History of Victoria Motorcycles
Founded in 1886, Victoria built bicycles and began motorcycle manufacture
in Nürnberg in 1901.
During the very early part of the 20th century also even produced automobiles,
though without success. During WWI they produced mostly small bikes and
bicycles, but the business blossomed in the 1920s.
Read on...
Feb 08
subject: victoria bergmeister
Email: outback04<at>bwsys.net
message: I have been keeping an eye on a mid 50's, but have always
wondered if any parts are still available for them. It has been in storage
for a long time, so I don't know what it may need to run again. Thanks
for any info---Dennis in Illinois
Thu Jan 31 2008
carolyn<at>newportpaper.com
Victoria Avanti
Where can I get parts/engine parts for a Victoria Avanti
UK
Sat Oct 27 2007
BBLANCHONE<AT>MSN.COM
KR21
VICTORIA KR21
NEED INFO ON BIKE ,HAS 195 ON NECK TAG ALSO 27/7487.NEED TO KNOW YEAR
AND SIZE, ALSO NEED PARTS FOR THIS BIKE, ALSO VALUE?? THANKS ANY INFO WOULD
HELP BRUCE...I DEAL IN HARLEYS SEE AMERICANVINTAGECYCLE.COM
CONN.
Wed Oct 03 2007
Hawk1<at>simnet.is
Victory
Hallo Peter.
My friend is trying to restore two Victory moppeds. the other
one is like on the picture no: 2 on your website. Sending picture.
Victoria
Moped 2
The Victory is without motor. Like to ask what kind of Sachs
motor are in the Victory and what year is the Victory like on the photo...
The other one is I think older and with frame no: 1715706.
What year do you think the model year is..?
He has one motor with kick start but not from those moppeds. The
motor no: 644553547cc. Type Sachs 50/2 KS.
Best wishes and thanks.
Haukur R,
Iceland.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Sun Jul 15 2007
glenspindler<at>yahoo.co.uk
Victoria swing
I need a few spares so Im looking for an UK supply if possible
UK
Mon Jun 25 2007
sicko<at>verat.net
Oldtimer...
Victoria
Hello.My name is Milos and I am living in Serbia.When I saw your web
site I decided to write you this message.I am owner of one great machine
but I don't know which model of Victoria motorbikes it is.I saw all pictures
presented on your site but couldn't find any pictures of motorbike which
I have.This motorbike looks like Victoria Bergmeister 350cc(1955) but I
have found a few differences between them: my machine have one cylinder
and two exhausts and 250cc.Please if you have some information about this
machine contact me via e-mail adress: sicko AT verat.net or this tel.no:
+38164/94-15-736.Also,my machine is completed with all original parts and
if you wants to see pictures or you want to be an owner of this great motorbike
we can stay in contact.
Thank you.
Milos Jovanovich
Serbia
Sun May 27 2007
aaacarwholesales<at>aapt.net.au
victoria
sure its 1957 victoria vicky moped
were trying to find out value
Sat May 26 2007
tfaber<at>fabercycle.com
victoria collectables
I have some old dealer inventory, of misc brands, that included 170
pieces of victoria "pins" for your hat or vest. These are just under 3/4"
in diameter, and are blue and silver cloisonne. I would like to sell the
whole batch to a club, or group of Victoria enthusiasts. You can contact
me at tfaber at fabercycle.com
Michigan, USA
Thu May 17 2007
dwb1<at>mchsi.com
vicky moped 1960
trans three speed parts
looking for whole engine three speed for my vicky moped.
usa minnesota
Sun Apr 15 2007
bbrodnax<at>hotmail.com
Incorrect labeling
Victoria Bergmeister
The terms "Transverse" & "inline" relate to the engine *crankshaft*;
accordingly, the Victoria & Moto Guzzi v-twins are "inline" V-2 engines.
Lots of mistakes in nomenclature related to this, just thought you'd want
to correct your listing.
Thanks!
California
See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/V-twin
for more information. Ed.
Thu Apr 12 2007
nsufreaken<at>sol.dk
Victoria
KR 25 hm Aero
Hi Sheldon.
Do you by any chance know a dealer, where I can buy good quality spareparts
for my Victoria KR 25 HM Aero? And is there a place, where I can get the
correct colour -sceme. My machine is a dark red color. What is the name
and colour -code?
Yours sincerely
Mr. Thøger Jacobsen
Denmark
Try the Victoria directory at Bikelinks:
http://www.dropbears.com/bikelinks/Classic_Motorcycles/A_to_Z/V/Victoria/
Sat Jan 13 2007
oximoto
yahoo
Victoria 350 to sell
Victoria 350 KR
Hy,I have in mind to sell a Victoria 350, it's in a bad condition,
for parts.If somebody is interested then please contact me.Thank you.
