DKW RT 159 vs Zündapp 517 KS 50 (1969)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the DKW RT 159stacks up against the Zündapp 517 KS 50. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecDKW RT 159Zündapp 517 KS 50
Model year19691969
Price
Engine50 cc50 cc
Horsepower5 hp
Weight85 kg86 kg
Seat height30 mm
Fuel capacity3.4 L3.6 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Single disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)

DKW RT 159 vs Zündapp 517 KS 50 — which should you buy?

Picking between the DKW RT 159 and the Zündapp 517 KS 50 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the DKW RT 159 brings 5 hp in a 85 kg package, while the Zündapp 517 KS 50 counters with its own power figure at 86 kg.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: