The Soviet road motorcycle Voskhod was produced at the Degtyarev plant, a large defense enterprise located in the Russian city of Kovrov. The production of a light two-wheeled vehicle was established in the format of consumer goods in 1957. The Voskhod motorcycle was distinguished by its simple design and reliability in operation. Repairs were also inexpensive. In those distant times, the concept of prestige of a vehicle did not exist; a motorcycle was assessed according to its durability and affordability. The low level of comfort when riding a two-wheeled car did not bother anyone. Shaking even on a good road, vibration of all components were simultaneously considered integral characteristics of a motorcycle.
Predecessor
The prototype of the Voskhod was the German RT 125 motorcycle, manufactured by DKW. Initially, the Soviet version was called “Kovrovets”, and only a few years later the car received the name “Voskhod”. The motorcycle, photos of which were published in newspapers, immediately became popular among the general population, and its production was put into production. The name change is explained by the growing popularity of the car and its demand throughout the USSR. The new Voskhod motorcycle, the characteristics of which remained virtually unchanged, was considered the most reliable, “people's” model. The relatively low price corresponded to this postulate. The origin of the design was not advertised; Soviet consumers were confident that they were buying a domestic motorcycle, reliable and durable.
Technical specifications
Motorcycle characteristics:
- engine - two-stroke, single-cylinder;
- cylinder volume - 173.7 cubic meters. cm;
- diameter - 61.72 mm;
- piston stroke - 58 mm;
- power - 10 l. With.;
- gearbox - built-in, four-speed with lever gear shift;
- rear wheel drive - chain;
- rear suspension - pendulum;
- front suspension - telescopic;
- brakes - drum;
- maximum speed - 90 km/h;
- fuel - low-octane gasoline A72;
- weight - 110 kg.
And off we go
"Sunrise"
Published in 1965. It had a more powerful engine compared to the Kovrovets - 10 hp. This engine allowed it to accelerate to 95 km/h. He weighed 105 kg. Like its predecessor, it was distinguished by its simplicity in its design. On the one hand, this caused criticism from some motorcyclists, since the motorcycle turned out to be unsightly and simple in appearance.
Kovrovets K-125
But on the other hand, this was compensated by the fact that it could be repaired almost with improvised stones and sticks. It was wildly popular among the people; up to two hundred thousand models were produced per year! It continued to roll off the assembly line until 1971.
“Voskhod-2”
Since the previous model was a great success and did not cause any complaints, it was decided not only to refine and improve some aspects. Outwardly he became attractive, no one blamed him for his dullness anymore. It became easier to use and lasted longer. The engine was one and a half horsepower more powerful than its predecessor - 11.5. This allowed it to accelerate to 100 km/h. The fuel tank held 13 liters of fuel, and gasoline consumption at an average speed of 60 km/h was only 3 liters.
Motorcycle "Voskhod 2"
It is no wonder that he was also in demand among the people. A year later, a modernized version of Voskhod-2M appeared, which had a 14 hp engine. and can accelerate to 105 km/h.
“Voskhod-3”
The series received its next continuation in 1979. Changes affected the fuel tank, which now had a capacity of 2 liters more than its predecessor.
Expert opinion
Alexander Nikolaevich Rumyantsev
Inventor, owner of many patents, candidate of technical sciences, professor at St. Petersburg Technical University.
We installed modern brakes, updated the generator and saddle, making it more comfortable for long journeys. The wheels became stronger, which was useful in the conditions of bad Soviet roads.
The speed of movement remained at 105 km/h. And the weight increased to 125 kg.
“Voskhod-3M”
In 1983, the 3rd model was modernized, which is still considered the next generation in the series due to the number of innovations and innovations. Over the course of several years, engineers and members of the design bureau have been collecting and summarizing reviews from ordinary users about the plant’s motorcycles in order to fully satisfy the needs of Soviet motorcycle enthusiasts. We started with the appearance, since in every second letter sent to the plant, great attention was paid to this particular characteristic.
Motorcycle "Voskhod 3M"
The design has become more streamlined, models of different colors have appeared. Updated tires improved road grip. The brakes were modernized, their drive was changed, making them more reliable and wear-resistant. For the first time in the series, a factory anti-theft lock was installed. The weight of the two-wheeled friend was slightly reduced to 122 kg, but the maximum speed remained the same. The price still remained at a very affordable level, which had a significant impact on its popularity among the people.
