The 80s were a wonderful time, not because then there was the USSR, but because we were then 16 years old. First sex, first vodka, first ruble earned and ... first motorcycle. Let's remember - the smell of whose exhaust gases drove us crazy, and made our friends so accommodating, but the parents and traffic cops were the opposite.

"Vyatka VP-150". Most stylish

For starters - not a motorcycle, but the very first and at the same time the most stylish of their younger brothers in the history of the USSR. Vyatka VP-150, produced from 1957 to 1966, is a copy of the "best scooter of all times and peoples" of the Italian Vespa GS150.

L-300 "Red October". The very first

The very first serial Soviet motorcycle was the L-300 "Red October".

At the beginning of 1930, Leningrad designers prepared its drawings, inspired by the most reliable bike of that time - the German DKW Luxus 300. And in the fall of the same year, the first batch of L-300 was ready.
The motorcycle was produced until 1938, and then no less legendary IZH-8 was created on its basis. This "descendant" of the L-300 even got on the silver coins ... of New Zealand.

By the way, the name IZH-7 was borne by the same L-300, which, in parallel with the Leningrad enterprise "Krasny Oktyabr", were produced in Izhevsk.

M-72. The most combat

The M-72 was not the first army motorcycle in the USSR. In 1934, the assembly of the first Soviet heavy model PMZ-A-750 began, and in 1939 - the "backup" of the British BSA and, as it is believed, the best pre-war motorcycle in the Union TiZ-AM-600.

However, it was the M-72, the design of which was "spied" from the German BMW R71 (it was with them that the Wehrmacht was equipped), released in the tragic 1941, that was released throughout the war. And then they also seriously served the people for civilian purposes - the last copies left the assembly line already in 1960.

From 1941 to 1945, the M-72 carried soldiers armed with machine guns or light mortars. By the way, later, motorcycles built on the basis of this model began to be armed with portable anti-tank missile systems.

From the first post-war years - and long after that - M-72s became the main police transport. And since 1954, ordinary Soviet citizens could buy them for their own needs.

"Descendants" M-72 at the beginning of the "zero" ordered the Republican Guard of Saddam Hussein. But she did not have time to use it - and combat motorcycles "went to the people." At the request of customers, Iraqi auto repair shops put additional "active and passive protection" on the Urals - armor and a machine gun.

Izh-49. Universal model

Izh-49, which appeared in 1951, and today can often be seen on the roads and off-road of the former Soviet Union.

"Probably the best motorcycle for our country!" - to this day you can hear from Russian motorists. From Belarusians a little less often: you will find the reason for this by reading our rating to the end.

Reliable, tenacious, adapted to any conditions and very sonorous (in the USSR his "voice" is no less a legend than in the USA - the roar of the "Harleys"),

Izh-49 rightfully takes its rightful place in our top-10.

Izh Planet Sport. The first serial "sportsman"

If all the previous Soviet motorcycles were only slightly modernized pre-war models, then Izh Planet Sport was clearly created with an eye to modern Japanese bikes.

In the guise of the most elegant of "Izha" can be found references to the creations of Suzuki, Yamaha and Kawasaki. And even today, almost four decades after the start of production, the sports classic "Izh Planet Sport" does not look archaic.

The fastest and most technologically advanced of all Soviet brethren, it looked decent against the background of foreign models.

Java 360. The most cinematic

By the 1970s, one in every three Soviet motorcyclists rode the Javas, and it is not surprising that Czechoslovak motorcycles were very often included in the frame.

The main role in Soviet cinema went to Jawa 360: it is on this model that Gesha Kozodoev is taking Semyon Semyonovich Gorbunkov on a fishing trip to White Rock.

Java 350 638. The main motorcycle of the "Roaring 90s"

The last of the "Java" sold in the USSR, the Jawa 350 638, also became a "people's" motorcycle.

Having managed to come out just before perestroika, in 1984, this model often appeared in the harsh films of the late 1980s and early 1990s. So "Java 350 638" can be seen in the drama "Crash - the daughter of a cop" and the action movie "Rats, or the Night Mafia".

The motorcycle is even dedicated to the song "Java" by the popular group "Gas Sector" in those years.

Dnipro 11. Most suitable for tuning

When the movement of bikers in the USSR was just emerging (then they called themselves rockers), tough guys in riveted leather, among other motorcycles, especially respected the Dnepr 11.

This particular motorcycle proved to be the most suitable for tuning exercises. Modified "heavyweights" can still be found at various motorcycle shows and on the roads. Fortunately, it is quite easy to find a "basis" for revision.

Minsk M1A. First Belarusian

To this day, the most “popular” motorcycle in Belarus is the “Minskachi”. They run along the roads of the entire former Soviet Union, and not only. But most of them, of course, are at home.

The half-century anniversary of the motorcycles "Minsk" has skipped a long time ago (the first models already deserve the name "vintage"), and very soon, on July 12, they will celebrate their 61st birthday.

The first Belarusian "bike" was Minsk M1A, which had many "relatives" not only in the USSR, but also abroad. The "ancestor" of the motorcycle was developed in 1939 by the Germans. The DKW RT125 turned out to be so successful that, under various names, analogues of this motorcycle were produced in 7 countries of the world, including the USA, England and Japan.

