The Condor marque was founded by Eduard and Jules Scheffer in Courfaivre, Switzerland as a producer of bicycles and became one of the country's leading motorcycle manufacturers.
Otto Fricker married the daughter of Eduard Scheffer and established the fledgling motorcycle division, building the first example in 1901 using a Zedel engine. Sales began to increase considerably with the introduction of a single-speed Motosacoche-powered motorcycle in 1908.
Later machines employed a variety of engines including MAG, Moser, Villiers, Universal and, after WWII, AMC and Ducati.
A580
There are two basic variations, the civilian A580 and the military A580-I. The 580-I differs in that it has an 8 speed box, the shapes of the tank and logo are changed, and they have a military colour scheme. It is covered with labels annotating the various service points and has a more sophisticated toolkit.
The engines for the two models are effectively the same and have features which show a markedly different approach to both BMW and Zundapp. They have hydraulic tappets and the left and right cylinder heads are interchangeable.
The first in the series was the C580 introduced in 1944 but not in production until 1947. This was followed by the A580 military motorcycle in 1949. 40 of the C480 models were sold to the French Police, and there is ongoing discussion as to whether the Condor design influenced that of CEMEC.
Other models include the A540 1939-1940 running a MAG 497cc Type 1C9L3, and also during the same period a V-Twin of 847cc was built. Later in the WWII years they introduced the A680 with a 677cc Universal V-Twin engine, production of which ended in 1946.
Condor and others
Approximately 3000 Ducati-engined Condor 350s were built between 1973 and 1978, and some 1500 of these were still in use by the Swiss army as late as 2001 when they were replaced with BMW F650 singles. Earlier model Condors used French AMC engines and Swiss MAG powerplants, among others.
Models:
1909-1918 Kaffeemühle 500 cc & 1000 cc twin cyl., 4 stroke, IOE 9-18 h.p., belt drive
1911-1917 Types 16, 16A, 16B, single cyl., 4 stroke, Moser or Zedel, belt drive
1911-1917 Types 17 & 18 single cyl., 4 stroke, IOE, belt drive, Moser or Zedel
1911-1914 Types 19 19B 19C 19D 19E single cyl., 4 stroke, IOE, belt drive, Moser or Zedel
1911-1917 Types 20/21 20B 21B twin cyl., 4 stroke, IOE, belt drive, Moser or Zedel
1926-1934 Types 500 Grand Sport, 511, 498 cc single cyl., OHV 22 h.p. (4.800 rpm)
1928-1938 Types Super Sport, 421, 422, 425, 500 cc single cyl. 82 x 94 mm, 4 stroke
1930 Model 322 Populaire 500cc single cyl IOE, 82x94mm. Weight: 162kg
1938-1940 Types Super-Luxe, 523, 500 cc single cyl. 82 x 94 mm, 4 stroke
1945-1958 Types A 580, A 580-1, C 580, C 580 Rally, C 580 TL, C 580 TN, T 580-1, 577 cc twin cyl. 70 x 75.2 mm, 4 stroke, side valve, Boxer 14½ h.p. to 20 h.p.
1947-1956 Types A 750, C 750 TL/TN 744 cc twin cyl. 78 x 78 mm, 4 stroke, Boxer 25 h.p. @ 4.400 rpm
More images...The latest model 4 h.p. twin Condor, fitted with a M.A.G. engine.
Condor
Both single and twin-cylinder models are shown fitted with M.A.G. engines. For the purposes of description, the most fully equipped motor cycle will be used.
A primary chain drive with engine shaft shock absorber transmits power to an external band clutch, and a constant mesh two-speed gear, the control of which ensures clutch withdrawal when a change of ratio is made. The final drive is by belt, and both brakes act on the belt rim. Handle engine starting is employed, and the most striking feature of the frame is the use of double tubes wherever possible. A spring fork of the single or non-girder type insulates the front portion of the machine, and a combined spring saddle pillar and footboards may be obtained as an extra. It is interesting to note that the final drive leaves the gear box on the right hand side, and that the rear mudguard and carrier are quickly detachable from the back stays.
The Motor Cycle, October 1919
Sources: A. Vassiliadis, The Motor Cycle, et al.
There were several other Condor marques
Resources:
Condor Directory
Condor Model History
Could you please help to provide information on where to buy parts for my A580-i. I would need manuals advise etc. thanks Gordon 00447711844747
Gordon Chambers
Londonderry United Kingdom
Tue Apr 26 2016
sarah_williams2 at hotmail.co.uk
Certificate of conformity
Condor A350 1975
I have purchased the Condor A350 1975 from Denmark but to register it I need a certificate of conformity. Do you know how I can obtain one please.
