Motorcycle IZH Planet 5 - real legend of the USSR. At one time, this bike was considered one of the best in its class, and for good reason - the old “Voskhod” and others like it couldn’t hold a candle, and the “Ural” and “Dnepr” were heavy and expensive. That is why this one quickly won the love of the public - it cost moderate money, did not weigh too much, looked nice, and at the same time had good technical characteristics.
Design
The design of this bike was typically Soviet, in the best traditions of the domestic school of motorcycle building - a bulging round headlight, a flat seat, shock absorbers a la “candle”... But the gas tank visually raised up on the frame, the muffler pipes that went around the engine and shiny chrome wheels looked very good , like all of Planet 5 as a whole. The overall impression of the appearance of the motorcycle was somewhat spoiled by the cheap-looking turn signals and the pipes themselves, which, unlike the mufflers, for some reason they decided not to chrome, but simply paint them. Well, okay, in the USSR motorcycles were valued not for their external gloss, but for what they were capable of, and IZH is doing well with this.
Historical information
The equipment is the result of the modernization of the Planet-4 motorcycle, which itself is an improved version of the IZH-56 model. When creating the new version, the designers reduced the number of electrical wiring connectors, which increased the reliability of the lighting equipment and ignition system.
The engine received a single muffler with reduced resistance to exhaust gas flow, which had increased power and slightly increased torque. The gearshift foot has changed, fuel consumption has decreased while dynamics have increased.
Technical characteristics of IZH Planet 5
By modern standards, this bike can certainly be called outdated at best. But the Soviet motorcycle industry was never distinguished by innovation - engineers relied on durability and maintainability . And the technical characteristics of the IZH Planet 5 motorcycle were fully consistent with this established tradition - relatively light and well-controlled, it was easily maintained and repaired on its own right in the garage. This is probably why he lived on the assembly line for almost 21 years , although the first copies were released back in 1987. Yes, yes, the last bikes of this model were produced already in 2008, when Harley-Davidsons, Yamaha R1, Suzuki Hayabusa and other two-wheeled celebrities were already roaming Russian roads with might and main.
Engine
Primitive, but quite reliable - that’s how it can be described. The IZH Planet 5 engine is a single-cylinder 2-stroke power unit with a volume of 334.6 cubic meters. see , with a compression ratio of 8.7, thanks to which it is quite capable of driving even an AI-80 . The engine power is quite good - as much as 22 horsepower at 4800 rpm. , and the horsepower in the IZH motorcycle is enough to accelerate to a maximum speed of 120 kilometers per hour. The main thing is to remember that you need to add oil to the gasoline for this bike in a ratio of 30 to 1, otherwise you can quickly ruin the engine.
Transmission
For its time, it was not bad, but if this motorcycle had a fifth gear, the technical characteristics of the IZH P5 could have been better. But the designers decided to equip it with a 4-speed gearbox , and the top gear is fourth, with a gear ratio of 1.0. The clutch, like everyone else, is multi-plate, in an oil bath, and it is connected to the crankshaft by a double-row chain. Interestingly, for some reason it was decided to use a single-row chain to transmit torque to the rear wheel.
Chassis and brakes
Spoke wheels with vertical axial adjustment and chambered discs, primitive drum brakes on both wheels, a telescopic fork and a spring-loaded pendulum wishbone rear suspension with conventional hydraulic shock absorbers. The frame of the bike is ordinary, welded from pipes, and, judging by the speed of corrosion on some copies, the pipes were water pipes. The situation was somewhat corrected by the fact that the more recent IZhi P5s were equipped with a disc brake on the front wheel, which made it possible to somewhat shorten the braking distance. For the first generation, for example, the estimated braking distance in ideal conditions and at a speed of 80 km/h reached 42.5 meters, which, you see, is a bit much.
Electronics
Minimum electronic filling in IZH Planet 5. Wires from the switch go to the ignition, 12V battery , independent generator and lighting equipment. This, in general, is all - a whole abyss separates this bike from modern bikes with numerous auxiliary systems, and there is simply no “extra” electronics in it.
Weight and dimensions
The weight of the motorcycle without a sidecar ranges from 158 to 165 kg , depending on the year of manufacture and configuration. Not so much; most modern bikes, with the exception of small-capacity ones, weigh more. It is not difficult to physically handle the brainchild of the Soviet motorcycle industry, since its center of gravity is shifted downward, and the bike does not seem subjectively heavy, despite how much it weighs. However, finding a stroller from this bike, and even in decent condition, is not so easy now.
