ZÃœNDAPP

KS 125 Sport – 1973

Robust but noisy

Zündapp won five different categories – 50, 75, 100, 125 and 175cc – in the 1972 International Six Days' Trial and distinguished itself in off-road competition in the hands of the great Belgian champion Andre Malherbe. Nevertheless, the famous German marque was running out of time. Built at the beginning of the 1970s, this very sporty 125 would be its last road-going motorcycle. From the sole aspect of sheer performance,

this little bike – closely related to the GS versions used so successfully in endure events – was the best of its time.

You Win Some, You lose Some

Sadly, the factory was beginning to have serious money troubles. The 125 Sport was excessively noisy and, despite its aggressive red and black color scheme, looked skimpy against the more luxurious (but cheaper) Japanese bikes. Not only did it lack separate lubrication, but also its equipment was scanty and its lighting was a disaster.

Remarkably Maneuverable

Easy to handle, the Zündapp Sport was built like a big cyclemotor and weighed just under 250 lb ready to roll, giving it remarkable maneuverability in town. On the open road, in contrast, it revealed surprisingly light steering though its rigid frame ensured excellent stability. Finally, the braking was no more than adequate; given the level of performance – and at a price that should have justified the fitting of discs. The sole economy was the fuel consumption, which stayed above 50 mpg even when the bike was going flat out.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: I23cc (54x54mm) air-cooled single-cylinder

Power Rating: 17 hp @ 7600 rpm

Valves: two-stroke; ports controlled by piston skirt

Fuel System: 27mm Bing carburetor

Transmission: 5-speed, chain final drive

Suspension: telescopic forks (front); swing arm with twin spring/dampers (rear)

Brakes: 5.9 inch drums (front & rear)

Wheels: 2.75x18 inch (front) ; 3.25x18 inch (rear)

Weight: 247 lb

Maximum Speed: 80 mph

Solidly built, the Zündapp KS 125 Sport was no more than a GS Enduro model hastily adapted for highway use.