Description
This motorcycle is Lot 424 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 424
c. 1942 Zündapp KS750 Military Motorcycle Combination
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 602936
Engine no. 6606
Built for the German military in WW2
An older restoration
Requires recommissioning
Founded at the height of WWI to manufacture armaments, Zündapp found a new role post-war as a producer of motorcycles under the direction of new owner, Dr Fritz Neumeyer, building its first machine, a Levis-powered two-stroke, in 1921. The firm began making its own engines in 1924, selling more than 10, 000 machines that year, and in 1933 introduced the first of the four-stroke flat twins that it is best remembered for. The initial 398cc and 498cc sidevalve models were followed in 1939 by the 598cc K600, the latter, like its predecessors, employing designer Richard Küchen's unconventional all-chain four-speed 'gearbox' and shaft final drive. A frame and girder fork made of pressed steel were advanced features. Zündapp's first overhead-valve twin, the KS600, appeared in 1939 and would provide the basis for the military KS750. Developed specifically for service with the Wehrmacht, the KS750 motorcycle combination featured shaft drive to the Steib sidecar's wheel, a reverse gear, hydraulic brakes, and interchangeable wheels. During WW2 the KS750 saw service on every front, its production outstripping that of the similar BMW R75 with some 18, 600 built before production was discontinued in 1944.
An older restoration, since deteriorated, this example of Zündapp's ubiquitous military KS750 has clearly not been used for a considerable period; accordingly, the machine will require careful recommissioning or potentially restoration prior to further use and thus is sold strictly as viewed (it should be noted that the magneto is missing). Prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to the condition, completeness, authenticity and compatibility of this Lot's component parts prior to bidding. The odometer reading of 42 kilometres is presumed the distance covered since the machine was last restored. The combination comes complete with panniers and a trailer but there are no accompanying documents. History unknown. A 'must have' for the serious collector of military vehicles and perfect for 1940s 'revival' events.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