In 1984, a limited edition luxury model was released. The outer one stood out with its chrome details. We also changed the shape and filling of the saddle, making it even more comfortable. With an engine similar in power to previous models (14 hp), it could accelerate to 115 km/h due to more modern filling. It was produced for two years, until 1986, and was in demand among collectors and big fans of the brand. The exact number of copies produced is unknown.
In 1985 they also produced models aimed at the target audience of tourists. We changed the steering wheel, making it more sports-oriented, and added a rear bag and two side bags. With a weight of 125 kg, the maximum speed was 145 km/h.
“Voskhod-ZM-01”
The series was continued in 1989, when the USSR was on the verge of collapse. What is noteworthy is that the model survived both these turbulent times and the turbulent 90s, but at the present time it is not produced.
Voskhod-3M Lux
The engine had a power of 15 hp, and the volume of gasoline consumption was reduced. It has two modernizations - “Owl” and “Courier”, but they have nothing to do with the Soviet Union.
Modifications
The Voskhod motorcycle was produced for a long time without any improvements; its technical characteristics generally met consumer requirements. However, there were also complaints; some buyers expressed the opinion that the car was very noisy and unstable on the road. And although these comments were isolated, they had an effect.
In 1972, the design bureau of the plant in Kovrov began modernizing the “people's” model. The Voskhod motorcycle became known as Voskhod-2, and five years later the Voskhod-2M rolled off the assembly line, which was produced from 1977 to 1979. Radical changes in the design of the new car affected mainly the engine. With a cylinder volume of 173.7 cubic meters. cm power increased to 14 “horses” due to a modernized cylinder head and an expanded configuration of bypass channels. The compression ratio was 9.2 units. The speed increased to 105 km/h. The new engine required high-octane fuel; in the car’s passport, instead of A72 gasoline, it was designated A93.
In 1979, the Voskhod-2M motorcycle was renamed. It became known as Voskhod-3. The model was produced until 1983, and then a new, latest modification appeared. It was the Voskhod-3M motorcycle, which completed the lineup of light two-wheeled vehicles from the Kovrov plant. This last representative of a worthy family is still considered the best in its class.
MY MOTORCYCLE
The development of a new motorcycle at the plant was carried out in accordance with two resolutions of the USSR Council of Ministers. The Ministry of Automotive Industry was charged with providing developers with processing equipment, components and electrical equipment. The plant had to organize the design and production of samples, and testing. To carry out this task, a team was created at SKB, which included road designers led by D.P. Kabaev, engine engineers - led by V.I. Aksenov.
A new engine, chassis, and electrical equipment were created. These developments took about a year. To put the product into production, at least 5 samples had to be made. Conduct tests. To produce this motorcycle, about a hundred aggregate machines were ordered and purchased at the plant. At the second industrial site, construction of a new engine housing began; a new blacksmith building and a foundry shop were built for this capacity. State tests were successfully carried out. In accordance with the director's order, a pilot batch of motorcycles was manufactured, and a sample of the Voskhod-250-01 SPORT motorcycle was also manufactured.
But a government delegation including the Minister of Defense Industry P.V. comes to the plant. Finogenov, Minister of Mechanical Engineering V.V. Bakhirev, Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers Yu.M. Smirnova. The decision on the fate of the new product was made in the office of the plant director, and this decision was announced publicly at a meeting at SKB - the plant should produce motorcycles of the 175 cc/cm class.
The reason for the plant's refusal to produce a new motorcycle model was that similar developments of new motorcycles were carried out at Izhmash. Izhevsk had to organize the production of motorcycles of two classes - 350 cc./cm. and 500 cubic cm. New buildings were also built there, and entire lines were built to assemble new products. And by the decision of the ministry, preference was given to the developments of Izhevsk residents. At our plant, the theme is to produce motorcycles of the 250 cc class. was closed. Some of the new equipment was modernized, some was sold, and some was used by production. And 15 assembled samples, collected on the assembly line, were sold. The reputation of the plant, of course, did not suffer much, and the developments were ultimately used to the maximum in production models of the 175 cc class. But this is a blow to the reputation of the designers and developers who took this decision very painfully. The work of a designer, unfortunately, is not always assessed by the result; reasons that are completely far removed from the assessment of developments often intervene.
