Zündapp Motorcycles

Zündapp, established in 1917 in Nuremberg, Germany, by Fritz Neumeyer, Friedrich Krupp AG, and the Thiel company, began as a manufacturer of detonators under the name “Zünder-Apparatebau-Gesellschaft m.b.H.” After World War I, the company transitioned to producing motorcycles, becoming one of Germany’s most prominent motorcycle manufacturers until its closure in 1984. 

Early Developments and the K-Series

The first Zündapp motorcycle, the Z22, was introduced in 1921, designed as a simple and reliable “motorcycle for everyone.” In 1933, Zündapp launched the K-series, featuring models ranging from 200cc to 800cc. The “K” stood for “Kardanantrieb,” indicating the use of enclosed driveshafts—a notable innovation at the time. These models significantly boosted Zündapp’s market share in Germany from 5% in 1931 to 18% in 1937. 

World War II Contributions

During World War II, Zündapp focused on producing motorcycles for the Wehrmacht, notably the KS 750 sidecar outfit with a driven side wheel and locking differential. The company manufactured over 18,000 units of the KS 750 during the conflict. Additionally, Zündapp collaborated with Ferdinand Porsche to develop the Type 12 “Volkswagen” prototype, featuring a water-cooled 5-cylinder radial engine. Although the project was eventually shelved, it marked an early use of the Volkswagen name. 

Post-War Production and Iconic Models

After the war, Zündapp resumed motorcycle production, introducing models like the KS 601 in 1950, nicknamed “Grüner Elefant” (“Green Elephant”) due to its typical green color. This model featured a 598cc twin-cylinder four-stroke engine and became one of the company’s most renowned motorcycles, especially popular with sidecar enthusiasts. 

In 1957-1958, Zündapp ventured into automobile manufacturing with the Janus, a microcar named after the Roman god due to its unique design featuring front and rear-facing seats. However, the Janus did not achieve commercial success, leading Zündapp to refocus on two-wheeled vehicles. 

Decline and Legacy

Despite initial successes, Zündapp faced declining sales in the 1980s, leading to bankruptcy in 1984. The company’s assets, including production lines and intellectual properties, were sold to Xunda Motor Co. in Tianjin, China, where small Zündapp motorcycles were produced from 1987 until the early 1990s. In 2017, the Zündapp name returned to German ownership under Dieter Neumeyer, the founder’s grandson, leading to the production of e-bicycles and the unveiling of the ZXA 500 Adventure motorcycle concept at the 2022 Intermot Show in Cologne.