Northamptonshire
Fri Oct 30 2015
bobbrownducati at aol.com
Hi from Australia
Condor 350A
Condor modified, cam, head job,amal carb, exhaust, i2 volt electrics
Thu Jun 04 2015
Lmtada at shaw.ca
Condor A580
Condor A580
In Edmonton, Canada. Picked up 1950's Condor parts. Looking for more parts (everything, bike).
Edmonton, AB, Canada
Wed Feb 11 2015
kinsarvik28 gmail.com
Identification
Condor Not Known
Can you help me identify this bike please?
Marmande, France
Sat Nov 23 2013
michelle.leveille<at>att.net
Ignition coil needed
Ducati Condor
I have enjoyed riding my Swiss Condor A350 for over a decade. Now I need a new starter coil. Does anyone have a compatible replacement for a 1976 condenser and a coil with the stamp reading "Ducati Elettrotecnica 320106 6Vcc 2207" on the
bottom? Thank you!
Los Angeles
Sat Aug 03 2013
sob9152<at>gmail.com
parts for a350 condor
Condor A350
looking leads for parts and other info
Alb NM
Mon Jul 22 2013
sob9152<at>gmail.com
condor a350 parts source
condor A 350
Looking for footpeg and mounting bracket..left side rider
Alb new mexico
Tue Jul 16 2013
grenna<at>ccwinsurance.com
Join Club
Condor a350
I'm going to buy a Condor next week. I wanted to join the club to find out more about them and where to get parts. I was on the site but did not see where to join...can you send me a link to join please.
New Jersey, USA
There is at least one Condor club listed here: Condor Directory
Tue Aug 14 2012
avanbockel,at> yahoo.com.au
dates of manufacture
concord a350
i'm after date (month) of manufacture of 1975 a350 condors
sydney
Thu Aug 09 2012
fmfuelinjection<at>optusnet.com.au
spares for condor a350- 4/'76
condor a350 4/'76 condor a350 4/'76
wanted...oil filter and a side stand
Toowoomba Qld Australia
Wed Jun 29 2011
murphyautomuseum<at>gmail.com
Condor A580
We have on display an A580 customized by Kenneth Howard this July 2011 at the Murphy Auto Museum in Oxnard, CA.
Condor-A580-CA
Fri Dec 24 2010
ron.mullin<at>hotmail.co.uk
Condor A350 Ducati 1976
Condor A350 1976
I would like to purchase a Condor Motorcycle or engine.
Cannock - UK
Fri Aug 06 2010
pmeehan2004<at>yahoodot com
condor 350
condor a350
the picture I attached is no the actual bike but the same make and model someone is selling the same bike dirty and rusty and has been sitting not used for 2 years what price should I offer it has all the original parts also is I were to
restore it how much would it be worth.
NY
Thu Feb 04 2010
dougdecco at live.co.uk
oil filter
condor a 350
HI THERE
I have a 1976 condor a350 and I am having trouble locating an oil filter
Can anyone help please
REGARDS
DOUG
uk
Mon Nov 23 2009
beavan99 at yahoodot com
For sale: Condor A350
Condor A350
Ex Swiss Army 1976. Good runner. The bike is in good original condison all papers needed.
Brussels,Belgium
Mon Aug 10 2009
l.comensoli at bluewin.ch
kolben
condor 323 sport
Ich finde ein kolben fur ein motor mag moto condor
ch,minusio
Italian
Tue Jul 07 2009
1975 condor A350 ohio SOLD
condor A350
if anyone is looking for a good running condor i have one for sale.
starts first try. has all tools and accessories manuals ect.
it's a '75 with 29k on it.
OH
Tue Apr 14 2009
tjacobs1967 at aoldot com
Condor INfo wanted and have
Condor A350
I have a bit of info for a parts source for condors. I have one but am looking for one of the low/no mile ones that showed up in the states. email me for info or one for sale tjacobs at aol.com
thanks,
Thad
Denver, Colorado
Wed Feb 25 2009
buchwalder-c at bluewin.ch
Condor A 580 side car
CONDOR A 580
Magnifique side car CONDOR A 580 attelé à un pannier IMPERIAL.
Ce véhicule a été restauré à 100% en 1989 et a effectué moins de 3000 km depuis
8500€
Suisse
Sat Nov 15 2008
leo at hilliard.ie
Condor A350 spares
Hi guy's, I've just bought a Condor A350 and was wondering where I might source spares in europe.