To the 250 cc/cm class. returned again: Voskhod-250 with a 4-stroke engine appeared. Documentation was prepared for the engine with several options for the gas distribution mechanism, but everything remained only on paper, since it was necessary to make a new motorcycle quickly and cheaply. Thus, another promising project was ruined.
Source moto-kovrov.ru/ekspozitsiya/voshod-250/New motorcycle "Voskhod-3M"
In the period from 1983 to 1993, the latest 3M model was produced at the Kovrov plant. Compared to its predecessors, the new motorcycle had a number of advantages, such as an increased area of finned cooling of the cylinder, the use of a carburetor made in Czechoslovakia, 12-volt electrical equipment instead of 6-volt, a modern instrument cluster (the speedometer was combined with indicator lamps for turn signals and high beam switching to near). The main wiring connections of the electrical circuit were hidden under the seat in special plastic containers. The motorcycle was equipped with a fairly powerful generator, which made it possible to do without a battery.
The front fork received corrugated protective covers, the passenger footrests and kickstarter stop became folding, and side rearview mirrors appeared on the steering wheel. And as the final touch to modernizing the motorcycle, an effective anti-theft lock was installed. As a result of all the improvements, the main goal was achieved - reducing the noise of the engine and chassis. The direct-flow muffler was replaced with a sectional one, with internal bulkheads. The design of the front fork and rear pendulum suspension has been revised, removing all joints that could cause knocking when moving. As a result of the measures taken, the noise of the motorcycle has noticeably decreased.
Meeting the new "Sunrise"
Every fourth Soviet motorcycle is produced in Kovrov. The new model “Voskhod-3” has maintained the continuity traditional for this brand with the previous ones. It received a new gas tank, intake system, rear shock absorbers, gas control drive and secondary transmission damper. Voskhod-3 has modernized brakes, wheels, a generator, and an improved saddle.
This motorcycle has a long history - nine models of the 175 cm3 class with the Kovrovets and Voskhod brands. And here is the tenth anniversary “Voskhod-3”. The Kovrov plant named after V. A. Degtyarev recently completed comprehensive tests of a new road machine and will soon begin its mass production.
Design decisions are based on an analysis of the wishes of numerous consumers of our products, combined with measures developed by the plant for its further improvement.
Work on the Voskhod-3 motorcycle went in several main directions. First of all, we pursued the goal of maintaining continuity with previous models in terms of the most advanced components and parts. From the point of view of the consumer, who highly values their interchangeability, this is very important.
We clearly understood that our “sunrises” are mass-produced machines (every fourth Soviet motorcycle is produced in Kovrov) and, therefore, must equally satisfy the requirements of both city dwellers and villagers. Such versatility means that the new model must harmoniously combine the most important consumer qualities: increased comfort, ease of maintenance, high dynamics and efficiency, and attractive appearance. By the way, as practice shows, motorcyclists attach more and more importance to the latter quality. And when developing the design of the new motorcycle as a whole and its individual components, the plant took into account the requests of motorcyclists expressed in letters, oral proposals, and reports.
Now let's look at the innovations in the Voskhod-3 motorcycle.
Brake system. The diameter of the brake drums has been increased from 125 to 160 mm, which ensures high operating efficiency, as well as increased reliability and durability of the brakes.
The drive of the front and rear brakes, like the previous model, is mechanical, but now the axis of the foot lever rotates in nylon bushings and therefore does not require maintenance during operation. Wheels and hubs are reinforced. First of all, they received stronger knitting needles. The new hubs are equipped with bearings of the “204” series, which are protected by rubber sealing collars, which virtually eliminate the entry of dust and dirt into the bearing cages.
The drive of the rear wheel is still carried out by the PR12.7-1800-2 chain, which is enclosed in a casing and protected from dirt and sand by rubber covers - a design that has proven itself well on “Kovrovtsy” and “Voskhod”. Between the driven chain sprocket and the wheel of Voskhod-3, to smooth out jerks in the transmission, a damping device of six rubber inserts is installed (previously its role was played by a shaped rubber coupling).