Romania,Cluj
Wed Jan 10 2007
lehmanndouglashotmail
victoria motorcycle roadster
this is a car based on a 1cylinder motorcyle engine. was made by victoria,
trying to find out how many were made.
chicago, il
Wed Dec 27 2006
sprenger.rmonline.de
Victoria mtorcycles
If you need informations, parts or anything else for Victoria-motorcycles
and mopeds just look on our website, we have typespecialist for nearly
all models but not all of them speak english, just try it: www.victoria-bike-ig.com
and the special website for Bergmeister: www.v35-bergmeister.com
germany - Frankfurt
Thu Dec 14 2006
zickzack96gmx.de
Victoria parts and informations
Vicky III
Hi there,
an excelent and I think the most powerfull adress for all VICTORIA models
ist:
www.victoria-oldtimer.de
The contact is:
Mr. Thomas Kurz
kontakt at victoria-oldtimer.de
He speeks english (very good!) too.
Very helpfull man!
Have much fun!
Germany
Sun Dec 10 2006
oswald.palominobluewin.ch
victoria with Fafnir Engine
Hi,
Please i search Info, picture, spare Scheme on a German Motorcycle
Victoria with a Fafnir Engine 1904.
Do you can help me ?
I speak, German, French, Spanish, and a little English. Thanks in Advance
Geneva
Thu Dec 07 2006
johnshanslingshot.co.nz
Hello, 'sbeen a while
Victoria
Hi Sheldon
It is good to see that the Victora page is still going strong.
Just a quick hello remembering well the days back in 1998
Regards and have a great Christmas
John van Soest
Christchurch
New Zealand
Sat Nov 11 2006
vmmunroaol
Motorcycle manual wanted
Victoria Swing
I have a workshop manual in German but need one in English. Has
anyone got one ot loan or sell? Thank you.
U>K>
Sun Sep 17 2006
boh61yahoo.com
Burgmiester
I want to know the value of a burmiester in very poor shape
usa ohio
Sun Apr 30 2006
pedidoszamacuol.com.ar
fabian panetta
victoria 350cc,modelo kb 35 k
poseo la moto de referencia y querria intercambia datos
con aquellos que tengan motos de esta marca
buenos aires
Robotrans: possess the motorcycle of reference
and querria exchanges data with those that have motorcycles of this mark
Sun Apr 30 2006
rlivingstonintergate.com.ar
Looking for Info, manuals, etc
Victoria KR10 1938
I´m looking for any info about this bike. I´m in Argentina.
I´m in the process of restoring it. It is a 98cc with a Sachs engine
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Sun Mar 12 2006
hall55bigpond
V35 Victoria
I have 2 v35. What mechanical and electrical spares are still
available, yours Rob
australia
Tue Feb 14 2006
pedjad22yahoo
need information
Please I need information I have a motorcycle old vhith water cooling
head on the engine on one side is name Victoria and on another is Sachs.Help
me I dont know which motorcycle is my model.
Regards, Predrag
Belgrade
Thu Feb 09 2006
fxdx99bhotmail
victoria 1953
Hallo, im from Stockholm and have a Victoria mc 1953 from my father.
i send a picture and im about to sell it i think. What is the right type
of my bike? thanks for answer Conny Andersson
Stockholm
Bike appears to be a KR25 Aero - check http://www.klausvoigt.de/
Wed Nov 16 2005
kontaktvictoria-oldtimer.de
Victoria-Oldtimer
Hi there,
I found your website while searching for informations.
We have a very lot of parts, literature informations and service for:
VICTORIA (all bikes!)
DKW (Mopeds only)
EXPRESS (Mopeds only)
ZWEIRAD UNION
If you please would be kind and set our website link www.victoria-oldtimer.de
to the right places that would be great!
Or please telle me how i can do it by my self.
Many thanks and best regards.
Greating from germany :-)
Thomas Kurz
Fri Jun 10 2005
keatsc2001yahoo
victoria fm 38
could some one please post the exploded diagrams for one of these fine
little engines ? thanks
December 15, 2001
Hallo people.
I'd like to tell a lot about the engines of the brand VICTORIA. I own
one since 1968. Type KR 26 SPORT. If you will ask something: please
contact on info at wodi.nl
October 18, 2001
HI, could you tell me if you know anyone that has a 1954 or 1955 v
twin 35 Victoria Burgmeister (the one with a chrome tank) and a tool box
on the side of it, I have been looking around for awhile . thank you
-- Doug -- Damman3 at msn
September 17, 2001
RE: 1955 Victoria Nicky R50
I don't know much about this moped I'm considering buying, but would
appreciate any info. you might have.Value?
-Gabe -- KristieUMich at aol
August 27, 2001
Hello,
I found your address in internet. I have a little motorcycle Victoria
Werte,IZ-49 and motorcycle IZ-56 with sidecar. Victoria is made in1939.
