- Name:
- Elia Vogt
- Websites & Profile:
- https://www.facebook.com/2tRoberlausitz/, http://instagram.com/2t.rudel_oberlausitz
- Residence:
- Boxberg/O.L.
Brand Simson
How did you become attentive on the brand Simson?
I got my first moped, the S51 electronics for my confirmation as a present from my grandpa. To be honest, I had nothing to do with mopeds before that. But when I owned my first moped, my interest in the Simson brand and the different models grew from day to day.
What do you particularly like about Simson?
First of all, I always find it impressive with Simson that something so old inspires so many people of all possible generations. It is simply a topic or hobby that brings people together again and again and is simply fun. Personally, I like the variety and individuality of the different Simson models. In addition, these vehicles look quite modern despite their age and you can give them your own touch depending on your taste. Furthermore, the technology behind the mopeds is quite simple and generally understandable, which makes repairs possible for most in their own workshop. Last but not least I have to say that my mopeds have never let me down so far, which is due to a very reliable technology.
Your Simson
Which Simson model(s)/model variant(s) do you own?
I own a Simson S51 electronic, which was built in 1981.
What condition was your Simson in when you bought it?
The Simson was completely in original condition. Since it sat around in a barn for quite a long time before I got it, it was visually in period condition. Say it was very dirty and all metal parts were affected by flash rust. Technically it looked bad, the engine didn't run and the electronics didn't work either, only the ignition spark was there.
What did you change and why?
At first I tried to improve the appearance of my S51 with simple means. I tried to polish up all parts of the bike to give it some shine. When this was not enough to my satisfaction, I started to spend more time and money on my S51. I bought first chrome parts like rear shocks and rims. Furthermore I cleaned the complete frame from the dirt deposits and polished it, so I could keep the original paint.
I gave my Simson a new seat in the Enduro look and put the exhaust also according to the Enduro look upwards. I shortened the front and rear fenders individually. I also didn't like the front lamp and so I installed the "Tittenlampe", which is known by its name. To improve the look of the bike I replaced all the original screws with stainless steel screws.
Originally the tank and the side cover were painted in the original billiard green and the fenders in the original silver. Over time I didn't like that either, as I wanted something custom and unique. So I had the tank, side cover, front and rear fenders and the heat shield of the exhaust painted. Furthermore I exchanged the original handlebars against a chromed Superbike handlebar, because this is good for the optics as well as for the driving comfort. Finally I can only say that I adapted the moped optically after and after my own ideas and wishes and invested thereby much time and money. The only thing that remained original until today is the engine.
How did the idea of airbrush painting come about? Did you have a concrete concept or special models?
The idea with the airbrush came together with the desire for an individual, unique design. I had planned to paint the moped completely different from the original, but the airbrush should be based on Simson and pick up the history of the moped. So I sat down with my painter (Airbrush Design Uwe Krasel), who then delivered the ideas for today's work and implemented them successfully.
Concerning the color choice, I wasn't sure from the beginning, I couldn't really decide between red and brown. That's when my painter simply suggested a fancy paint that would bring different effects depending on how the light hits it. By itself, the lacquer is a shade of brown, but the color looks different depending on how the sun hits it. It is an X-paint, with the name "beer bottle candy".
How much did the rebuild cost approximately?
I have never calculated the exact cost of the conversion. However, I came at the rough estimate already on good 2500 euros to 3000€. But I think that is not enough, to which here and there still money is put in.
What do you use your Simson moped for?
In the past 2 years I rode my S51 regularly to school, of course only in sunshine. But now I only use it in my spare time, for a leisurely Sunday round or a ride with mates. I only ride my Simson in dry weather and sunshine.
What was your greatest or most extraordinary experience with your Simson?
I didn't have an extraordinary experience with my moped, because it is simply extraordinary and great to ride over the villages with my Simson every time. Not least because you always meet great people who share the same enthusiasm and you can have great conversations.
Other
Are you a member of a Simson club / association?
I am not a member of any Simson club, but I have a circle of friends who are just as enthusiastic about Simson as I am. It's always fun to ride and work on mopeds together.
Do you take part in Simson events?
Of course I take part in Simson events. The first event of the year is the barbecue at AKF, followed by classic car markets, where I am always on the lookout for new things. Another event I take part in is the Simson meeting in Zwickau, which is criticized by many, but in my opinion it is a must for every Simson rider. For this year I plan to visit the Insel Classics meeting in Uhyst, to go to Suhl for the anniversary meeting and to take part in the Simson meeting in Wittgendorf. At the end of the season I will of course have a barbecue again.
Do you have any wishes, ideas or plans for the future with regard to Simson?
My wishes are definitely to expand my fleet over time, especially with regard to the Simson brand. Besides the S51 I currently own a Simson Habicht and I'm thinking about buying a Simson SR2. What is also on my shopping list for the future is a Schwalbe and a Simson S50.
Anything else you would like to share with us?
Keep up the good work, I always like to buy my parts from you and I can only say that I am absolutely satisfied! I think it's great that you organise events like the barbecue. Furthermore I would be happy if you would organize more events, because you are a great team and you belong to this area. A visit to AKF in Bautzen is always nice!