Rear wheel suspension . The Voskhod-3 motorcycle has become more comfortable, primarily thanks to the new design of the rear springs and shock absorbers. The latter have increased energy intensity and provide high stability in operation when the ambient temperature changes. The shock absorber-spring assembly now features a four-position adjuster. It allows, depending on the load on the rear wheel, to set the most advantageous option (one of four) for pre-loading the springs. This is very important, since such a universal car as Voskhod-3 can be driven with or without a passenger, with or without luggage, on the highway or along a country road.
Shock absorbers located at an angle of 12° to the vertical provide the wheel with a travel of 105 mm, which is very significant, especially when operating on bad roads. The appearance of the new unit meets modern requirements of technical aesthetics. Exposed chrome springs, like all other specific parts, in combination with a plastic internal protective casing of the rod give it an attractive appearance.
Gas tank . Not only is it of a new design and holds 2 liters more fuel, but it has also become different in shape - it has received fashionable outlines and a completely different brand name, as if emphasizing the significance of the innovations as a whole. It should be noted that the now used mounting of the tank on the frame using rubber shock absorbers is convenient and reduces vibration. This means increased reliability and additional comfort for the driver.
The front shield has been changed in shape and has become lighter, which is important for improving the performance of the motorcycle.
Management . The steering wheel received a reel-to-reel throttle control, which has proven itself well on sports cars. It is controlled by a shorter movement of the hand than on Voskhod-2, thereby reducing the engine reaction time to the driver’s action. This short-stroke handle is reliable, comfortable and requires virtually no maintenance.
The modified design of the front brake and clutch control levers reduces the force required to press them. These levers are less dangerous for the driver if they fall, since they have balls with a diameter of 19 mm at the ends.
The saddle is upholstered in vinyl faux leather on a viscose-lavsan base with shaped embossing. Under the casing there is a lining made of artificial material such as “sypron”. All these, at first glance, small innovations together significantly affect the performance and aesthetic qualities of the machine and satisfy the most demanding motorist.
Intake system . The new design made it more efficient. In combination with an air filter, it significantly reduces intake noise. This is very important for solving the general problem of reducing noise generated by all types of mechanical transport.
The generator has undergone modernization (although its index remained the same - G427) and received a built-in non-reverse sensor. The new device completely eliminates accidental engine starting in the opposite direction, which sometimes occurs with inexperienced drivers.
Otherwise, Voskhod-3 adopted well-proven components and parts from previous models, for example, the 14-horsepower engine was taken from Voskhod-2M, albeit with some changes to further increase reliability, durability and reduce noise levels.
As fuel, the plant recommends AI-93 gasoline mixed with oils M-6V, M8V, in accordance with GOST 17479-72: MS-20, MK-22, MS-20S in accordance with GOST 21743 - 76. You can also use A-76 with those or oils. In this case, it is not necessary to change the ignition timing or adjust the carburetor, just as there is no need for an additional gasket between the head and the cylinder. The reliability of the engine when operating on the A-76 will not change; starting qualities will remain good.
Through the magazine, we express our gratitude to the numerous owners of our motorcycles for their wishes, responses, and reports that helped us in the creation of Voskhod-3.
G. MARININ, Deputy Head of the Design Bureau of the Degtyarev Plant in Kovrov
Voskhod brand truck
For rural residents, a special vehicle with a body for transporting agricultural products and building materials was also developed. However, the truck did not go into mass production. Since the gear ratios of the motorcycle gearbox did not correspond in any way to the speed parameters for transporting goods on rural roads. I had to drive in first gear, and this inevitably ended in overheating of the engine, as well as excessive consumption of gasoline. The engine of the Voskhod motorcycle turned out to be unsuitable for this operating mode. Transmission torque and effort were inconsistent. Attempts to remake the gearbox were also unsuccessful, and the Voskhod cargo motorcycle, the photo of which is presented on the page, was almost immediately discontinued.
History of appearance
In the post-war years, every engineer in the Soviet Union tried to find drawings of German technology and make something of their own. The designers of the Kovrov plant, which produced machine guns during wartime, after the war received the task of creating equipment that would help people in everyday life.