By the way, one of the old "Minskers" in harsh conditions was tested by one of the hosts of the famous British show Top Gear Richard Hammond. He drove almost all of Vietnam from south to north on it. The summary of the charismatic "auto-maniac": “This is the AK-47 among motorcycles - reliable, simple, easy to repair. It is specially made for those countries where there are no roads. "

I would like to start with those who are older. I think most bikers at some point, perhaps even in childhood, tried these motorcycles, learned to ride them, knew where to climb if they didn't start or stalled.
In general, despite all the disadvantages of the domestic motorcycle industry, I think I have good memories of them ...

1) Good old (probably Help:
Minsk Motorcycle and Bicycle Plant was founded in 1945 on
the basis of the exported equipment of the DKW factories of defeated Germany. Having started with bicycles, already in 1951 the Minskers put the first motorcycle on the conveyor. Since then, little has changed. Well, perhaps a 250-cc engine appeared. The first Belarusian "bike" was Minsk M1A, which had many "relatives" not only in the USSR, but also abroad. The "ancestor" of the motorcycle was developed in 1939 by the Germans. The DKW RT125 turned out to be so successful that, under various names, analogues of this motorcycle were produced in 7 countries of the world, including the USA, England and Japan.
known to all) MINSK.

On the eve of the October holiday, the team of the Minsk motorcycle and bicycle
The plant manufactured the first industrial batch of new road motorcycles "Minsk", designated MMVZ-3.111, and from the first day of this year (1974) began their serial production.
When developing a new model, the designers were faced with the task of creating a motorcycle of a modern look, more reliable and durable compared to its predecessor, the M-106.
I think motorcycle enthusiasts will appreciate the exterior forms. Let's just say that they were selected as a result of a lot of work that was carried out by the designers of the plant together with specialists from VNIIMotoprom, after a thorough study of modern domestic and the best foreign samples. To make the bike look smart, the artists suggested a combination of two colors - black and cherry. Despite the significant differences between the "Minsk" and the M-106, it was possible to ensure a wide interchangeability of their assemblies and parts, reaching 83.7 in percentage terms.

The Voskhod motorcycle is a representative of the classic two-wheeled all-terrain vehicles of the Soviet era! The design is extremely simple, and the motorcycle is fully repairable, which guarantees unpretentiousness and reliability of the machine in any situation.

The Voskhod motorcycle is produced by the plant. Degtyarev (ZID) and is an example of the subsequent development of the model "K-175" ("Kovrovets"), which was produced until 1965, starting in 1957.

Undoubtedly, like any technique, the Voskhod motorcycle has a number of pros and cons. The most compelling argument in favor of Voskhod is, perhaps, its relatively low price and the ability to be repaired almost “on the fly”. The wide prevalence of the motorcycle throughout the country and the developed network of suppliers of spare parts for domestic motorcycles ensure that the owner of Voskhod will never face the question of finding and replacing a failed part.

By the way, Voskhod breakdowns do not happen so often and in most cases due to negligence or oversight of the owner. Therefore, in order not to stall somewhere in the middle of the "pea" field, there must be a proprietor's attitude to the motorcycle and constant control.

All Voskhod prefers to “feast on” seventy-sixth gasoline (and now 80th) and, of course, with a good portion of oil. With the correct carburetor and ignition settings, the Voskhod is a very economical motorcycle.

And now about the main thing ... About "show-off". If you are looking for a motorcycle to show off in front of your friends or ride "with the breeze" through the evening city to the envy of everyone with a pretty blonde in the back seat, then the Sunrise motorcycle is clearly not for you. A motorcycle is unremarkable, and only a true master can make something interesting out of it. So if your hands grow out of the right place and you can hold the instrument firmly - feel free to buy Voskhod, if not - leave this business to the professionals!

When driving on the track, you need to be extremely careful - light weight and constant characteristic vibration can play a cruel joke at speeds over 90 km / h.
Do not wishful thinking: if you have dreamed of buying an expensive American cruiser all your life, eventually you will definitely buy it. But before that, it would be nice to have a good practice on the "indestructible" Sunrise. The Voskhod motorcycle is perfect for developing driving skills, training and will accustom you to a bright, full-fledged motorcycle life!

The Voskhod 2 motorcycle replaced the first model. The motorcycle, although it has become a little more powerful, is practically no different from its predecessor. The changes affected only the appearance. Voskhod 2 has got new round headlights and direction indicators, a taillight. The electronic contactless ignition system has been improved and new warning lights have been added. Small changes in Voskhod 2 concerned the increase in power (by 0.5 hp) and torque (by 1 Nm) in comparison with the old model, which actually remained invisible, but still a pleasant addition.

The upgraded Voskhod 2 motorcycle became faster and could reach speeds of up to 95 km / h, although it gained a couple of kilograms in weight.

The second Voskhod was replaced in 1977 by the modernized Voskhod 2M. The motorcycle engine retained the same volume, but became more powerful (13 hp) and "torque" (16 Nm at 5600 rpm).

This was achieved by improving the configuration of the channels in the cylinder, crankcase and a new head (the compression ratio was increased to 9.2). Now the new Voskhod 2M was able to calmly "eat" high-octane 93rd gasoline, along with the usual A-76.

