Puch mopeds are vintage motorbikes by Austrian motor maker Puch. Puch has manufactured motorbikes since 1903 and scooter type motorbikes since 1952. To be completely sure you are buying an original Puch moped, look for the VIN number, the serial number and the Puch trademark on the frame of the motorbike.

1. Serial Numbers Rolex
2. Puch Cobra Moped

Contents: 1. USA models 2. VIN model codes
———– < partition > ———–
3. Line Drawings 4. Myrons Tomos Flyers
5. Tomos 6. Euro models 7. A55 Review

1. USA models

Tomos began in the US in 1976, but their new A3 moped came out in 1974 in Europe. Before that Tomos made Puchs, under license. 2013 was the last year Tomos USA sold mopeds, until 2017 when Tomos returned with a new importer.

Engine Names (all are under two horsepower, two speed automatic with pedals, some with kick start):
“A3” was 1974-1991
“Top end” is cast iron cylinder with piston controlled intake, two transfer ports, aluminum head.
“A35” was 1992-2006
“Top end” is cast iron cylinder with reed valve intake, bigger fins, aluminum head says TOMOS.
“Bottom end” has wider gears and clutches, bigger roller clutch, more solid cases.
“A55” was 2004 and later
“Top end” is all-aluminum cylinder with piston controlled intake, four transfer ports, aluminum head.
“Bottom end” is the same as A35.

Speed Versions: Starting in late 1976, to satisfy different US state laws, Tomos made three speed versions, A3SL 20mph, A3GM 25mph, and A3SP 30mph. Fortunately, everything is the same on the three speed versions except the piston and the rear chain sprocket. The 30mph 2hp has a piston 50mm tall, and a 22 tooth rear sprocket. The 25mph 1.5hp has a piston 52mm tall, and a 24 tooth rear sprocket. The 20mph 1.0hp has a piston 55mm tall, and a 26 tooth rear sprocket. The longer pistons, below the wrist pin, restrict the intake port opening. Cut the intake side of the piston bottom skirt, to make the total length 50mm, which is 47mm at the edge. See Pistons 10mm Pin. Then change the rear sprocket to 22 tooth, to go the normal speed of 28 to 30 mph.

Pedal or Kick:Before 1989 all models had pedals. They were “true” mopeds. From 1989 on, Tomos also made most models with a kick starter and foot pegs. Here the versions are called “pedal” or “kick” for short.

1975 Tomos Automatic

1975-1976

In 1975 Tomos introduced the two speed automatic moped to the US, simply called “Automatic”. The engine was called an “A3”.

1975 to early 1976 colors were salmon red or pink orange.

1975 to early 1976 stickers: black with yellow outline TOMOS, white stripes, chrome background

late 1976-77 A3SP (30)
late 1976-77 A3GM (25)
late 1976-77 A3SL (20)

1976-1977

The meaning of “Sport”: In 1977-78, models with long seats were called Sport.

late 1976 to early 1979 colors were metallic red, metallic blue, metallic brown, and metallic lime.

late 1976 to early 1977 stickers: white with black outline TOMOS, white or black swirls, 2 speed automatic in lower case, all on clear background

1977 stickers

1977 stickers: similar to “late 1976” but with silver background and all capitals.There were 6 different “1977” style sticker sets: 2 seat versions (solo or long “Sport”) times 3 speed versions (20, 25 or 30mph).

1977 “clown” stickers: These were not on many bikes.

1977 A3SP Sport (30)
1977 A3GM Sport (25)
1977 A3SL Sport (20)

late 1977 A3SP (30)
has “1978” style stickers
It does not say Sport on the side panels because it has a solo seat.

1978 A3SP Sport 30mph
1978 A3GM Sport 25mph
1978 A3SL Sport 20mph

1978-1979

1978 new logo: circle with 3 shades of blue stripes above black TOMOS, dark blue below

1978 stickers (late 1977 to early 1979) came in three flavors

late 1977 to early 1979 stickers: with similar shaded stripes. There were 18 different “1978” style sticker sets: 3 color versions (blue, green, or red/brown) times 2 seat versions (solo or long “Sport”) times 3 speed versions (20, 25 or 30mph).

