Characteristics of Sputnik Bicycles

Bicycles are constantly changing and improving - this is a fact. But among their lovers are those who prefer the ageless classics. One of these rarities will be discussed now.

Sputnik bicycles attract the attention of not only collectors and connoisseurs of antiquity. They really ride on them and even cover significant distances. It is easy to find forums and associations of lovers of such bikes. People are interested in how to fix them, how to improve them even. After all, the characteristics of the Sputnik series are quite solid.

KhVZ (Kharkov Bicycle Plant) began its activity in a very rich and extraordinary historical period - in the mid-1920s.

The company in a short time has reached a leading position in the country. The release of a wide variety of bicycles was launched:

• nurseries with three wheels;
• track;
• intended for teenagers;
• highway models;
• products for professional athletes.

Speaking about the Sputnik series itself, it must be said that it is intended for a wide lay audience.

Of course, the engineers took care of the reliability of the mechanical components of the product.

Today, Kharkov Bicycle Plant continues to operate, but already under the brand name "VODAN".

This series of bicycles was produced in the 1960-80s. All of them were intended for adults. With the advent of a new era, the "Satellites" were gradually phased out.

The very first among them was the model "B-34". It was collected from 1961 to 1964. Characteristic features were:

• steering wheel sports format;
• hand brakes;
• 3 speeds;
• included in the standard package bags with tools for repair and pump.

In 1964-87, the model "B-37" was produced. On it, according to the operating experience of the previous version, the brake system and seat were modernized. Another important innovation was the addition of a ratchet to the rear hub. It was allowed to constructively install a sports steering wheel and contact pedals; these options helped to work hard. The scope of delivery included:

• the same pump and bag;
• electrical equipment;
• a call;
• spare parts for ratchets.

Since 1968, the production of the “B-39” modification began and continued until 1973., which is quite a bit different from the previous version. Only specialists could figure out what the difference between them was.

Nevertheless, on the "B-39" they put rims made of duralumin or steel. The pedals worked more efficiently. Gear shifter upgraded. To decorate the frame, front fork and wheel guards used multi-colored enamels, elegant stickers. Metal parts were coated with a layer of chromium.

Technical parameters are as follows:

• frame height 0.56 m;
• wheelbase 1.09 m;
• wheels with a diameter of 27 inches;
• tires 1.25 inches wide;
• net weight of 14.5 kg.

But in 1973 there was a fundamentally new model "B-301". According to the official specification of the manufacturer, it was intended for:

• business trips;
• tourism;
• walks.

The bike could already go at 4 different speeds. They equipped him with a soft seat, and added tuklipsy to pedals. There was a standard and advanced configuration. In the basic version, consumers got the same bag and pump, a stern reflector, a bell, a rear luggage box. For an additional fee, Kharkov Bicycle Plant was ready to provide a front trunk, a rearview mirror, a dynamo and a headlight.

The bicycle "V-301" used a closed frame. The wheelbase is 1.07 m. The height of the bike can be 0.54, 0.56 or 0.58 m. Both brakes are manual, tick-type, with a clamp to the rim. The mass of the bike is 14.2 kg.

But the "B-301" ceased to roll off the assembly line in 1975.

Over the next two years, version 153-414 was produced. It is deservedly considered a classic bike for amateur tourists. The seat is pretty stiff, and the pedals are of the “treadmill” type. The rear hub could be rated for 3 or 4 stars.

Like the 301st, there are 2 trim levels. The basic set of delivery differs only in the addition of a container for lubricating oil. From 1978 to 1982, version 153-424 was produced. Initially, it was intended for lovers of cycling, but after installing the rear trunk was also suitable for tourist trips. The frame was made of thinner pipes, a plastic seat was used, which made it easier to design; steel innovation and 8 speeds.

So, the "Sputniks" ceased to leave the factory conveyors before the onset of perestroika. But they still have quite a few fans. Acquaintance with thematic forums shows that the refinement and improvement of the "Satellites" provokes heated and lengthy discussions. Everyone agrees that these bikes have sturdy frames. Even after 40-50 years, they maintain their reliability and work stably.

There are a number of options for modernization:

• installation of advanced rudders;
• replacing seats with more ergonomic ones;
• use of the latest generation of attachments.

But some fans, on the contrary, try to maximally reproduce the old samples in their entirety. They not only comply with the originally set wheel diameter, but also try to find authentic spare parts.

There is a completely opposite approach, when they are not limited to replacing the rear wheel, but try to remake the bike as deep as possible. The total transformation in itself reveals creative inclinations.

Before you start a radical modernization, you need to figure out whether the factory mount is suitable for updated forks, brakes and other details. It should be borne in mind that models with ratchets and steel frames are unsuitable for the installation of "cartridges". Modernization is needed when it is planned to travel over rough terrain or to develop high speed. For riding within the city you can limit yourself surface tuning. It is quite possible to get by with the factory steering wheel, not changing it, but putting it in order (however, it depends on personal taste).

An overview of the B-39 Sputnik bike can be found below.