Kovrovets K-175

«Ковровец» К-175

The Kovrovets K-175 is a Soviet road motorcycle designed for solo riding. It was produced at the Degtyaryov Plant (ZiD) from 1956 to 1965, and during this time many modifications were released.

The first production models (70 motorcycles in total) were assembled in 1956.

The K-175 series motorcycles were equipped with a short-stroke single-cylinder two-stroke engine with a working volume of 173.7 cm³. They had a cowled rear end and a carburetor covered with a casing.

The motorcycles had 16-inch wheels with 3.25-16 tires, a fully enclosed chain, and a two-seater cushion-type saddle. Some models of the K-175 series were equipped with a semi-automatic clutch release.

Model range

K-175 (1956-1959) is a basic model based on the previous version of the K-55. The engine cylinder was made of cast iron, and there was only one muffler. The appearance of the K-175 motorcycle resembled the Jawa 250 model, which is why it was often called the “Kovrov Jawa”. The engine power was 8 HP at 5200 rpm. The maximum speed was 80 km/h, and the weight was 105 kg.
K-175A (1959-1962) is a modernized basic model. It differed from the previous model by the presence of a four-speed gearbox and a battery-less ignition system powered by an alternator. The engine was also improved: a new cylinder head with more developed fins and an increased compression ratio of 6.7 appeared, which increased the power from 8 to 8.2 HP. The G-38 generator with three ignition windings was replaced by the G-401 of the same power, but with four windings. The mufflers became non-separable, which reduced the exhaust noise to the level of international standards (85 dB). From 1959 to 1962, 374,722 Kovrovets-175A were produced.
K-175B (1962–1963) was equipped with a new carburetor (K-36), which increased the maximum power of the motorcycle to 9 HP. A contact-oil air filter was also introduced, which was attached to the frame and connected to the carburetor with a rubber pipe. A threaded connection with a flange nut was used at the junction of the exhaust pipe and the muffler. Externally, the motorcycles were distinguished by a new emblem on the gas tank and more curved edges of the fenders, which were called “lipped”. A total of 271,643 Kovrovets-175B motorcycles were produced. The dry weight of the motorcycle was 115 kg, and the maximum speed was 85 km/h.
K-175V (1963-1965) was produced in two versions: with a cast-iron cylinder and with an aluminum cylinder. The gear ratios of the gearbox and final drive were changed. Additional rebound buffer springs were added to the front fork. Engine power increased to 9.5 HP at 5200-5400 rpm. In 1964, measures were taken to improve the quality and appearance of the motorcycle: switching to high-quality enamel from the Finnish company Tikkurila, polishing light-alloy parts and other improvements. From 1963 to 1966, 451,254 motorcycles of the Kovrovets-175V model were produced.

Sports models

K-175SM is a sports motorcycle designed for multi-day competitions. It is equipped with an engine with a working volume of up to 175 cm³. Unlike the K-175A road motorcycle, this model has a forced engine with a cylinder cast from alloyed cast iron, which provides increased wear resistance. The front fork has an increased travel of up to 150 mm. The rear suspension also has an increased travel – up to 85 mm. The tires have increased cross-country ability: the rear is 3.25-19 “, the front – 2.5-19”. The wheels are equipped with reinforced spokes and enlarged brake drums with a labyrinth seal, which protects against dirt and moisture. The rear chain is open and has a guide to prevent it from jumping off the rear wheel sprocket. The engine power is 11 HP at 5200 rpm. The weight of the motorcycle is 105 kg.
K-175SMU, created in 1964, was designed to participate in multi-day sports competitions on motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 175 cubic centimeters. The frame of this model is made of alloy steel grade 30KhGSA, and the front fork travel is 150 mm. The seals in the front and rear suspension are double. The rear suspension is equipped with adjustable hydraulics. The tires have increased cross-country ability: the rear one is 3.50-19 “, the front one is 3.00-21”. The engine power is 14 HP, and the weight is 108 kg.
K-175SK and K-58SK are sport motocross motorcycles designed for competitions with engines up to 175 cm³ and up to 125 cm³, respectively. Their design includes an engine and chassis similar to the K-175SM and K-58SM motorcycles, which are designed for multi-day competitions. However, unlike them, these models are not equipped with lighting and signal devices.