Thank's Leo
Ireland
Fri Oct 31 2008
eavilmo at msndot com
condor 350 swiss army courior model
i have 3 swiss army 350 models need manuals and tune up info in english all 3 are comeplete may need some replacement parts
texas
It is likely that the Ducati manuals will cover your machine. Try the page of resources for Books and Manuals
Sat Dec 01 2007
marzipan10b at xtra.co.nz
Bosch generator/A250 Condor
Condor A250 1965?
Bosch generator model 0112350007. Mine has died! HELP needed for replacement part or advice on repairs. Thanks
.....
Attached are pictures of my generator field and armature. Note: The field casing is one I had in stock and looks good, but still no charge but the original part has the number Bosch 0112350007 but has a burned out coil.Derek Upton
New Zealand
Tue Oct 02 2007
rudge-racing at tele2.ch
Condor
racers from the 30's
Hi , here are fotos of 2 Condor race bikes from the early 30's
both have MAG D50 engines, the one with the nickel plated frame is a works hillclimb racer with a short frame
regards Alex
Tue Jun 12 2007
triplederby100-propos at yahoodot com
Condor A350 parts
Can someone point me to source for the parts for Condor A350 motorcycle in USA? Thanks!
California, USA
Tue May 08 2007
ianorrell at hotmaildot com
Motorcycle
Condor 350
Just found this advert while looking for something else.
www.beboys.co.uk
There must be about 25 of them for £1400 each.
The Condors are on this page: http://www.milweb.net/go/select/may/sheet.htm (404)
Tue Feb 13 2007
larthur4 at yahoodot com
350 CONDOR
My dad sent me a, I believe, 35 condor and I have no idea of value or anything about bikes!!! Please help me identify this motorcycle! Thank you
LISA ARTHUR
USA
..........
thank you for responding, i will get pictures this weekend! can you tell me if this 350 condor needs a key or is it just a kickstart, sometimes i wish i was a guy!!! i dont see an ignition switch.
thank you kindly,
lisa arthur
There must be some type of on/off switch or kill switch, Lisa, possibly on the handlebars. Ed.
I think the ignition key is in the headlight. The black plastic doover - you'd think I'd remember as I rode one for a couple of years back in the 60s. It's battery coil ignition with a 6v system, most likely, so
check the battery has charge, put fresh fuel in it, prime the carbie and give the kick starter a few prods. If it still has compression, there's a good chance it will start. It may try to break your ankle first, tho. Ed.
Sat Oct 07 2006
Greaves9 at telus.net
Condor Motorcycle
In 1958 I was in a motorcycle shop in Vancouver British Columbia Canada where they had a 650 c.c. vertical twin Condor Motorcycle for sale looked like a contemporary british twin. What I remember most was the two speed auxilary operated by a
small lever on the gearbox giving eight speeds. any info would be appreciated Thanks
Canada
Thu Aug 03 2006
davidwdyson at hotmaildot com
Condor Motorcycles
Condor A580
Hi, I am looking for the front mudguard mounted lamp to complete an A580 Condor if anyone is able to help. Thanks, David
North of England
Fri Jul 14 2006
caveman-period at yahoodot com
Condor 250
Hello Everybody,
I am about to buy a Condor 250.
But before I will do that I need to ask a couple of questions about this bike to someone who owns a bike like this.
Could someone respond to me, please?
Canada
Sat Jul 01 2006
stevenmichaeli at yahoodot com
Oil Filters
1976 Condor A350
Here is a list of manufacturer's numbers for oil filters: Fiaam FT4664, Fram PH4512, Ruggerini 17511, Slanzi 407045, Clean DO315, AC Delco X91, Coopers LSF5123, Fispa FOE191, Savara 50524. Tecnocar also makes a filter but I have misplaced
the number. If you can find a source willing to ship some filters to the US, please let me know
Tampa
Mon Jun 26 2006
caveman-period at yahoodot com
Condor 250 and 580.
Hello,
Greetings from Canada.
I wouder if you could help me to come in contact with someone who owns a Condor 250 and 580? I would like to ask a few questions about these bikes.
Regards,
Ted Kucharski
Alberta, Canada (AB)
Wed May 24 2006
rwboyce at aoldot com
condor 350 parts
I need the right battery and oil filter
USA
Mon May 15 2006
a-l-pierce2000 at yahoo.co.uk
Condor A580
I wish to sell my A580 Condor and would appreciate any advice on value etc. The machine is in original running condition and only aprox 20,000kms from new
Bali
............
