Moped [Puch MS 50]
Maker and role
Puch Werke AG, Manufacturer
Production date
Circa 1950s
Object detail
Accession number
2006.316.1
Maker
Production period
Description
Moped Puch MS 50 - 2-stroke, single-piston engine with a piston displacement of 49 c.c. Fitted with a 2-speed gearbox with twist-grip control on the left handlebar. Fuel tank capacity of 5.5 litres. A large, comfortable saddle (missing) with springing in front hinge and a double-layer rubber top. Light green with white paint marks on back.
Brief History
Mopeds are a class of low powered motorized vehicles in legal literature normally defined by limits on engine displacement, speed, power output, transmissions, or the requirement of pedals. Moped classification is designed to allow the use of small motorised vehicles avoiding safety restrictions and licensing charges of larger motorcycles. Some motorized bicycles, small scooters, and small motorcycles fit the definition of a moped.
Typically, mopeds are restricted to 45-50 km per hour and engines less than 50 cc. Some localities require pedals, thus making them a form of hybrid transport, using both human power and machine power. Because of their small size, many jurisdictions consider them "limited speed motorcycles."
Johann Puch, a master bicycle maker in the late 1800's, introduced the first MS-50 in 1952. It represented a dramatic departure from the bicycle-based design principles; with its steel pressed frame, fan-boosted engine cooling, 2-speed handlebar-shifted gearbox and an elaborate electrical system it had more in common with 'real' motorcycles; the first moped that was designed to be driven by its engine most of the time.
The MS-50 design's success attracted many followers and became the kingpin of its era. It remained in production virtually unchanged until 1982. They reached North-America in the late 1950s through the Sears catalogue, as the Allstate Mo-Ped.
Typically, mopeds are restricted to 45-50 km per hour and engines less than 50 cc. Some localities require pedals, thus making them a form of hybrid transport, using both human power and machine power. Because of their small size, many jurisdictions consider them "limited speed motorcycles."
Johann Puch, a master bicycle maker in the late 1800's, introduced the first MS-50 in 1952. It represented a dramatic departure from the bicycle-based design principles; with its steel pressed frame, fan-boosted engine cooling, 2-speed handlebar-shifted gearbox and an elaborate electrical system it had more in common with 'real' motorcycles; the first moped that was designed to be driven by its engine most of the time.
The MS-50 design's success attracted many followers and became the kingpin of its era. It remained in production virtually unchanged until 1982. They reached North-America in the late 1950s through the Sears catalogue, as the Allstate Mo-Ped.
Marks
PUCH Maker's Plate
Steyr - Daimler / Puch A, G - Graz / Typ MS50 Maker's Mark
Steyr - Daimler / Puch A, G - Graz / Typ MS50 Maker's Mark
Media/Materials
Credit Line
Puch Werke AG. Circa 1950s. Moped [Puch MS 50], 2006.316.1. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
![Helmet [Motorcycle]; Puch Werke AG; Circa 1950s](https://collection.motat.nz/records/images/medium/29032/462cf3777f08c35ad8c6458e79b3c5696a572abb.jpg)
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