Despite the fact that the designers at that time had little experience in creating road motorcycles, in 1946 the first lightweight road motorcycle was produced at the Degtyarev plant.
It was equipped with a front fork and hydraulic shock absorbers. And the relay regulator, ignition switch and other devices were equipped under the seat. The circulation of these motorcycles at that time was about 5,000 per month.
After such a breakthrough in the production of motorcycle equipment, the first motorcycles were created based on the German DKW - RT 125. This project was led by N. Lopukhovsky. Model K-175 or “Kovrovets”, a German technology converted in the Soviet style, was produced for 8 years. And in 1965, the motorcycles of this series were modernized.
This is the story of the appearance of the Voskhod motorcycle - the motorcycle that the youth of the sixties dreamed of. It attracted attention with its simple and unpretentious design. It could easily be repaired on the road.
Features of motor vehicles of the “Voskhod” series
Soviet Voskhod motorcycles were popular among the people. They were sold at a low price, but were reliable and gave good results when traveling not only on smooth and asphalt roads, but also in rural areas. Malfunctions and defects in this model were extremely rare.
The wheels of the Voskhod motorcycle are spoked. Tube tires were installed on them. Their size both front and rear was 3.25 16 or 3.50 - 16. The wheel tires were abrasion resistant and suitable for roads with different surfaces.
The motorcycle engine in the first model had one cylinder and was two-stroke. It had a four-speed gearbox. And the speed of the Voskhod motorcycle, unlike its predecessor K-175, was increased by 10 horsepower. And it became equal to 95 km/h.
Voskhod weighed 110 kilograms. The model was fast and light. Therefore, parents of young people of those years did not allow them to buy this equipment, because they were worried that they could easily get into an accident. In addition, the motorcycle itself had average handling.
The first model was produced from 1965 to 1971. Then it was upgraded to Voskhod 2. The years of production of the second series were 1972 - 1977. The designers increased the engine power of the Voskhod motorcycle. We improved the light signaling devices, provided a new muffler, and increased the strength of the gearbox clutch teeth.
The main features of this motorcycle were trouble-free operation, light weight and maximum speed to which it easily accelerated with each modernization and improvement of the model.
However, there were disadvantages. Among the serious disadvantages, owners of Voskhod motorcycles note:
- creates a lot of noise. Because of this, the ride on it is not entirely comfortable;
- quickly overheats due to lack of water cooling;
- It is necessary to dilute the oil in gasoline and pour it into the gas tank. Without oil it will not work;
- the appearance is simple and unattractive.
In total, this brand was modernized 7 times, but it was the “Voskhod 2” modification that became more popular among the youth of the Soviet Union.
Motor vehicle modifications and their features:
- Second model. Years of production: 1972 – 1977;
- 2M. Years of production: 1977 – 1979. The improved engine can use high-octane gasoline AI 93 and low-octane gasoline AI 76. The maximum speed has been increased to 105 km/h;
- Third model. Years of production - 1979 - 1983. The gas tank was changed, which began to hold two liters more, the brakes were modernized, the rider's seat was improved, a coil throttle was installed;
- Modification 3M. Produced by the plant from 1983 to 1993. Increased cooling rate due to increased surface area. Installation of an anti-theft lock, headlights with a lens. The name given to the diffuser is “European beam” due to the special intensity distribution of the headlights. Corrugated covers are installed on the shock absorbers. The model is equipped with a brake lining wear indicator;
- 3M Lux. Years of production from 1984 to 1986. The main distinguishing feature is the improved and galvanic paintwork. The seat has become more comfortable thanks to the use of latex filler. The maximum speed reached 115 km/h. Designed with a mounting handle for mounting on a center stand;
- 3M - Tourist. Made specifically for hiking. The rear trunk is equipped with side sections, side bags are installed, and a tablet bag is installed on the tank;
- Modification 3M-01. Installing a reed valve on the engine. The engine cylinder had a five-channel purging. Increased motor transmission. The designers expanded the chain. Fuel consumption has decreased, exhaust gases have become less toxic, thanks to the reed valve.