The changes affected the suspension of the motorcycle: the front fork was changed, the shock absorbers were improved and the diameter of the pipes was increased. The fork travel was 160 mm. Voskhod 2M became faster by 10 km / h (top speed 105 km / h) and heavier (121 kg).

After 2M, a new motorcycle came out - Voskhod 3. The model, naturally, became much better than the previous generations. Voskhod 3 was equipped with a large fuel tank, rear shock absorbers with increased energy consumption were installed. The shock absorbers are located at an angle of 12 °, which increased the travel to 105 mm. A new intake system has been installed.

Voskhod 3 was equipped with a new modernized braking system, in which the diameter of the brake drums was increased to 160 mm (from 125 mm). The motorcycle was equipped with new wheels with wear-resistant tires and a 7-volt generator.

The driver's seat has become more comfortable. The maximum speed of Voskhod 3 remained the same as in the previous version - 105 km / h, and the weight increased to 125 kg.

In 1984, Voskhod 3M was published. The motorcycle was very reliable and high-quality, produced until 1992. 3M received 12-volt equipment, a reflective taillight and a new FG-137B format headlight with a "European" light diffuser, and the cylinder fins became larger, which increased the engine cooling surface.
The dashboard harmoniously blended into the design and was located above the headlight. The panel contains: a speedometer, ignition, indicators of direction indicators, high and low beam.

The Voskhod ZM motorcycle received a special brake lining wear indicator. The front shocks have been fitted with new rubber bellows. And also, Voskhod ZM became the owner of a new profiled front wheel guard.

The motorcycle was equipped with an upgraded kickstarter system with a folding pedal, rear-view mirrors and folding driver's footrests were added. The maximum speed is 105 km / h, and the total weight is 122 kg.

In 1989, another modification appeared - Voskhod 3M-01. The appearance of this motorcycle has remained practically unchanged as well. Only the engine, with a petal valve, has undergone major modifications.

The motor was distinguished by one exhaust port and a five-channel purge cylinder. Thanks to the installed petal valve at the intake, it was possible to reduce fuel consumption to 4.2 liters per hundred kilometers. The power of the power unit has grown to 14 hp, and the maximum torque - up to 17 Nm at 5500 rpm.

The Voskhod 3M-01 motorcycle has one muffler, the steering wheel has become wider and more comfortable. The model 3M-01 was followed by the production of motorcycles under the SOVA brand.

IZH motorcycles have been produced since 1929 by the Izhmash-Moto plant in the city of Izhevsk. The IZH Planet-5 motorcycle has been produced since 1987. In its appearance and in all characteristics, IZH Planet-5 is significantly superior to all its predecessors. The motorcycle has acquired a stylish, more modern look: the devices now have all Izh planet 5 designations, in case of a certain malfunction, a certain indicator lamp will light up. All the shields and the tank of the new IZH Planet-5 look just flawless. The saddle now looks much nicer than in previous models, and it is much more comfortable.

The power produced by the IZH Planet-5 engine reaches 22 horsepower. And in terms of thrust in this class, there is simply no equal: IZH Planeta-5 will slowly puff at idle, but it will climb any mountain. A very big advantage of IZH Planeta-5 is a single-cylinder engine, while two-cylinder engines are capricious all the time or they often have one of the cylinders failing. IZH Planeta-5 has relatively good characteristics in terms of efficiency: fuel consumption per 100 km at a speed of 90 km / h does not exceed 5 liters. And as for the maximum speed of IZH Planeta-5, it reaches 120 km / h. The motorcycle can be used as a single person, as well as with a side trailer. The rear suspension of IZH Planeta-5 is adjustable depending on the road characteristics and the load on the motorcycle.

Thanks to all its qualities, IZH Planeta-5 has a wide range of owners and admirers, both in the city and outside the city.

The history of motorcycles of the IMZ (Ural) brand began in 1940. The motorcycle "BMW R71" was taken as a basis, which was ordered to be carefully copied. For these purposes, 5 motorcycles were purchased, to keep secrets, in Sweden - and reproduced. For the manufacture of a motorcycle, which received the M-72 index, three factories at once took up in 1941 - in Moscow, Leningrad and Kharkov. The plant assembled a Ural motorcycle for the Russian army, on which the Konkurs-M anti-tank missile system was installed. But the outbreak of war forced the equipment of these factories to be evacuated far to the east, to the Ural city of Irbit, where the production of these motorcycles was launched in a short time. But nevertheless, the needs of the Red Army for motor vehicles during the Great Patriotic War were satisfied mainly through lend-lease supplies from the USA and Great Britain. In particular, the Harley-Davidson WLA motorcycle was exported to the United States until 1945.

However, after the start of the Great Patriotic War, work on the deployment of production of the M-72 motorcycle went more intensively. But the offensive of the German troops was swift: on October 20, 1941, Moscow was declared a state of siege, and the next day, October 21, the Evacuation Council under the Council of People's Commissars of the USSR decided to transfer the Moscow Motorcycle Plant and the ZIS and KIM Workshops associated with motorcycle production to the Urals in the city of Irbit. Specialists from Kharkov, Taganrog and Leningrad were also sent to a distant Ural town. The first echelon arrived in Irbit on November 17, 1941.
The plant, which since that time has become the Irbit motorcycle (IMZ), was located on the territory of a former brewery.
Despite all the difficulties, on February 25, 1942, the first batch of M-72 motorcycles was produced from engines brought from Moscow.