The dimensions of IZH Planet 5 are also small - 1450 mm between the axles and 2200 mm in total length with 1200 mm in height (not at the saddle). The curb weight with all fluids is about 187 kg . Dimensions in general can be called average.
The maximum permissible load is 170 kg on the motorcycle itself and 20 kg on the trunk, made of thick and durable iron. But it is worth keeping in mind that a full load has the most negative effect on both the controllability of the IZH P5 and the length of its braking distance, which is already quite impressive.
Controllability
The IZH Planet 5 handles better than you would expect from a motorcycle developed in the USSR in the 80s of the last century. Proper weight distribution makes its contribution to handling - the bike obediently obeys the steering wheel, turns on a modest spot, and you can tilt it quite noticeably even on the spot, without fear that it will fall on its side.
Fuel consumption
The volume of the IZH Planet 5 gas tank is 18 liters , and you can fill it with any gasoline. It is advisable to mix the oil in a canister rather than pour it directly into the gas tank, since it still needs to be mixed in the tank. To do this, you will have to shake and rock the motorcycle, which, you see, is not very convenient. But the bike’s 18-liter tank is enough for more than 300 kilometers , since fuel consumption does not exceed 3.5-4 liters per 100 km .
Verdict
The Izhevsk plant is currently controlled by AvtoVAZ and assembles LADA Vesta cars. The production of motorcycles has been discontinued, so it is becoming increasingly rare to see these motorcycles on city streets or the vast expanses of villages. A generation grew up on this motorcycle and it is impossible to deny its contribution to the life of the domestic motorcycle industry. Therefore, no matter how many minuses or pluses this motorcycle has, it is worth preserving those released copies and treating them with special warmth and care. After all, this is already part of our history.
Repair and tuning
Both the IZH Planet 5 engine, the transmission, and its chassis are truly distinguished by their high maintainability . If the bike you received has spent many years in caring hands, there will most likely be no problems with it, especially if it is serviced on time. But for careless owners, Soviet motorcycles quickly break down.
Repair
Most often minor damage occurs. The ignition fails, the electrics begin to take on a life of their own, the speedometer cable breaks, the light bulbs in the headlights and turn signals burn out. The main components are distinguished by good reliability, even the engine, despite the fact that 2-stroke engines cannot boast of a significant resource.
Spare parts
Despite the fact that this model was discontinued a long time ago, spare parts for the IZH Planet 5 motorcycle are still not difficult to find. The easiest way is to look for the necessary hardware at flea markets and on the Internet, since Avito always has plenty of offers. Prices depend on the greed of a particular seller, but in general everything is cheap .
Tuning
Since the vast majority of IZH Planet 5 units that are still running live in rural areas, their tuning is usually unique. Most often it comes down to buying all sorts of lights and stickers on Aliexpress and then turning the unfortunate motorcycle into who knows what. Adding horsepower to an engine is the dream of every first-time “tuner,” but to do this, it’s easier to change the bike itself. There are, of course, craftsmen who manually forge new valves and bore piston valves, but this is the case when the game is not worth the candle.
Service Features
The motorcycle was created in the 80s. last century, taking into account the specifics of the operation of equipment in the USSR. The piston group is not designed for long mileage and requires replacement after 10–15 thousand km.
The factory instructions list routine measures, the implementation of which ensures safe movement and ease of starting the engine.
Repair
Servicing or restoring a motorcycle does not require the use of special equipment. But high-quality engine or frame repairs with restoration of geometry and rigidity can only be performed in a specialized service.
The owner will be able to correct minor defects in the electrical system, install new tires or spark plugs. When operating a motorcycle, you should take into account the factory regulations and promptly adjust or service the main components.
Experienced technicians can repair the engine themselves.
Spare parts
On the market you often find components made in China or made by small Russian companies that have low quality workmanship.
Owners are forced to look for parts from the Soviet period, which are still often found on trading floors. The cost of components starts from several hundred rubles; there are also expensive parts. For example, a new cylinder with a piston group will cost about 12 thousand rubles.
Tuning
A weak frame and archaic rear wheel suspension impose limitations on the possibilities of modifying the motorcycle. Some owners make aerodynamic shields from fiberglass; they allow you to change the appearance of the equipment.
There are modifications to the exhaust system or head lighting, and it is possible to modify the fuel tank or seats for the driver and passenger.