IZ-49 is made in 1954. IZ-56 is made about 1958. Victoria is
all original it has not motor. It has original paint.
I have some parts: cylinder, cramp and carburettor. IZ-49 is all
original. It can drive very well. It looks like DKW-NC 350.But
IZ-49 has shock-absorber in the end.And IZ-56 is all original and it can
drive. IZ-49 and 56 are 346cm3. My friend has motorcycle Panonia
It is made in1963. It is run 10000km in his life. I want
to ask you how money can I get for my motorcycles. And my friend
want sell her motorcycle. I want to sell them. Write me what
motorcycles do you have. GOOD BYE !!! -- Agnë
-- agne16 at takas.lt
August 23, 2001
Thanks for publishing the texture I send to you so long ago.
Meanwhile we have a special web-site for Victoria V 35-Bergmeister.
Would you please also add this link for all interested people:
www.v35-bergmeister.com
It contains the complete sparepart-list and gave instructions about
the parts which are available in our stock.
Thank you very much!
--
Manfred E. Sprenger -- rspreng1 at rz-online.de
Bahnhofstr.. 2
D-56357 Miehlen
Tel. +49-(0)6772-5433 abends
Fax +49-(0)6772-960861
Tel. tagsüber Mo-Fr +49-(0)6131-134012
Victoria
Owners do visit this site: http://www.victoria-bike-ig.com/
August 22, 2001
Hi
I don't know much about Victoria motorcycles except that I just bought
one. It was the first time I ever saw one, and immediately fell in love
with it. After some negotiation I paid for it and took it home. It needs
some work but is basically in good condition and running. I would like
to know if there are any parts lists or workshop manuals available in English.
Also, can anyone tell me, or provide any information about colours. The
only information about the bike, I can give at present is that it is a
1956 model Bergmeister V-twin 350cc, it looks like original black paintwork,
and I think the exhausts are not original. I am living in Indonesia at
the moment.
Best Regards
Steven Schmidt
47 Hutan Kayu
Jakarta Timur
Indonesia
ali at jkt.bozz
August 12, 2001
Victoria is part of the Zweirad Union. I have a Victoria Z from
1963. Other things I don't know about the brand. Have you got
information about that mopped? -- Rick Maes -- rick
at maffiozo.tmfweb.nl
June 19, 2001
I am loking for the technical manual of Bergmeister Victoria.
My andress is:
Valerio Galli
Via Roma , 38
06050 Collazzone Perugia
Italy
Valerio Galli -- valeriogalli.valeriogall at tin.it
May 15, 2001
Dear Sir:
I Have Victoria KR 25 HM, and KR 35,the second I finish the restoration,
but the first I starting my work, but I need some information about the
Parts, I need parts manual, service manual, and colour tips, if you
can help me I appreciate, please send your information to this address
with copy to this other. --Sebastian Maffei --
smaffei at
telesurf.com.py
Thanks very much for your help.
May 3, 2001
What value might a 1935 Victoria 98ccm Sachs powered be worth?
-- andy stark -- starkandras at yahoo
March 7, 2001
Please add the following texture and pictures on the Victoria-information-page:
V 35 BERGMEISTER-NEWS to keep this wonderful bike running............
The following parts (from old Victoria dealer stock and reproduction)
and much more you can get from the V35-specialist of the Victoria-IG Manfred
E. Sprenger, Tel. +49 -6772-5433 or +49-6131-134012, Fax +49-6772-960861,
email: rspreng1 at rz-online.de
Bergmeister-booklet (21 x 30 cm) over 60 pages with a lot of V35-stories
and hints from 20 years of V35-Bergmeister-experience, road tests from
the 50th, technical dates, all technical newsletters to the dealers
Literature: Manual for painting, owners manual, spare part list, instruction
sheet (...sorry all in German) Seal ring sets, gasket sets and one by one
gaskets, lots of engine parts as valves, valve springs (little stronger,
the originals are too weak), valve guides, valve seats for unleaded gas,
(we do all jobs on cylinder heads and crankshaft) pistons, rocker-arm-pins,
ball-bearing-sets, bigger oil sump for 1 liter more engine oil incl. 2
gaskets and longer screws (give the engine all cooling you can give and
it will be the insurance for a long life), timing chain, timing chain tensioner
(last version), alternator-cover..........
Lots of gearbox parts., kick starter complete, kick starter shaft, shift-lever-shaft,
ball-bearing-sets, shift-lever- and kick starter-spring, parts for the
uni-joint, drive shaft, ring gear (we do all adjustments on uni-joint-gear,
just send it in)............
Electric parts, wiring sets, breaker points, coils, electronic-ignition-set
(decide between 4 different ignition-waves, you need no more contact breakers
and the mechanic ignition-point adjuster on the alternator), genuine engine-light,
rear lights and glasses................
Special rubber parts from knee-pads to main-stand-rubber..............