M-61, M-63, M-66

A motorcycle with the M-61 index, assembled in small batches since 1957, completely filled the assembly production in 1960 and was built until 1963. He became the first to receive the name "Ural". Since 1961, the M-62 model was assembled in parallel with a new camshaft and an automatic ignition timing mechanism. Engine power increased to 28 hp. The modernized gearbox - with gear clutches instead of cam clutches - was unified with the motorcycles of the Kiev Motorcycle Plant (KMZ). In addition, the suspension travel has been increased and the shape of the front fork covers has been changed.
In 1955, together with NAMI, the development of an original microcar of a wagon layout called "Belka" began: the engine was borrowed from a motorcycle, but it received forced cooling. In 1959, the factory designers developed the Ogonyok all-terrain vehicle.
From 1965 to 1971, motorcycles M-63, patrol, Cross-650, and Strela, which were at the level of the best world models, were mastered and went into series. The crown of the development of IMZ in the pre-perestroika period was November 22, 1985, the day when 2,000,000 motorcycle rolled off the factory assembly line.

The next motorcycle in the series of serial Irbit models was the M-63, which appeared in 1963 and completely replaced the previous car since 1965, which was named "Ural-2". For this motorcycle, a new frame was developed with a pendulum rear suspension, which received hydraulic shock absorbers. The shape of the gas tank has also changed, at the same time its capacity has increased. The exhaust system also received a new form. This car turned out to be a long-liver, produced until 1980.
The M-66 Ural-3 motorcycle, which appeared in 1971, was the son of further evolutionary changes in the design of Irbit motorcycles. Externally, the car practically did not change, except that the direction indicators were striking. Engine power increased to 32 hp, and for the first time a full-flow oil filter with a replaceable element was introduced into the engine lubrication system. This car was built until 1975, but on the basis of its engine by 1973, a significantly redesigned chassis with a combined driver and passenger seat was ready. The debutant was named Ural M-67. Other innovations in this car are 12-volt electrical equipment and a two-cam front brake. In 1976, an even more modern version came to replace - "Ural" M 67-36, which received a 36-horsepower engine of constant displacement - 650 cm3.

In 1973, the specialists of the national enterprise "JAWA" developed a new motorcycle model - 634, it was produced only with a 350 cc engine. cm.

The design of the power unit of JAWA motorcycles that existed until now was so successful that in a motorcycle of a new mod. 634 it survived. Two cylinders arranged in a row across the axis of the motorcycle are tilted forward 25 °. The location of the crank mechanism, gearbox and motor forward gear in the common engine crankcase remains the same as in previous models. However, to improve the reliability of operation and increase the service life, they were slightly changed. In the articulation of the piston pin with the connecting rod, instead of a bronze bushing in the upper head of the connecting rod, a needle bearing with INA needles fixed against axial displacement was used. In the lower head of the connecting rod, an INA bearing with a cage was installed, fixed in the axial direction with hardened steel washers. The center bearing of the crankshaft can be re-lubricated with grease.

A change and a constructive improvement can be considered the use of a double sleeve chain in the front chain drive (instead of the previous simple one). The double chain has a longer service life, does not lengthen and does not cause shock transmitted to the gear pairs of the gearbox. Toothed couplings on the gears of the gearbox have already been introduced on the 623 and 633 motorcycles and mod. 362 "Californian IV".
The most characteristic feature of the new 634/4 is the all-new swing-fork frame, which has been used to relocate the rest of the chassis.

Since time immemorial, Java motorcycles have been cranked with a common start and gear lever. However, now a cold engine starts after several cranking times, and a warm one after one pressing the pedal.

The semi-automatic Java clutch is disengaged when the gear lever is moved. For those using the clutch lever, this makes it necessary to immediately release the lever as soon as the corresponding gear is engaged.

Once used to this somewhat peculiar driving, it is easy to get used to shifting gears. This car would be nice to have five gears, since it does not have a wide enough range of the required number of revolutions. In order to achieve good acceleration during acceleration, it is necessary to use an increased number of revolutions. The best engine torque is between 3,000 and 5,250 rpm. However, up to a speed of 90 km / h, the motorcycle accelerates on a par with the average car.

The maximum speed of a motorcycle according to the passport is about 120 km / h, but on a well-run motorcycle it is not difficult to reach a speed of 130 km / h. The car behaves best at 110-115 km / h, although it vibrates a little while driving and these vibrations are felt on the footpegs. Fuel consumption is about 1 liter per 16 km, so that in relation to the volume of the tank (17 liters) "Java" has a sufficient power reserve.

Driving behavior

The motorcycle has very good driving properties. It is extremely stable and easy to handle, even on rough roads.
The good ride quality is partly due to the front fork, which is quite stiff and withstands bumps in the road well. However, it should be noted that Barum tires, designed for the entire life of a motorcycle, do not have the necessary grip, and therefore you have to resort to the appropriate riding style.
In the city "Java" has established itself as a well-controlled vehicle, and this is positively promoted by the curb weight of 166 kg.
In terms of comfort, this model of the Java motorcycle is at a high enough level for a motorcycle in its class.
A fairly stiff saddle, even on long journeys, does not cause complaints of any pain. As mentioned, the front fork is stiff, but does a great job at absorbing large and small impacts. Adjustable rear shock absorbers allow you to overcome bumps in the road, even with heavy loads. Thanks to its size, the bike is ideal for two people.

