Jan acquired his Schwalbe from a farmer from the Erdingen hinterland in 2014$PreviewBreak. Generally speaking, the Schwalbe (model Simson KR51/2, built in 1983) was not doing very well at the time. The suspension resembled an old sofa cushion, the engine whistled from the last hole and the electrical system did what it wanted. Also the original blue paint was in a very bad condition. Thus the impulse for a new construction was given. With the support of his brother Michael, the engine was regenerated, a vape ignition was installed and the chassis, rims and tyres were optimised. Finally the "Lola" - that's how Jan calls his swallow - was sprayed in sand-matt. The signs on the sides and the leg shield are his homage to a video game from the 1990s (GDI troops from Command and Conquer).
For the specialists among you here are some key data about the current rebuild condition:
- Engine 50cc, optimized
- RZT 16" carburettor
- RZT sport exhaust
- 4-speed gearbox with 5-disc clutch
- Vape ignition
- H4 clear glass headlight
- KR51/1 tail light
- S51 brake light switch
- 98dB horn with 20s sound
- Daytime running light at the front swingarm
- Lowering front and rear (26/28)
- Heidenau K42 tires for optimal grip in every situation
- handmade seat, saddlery Magdeburg
- Attachment parts in matt carbon foil cover, e.g. handlebar cover, lamp ring and rear light holder
We met Jan in March 2017 in Munich and were thrilled by his enthusiasm, because Jan is not only a hobbyist with passion, but also co-organizer of the Munich Simson regulars' table, which meets once a month. Who of you has desire to look past there times, the regulars' table always takes place on the 1st Thursday in the month. Place, time and other dates for rides in the Munich area can be found on the Facebook page Simson Stammtisch München.
All picture rights ©Anke Kalkbrenner / AKF
