Hercules or DKW Wankel

A total of 1784 Hercules Wankels were built. Of these, around 250 are still on the road in Germany. These motorcycles with Wankel engines are perfectly suited for daily use, but the supply of parts is often a major challenge. Specific parts in particular are difficult to find, although engine block parts are still readily available from England. After all, the rotary engines were also used in military vehicles ('target tractors') and even as auxiliary engines in gliders. Interesting detail: the same rotors can also be found in the Norton Wankel motorcycles.

The beginning of Hercules and DKW Wankel motorcycles

The success story of the Wankel engine began when someone installed a Fichtel & Sachs rotary engine in a snowmobile and promptly won a competition. This inspired Hercules to ask Sachs to supply some engines from these snowmobiles. Hercules engineers initially experimented with the rear frame and shaft drive of a BMW R27, but this solution proved to be too financially expensive. Eventually, a cheaper Rotax six-speed gearbox and a conventional chain drive were chosen.

Hercules Wankel or DKW Wankel – the same engine?

The motorcycles that were eventually sold as Hercules (for Europe and export to the US) shared many parts with other German motorcycles of the time. For example, the gauges and taillight matched Zündapp parts, and the controls, turn signals and the Ø32 mm Bing vacuum carburetor were identical to those of BMW, including the BMW emblem on the turn signals.

Reliability proven in practice

The reliability of the Hercules and DKW Wankel engines was demonstrated with an impressive 50.000 km endurance test. The two engines in this story also covered many trouble-free kilometres. The first models were offered to an equally carefully chosen customer base via carefully selected dealers. The buyers of these Wankel motorcycles were therefore a special kind of motorcyclist; they especially appreciated the unique concept. Although the first series of models could still cause problems, Sachs never made a fuss about the guarantee. Defective engine blocks were replaced without discussion, and the result kept improving. The second series from 1977, equipped with a Mikuni oil pump, even made mixing fuel and oil yourself unnecessary.

How does a Hercules W-2000 drive?

Riding a Hercules Wankel or DKW Wankel is a pleasant experience. The seating position is comfortable for an average European of about 1,86 meters tall. The engine starts easily with the push of a button, although it sounds a bit raw and greasy when cold, comparable to a two-stroke engine. As soon as the first gear of the smooth six-speed gearbox is engaged, the real fun of riding a Wankel begins. The engine hums enthusiastically to high revs without noticeable vibrations. Wankel engines function best at higher revs, and vigorous riding keeps them healthy. Shifting feels pleasant, although finding neutral when standing still can sometimes be difficult. The engine block has a lively character, responds quickly and hangs excellently on the throttle. It hardly brakes on the engine, but fortunately the brakes are effective enough to inspire confidence. In short, a long weekend ride on beautiful back roads in the Ardennes on a Hercules W-2000 is absolutely no punishment.