The Riedel Imme R100 was a lightweight motorcycle manufactured in West Germany from 1948 to 1951 by Riedel AG and designed by engineer Norbert Riedel. The Imme R100 is known for its innovative and minimalist technology and is considered one of the most distinctive motorcycles of the post-war period.
Historical background
The motorcycle was developed by Norbert Riedel after World War II, when material shortages called for creative technical solutions. The Imme was produced in Immenstadt, West Germany, with around 12,000 units built between 1948 and 1951.
The name "Imme" means "bee" in German and refers both to the place of production and to the logo on the fuel tank.
Despite initial commercial success, high warranty costs and low profit margins led to the insolvency of Riedel AG in 1951.
Innovative design features of the Riedel Imme R100
- Minimalist construction: the frame, fork, and swing arm were made from steel tubes with a diameter of 40 mm to save material.
- Single-sided suspension: Both the front fork and rear swing arm are single-sided, which was rare at the time.
- Integrated exhaust: The rear swing arm also served as the exhaust pipe, further reducing weight and complexity.
- Interchangeable wheels: The front and rear wheels are identical and can be swapped.
- Engine mounting: The egg-shaped 99 cc two-stroke engine is mounted on the swing arm and moves with the rear wheel.
- Transmission: 3-speed manual transmission without true neutral position; the middle gear acts as a pseudo-neutral position when the clutch is engaged.
- Lightweight: The motorcycle weighs only about 57 kg (125 lbs).
Technical data
Engine: 99 cc, air-cooled, single cylinder, two-stroke
Power: 4.5 hp (3.3 kW; 4.4 hp) at 5,800 rpm
Transmission: 3-speed manual transmission, chain drive
Frame: Steel tube frame
Front suspension: Single-sided leading link fork
Rear suspension: Single-sided swing arm (also serves as exhaust)
Brakes: Front and rear drum brakes
Top speed: Approx. 75 km/h (47 mph)
Fuel consumption: Approx. 2.3 l/100 km
The legacy and collector's value of the Riedel Imme R100
The Imme R100 is celebrated for its radical design and technical purity, which influenced later motorcycle designs. It is a coveted collector's item that is exhibited at the PS.Speicher in Einbeck as well as in other museums and private collections worldwide. The Imme R100 was featured in the "Art of the Motorcycle" exhibition at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and is on permanent display at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum.
Further reading & sources
- Imme R100 – Wikipedia
- 1950 Riedel Imme R100 – Dorotheum
- Fuchs Motorcycle – IMME R 100
- OddBike: Imme R100 – Purity of Design
- Imme R 100 motorcycle – museum-digital:baden-württemberg
- Riedel Imme R100 1951
- Riedel Imme R100 1951 – Vintage Bikes Collection
- Imme R100 – Alchetron
- 1948 Riedel Imme R100 specifications and pictures
- 1950 Imme R100 – AdamsViews