Handlebars, emblems for petrol-tank, original (...in and outside...) exhaust
pipes and mufflers, stainless-steal-spokes, complete seats, back-wheel-shock-absorber,
main-stand-spring, locks for frame and toolboxes, brake-shoe.............
And much more...please ask what you are looking for!
|
V35 prospekt:
Advertising from 1954. This is one of the finest examples of graphic
design from the 50th. |
V 351:
This is my Bergmeister cafe-racer. It is on the road since 10 years
and still runs perfect. Some details: 2-carburator system, Paioli-fork,
and 4-leading front-brake, Rickman tank, the other special parts are handmade,
27 horsepower, nearly 30 kg lighter than the original bike and runs fast
enough to demonstrate what a Bergmeister is able for........(more in Febr.
2001 issue of THE CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE) |
V352:
This is a inside engine photo from my last V35-project |
V353:
On the road again. A one time perfect reconditioned Bergmeister is
good for a lot of funny and reliable trips |
|
rspreng1 -- rspreng1 at rz-online.de
March 6, 2001
Hi!
Just received a message from a Club-colleague from NZ with a notice
to place a link to our Homepage: http://www.victoria-bike-ig.com
What do we have to do that it works?
As you see on the homepage, we are a Interest group (other word for
club) for Victoria-bikes, with members all over the world and we would
like to contact more people who are interested on these bikes.
Regards
Vice president and editor of the Victoria-magazine
Manfred E. Sprenger
Bahnhofstr.. 2
D-56357 Miehlen
Tel. 06772-5433 abends
Fax 06772-960861
Tel. tagsüber Mo-Fr 06131-134012
February 26, 2001
Hi, 'sme again
Please find attached some more photos for the V page. The one of the
factory is just awesome. I wonder if anyone in cyberspace can tell us about
any of the photos?
Just imagine . . . If you know what day the photo inside the factory
was taken . . . could one find out the production numbers for that day
and could it be that one of our bikes is in the picture???? Just dreaming?
Perhaps not, perhaps it only happens in "Tinsel-town" on the big white
screen.
Regards and Thanks
John van Soest
Christchurch
New Zealand
February 24, 2001
For Sale -
Victoria Bergmeister. 1956. 21,000 miles. Stainless steel
exhaust. Near original condition. Goes well, presently registered
and warranted fit for New Zealand roads. NZ $6500 delivered anywhere
in Christchurch New Zealand. Outside New Zealand US $3000
delivered
to your shipping agent in
Christchurch New Zealand. All charges and/or taxes relating
to purchases outside New Zealand are to be added to the purchase price.
Sold only "As is, where is" with no warranties. Mileage believed
to be genuine but not verified or guaranteed) For further information
E-mail: 2john at netaccess.co.nz
February 22, 2001 -
Hello John,
Sorry about the long time since my last email. I've to explain:
I always need the help of my nephew to write the emails, because I'm not
able to read or write in English. I also don't have a pc. The
last few weeks he didn't had much time for me.
But to your questions: First, I think its ok, to publish the pics
I've sent to you. Also the 2, which I added to this mail. One pic
shows the Victoria-Team in ca. 1956 -56? I don't know exactly.
I never never had been an mechanic at Victoria, but at "Hercules" in
Nürnberg. The Hercules-Factory was the former Victoria factory.
The Victoria- moped 50ccm, viertakt, which I have, is only a single-type.
It never has been build in series!
For all your technical questions, I'd like to refer to Manfred Sprenger
from > the German victoria-ig. He is the "specialist".
But the best at the end: I'll send you an parcel with more photos
and technical infos about Victoria, especially the Bergmeister
Hope you enjoy it!
regards
Franz Hartmann
Germany
From Sheldon: We all will patiently wait for John to send us
more information provided by Franz.
I'm from Lima Peru south America, a guy here is offering to me a 1954
v twin Victoria Bergmeister in good shape in USD 4000.00
I would like to know if it its a good and fair price for this bike.
I took a ride on the bike and it feels wonderful. I would like to know
also the aproximate price in us dollars for the Bergmeister in your country.
Waiting for your kind and prompt answer.
ALVARO MILON -- ecofar at ec-red
February 20, 2001
If I would have known the dignity of your interest in my Vicky mopeds,
( editorial space on your site and all) I should have put together some
better quality Photos together with more serious information. If
you wish, I can scan all Victoria 50cc, some in show condition, made 1949
- 1968 and mail them to you with all data. There are also some interesting
books containing Victoria Motorcycles and mopeds. But I know of only
3 clubs. Victoria Motorcycles are very rare and hard to find, 50 cc mopeds
in particular.
Best regards -- Peter Wahlquist --
peter.wahlquist
at telia
From Sheldon: Please send anything you can. I would love
to post any information you, or anyone else, has. I'd love to expand
this page.
