This 1956 DKW looks very original, and has the characteristic rear dampeners of the “S” version (“S” standing for rear swing arm). The chain on this motorcycle was fully enclosed, as was the carburetor. The 175cc two stroke motor was good for 9.5 hp, and was well known for its reliability. It was so reliable that the German national team won the International Six Days Trial on three RT 175 S motorcycles. Find it here on eBay in Merritt Island, Florida with no reserve.
This German two stroke sold huge numbers in Germany, but is not often seen on this side of the Atlantic. Though not common here, DKW was a leading motorcycle manufacturer both before and after World War II. In fact, one of their motors was given to Harley Davidson after the war, and became the basis for the Hummer. After the war, they made cars and motorcycles, and were eventually merged into what became Audi.
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TT
wowee, what a cool mirror. (the rest of the bike is great, too.)
I don’t think the design was “given” to Harley, as much as it was taken by the allies as part of war reparations… the British used the same basic DKW design for the BSA Bantam, and Russia made it as the Moskva.
I love the look of this bike. Somewhat art-deco inspired (not the same era, I know.)
It’s quite a handsome bike. They definitely don’t make them like this anymore.
When i lived in Montevideo Uruguay in the early 60”s believe there where some DKW cars with 2 cycles like the early Saabs. Pretty little scoot mirror would be good to check you did have any bugs in your teeth before your… Hot… date….!