1960 Heinkel Tourist 103 A1 Scooter
Generously Lent by Richard & Mara Hunter
Reliable upscale scooter that sold well in Europe
Air-cooled engine aided by an integral cylinder fan
The Heinkel Tourist was sold as an upscale scooter complete with electric starter, speedometer, steering lock, front and rear luggage carriers, and a spare wheel. Turn signals and a clock were optional. It was more expensive than a Vespa or a Lambretta, heavier, more comfortable, and more stable. Referred to in England as "The Rolls-Royce of Scooters" and advertised in the USA as "The Cadillac of Scooters". They sold well in the UK and Europe, with over 50,000 Tourist 103 A1 scooters built from September 1957 before production ended in June 1960. Rarely seen in the USA, fewer than 350 scooters were sold, of which 175 are known to survive, according to the North American Heinkel Registry.
The air-cooled 175cc four-stroke single-cylinder is paired with a four-speed manual transmission shifted from the left grip. Large, 10-inch diameter wheels can be fitted with tubeless tires and are interchangeable between the front and rear.
Originally finished in red, the scooter was recently restored, receiving a two-stage repaint in Oslo Blue, and an engine and electrical rebuild.
Specifications:
Chassis No: 0206314
Engine: 173cc air-cooled, 1-cylinder, 4-stroke OHV, integral fan
Power: 9.5 hp, max. speed: 65 mph
Transmission: 4-speed manual, chain drive enclosed in oil bath
Chassis: Steel tube, telescoping fork, one-sided rear swingarm