was also successful in competitive sport, also "Off-Road". The Zündapp factory closed its doors in 1984. Despite their excellent name, Zündapp's products were no longer the first choice. The pricing played an important role in this. It led to the closure of the factory. The brand with its beautiful motorized two-wheeler history is still loved today.
22 times Zündapp in Bremen
In total, during the Zündapp Sonderschau “Von Jedermann zum Weltmeister” 22 heirlooms from Bavarian two-wheeler history can be seen. Rolf Witthöft also makes his appearance. He became cross-European champion several times with a Zündapp.
This special Sonderschau is one of the reasons to visit the traditionally impressive opening of the German classic season. On February 3, the party in the Messe Bremen will start. It lasts up to and including February 5.
