
Hercules A 175
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 1959 Hercules A 175, a classic motorcycle that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the late 1950s sport bike movement. This light and nimble machine was designed to cater to a burgeoning market of young riders looking for a blend of performance and style. The A 175 stands out with its sleek design and efficient engineering, making it an accessible choice for both novice riders and seasoned enthusiasts. With a focus on agility and lightweight construction, this motorcycle is an attractive option for those who appreciate the charm of vintage machinery. At the heart of the Hercules A 175 is a spirited single-cylinder, two-stroke engine that displaces 173cc and delivers a robust 9.3 horsepower at 5250 RPM. Riders can expect a top speed of around 90 km/h (55.9 mph), making it a thrilling choice for spirited rides through winding roads or leisurely jaunts around town. The air-cooled engine, paired with a Bing 24mm carburettor, offers a responsive throttle and a lively ride, while the 4-speed gearbox ensures smooth transitions through gears. The wet multiplate clutch adds an extra layer of reliability, allowing riders to confidently tackle various road conditions. The A 175 is equipped with a sturdy chassis that combines both comfort and performance. The telescopic front suspension and swingarm rear suspension work harmoniously to absorb bumps, providing a smooth ride even on less-than-perfect surfaces. Stopping power is assured with reliable drum brakes, featuring a 150 mm diameter at both the front and rear, offering predictable and effective stopping capability. With a manageable weight of 140 kg (308.6 pounds) and a fuel capacity of 11.50 liters (3.04 gallons), this motorcycle strikes an excellent balance between power and practicality, ensuring that riders can enjoy longer trips without frequent stops. **
Pros
- Lightweight and Agile: The A 175’s low weight enhances maneuverability, making it ideal for city riding and twisty roads.
- Classic Design: Its vintage aesthetic appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate the timeless style of classic motorcycles.
- Easy Maintenance: The simple two-stroke engine design and accessible components make it user-friendly for maintenance and repairs.
Cons
- Limited Power: While adequate for casual rides, the 9.3 HP might feel underwhelming for those seeking high-performance thrills.
- Drum Brakes: The expanding drum brakes, while reliable, may not provide the stopping power and feel of modern disc brakes.
- Kick Start Only: The absence of an electric starter can be a drawback for some riders, especially in challenging weather conditions.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Hercules
- Model
- A 175
- Category
- Sport
- Starter
- Kick
- Power
- 9.30 HP (6.8 kW)) @ 5250 RPM
- Clutch
- Wet multiplate
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Top Speed
- 90.0 km/h (55.9 mph)
- Fuel System
- Carburettor. Bing 24mm
- Bore X Stroke
- 62.0 x 58.0 mm (2.4 x 2.3 inches)
- Displacement
- 173.00 ccm (10.56 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Air
- Engine Details
- Single cylinder, two-stroke
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Chain
- Dry Weight
- 140.0 kg (308.6 pounds)
- Fuel Capacity
- 11.50 litres (3.04 gallons)
- Power Weight Ratio
- 0.0664 HP/kg
- Seat
- Dual
- Wheels
- Spoked
- Rear Tyre
- 3.50-16
- Front Tyre
- 3.25-16
- Rear Brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Front Brakes
- Expanding brake (drum brake)
- Rear Suspension
- Swingarm
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic
- Rear Brakes Diameter
- 150 mm (5.9 inches)
- Front Brakes Diameter
- 150 mm (5.9 inches)