The production of motorcycles in the USSR was established on a grand scale. Irbit, Izhevsk, Kovrov and Minsk became the main centers of bridge building, and the motorcycles themselves, including the imported "Java" and "Chezetas", became an integral part of the culture.

"Sunrise"

Voskhod has become a cult motorcycle among young people and adolescents. He conquered with unpretentiousness, low fuel consumption, lightness and remanufacturing. The motorcycle did not have much reliability, but with its help they learned to repair the internal combustion engine.

Production of "Voskhod" was deployed after the war at the plant. Dyagterev. The prototype was the German DKW RT-125 motorcycle. In 1946 the plant produced 286 K-125 motorcycles.

Since 1957, the plant began to produce a completely new motorcycle "K-175" with a 175 cc engine. This motorcycle was named "Voskhod" and gave birth to a whole family. The most popular models were "Voskhod-2", "Voskhod - 2M." The last model of the "Voskhod", created in the USSR, was called the M3-01. In addition, the plant produced limited editions of motorcycles for motocross, and in the 80s created several interesting developments of sports bikes.

"Minsk"

The history of the creation of "Minsk" also goes back to the DKW RT-125. The first M1A motorcycles were produced in Moscow, and in 1951 production was transferred to a bicycle factory in Minsk.

In 1956, the plant released a new model M1M with a pendulum suspension, spring shock absorbers, a short-link fork and a 5 hp engine that developed a speed of 75 km / h.

In 1961, the new M-103 appeared with hydraulic shock absorbers and a telescopic fork. The production was focused on the countryside, which explains the popularity of motorcycles.

Further upgrades resulted in more power and speed. For example, the MMVZ-3.111 model, released in 1973, could accelerate to 90 km / h and had a power of 9.5 hp. And MMVZ-3.112 had 12 hp.

The IZH motorcycle in popularity in the USSR could compete with the most famous imported vehicles.

The first motorcycle models are associated with the name of the designer Peter Mozharov, but real popularity came to IZH after the war, when the documentation for the German DKW NC-350 motorcycle fell into the hands of the designers.

After a thorough modernization, the motorcycle was named IZH-49. The legendary model was equipped with a telescopic fork and hydraulic shock absorbers. The motorcycle became popular in bad roads.

The next model - IZH-56 was no less popular, but real recognition came with the appearance of IZH-Jupiter, IZH-Planeta and IZH-Planeta-sport, which were intended for tourist and sports trips. IZH-PS received a separate engine lubrication system and could accelerate to 100 km / h in 11 seconds.

In the 70s, the plant produced up to 350,000 motorcycles per year.

"Java"

"Java" has become a truly iconic motorcycle for the youth of the USSR. It is with him and with IZH that the movement of rockers is associated. The single-cylinder model of the motorcycle has received the respectful nickname "The Old Lady". Young people were attracted by the motorcycle's reliability, versatility and speed. The motorcycle could ride on highways and forest roads with equal ease.

The Czechoslovak company Jawa was founded in 1929. After the war, production resumed. The plant won a tender for the supply of motorcycles to the USSR and began supplying 100 thousand motorcycles per year to the country. In 1964, the millionth "Java" was released, in 1976 - the two millionth, and in the 80s the number reached three million copies.

The most fashionable model in the USSR was the Java-368, which was launched in 1984. The Java had a 343 cc two-stroke two-cylinder engine. and a power of 26 hp, the maximum speed of the motorcycle was 120 km / h.

"Java" was appreciated by athletes. Sports motorcycle models were used in motocross, in enduro races, until now the Russian ice speedway team performs on Java motorcycles.

After the collapse of the USSR, the plant was on the verge of collapse, but managed to withstand.

"Pannonia"

The Pannonia motorcycle has become another iconic motorcycle among urban youth and motorcycle tourists.

Production of Pannonia began at the Chappel plant in Budapest in 1954. "Pannonia" became the first new motorcycle of the plant. The motorcycle was equipped with a single-cylinder 250 cc two-stroke engine, a four-speed gearbox. New features include a closed chain drive and a duplex frame.

From 1954 to 1975, 286,959 motorcycles were delivered to the USSR.

The most popular model was the Pannonia 250 TLF. Weighing 146 kg, the motorcycle produced 18 hp, was not picky about fuel, had an 18 liter tank and a reliable electrician. In addition, the plant produced a model with a 350 cc engine and a sidecar.

The beauty and perfection of motorcycle lines still make connoisseurs of rarities look for surviving motorcycles.

In 1968, the plant released a new motorcycle model, copied from the Yamaha YDS-2, but the USSR decided that the motorcycle was too complicated and stopped exporting, after which the plant closed.

"Chezet"

The history of the legendary Cezet goes back to pre-war times, when the Czechoslovak arms factory Ceska Zbrojovka (CZ) decided to start producing motorcycles. In 1936, the plant produced prototypes of "Cheset", on the basis of which motorcycles with engines of 250 and 350 cc were later developed.

In 1960, CZ launched the Cheset motorcycles into series production. In the USSR, CZ was waiting for an unprecedented success. Along with Java, this motorcycle was a hit with rockers, and the black Cheset became the dream of an entire generation.

