Zündapp motorcycles and bicycles

Zündapp, originally standing for Zünder- und Apparatebau G.m.b.H., was a prestigious German manufacturer founded in 1917. While it became legendary for its durable motorcycles like the "Green Elephant" KS601 and heavy military sidecars, the original company declared bankruptcy in 1984.

Following the bankruptcy, the production equipment and intellectual property were sold to Xunda Motor Co. in China. However, in the late 2010s and leading into 2026, the brand has seen a significant revival in Europe. The brand name is now managed by the Zündapp Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH, which has brought the emblem back to German ownership. Today, Zündapp products are characterized by a global supply chain. Bicycles and e-bikes are primarily manufactured in Europe, while internal combustion engine motorcycles and scooters (ranging from 50cc to 125cc) are typically produced in China through partnerships with manufacturers like Karcher AG. Recent years have also seen high-performance concept revivals and electric mobility solutions targeting the modern urban market.