Or, the ongoing struggle between "keep it simple and make it lighter" and "OH NO, TOO BRIGHT!"
If you're at all familiar with my preferences, you'll know that I have a special affection for numerous unusual and old-fashioned items. This includes, perhaps above all else, scooters and eccentric motorcycles. Consider, for example, the Suzuki SW1 . Or This charming, eccentric old KTM moped from the 1950s .
Actually, I'm genuinely surprised that I have never written about a Zundapp Bella before since I am certain that I must have come across one at least once at a vintage motorcycle exhibition over the past ten years. However, for some reason, this hasn’t happened yet. Though, perhaps I should mention that I did share The peculiar story of the Zundapp Citation 500 With your support returning in 2021, that surely counts for something. something .
In any case, something else you might or might not be aware of is that I have a particular fondness for naked motorcycles in today’s time. On the whole, these types generally top my list as preferred choices. We’ve likely had extensive discussions before regarding my affection for both the Street Triple and the Hawk GT 650; their shared characteristic being this style preference.
I similarly have a fondness for scooters. However, each time I remove the bodywork from mine, it becomes clear why naked scooters aren’t typically common. For some reason, they seem harder to present attractively.
It couldn't be more different from something contemporary, yet A scarce Zundapp scooter exclusive to the United States known as the Suburbanette It appears to be evidence that this idea isn’t entirely novel. Consider this example; it’s definitely an impressive spectacle. I assure you, I did not literally tear my eyes from their sockets when composing this piece.
Keep It Weird
- Cycleoddities: How the Yamaha Frog 750 Prototype Predicted the Future in 1985
- Cycleweird: Honda Juno M85, Or That Instance When Honda Created a Boxer Scooter
Now, I understand why someone might strip away the bodywork from the Zundapp Bella to create this Suburbanette version. Particularly considering that removing it apparently led to a significant reduction of 26 kilograms (more than 57 pounds), as the original bodywork on the Bella is made of steel. Additionally, it’s clear that upkeep and servicing would become considerably more straightforward without needing to detach the body panels initially.
However, it’s evident that Zundapp likely didn’t plan for all its internal engine components to be exposed like this, as from an aesthetic standpoint, it appears somewhat chaotic. It doesn’t seem deliberate; rather, it seems like what it truly is—a fully enclosed motorcycle with its outer casing taken off for reasons unknown.
Keep in mind, this is not intended as any commentary on its ride quality. Since I haven't had the chance to ride one, I cannot provide insights about that aspect. It strikes me as odd that, if the U.S. was set to receive a version of the Bella tailored specifically for our market, these would be the specifications chosen. Clearly, the 1950s were quite distinct from today, as this model certainly doesn’t embody either the spirit or style of being bella or bellissimo.
What do you make of this, am I being overly critical about the small scooter? Have you ever owned a Bella or a Suburbanette? Please share your thoughts in the comments section!
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