I will attempt to send a photo of my Condor, but forgot to write down the engine and chassis nos which I remember are in the 7000s - possibly a clue to year of manufacture. I say attempt as I live in Bali and frequently our internet
connection is not so good! Here goes and I will send the exact numbers for bike tomorrow.
Best regards,
Anthony.
Try this page for Classic Motorcycle Valuations. Ed Re my Condor A580, the engine number is 7339 and the frame number 94739. Is it possible to find the year of
manufacture? Thanks for your assistance.
Regards
Anthony
Mon May 08 2006
seceshgil at comcast.net
engine parts Ducati 350 1976 Condor
350 Condor
engine parts especially oil filter.
usa, georgia
Most engine parts are the same as Ducati 250/350/450 engines of c1966 to c1975 and are available from numerous vintage Ducati dealers. There are many listed in the Ducati dealers directories at Bikelinks.
Mon Dec 05 2005
jntoma2000 at yahoodot com
ducati condor
are any for sale???
Fri Nov 18 2005
speedrunner at peoplepcdot com
condor parts
Any one interested in condor c580 waiting on title. Needs carbuator and exhaust. Shows 115 km on odometor. Does anyone know if BMW parts will work and if so what model? Any help would be helpfull or I will part out bike.
Fri Dec 30 2005
Condor 580 for sale
Condor Project for sale Has clear title.Please contactin Denver USA
speedrunner at peoplepcdot com
February 2nd 2005
Condor Ducati on Ebay
Vendor's Description:
"In the early '70s, the Swiss Army tapped the venerable Italian motorcycle paragon, Ducati, to craft a military bike that could handle the rigors of the Alps. The solid frame and punchy 350 cc kick-start engine they engineered took on the
twisting mountain roads of Switzerland like a champ. When we discovered a few of these well-maintained, but virtually forgotten "Condor" bikes nested away in a Cold War-era warehouse, we nearly popped a wheelie. Designed for solo dispatches
and liaison duties, they feature dual saddlebags and even a rifle rack. Produced from 1973 to 1978, they're street-legal based on classic vehicle laws. (Even though we trust the Swiss maintenance guys, we hired a trusty American motorcycle
mechanic to change the oil and filter, conduct compression tests and other diagnostics, and to give each bike an overall tune-up.) 84"x48". 600 lbs. "
January 9th 2005
subject: condor motocycles
Email: a.h.m.ekstijn at hetnet.nl
message: check de 'benvanhelden'-site in holland.
very educative.
greetings from adri ekstijn, schaijk,holland.
April 29, 2002
See all about the Swiss made Condor, boxer twins and military motorcycles on the site of the CONDORCLUB HOLLAND, www.benvanhelden.nl -- Greetings, Ben van Helden
-- condorclub at hotmaildot com
November 26, 2001
Hi
I have a 350 Condor. I'm looking for an easy replacement oil filter for it. I also need to know the ingniton specs and how to check the timing. Any help would be greatly appreciated. -- Thanks -- Dan Greenwood
-- danielg94 at homedot com
October 22, 2001
Hi...I'm looking for tune-up specs for a Condor 350A ( I believe it's a 1973) and I need to know where I can find an oil filter or any other info... So far everything on the Web is written in German.... Any help would be greatly
appreciated. -- Thanks -- Dan -- WFODAN at aoldot com
September 11, 2001
Iwant to buy manual or boock about the motrcycle "CONDOR A 580",please answer me, my address:
Murilo R. P. Leonardi -- muriloleonardo at uol.com.br
Av. Mariano Mingotti 50
Araraquara SP. Vila Harmonia
CEP 14 802 630 BRASIL.
August 4, 2001
I have a Condor A 580 in perfect condiction all original and I want to by manual or catalog or boock about , please send me information if Yours interest I can sand photograf of them, my adress :
Murilo R. P. Leonardi -- muriloleonardo at uol.com.br
Av. Mariano Mingotti 50
Araraquara SP. BRASIL
CEP14 802 630 fon/fax 55 16 2351903
December 11, 1998
I've attached a picture of the Condor for you. It was made in 1942 for the Swiss Army. As far as I know there are only two in New Zealand. One is at a Transport Museum and I have the other. Any information you can find on this would be greatly appreciated. I'm not even sure of its value.
Once again thanks for you help.
-- Ross De Thier -- mail-to:rossdt at ihug.co.nz
If you have a query about Condor motorcycles please contact us