February 17, 2001
These photos where taken recently in Germany. I am expecting
a shipment of 8 1950´s Vicky mopeds next week. These are 4
of them. The red and blue similar model is "Victoria Avanti." The powder
blue Is a "Victoria Superluxus" The silver grey model is "Victoria 115"1961.
I have all (almost) models of Victoria mopeds. I started collecting
1982. I live in Stockholm Sweden where we have a "Club Victoria".
If you wish to know more and see more spacy vickys, let me know.
Best regards
Peter Wahlquist -- peter.wahlquist at telia
Tysta Gatan 8
115 20 Stockholm
Sweden
Tfn : 46. 8. 545 434 48
Fax . " " " " 49
Cell : 46. 70. 695 34 30
January 26, 2001
Hi,
I own a Sparta, from the early to mid 50's. I know little about my
bike or the marque in general. My bike needs a total rebuild. It has a
plunger rear end and telescopic forks. It is powered by a Victoria
250cc single cylinder 2 stroke motor with twin exhaust ports. I would greatly
appreciate any information and particularly any pictures of this model.
Thank you, Rob Potter -- fas at xtra.co.nz
December 10, 2000
This is Ralph Walker in Virginia, and I run the Marusho/Lilac Motorcycle
Register at http://www.geocities.com/marusholilac/index.htm [404]
. I've always had an interest in the Bergmeister, since it was the
inspiration for Lilac's 125cc-300cc V-twins of 1959-1964. I
own a Bergmeister also (serial 35-2740 from 1955, purchased '83).
On my web site at http://www.geocities.com/marusholilac/ml2.htm [404]
I have included an image of the beautiful brochure shown below with Andrew's
message, and mine is a little larger and clearer, being 770x600 pixels
rather than 664x504. The color is a bit punchier too. Go to this page and
read down until you come to the thumbnail.
I am way too busy with Lilac stuff to get into Victorias seriously,
but I'll share one piece of trivia. In 1978 I corresponded with John Myrick
of Glendale, CA, who owned the V-B that was used in that ultra-low budget
TV series 'Rat Patrol'. John said they had just sparayed the entire bike,
chrome and all, with a can of black spray paint. I did not get his serial
numbers. -- Ralph Walker -- marusho at erols
.
From Sheldon: It has been said that the Lilac and Burgmeisters
were the inspiration for the very famous Moto Guzzi big block V-Twins.
August 28, 2000
From Sheldon: I recently purchased a copy of an
original Burgemeister parts list. Here are a couple of photos from
it. Some day when I get some time I will try to scan it and make
it available on-line.
June 12, 2000
I have an original Ersatzteiele - Liste (Parts List owners book, I
think) showing the Victoria Bergmeister V35. I has neat parts schematics
for all areas of this motorcycle. I found it a swap meet and bought
it wondering about the history of the motorcycle. That's all I have
and if someone can use it, have them write me and I'll make him a deal
of lifetime.
Erv Moller -- HDERV1 at aol
June 12, 2000
From Sheldon: Just received the following from a friend on the
North American Russian Motorcycle Association list:
FWIW, Jim Petitti, Raceway Services, Salem OR (503)588-7227) is preparing
to sell a 50's era German Victoria, transverse V-twin, shaft drive, etc.,
and I believe he wants around $3500 for it.
Hal
NARMA #36
I immediately got on the phone with Jim and chatted with him about it.
The bike runs and drives but needs cosmetic type work. Everything
appears to be there and he is asking $3,400 U.S.d for it. It has
the chrome gas tank and red seat, and when I described the bike in the
photo half way down this page he said that sounded like the same bike.
I hope someone here will find this of value. Let me know if you learn
more, or if one of you buys it.
May 6, 2000
I have been watching and reading your site and find it very interesting.
I thought that I would add a bit to the Victoria page. I live in Bermuda
and currently own a Victoria M38 Vicky. Which as you will see in the photos,
is a motor mounted on a bicycle. The bike does about 30Mph but is just
fun to ride. As someone stated in an earlier message Victoria did make
bikes other then the Bergmeister. I have attached a couple of photos which
were sent to me by the previous owner. If any of your readers need tuning
information for this particular model, I do have a word document on this.
-- Zach Sagurs -- zjsagurs at ibl.bm
From Sheldon: It is obvious that the previous owner wasn't located
in Bermuda. What we really need is a photo of this bike on the beach...
<grin>
Found on the Moto Guzzi list, kind of funny:
November 12, 1999,
Germany may have the record of building one of the 'biggest, badassed
& ugliest motorcycles ever they also built one cleanest and may I say
'prettiest machine you could lay eyes on. No its not a beemer.
If you look your Guzzi and squint your eyes it will give you a hint of
what it looked like. But they were built in the early 50s.
