Kreidler: A Legendary Moped Brand with 100 Years of History

The First Mopeds from Kreidler

Kreidler’s mopeds were equipped with a single-cylinder 2-stroke engine, with the cylinder almost always positioned horizontally. This was the standard setup for Kreidler mopeds. After a few years, the brand launched the Kreidler Florett, a model that quickly became popular and is still often seen today, especially in the Netherlands, where enthusiast groups regularly organize rides with their vintage Kreidlers.

The Legendary "Eitank" from Kreidler

One of the most iconic Kreidler models was the "Eitank", named after the rounded shape of its fuel tank that resembled an egg. This model was a big success, featuring a single-cylinder 2-stroke engine, carburetor, and chain drive. It was one of Kreidler's best-selling mopeds, even during a time when moped sales in Europe were declining. It remained popular in countries like Germany and the Netherlands.

Kreidler in Racing

In the 1970s, Kreidler also turned to racing, particularly in the 50cc class, where it already had a strong presence. The brand grew further thanks to experience gained in racing, even though early results were not impressive. In 1971, however, Dutch racer Jan van Veen won the world championship with the "Van Veen Kreidler", a modified version of the Kreidler. Van Veen’s racing team made many adjustments to the engines, which led to the name “Van Veen Kreidler”.

The Founding of the Wankel-Engine Kreidler

In 1975, Jan van Veen even launched his own motorcycle with a Wankel engine. However, this venture was short-lived due to high start-up costs and a small market for the technology.

The Successor to the "Eitank" and Kreidler’s Growth

In the 1970s, Kreidler introduced a successor to the “Eitank” with some improvements, such as a larger fuel tank. In addition to the popular 50cc version, Kreidler also produced an 80cc version, which sold well in Germany as a lightweight motorcycle. This model also gained popularity in the Netherlands and is still commonly seen among devoted Kreidler fans. The quality of the mopeds, combined with the availability of parts and ease of maintenance, made it a lasting favorite.

Kreidler’s Decline in the 1980s

In the early 1980s, Kreidler moped sales declined, especially in Germany, due to changes in legislation. In Germany, 50cc and 80cc models could previously be ridden without a license. However, when a license became mandatory for 80cc models, many riders switched to heavier motorcycles. This contributed to Kreidler’s downfall in 1983. The brand, long known for its quality, disappeared from the market — a loss that many still mourn.

Why Kreidler Mopeds Remain Popular

Although Kreidler ceased to exist in 1983, the brand remains legendary in the moped world. The Kreidler Florett and the "Eitank" have become icons, with a passionate fanbase that still enjoys restoring and riding these classic mopeds. The combination of durable design, simple technology, and outstanding performance has secured Kreidler a special place in the hearts of moped enthusiasts around the world.