The famous crossover Cezet was born in 1962. The motorcycle was powered by a 250cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine. Ceseta's finest hour lasted until the end of the 60s. Racers from the USSR, Belgium and the GDR took part in it and won championships.

Ural

The history of Ural motorcycles from the late 1930s to 1964 was the history of a military motorcycle. Even after the motorcycle began to be sold to the townsfolk, the owner of the "Ural" was obliged to register for military service, and the State Traffic Inspectorate forbade to operate the motorcycle without a sidecar. Because of this, "Ural" did not gain fame among young people. He found his niche as a heavy utility motorcycle. It was used for walks under the moon, and for transporting goods, and for trips to the taiga, and even for motorcycle tourism.

The IMZ motorcycle was equipped with a 650 cc four-stroke engine and was considered reliable among Soviet motorcycles. Engine power, depending on the model, ranged from 31 to 36 hp. The maximum speed when used with a sidecar is 105 km / h.

In 1985, the two-millionth motorcycle model "M-67" rolled off the assembly line of the plant.

In the 90s, the plant managed to survive. Most of the motorcycles are now exported.

In some cases, these are revised foreign models. But even the most stupid biker could fix these Soviet motorcycles. Moreover, this could be done in almost any conditions. And these bikes are still being mercilessly exploited, do not give up, and will obviously serve for more than a dozen years.

"Vyatka VP-150"

Vyatka VP-150 is the first Soviet motor scooter produced by the Vyatka-Polyanskiy machine-building plant. Produced from 1957 to 1966. It is a copy of the Italian motor scooter "Vespa" 150GS 1955.

Before the scooter, the plant produced Shpagin submachine guns. "Vyatka" could not hold out to the level of popularity of the PPSh and Vespa's older sister. But a million scooters sold is also a very decent result.

They say it was the most "disco transport". This is because men used it to go to a party with clean, not stained pants, and women did not have to carry spare "overalls" in their purses.

Source: youtube.com

L-300. "Red October"

This motorcycle was copied from the German DKW Luxus 300 in 1930. The first models rolled off the assembly line in the same year. Although production ended in 1938, its story did not stop there. The basis of the motorcycle was taken for the design and production of IZH-8 (which, by the way, is even on silver coins of New Zealand).

Technical characteristics of L-300:

• engine with a volume of 300 cm3 at 3000 rpm;
• power - 6 HP early modifications; 6.5 h.p. - in the late;
• maximum speed - 80 km / h;
• gasoline consumption - 4.5 l / 100 km;
• dry weight - 125 kg.

Source: angarsk.moto.drom.ru

M-72

Produced in a large series from 1941 to 1960 - at factories in Moscow, Gorky, Irbit, Leningrad and Kiev. Initially, it was intended exclusively for military needs and until the mid-50s, the motorcycle was not available for sale.

Each M-72 was a carrier of small arms, therefore, according to some classifications, it was listed as "armored vehicles". More than 8500 cars were produced. It was produced both with a sidecar and in a single version. Made on the basis of the German BMW R71 motorcycle.

After the end of the war, motorcycles entered the ranks of the police, becoming their main means of transport. And since 1954, ordinary citizens could buy such horses for themselves.

Source: carakoom.com

Ural M-62

Soviet heavy motorcycle with a sidecar. Produced by the Irbit Motorcycle Plant (IMZ "Ural") from 1961 to 1965. Distinguished in:

• increased engine power - 28 "horses";
• modernized gearbox - gear clutches;
• increased suspension travel;
• modified form of the front fork covers.

Due to this, the M-62 with a 255-kilogram load easily accelerated to 95 km / h, and "ate" in the region of only 6 liters per 100 km. Like the M-72, it was most often seen in the form of a police vehicle.

Source: vodi.la

IZH-49

Izh-49 is a middle class road bike designed to ride on any roads of the Fatherland - both alone and with a passenger. Produced by the Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant from 1951 to 1958. A modification was available in the form of a side stroller.

Reliable, tenacious, adapted to any conditions and very sonorous (its growl in the USSR is like the roar of "Harleys" in the USA "), IZH-49 is still found on the roads of the CIS countries today.

Source: m1a.unoforum.ru

"Izh Planet Sport"

Produced by the Izhevsk Motorcycle Plant from 1973 to 1984. This is, perhaps, the first serial sports motorcycle of the Union. All thanks to the fact that it was created with an eye to the then Japanese Suzuki, Yamaha and Kawasaki. Pay attention: this "grandfather" does not look archaic even today. And he is also capable of miracles in the form of:

• maximum speed 140 km / h;
• fuel consumption - no more than 7l / 100 km;
• acceleration to 100 km / h in 11 seconds;
• engine power - up to 32 hp.

Watch the test drive "Izh" a ":

Java 360

In Soviet times, these bikes were considered the best commercially available bikes. Please note: the name of the motorcycle has nothing to do with the island of Java. It is an abbreviation from the name of the owner of the factory - Czech Frantisek Janicek, and from the name of the company "Wanderer".

By the 1970s, every third Soviet motorcyclist rode the Javas. Therefore, it is not surprising that Czechoslovak bikes were very often included in the frame. You can't help but remember the scene from The Diamond Hand, where Gesha Kozodoev is taking Semyon Semyonovich Gorbunkov's White Rock to fish on the Jawa 360.

