1961 AWO Simson 425 S East German Shaft Drive Like BMW R26

This is a 1961 AWO Simson 425 Sport that I have had for several years. It was built in Communist East Germany and 1961 was the last year of production for the "big" 250. The government decided that 250 cc 4 stroke engines were too extravagant for the people and ruled all production after 1961 must be two stroke and 175 cc or less. There are very few of these bikes in the USA but millions were produced and parts are easily available through German Ebay or dealers in Germany. There is even a great Simson Facebook Group for help and advice. This bike is 250cc with a four speed transmission and shaft drive. It has matching numbers on engin, rame and title. It does start { with practice and the right mystical incantations} easily and runs but needs fine tuning to be ready to ride. I last rode it about three years ago. Most of the 425S models came from the factory with a Stoye sidecar and had plenty of power to pull it. It was sold to me as having been "restored" in Belgium but I believe it was more of cosmetic restoration than a true restoration. It does have paint chips and one of the headlight ears is badly cracked and will need repaired or replaced. The tires have great tread but I would replace them before getting on a highway due to age cracks. On the last ride, t ran great, hifted properly and stopped just like a 54 year old bike should. It is 54 years old and as such, as no warranty. This bike is not a project but will need some work to make it roadworthy. I would suggest replacing the carb with a mikuni and installing an electronic ignition for better reliability. I do have an original manual in German. I will give you info on an online manual that you can copy/ paste onto google translator to change from German to English. It is sold as is/ where is. I do have a clear Virginia Title in my name. It is located about 20 miles west of Martinsville Virginia and any serious bidders are welcome and encouraged to come by and check it out in person. Anyone wanting to talk in person can send me an email with your phone number and a good time to call and I will get back to you. There will be a $500 deposit due within 24 hours of end of auction with balance due within 7 days by cash, ank check or wire transfer. Buyer is responsible for all shipping arrangements and cost. I will help load on my end.

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