The 1938 DKWSB 500 offers a window into the world of pre-World War II motorcycling. Its 493.9cc engine, producing 15 horsepower at 4000 RPM, provided adequate power for the roads and riding conditions of the time. The engine’s characteristics likely emphasized low-end torque, making it suitable for comfortable cruising and hauling luggage. With a top speed of 115 km/h (71.5 mph), it was a capable machine for covering distance.
The bike's design includes a drum brake on the front wheel, which was the standard braking technology of the era. Weighing in at 165 kg (363.8 pounds), it offers a stable and planted feel on the road. The 13-liter (3.43 US gallons) fuel tank allowed for reasonable range, an important consideration for long journeys in a time when fuel stations were less common.
This motorcycle would appeal to collectors and enthusiasts of pre-war motorcycles who appreciate the historical significance and robust engineering of these machines. It represents a time when motorcycles were primarily functional tools, built for durability and reliability. The 1938 DKWSB 500 provides a tangible connection to a bygone era of motorcycling.
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