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Opel Rocket
1928
1928
The 1928 Opel Rocket holds a unique place in early motorcycle history, marking Opel's ambitious foray into two-wheeled speed. While Opel is primarily known for its automobiles, the Rocket represented a bold diversification, aiming to establish the brand's engineering prowess beyond four wheels. In its era, it faced competition from established motorcycle manufacturers like Brough Superior, with models such as the SS100, and Indian, with their contemporary Chief, all vying for supremacy in the burgeoning high-performance segment.
At the heart of the 1928 Opel Rocket was its potent 500.0 ccm (30.51 cubic inches) single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. This robust powerplant enabled the Rocket to achieve an impressive top speed of 200.0 km/h (124.3 mph), a truly remarkable figure for its time. Weighing in at 180.0 kg (396.8 pounds), the motorcycle’s power-to-weight ratio was certainly a contributing factor to its velocity. The single-cylinder configuration, while perhaps less refined than multi-cylinder units emerging later, offered a straightforward and powerful delivery, characteristic of early high-performance machines.
Riding characteristics of the Opel Rocket would have been dictated by the engineering philosophies of the late 1920s. Expect a relatively firm ride, with limited suspension travel compared to modern motorcycles. The ergonomics would likely have been focused on a somewhat aggressive, forward-leaning posture, intended to reduce wind resistance at its high speeds. Comfort, while not a primary design objective for a machine built for velocity, would have been functional, with a sprung saddle providing some isolation from road imperfections.
The Opel Rocket 1928 was undoubtedly aimed at a specific clientele: speed enthusiasts, early motor racing participants, and those who desired to own one of the fastest motorcycles of its day. It was a machine for the daring, the mechanically inclined, and those who valued raw performance over creature comforts. The Rocket stands as a fascinating, albeit brief, chapter in Opel's history, showcasing their engineering ambition and their attempt to leave an indelible mark on the world of high-speed motorcycling.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Robust 500cc single-cylinder engine provided reliable, if not thrilling, power for the era. • Shaft drive offered superior reliability and less maintenance compared to chain drives of the time. • Relatively large displacement for 1928 ensured good torque for hill climbing and sidecar pulling. • German engineering likely translated to good build quality and durability for long-term ownership. • Simple design made field repairs more feasible for owners with basic mechanical skills.⚠️ Things to consider
• Lack of rear suspension meant a harsh, uncomfortable ride on anything but perfectly smooth roads. • Drum brakes offered limited stopping power, especially in wet conditions, a safety concern. • Heavy construction made it cumbersome to maneuver at low speeds and difficult to pick up if dropped. • Limited top speed and acceleration by later standards made long-distance travel slow and tiring. • Basic lighting and instrumentation were inadequate for night riding or modern traffic conditions.Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.
Estimated average for 500cc class: 45-60 mpg (4.0-5.5 L/100km)
Insurance grouping for Opel Rocket (500cc):
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