These motorcycles, like other heroes of the chart, have survived to this day. Some of them, by the way, look as good as new:

"Java 350638 "

The first Javas had a 4-stroke engine with a cylinder capacity of 500 cm3, were quite complex, expensive and were not in demand. Then a series of upgrades followed. One of the most successful took place in 1984. It turned out to be so successful and in demand that the number of motorcycles produced in the 1980s exceeded 3 million units.

She has repeatedly appeared in films ("Crash - the daughter of a cop", "Rats, or the Night Mafia", etc.). They even composed songs about her ("Java" by the "Gaza Strip" group).

Dedicated to the World Motorcyclist Day.


Motorcycles for the citizens of the USSR played a very important role. Often, they were the only way to gain freedom of movement. They went to work, on vacation at the seaside, met children from the hospital and drove the girls in the villages. Modern bikers have switched to foreign-made sports bikes or choppers and are completely unaware of the history of domestic motor vehicles. We decided that it was time to stop for a couple of minutes and recall the 10 most popular, most beloved and most popular motorcycles from the distant USSR.

1. L-300 "Red October". The very first.

The very first serial Soviet motorcycle was the L-300 "Red October". At the beginning of 1930, Leningrad designers prepared its drawings, inspired by the most reliable bike of that time - the German DKW Luxus 300. And in the fall of the same year, the first batch of L-300 was ready.

The motorcycle was produced until 1938, and then no less legendary IZH-8 was created on its basis. This "descendant" of the L-300 even got on the silver coins ... of New Zealand.
By the way, the name IZH-7 was borne by the same L-300, which were produced in Izhevsk in parallel with the Leningrad enterprise Krasny Oktyabr.

2. M-72. The most combat

The M-72 was not the first army motorcycle in the USSR. In 1934, the assembly of the first Soviet heavy model PMZ-A-750 began, and in 1939 - the "backup" of the British BSA and, as it is believed, the best pre-war motorcycle in the Union TiZ-AM-600.

However, it was the M-72, the design of which was "spied" from the German BMW R71 (the Wehrmacht was equipped with them), which came out in the tragic 1941 year, and were produced throughout the war. And then they also seriously served the people for civilian purposes - the last copies left the assembly line already in 1960.

From 1941 to 1945, the M-72 carried fighters armed with anti-tank missile systems, machine guns or light mortars. From the first post-war years - and long after that - these motorcycles became the main police transport. And since 1954, ordinary Soviet citizens could buy them for their own needs.

"Descendants" M-72 at the beginning of the "zero" ordered the Republican Guard of Saddam Hussein. But she did not have time to use it - and combat motorcycles "went to the people." At the request of customers, Iraqi auto repair shops put additional "active and passive protection" on the Urals - armor and a machine gun.

3. "Minsk M1A". First Belarusian

To this day, the most “popular” motorcycle in Belarus is the “Minskachi”. They run along the roads of the entire former Soviet Union, and not only. But most of them, of course, are at home.

The half-century anniversary of the motorcycles "Minsk" has skipped a long time ago (the first models already deserve the name "vintage"), and very soon, on July 12, they will celebrate their 61st birthday.

The first Belarusian "bike" was Minsk M1A, which had many "relatives" not only in the USSR, but also abroad. The "ancestor" of the motorcycle was developed in 1939 by the Germans. The DKW RT125 turned out to be so successful that, under various names, analogues of this motorcycle were produced in 7 countries of the world, including the USA, England and Japan.

By the way, one of the old "Minskers" in harsh conditions was tested by one of the hosts of the famous British show Top Gear Richard Hammond. He drove almost all of Vietnam from south to north on it. The summary of the charismatic “auto-maniac”: “This is the AK-47 among motorcycles - reliable, simple, easy to repair. It is specially made for those countries where there are no roads. "

4. IZH Planet Sport. The fastest and most technologically advanced.

In 1973, the Izhevsk Motorcycle Plant surprised the whole country by showing the first Soviet motorcycle with a sports bias, Planet Sport. Unlike all the earlier motorcycles, which were modeled after German models, Planet Sport clearly tried to be similar to Japanese motorcycles of the 60s and 70s.

Due to its high quality workmanship, IZH Planet Sport was actively sold in export markets, for example, in the UK, the Netherlands and Finland. Soviet bikers on them accelerated to 140 km / h, which was an incredible speed in those days.

5. Sunrise. The most rustic.

Motorcycles "Voskhod" began to be produced in the city of Kovrov, Vladimir region, in 1957. These were very unpretentious single-cylinder motorcycles (173.7 cm3 engine).

The Dyagterev plant constantly improved this model, launching on the market after Voskhod its modernized versions Voskhod-2, Voskhod-3, Voskhod-3M. The last Voskhod motorcycle was the 3M-01 model with a 15 hp engine.

Because of their reliability, the Voskhod motorcycles have become real toilers in thousands of Soviet villages. Even now, you can easily find a Voskhod motorcycle there in good condition.

6.M-62. The choice of the police.

The Soviet militia, fair and incorruptible, in the 50s-60s mainly moved on motorcycles with a sidecar. The M-62, produced by the Irbit Motorcycle Plant, was the most popular choice of servants of the law. Its four-stroke engine produced 28 hp.

