Alpina - Made in West Germany

[bthoff]

Came across an unusual bike at a fairly low price point and can't find much on it. I love the chainguard detailing and the fender, plus the Made in W Germany on the headbadge, but what is the K about? Anyone have/know about these bikes? Deciding whether to buy it, price as listed is $75.

 

[juvela]

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Hello and thank you for sharing this find.

The Alpina name can be quite a source of confusion within the world of cycles.

There is also an Alpina marque in IT, FR & CH; each of the four completely unrelated.

In IT Alpina is also a brand of spokes.

Additionally in DE Alpina is an automobile badge.

One possiblity in the case of your example is that the K on the head may be a reference of Kalkhoff, one of DE's largest manufacturers of two wheelers. If they produced the machine it could be either done as a contract or it could be a badge they own. Shall have a look-see to determine if more information available...

Here is another Alpina of DE which appears similar to your example -

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/707-...0001&campid=5335809022&icep_item=383068841790

seller of this machine dates it as "1960's" - your example clearly somewhat later

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Here is a Kalkhoff badged machine which exhibits a number of correspondences to the bicycle you located -

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/707-...0001&campid=5335809022&icep_item=164697983201

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[bthoff]

Thank you! I'm going to pass on the bike based on this but share the information to the seller, who might be interested. Very helpful! Much appreciated.

 

[juvela]

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fine decision on your part

cycle a typical base model German machine with crimped frame ends, stamped steel stem, stamped steel five-piece front hub, etc.

does not really merit giving it space in one's holdings

save that slot for a more interesting piece

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