It was a V-twin, shaft drive, no sharp edges on this one, all the aluminum
was polished like chrome, including the entire engine which laid Guzzi
style in the frame.
53/54?
Victoria Bergermiester
350 V-twin
Who knows, maybe someone from the boot seen one?
Ron Bishop
July 7, 1999
It is just over a year since I first started looking for "Victoria"
on the net. It took quite some searching to find anything back
then. What started as a "For interest sake only" soon became a passion.
At least now, when you type in Victoria Bergmeister, your search program
will/should come up with some relevant sites. Many thanks to Sheldon
T. Aubut (biker at cwizard.com) to start and maintain a Web page . Have
you checked out the new German Victoria Club page? You will find
at: < http://www.victoria-bike-ig.com
> I am so surprised to see so many "Aeros" still in existence. There
is the odd scooter, moped and real old timers as well. WHAT IS OUT
THERE? Let all of us know!
Ther is more to Victoria than Bergmeisters, I know. Since last
July I have located quite a few Victoria owners, sent plenty of E-mails,
wrote some letters and hopefully put some of you in the right direction
for parts. Myself I still do not own a Victoria although I am negotiating
at present to buy a Bergmeister. I like to think I made some friends
around the world. Look at the addresses listed below and send one
or two of them E-mail yourself. You never know what might come of
it. Finland. Germany, USU, Canada go for it! Don't forget some of
our friend are not born with the English tongue, I for one appreciate them
writing in English.
Let's get Victoria Motorcycles in a few more books as well. Not
many general motorcycles books that I come across feature our bikes. Vincent,
Villiers, Velocette and Vespa yes but Victoria hardly ever get a mention.
Her are some interesting sites:
1950 Victoria KR25
Aero
http:www.victoria-bike-ig.com
Manfred Sprenger holds, I believe, a register of Victoria motorcycles
from around the world. I am sure he would like to add yours to the
list
http://www.klausvoigt.de
<
rspreng1 at rz-online.de > (Sorry mate if I am wrong!)
Are you interested in World Wide Victoria Association?
Have another Victorious day!
From the deep South, Regards -- John van Soest, Christchurch
New Zealand -- 2john at netaccess.co.nz
Victoria enthusiasts:
Claus Skovbo -- clausskovbo at get2net.dk
DAVID J MOSS -- RXWJ77B at prodigy
David Sousa -- Sousa at SJ.Bigger.net.
Frank ? -- DRACO1ST at aol
Hartmut Schouwer -- http://www.schouwer-online.de/technik/oldtimer.htm
HdErv1 at aol
-- HdErv1 at aol
John Myers -- jmyers2 at earthlink.net
John Sequin -- jcsequin at csolve.net
Manfred Sprenger -- rspreng1 at rz-online.de
Markus Ruebe -- mail at markus-ruebe.de
Mary Yaple -- myaple at clarityconnect
Paul Gubbels -- gubbelsp at brunssum.net
Richard Gordine -- rgordine at p085.aone.net.au
Serge Toutant -- s.toutant at ville.laval.qc.ca
Sheldon T. Aubut -- biker at cwizard
March 12, 2000
Hi Sheldon
Sunday night, a spare 5 minutes and a quick E-mail. In response to
your last E-mail, the New Zealand Victoria family is growing a bit bigger.
There is a "Victoria Swing" on it's way. Details as below. When I
get the chance I will confirm how many Victorias there are in NZ that I
know of to date.
We had a rare summer's day today, so far our summer has been lousy to
say the least but today the temp went up over 30 degrees. Shan and
me went for a 120 mile ride on the Honda Revere seeing the weather was
so nice but Shan's "derriere" became rather sore even though the pillion
seat is big and soft (Like me). It was the longest trip she has been
on so far and hopefully she'll get used to it. Because of that I
went to have a look at a Honda Goldwing . . . . . Nah! Too dear, Too big,
Too powerful, Too high, Too long, To old, wrong colour, left hand drive,
sounds awful . . . What else? . . . Just the bike I want!! Aaaand
the back seat is fit for a queen. (mine). Never mind, I will wait
till the mortgage is paid off.
'Till we cyber mail again
Greetings and kind regards
John van Soest
Down under in "God's own"
Below to edit (if required) for the Victoria page.
--- John wrote:
30-1-00
Wow what a bike! What year? What model? It looks very original.
---------------
Thanks John, I hope you have an enjoyable Monday evening. The
bike is a Swing from 1955. It is 197cc. Actually I came to obtain
it via a friend who saw my Bergmeister when it was still in Vietnam.
He has restored a TWN and two Harleys whilst he has been there. He
thought the Bergmeister was great and looked for one for himself.