An interesting fact is that ordinary citizens of the USSR were not allowed to operate the "Urals" without a wheelchair at that time. After all, these bikes were pretty heavy to handle. But the police used motorcycles without wheelchairs, which looked very cool in the eyes of Soviet boys. How can you not want to become a policeman!

7. Tula-200. For hunters and fishermen.

The Soviet motorcycle industry did not produce ATVs (some small-scale models, however, were still produced, read below), but a very unusual Tula-200 motorcycle with wide off-road wheels was produced for the needs of hunters and fishermen.

The mass distribution of such motorcycles fell on 1986-1988. The engine was taken from the Tulitsa scooter, increasing its power to 13 hp. This made it possible to accelerate at 200ke to 90 km / h. 10-12 thousand of these bikes were produced per year, the last of which left the assembly line of the plant in 1996. By the way, even a trike was produced on the basis of Tula-200!

8. IZH-49. The most tenacious.

Reliable, tenacious, beautiful. The sound of its engine to the ear of a Soviet person was akin to the sound of a Harley-Davidson engine to Americans. Their release began in 1951.

Basically, it was an improved design of the German motorcycle DKW NZ 350. IZH-49 won great love of the population and were used in all corners of the vast Soviet Union.

On its basis, they produced versions with a sidecar, as well as sports motorcycles for cross-country and road races. Now IZH-49 are collectible items. Prices for them start at 100 thousand rubles.

9. М-1А "Moscow". First post-war.

After the war, the Moscow Bicycle Plant mastered the production of a copy of the German DKW RT125 motorcycle with a 125 cc engine.

M-1A "Moscow" became the first post-war motorcycle in the USSR. It was a simple and lightweight motorcycle that did not require a lot of metal and rubber to produce.

Such motorcycles were used in huge numbers to train motorcyclists in DOSAAF schools. Perhaps your grandfather studied just like that. In 1951, the production was transferred to Minsk to a bicycle factory built there. An almost identical model was produced in Kovrov under the designation K-125.

10. Jawa 360. The most beautiful.

In the 70s, every third motorcyclist rode Java. In total, more than 1 million Jawa motorcycles of various models were delivered to the USSR, but the 360 ​​was the most beautiful of all.

Now cherry motorcycles with chrome gas tanks are called "Old Woman". Especially valuable are specimens with a side carriage made of fiberglass. They produced versions with a 1-cylinder engine (250/260) or with a 2-cylinder engine (350/360).

By the way, Java has often appeared in various films. For example, it is on Jawa 360 that Gesha Kozodoev is taking Semyon Semyonovich Gorbunkov on a fishing trip to White Rock in the film The Diamond Hand.

11. IZH Planet. The founder of the series.

In 1962, the Izhevsk Motorcycle Plant launched the production of a fundamentally new model for itself Izh Planet.

It was the first generation of these motorcycles that set the vector for the development of the whole family, which was produced until 2008 (IZH Planet 7).

12. Jawa 350/638. Motorcycle of the roaring 90s.

The last of the "Java" sold in the USSR, the Jawa 350 638, also became a "people's" motorcycle.

Having managed to come out just before perestroika, in 1984, this model often appeared in the harsh films of the late 1980s and early 1990s. So "Java 350 638" can be seen in the drama "Crash - the daughter of a cop" and the action movie "Rats, or the Night Mafia". The motorcycle is even dedicated to the song "Java" by the popular group "Gas Sector" in those years.

13. Vyatka VP-150. Italian elegance.

The last one in our review is not a motorcycle at all, but a scooter. Vyatka VP-150, the prototype of which was the Italian Vespa scooter, is rightfully considered the most elegant two-wheeled vehicle in the USSR.

It was a quiet and very comfortable scooter that even women could drive with ease. On the basis of Vyatka, they made a whole range of three-wheeled scooters with various bodies, which were actively used in urban cargo transportation.

14. Riga-13. The first moped of Soviet boys.

Mopeds at the Riga plant "Sarkana Zvaigzne" began to produce back in 1958. Many boys dreamed that their parents would give them a moped for their birthday. So they did, so mopeds, and especially Riga-13, became the first means of transport for many.

Riga-13 began to be produced in 1983. Equipped with a 1.3 hp engine, it accelerated to just 40 km / h. For starting from a standstill and moving uphill, the “biker” was recommended to help the engine by rotating the pedals. Riga-13 was produced until 1998, becoming the most massive model of the plant.

15. "Ant". A truck for everyone.

On the basis of Tula scooters, the Tula Machine-Building Plant produced a huge number of three-wheeled cargo scooters "Ant".

It was a breakthrough for the Soviet Union, because the sale of vans and station wagons to the citizens of the USSR was prohibited. So these scooters were almost the only way to transport small consignments of goods.

TMZ has produced a huge number of such scooters. They were equipped with side platforms, dump bodies, vans and even tanks. They are still popular now.

16. ZID-175 4ShP. The first Soviet ATV.

Surprisingly, in our country, despite the complete absence of roads in some places, ATVs have never been mass produced. Almost the only more or less serial copy was the ZID-175 4ShP, produced at the Dyagterev Plant.

The design was not very successful: a weak engine, complex transmission elements. This is probably why such ATVs were not widely used.