ZSW 500

1928 DKW ZSW 500 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around DKW's sport motorcycle platform, the 1928 DKW ZSW 500 utilizes a 493.9 cc (30.1 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 14 HP (10.2 kW). With a specific output of 28.3 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.

On the scales, the ZSW 500 measures 135 kg (298 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.1 HP/kg (9.64 kg per horsepower).

Within MotoLibrary's DKW archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 1928 to 1929, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.