What he found was this Swing which was in bits at the time. Subsequently
he has decided that he wants a new trial bike when he gets home and that
five bikes was too much, hence he offered me the Swing. I understand
they were quite innovative in their day but it didn't sell well because
it was expensive. My friend actually rode my Bergmeister in Saigon
and reckons the Swing is just as quick, maybe quicker. Gear change is on
the handlebars which he reckons takes a bit of getting used to. It
still has a clutch so its not like a Vespa ! Its also two stroke
and therefore a bit noisier than the Bergmeister. I'm not sure whether
you've found this attachment on the internet before. Its apparently from
the original brochure. I use it as a screensaver.
Regards,
Andrew
March 10, 2000
Do you have an idea what a 1955 v-twin in original condition but not
running is worth. The bike is all original and 100% there.
Jay Merritt -- merritt at intelos.net
March 4, 1999
Hi John
Finally found time to reply! What an interesting story. That would
look good on the W'page. I will ask Sheldon to paste it. Please tell
Sheldon about your HOEREX and I am sure he will find a place for on an
appropriate page of his W'site. Do what I did and in a few months you might
have more information than you can handle.
Good luck!!!
250 two stroke, same as my first bike. I know, there are better bikes
but . . . Great to hear from you! By the way, where do you live??
Regards
John van Soest
Christchurch New Zealand
----------
From: John Seguin <jcseguin at csolve.net>
To: 2john at netaccess.co.nz
Found your web site very interesting.
My first bike was a Victoria I purchased in 1962 while stationed in
Germany with the RCAF. Had not been used for many years.
It was a 250cc painted an ugly green color and had a sidecar which
was a pain to use, as it kept pulling the bike in that direction.
It had no windshield and the battery and rear view mirror had to be replaced.
Unfortunately, I never took a picture of it. No idea what year it was.
I got fed up with the trouble of mixing the oil and gas, and soon bought
a 1952 Hoerex 350cc. It was a much better bike, and went like the wind.
Have had no success finding info on it.
Bye for now. -- John Seguin -- jcseguin
at bigfoot
February 28, 1999
I have a 55" Bergmeister v35 in basketcase state. I have recently
stripped it to the frame for the beginning of a restoration project.
My BM had been outside since 1967. I need a TON of parts if anyone
has anything please let me know. -- Dave Moss in Northeast
Pennslyvania -- RXWJ77B at prodigy
February 27, 1999
I will write too you in english, when my german is best when I am talking
it.I have been looking on the internet, and there I met John from New Zealand.
He told me about the Germen Victoria-club, and I will be very pleased,
if you will tell me about the club. Years ago, I planned to
make a club here in Denmark, but some people told me not to do it, when
only a few people would be interested. I am riding on a KR26N
from 1955 with sidecar (sidecar not for people).Hope too hear from you.
-- Claus Skovbo, Denmark. --
clausskovbo at get2net.dk
John,
I have a 1954 Victoria Bergmeister and would like to get her
running again. Do you have access to parts or dealers? I would
appreciate any info back... Thanks... Frank in Michigan USA.
-- draco1st at aol
February 12, 1999
John,
Just finishes installing my internet-connection-kit and the first thing
I did is send you a message. Thank you for the letter dated of november
(sorry). Your home-page about victoria is looking very nice.
We`re planning a homepage from the victoria-club. I will give
you infos as soon as possible. My e-mail adress is: rspreng1 at
rz-online.de Would you please give me the adress from the
victoria owners from New Zealand for our statistics. We got about
260 adresses from Bergmeister owners from all over the world. Also
we got a large stock from Bergmeister and Aero spare parts: gasket
sets, wirings, pistons, rubber parts etc. etc. I`m shure the victoria-owners
will be lucky to hear that. -- Manfred Sprenger, Miehlen, Germany
-- rspreng1 at rz-online.de
November 25, 1998
If you are looking for information about Victoria Bergmeisters, I know
of man that you should get in touch with. He found me when
I was looking for information about her. He told me of the Victoria
Rally in Dauborn, then sent me alot of pictures, unbelievable pictures.
Juha told me about the ride through parts of europe, something that I could
only dream of from New York State. Juha is in Finland, his e-mail
is [deleted] tell him that Mary said hello. I am attaching
a picture of our Vicki. She is a 1955, has a 345cc3, 21 hp engine.
Resides in Smithboro, NY, USA with Ken Rogers. -- Mary Yaple
myaple
at clarityconnect
Regarding: "Victoria" motorcycles
I used to have two. First one a 250cc single banger two stroke with
twin exhaust. 1954?? Heavy in weight, rather slow 55/60 mph, always managed
to break a ring at the wrong time. Great machine I wish I still owned it.
Last seen Christchurch, New Zealand late 1960. The best of the two was
a 350 V twin 4 stroke. Wow what a bike. Had it repaired but the bumms did
not know what they were doing, nor did I and ruined it. Still went but
never got the timing right. Back in those days german bikes just did not
exist in the minds of Kiwis. Being a young lad, I foolishly sold it. (Also
last seen in the late sixties) I just like to know if there is still a
Bergmeiter out there. The only reminder, apart from some poor photos, is
a brand new tank badge somewhere in a box in the garage. Love to hear from
anyone regarding these bikes.