The last two series were produced from 1985 and from 1989. There were only two upgrades after Voskhod 3M-01. And not as significant as the previous ones. They were given the names “Courier” and “Owl”.
In the 90s, the Kovrov plant created off-road motorcycles based on the Voskhod motorcycle from the USSR. It was a three-wheeled motorcycle called the Farmer. It had an engine power of 13 horsepower and a volume of 200 cubic meters.
At the end of the twentieth and beginning of the twenty-first century, “Pilot” was popular. It was already a sports road motorcycle.
"Owl"
In 1989, production began of a model equipped with a fundamentally new engine, the cylinder of which featured a five-channel scavenging system with a single exhaust port. A reed valve was installed at the inlet of the combustible mixture, which significantly reduced fuel consumption. Engine power increased to 15 hp. With. at 5500 rpm. The new model, which received the index “Voskhod-3M-01”, was called “Owl”.
Released models:
Each of the presented models had its own technical and operational features:
"Sunrise".
This model was equipped with a 175 cc engine with 10 horsepower.
However, this was not the main advantage of the Voskhod among other motorcycles. It had a two-channel wind blower, a trunk, windshields and shields, that is, it was more comfortable and easy to use.
The only negative that fans of “sophisticated” vehicles noticed was its unpresentable appearance, which, however, did not in any way affect its popularity, but rather the opposite.
The characteristics of the Voskhod motorcycle made it possible to use it every day for household needs, as well as for learning driving skills;
"Voskhod-2".
When creating this motorcycle, the plant's engineers put all their efforts into improving the performance characteristics of the unit, as well as its appearance, which left much to be desired.
The new model was equipped with round turn signal lights, a more powerful engine and, most importantly, a contactless electronic ignition system. The maximum speed of the new unit bordered on 95 km per hour;
"Voskhod-2M".
The model was released a year after the previous one was released. It had a similar design, the only difference being the front fork.
Despite the fact that the weight of Voskhod-2m was 121 kg, this did not in any way affect its speed performance, which amounted to 105 km per hour;
"Voskhod-3".
The third generation “Voskhod” successfully continued the good old traditions of this line. The tank, which has become larger in volume, has undergone minor changes, as has the generator, shock absorbers and brake drums. Otherwise, the motorcycle completely repeated the design features of the previous model;
"Voskhod-3M".
The technical characteristics of the new modification suggest that Soviet motorcycle production has reached a new level of development. Voskhod-3M was rightfully considered one of the best and most reliable.
Thus, it was equipped with new wheels with wear-resistant and durable tires, electrical equipment with a power of 12 W, and the main feature was an anti-theft system. Also, the Voskhod-3M had a 108 cc engine. It’s easy to guess how much the new model weighed: due to design changes, its weight reached as much as 122 kg;
"Voskhod-3M Lux".
The luxury model as a whole has not undergone any technical changes. The main emphasis by the manufacturers was on a beautiful and aesthetic appearance. Thus, the body of the unit had a high-quality varnished coating, the fork had rubber boots, and aluminum parts were supplied directly from Kyiv;
"Voskhod-3M Tourist".
A few years later, the world saw the sports and touring version of the Voskhod, which was intended for high-speed driving and operation in rocky and bumpy terrain. It had steel roll bars, a sports steering wheel, two mirrors and a trunk with several compartments and pockets;
"Voskhod-3M 01".
The line of legendary Soviet motorcycles was completed in 1989 by the modification 3M 01. Motorcyclists liked this model so much that it was released into mass production.
It was characterized by enhanced motor transmission, reduced fuel consumption and minimal toxicity of emitted gases.
Price
There were several relatively inexpensive models on the motorcycle market of the Soviet period, but the Voskhod was considered the cheapest machine. A motorcycle, the price of which today varies from 6.5 to 30 thousand rubles, can be expensive if the model is considered rare. And vice versa, a car that is broken down and running poorly will be sold at a bargain price. There are collectors in Russia who always have a Kovrovets or Voskhod in their garage next to a fancy Honda or Mitsubishi, since the level of rarity of motorcycles from the Soviet period is much higher than that of Japanese representatives. And the cost of the car in monetary terms in this case does not matter, since a completely different scale of values applies here.