But gradually the realization comes that Planet-5 is part of the history of the Soviet motorcycle industry, and many owners strive to restore the equipment to its original factory form.
The second wind of the IZH motorcycle.
Advantages and disadvantages
This bike is really quite good, albeit archaic. The Izh Planet 5 engine is durable, and so is the transmission, and spare parts are quite cheap.
Advantages
- Maintainability . If necessary, it can be easily repaired on your own, even without special technical skills.
- Stroller . This is one of the few bikes that were equipped with it.
- Price . You can buy IZH Planet 5 in “on the go” condition for 5 thousand rubles, if you’re lucky.
Flaws
- Age . In combination with the low quality of components, this leads to quite frequent minor technical breakdowns.
- Corrosion . The frame of the IZH Planet 5 motorcycle often begins to rust, especially if the bike is stored in a damp garage with poor ventilation.
- 2-stroke engine . You have to mix gasoline with oil before pouring it into the gas tank. And to chat your two-wheeled friend from side to side, thereby mixing gasoline with oil right in the tank, considerable physical strength is required.
Owner reviews
Izhak with a sidecar was my first real motorcycle, after “Riga” I was full of joy)) Its weight, however, is rather considerable, but oh well, I’m not dead either, so there were no problems. Well, it wasn’t like that - the clunker that my dad gave me broke down regularly, but it was repaired without problems, two or three repairs a week, and so everything is ok)). Vasya, Kirov
An excellent bike for its size, decent dynamics, although the brakes are weak. The seat height is moderate, although it was difficult for 15-year-old me to reach the ground with my feet. Planet 5 taught me how to ride on two wheels, and I still remember it fondly. Alexey, Kostroma
The motor is old and reliable, like the Soviet Union. I really don’t know that it can weigh so much, it seems like a compact motor, but it feels like it’s cast from solid cast iron. But it drives cheerfully, better than the Ural that came before it, really much more cheerful. There have never been any serious breakdowns; there are enough characteristics for driving around the countryside. Misha, Sharya
Conclusion
The IZH Planet 5 motorcycle was late to the market. It began to be produced when in other countries people were already riding the Honda Gold Wing 1100, Harley-Davidson Tour Glide, Kawasaki ZG1300 Voyager, Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade and other modern bikes at that time. It’s unclear how it miraculously survived on the production line until 2008, but it’s only for the better. There are plenty of fans of Soviet motorcycles who are nostalgic for the old days, and IZH Planet-5, a decent motorcycle with good performance characteristics , can be an excellent toy for them.
Specifications
| Maximum engine power: | 22 HP |
| Working volume: | 346 cm3 |
| Motor type (cylinder arrangement, number of strokes): | Single-cylinder carburetor two-stroke air-cooled |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Number of valves: | |
| Intake type (Injector / Carburetor): | |
| Bore and stroke: | |
| Starting system (Electric starter, kick starter): | |
| Maximum speed in km/h: | 120 km/h |
| Cooling system: | Air cooling |
| Transmission (gearbox): | 4-speed, manual |
| Clutch (Dry / Wet): | |
| Drive unit: | Chain |
| Frame: | Tubular welded type |
| Chassis | |
| Suspension (front/rear travel): | |
| Brakes (Front/Rear): | |
| Wheels / Tires / Rubber: | |
| Dimensions and weight | |
| Dimensions (Length / Width): | |
| Seat height: | |
| Ground clearance: | |
| Curb weight: | |
| Wheelbase: | 1450 mm |
| Weight: | 158—165 (depending on configuration) kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 18 l. |
| Battery capacity: | |
| Year of release: | |
| Country of Origin: |
Motorcycle modifications
The plant produced several modifications of the motorcycle:
- basic version IZH 7.107;
- the “Lux” version under the symbol IZH 7.107L, which was distinguished by the installation of shields to protect the driver’s knees, a transparent glass fairing and a luggage basket;
- version IZH 7.108 with a VMZ-9.203 side trailer and a drive gear with an increased number of teeth;
- version IZH 7.107T for tourists, which featured a rear wheel with a developed tread and an increased width of the treadmill.
In 1989, the motorcycle was modernized, which led to a change in designation to Planet-5-01. In addition to contactless ignition, engines with a separate lubrication system and a front disc brake appeared.
The plant offered customers several modifications, which were equipped with guards or alloy wheels. The “Lux” and “Tourist” models disappeared from the production range.