Regards
John van Soest
shan at netaccess.co.nz
More from John:
This picture was taken in 1967. The bike in the front is the VICTORIA
250cc Single cylinder two-stroke. The year of first registration would
be about 1953 / 54. This bike was stripped down for a paint job when purchased
in 1965. Amongst all the black (and an occasional maroon) bikes of that
era this one stuck out like a sore toe. It would have been the only White
bike in New Zealand. (The actual colour was a very, very pale grey.) It
is unsure if this was a 247cc or the 248cc KR Aero model. Unusual
was the single cylinder with a twin exhaust. Clutch plates were layered
with cork.
In the rear is the VICTORIA BERGMEISTER 350cc V-twin four-stroke. The
first year of registration in New Zealand must have been 1955. This bike
was purchased in 1966 but unfortunately, due to the lack of knowledge regarding
European bikes, was sold soon after an attempt to repair the engine. Looking
back the problem could have been fixed with a little bit of patience. This
bike is believed to be sold to a collector. Who knows it might still be
'Alive'. As can be seen from the picture, the clean lines of the engine
are a joy to the eyes. A very 'Clean' looking machine, even the carburettor
is enclosed. Back in those days, the question of "Where is the chain?"
was often asked. Yes folks this is one of the rare ones with a drive shaft.
Enjoy the picture.
John van Soest. Christchurch. New Zealand
Nov-3-98
Hi Sheldon
What a weekend! Found 2 more! Victorias of course. Had a ride on one
of them! (Bergmeister) Maaaaaagic!
Would you mind putting the information mentioned below on your Victoria
page. I am inquiring to set up a dedicated Web page.
Thanks and Regards
John van soest Christchurch New Zealand
(Is this really the start of a International Victoria Owners Association...?)
What is the score to date?
'M----# Los Angelos 2 Bergmeisters. State unknown #
'Sousa' San Jose 1 scooter Being restored
'H--#' New Zealand 1 Bergmeister. Stored, not going#
'Rees' New Zealand 1 Bergmeister. Going, immaculate, 19500 Miles
'Rees' New Zealand 1 Aero 250 Not going, parts missing, restorable.
'Norris' New Zealand 1 Aero 250. Partly restored.
'?' England Victoria car was for sale. (Never did get a reply)
'?' Germany How many Hartmut?
I have been told that: There are 2 Bergmeisters in Australia.
In England all remaining bikes are in museums. (Please prove me wrong!)
Any more?? Let me know!
Please E-mail me on: 2john at netaccess.co.nz
# = Name omitted until permission given. (Other names, on internet
or permission granted)
Note from Sheldon: This probably
is the start of an International Victoria Owners Association. We
will have to see how many people are interested. It there are enough
I will set it up somewhat like the North American Russian Motorcycle Association
web site at http://www.cwizard.com/narma [404]. Check that
one out and if you are interested in having a similar, though world-wide,
organization for Victoria owners please let me know at: biker at cwizard
John,
I'm in and you can use my name . One of my Burgmiesters was on the
TV series Rat Patrol. This bike also has a tear drop tank vs. the squaresh
tank. -- John Myers
jmyers2 at earthlink.net
Hi John
It's good to 'hear' from you again. I like that "I'm in" bit
and thanks for being able to post your name. When you get a chance, let
us know what state your bikes are in and a photo if possible.
Rat patrol, I am probably wrong, but that reminds me of a series based
in North Africa, WW 2, from wayyyyyy back?? Please kill my curiosity.
-- John van Soest Christchurch New Zealand. shan at netaccess.co.nz
December 6, 1998
Hartmut and Sheldon,
Some months ago I let you know that my old bike was still "Alive".
After 33 years I was reunited with my old Bergmeister on 3-12-96.
It took about 1500 Km (930 Miles) and I had only two days to do it in.
It was worth the long trip. The bike needs some repair but basically it
is OK. Definitely not for sale. How can you tell a non believer that metal,
in a certain shape, can have a tremendous effect on you. Seeing that bike
after all those years did touch a nerve. The owner, Norman Hayes, also
has 3 BMWs including a 1967 R60. Three Indians, (Including the Monroe Special,
see attached files). Villiers, Cyclemaster, Honda, Crouch Special (Homemade
with Austin 7 motor) plus another 20 or so of all ages and makes.
I am setting up a proper database of Victoria owners known to me. I
have also written to Manfred Sprenger (German Victoria Club) I will keep
in touch.
Regards
John van Soest -- shan at netaccess.co.nz
Christchurch New Zealand
If you have a query about Victoria motorcycles, or wish to share your
knowledge of these classic machines, please contact
us!
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