Estimated Price: £15,000 - £20,000

• Often regarded as one of the finest heavyweight motorcycles to emerge from post-war Germany, the Zündapp KS601 earned the nickname “Grüner Elefant” (Green Elephant) thanks to its size, strength, and remarkable durability. Designed for long-distance touring and sidecar work, it combined robust engineering with impressive performance, making it a favourite with both civilian riders and competition entrants.
• Manufactured by Zündapp, the KS601 was powered by a horizontally opposed twin-cylinder engine renowned for its torque and reliability, ideally suited to hauling a sidecar. This example is paired with the rare and highly desirable Swallow Jet 80 sidecar, a streamlined and period-correct companion that significantly enhances both the visual impact and historical interest of the outfit.
• The motorcycle was purchased by Robin Haigh in April 2003 from Georg Meinen in Germany, having previously been fully restored there by its former owner. The Swallow Jet 80 sidecar was restored at the same time, resulting in a well-presented combination. Since acquisition, the outfit has formed part of Haigh’s impressive private collection and has seen little use in recent years.
• Mechanically, the engine turns freely and kicks over with good compression. As with any machine that has been laid up, a thorough check-over will be required before a return to active road use.
• The accompanying history file includes purchase correspondence, a V5C, and a selection of expired MOT certificates.
• A rare opportunity to acquire a restored Zündapp KS601 complete with an equally rare Swallow Jet 80 sidecar — an evocative and imposing outfit that represents the very best of German post-war motorcycle engineering.