Post-War Europe was a tumultuous time for motorcycle manufactures.  Established pre-War brands faded away as quickly as new marques rose to fill the gaps.  Victoria belonged to the former group, and the Bergmeister was its swan song.  Find this 1954 model here on Cycle Trader in Detroit, Michigan for $8500.

We tend to equate German twins with the opposed “boxer” layout, but Victoria broke that mold with the Bergmeister.  It was a very innovative and well-engineered design, but the venture ultimately proved too expensive for cash-strapped Victoria.  Production only lasted from 1953 to 1956, and in 1958 Victoria merged with the Zweirad union.  Mopeds and scooters were made under the Victoria name until 1966, when the firm was bought out by Hercules.

Though the Bergmeister engine strongly resembles the 90- transverse v-twin we now associate with Moto Guzzi (right down to the shaft-driven rear wheel), it actually has a slightly-narrower angle of 80 degrees.  When new, the 350cc mill produced 21 hp at 6,300 RPM.  This one, however, is not currently running (though it does turn over).

The Bergmeister’s high development costs reflect the quality of the final product.  Everything is over engineered, the engine is rubber-mounted to the frame, and power is transferred through a four-speed transmission.  There is even a small light under the tank to aid in quick night-time repairs.

Bergmeisters are rare, interesting, and well engineered.  It should come as no surprise, then, that prices on these bikes tend to run high.  This one is no exception to that rule.  It will take some work and money to bring it back to a rideable state, but being unique always comes with a price.

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