MESSERSCHMITT

1960 Messerschmitt

1960 Messerschmitt

The famous German aircraft company turned to the manufacture of three wheeler cabin scooters soon after World War Two.

Designed to provide all weather comfort with motorcycle economy and ease of maintenance, the 1958 KR 201 was available with or without a transparent bubble top. The open model had a “convertible” soft hood.

A 200 cc Fitchel and Sach two stroke engine developed 10 horsepower at 5250 rpm. It drove the rear wheel through a four speed gearbox, with a maximum speed of 90 km/h (56 mph).

At moderate road speeds, the KR201 returned remarkable fuel economy – 3.1 litres/100 km (90 miles per gallon). Acceleration was tardy, taking 49 seconds to go from rest to 80 km/h (50 mph).

Ingeniously designed to seat two adults, one behind the other, the KR 201 also had room for parcels and even a small child. Car tyre controls were fitted, apart from handlebar steering.

The three wheels were independently suspended on soft rubber springs, each being fitted with a cable-operated drum brake.

Production discontinued in 1960.

About Alistair Kennedy

Alistair Kennedy is Automotive News Service and Marque Publishing's business manager and the company's jack-of-all-trades. An accountant by profession, he designs the Marque range of motoring book titles, operates the company's motoring bookshop on the NSW Central Coast and the associated web site, as well as its huge digital and hard copy database. Whenever we can escape from the office he does so to cover new vehicle releases and contributes news stories. Alistair's other interests include cricket and family history on which he has written three books.
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