1978 A3GM Sport
long seat

The 1978 A3SP Sport was nicknamed “the wheelie king” because the first speed torque along with the long seat and no luggage rack, allowed for easy and massive wheelies.

1978 A3SP Sport

The “wheelie king” did not last long. By late 1979 the long seat was made shorter and one-rider-only warning stickers were added.

The 1980’s were the beginning of warning stickers, on mopeds in general. Over the years more and longer warning labels appeared, on mopeds and all consumer products.

1979-1980

Bullet and Silver Bullet: In late 1979 the Bullet and Silver Bullet model names were introduced.

Bullet was standard. Silver Bullet was deluxe, with “mag” wheels, turn signals, and oil injection.

1979-80 Silver Bullet

late 1979 to 1980 stickers: white TOMOS against white and black stripes that point forward at top. The stickers changed style and stopped saying Sport, or A3SP, or A3GM, or A3SL. Instead there were two sticker sets, white and black that said “Bullet”, or black and red that said “Silver Bullet”. The engine had either Tomos SP (30mph) or Tomos GM (25mph) sticker on the right side.

late 1979 to 1980 colors: In late 1979 the met lime and met brown colors were discontinued. Silver was introduced.

Silver Bullet: The Silver Bullet had more features than the Bullet: oil injection, turn signals, mag type wheels, luggage rack, a lift-up seat (to get to the two stroke engine oil tank) and chrome fenders. Oil injection means you don’t have to mix the oil and gasoline.

Racks and seats: Before 1979, the long seat Tomos models did not have luggage racks. In 1979 Tomos made the “pommel horse” style seat, which is shorter. It had a zipper on the side leading to a tool compartment. The “pommel horse” was too short for two people, intentionally. But it left some room for a luggage rack. Some 1979-80 Bullets had the 1977-78 two-person seat with no luggage rack. They did not all change to “pommel horse” at once.

1979 Bullet with a bent fork

1980 Bullet faded met red
seat is re-covered, pleated

79-80 Bullet (30 mph)
79-80 Bullet (25 mph)
79-80 Bullet (20 mph)

1979-81 Silver Bullet SP (2.0hp 30mph)
1979-81 Silver Bullet GM (1.5hp 25mph)
1979-81 Silver Bullet SL (1.0hp 20mph)

Met red fade: Many metallic red Tomos mopeds are faded, to appear orange, from sun exposure. Above left is original red, right is faded red. Even new parts painted red will be faded if they were exposed to light. Only bikes that have been kept in the dark most of the time, or under a blanket, are not faded.

1981-1985

1981-85 colors: metallic red, metallic blue, silver, black

1981-85 stickers: white TOMOS against black and red stripes that turn upward at top

Not shown are the lower side BULLET and SILVER BULLET stripes and KICK START.

Model Codes: 1981 was the start of mandatory, 17-digit, encoded Vehicle Identification Numbers for motor vehicles worldwide.

V.I.N. digits 5 and 6 are the two-digit model code. Here the model codes are bold purple. They are from Tomos parts and owners manuals, up to 2002, and actual bikes after that.

0181-85 Tomos Bullet (30)
02 81-85 Tomos Bullet (25)
03 81-85 Tomos Bullet (20)
1981 list $549, oil injection,
ZEM/Ducati 6V40W mag, points

041981 Silver Bullet (30)
051981 Silver Bullet (25)
061981 Silver Bullet (20)
oil injection, snowflake mag wheels, 1979-80 stickers

071981-83 Silver Bullet 30
no oil injection, spoke whls
1981 list $589
ZEM/Ducati mag, points
6V40W AC lights, DC sigs

081981-85 Silver Bullet (30)
091981-85 Silver Bullet (25)
101981-85 Silver Bullet (20)
oil injection, 5-star mag wheels
1981 list $649, oil injection,
Ducati magneto, points ignition
6V 40W AC lights, DC turn signals

1185-86 Golden Bullet 30
1985 list $679, oil inject

Early Golden Bullet (model code 11):The late 1985 to early 1986 Golden Bullet had the older seat, Magura controls, wiring and electrical equipment, like a 1985 Silver Bullet.

Golden Bullet (model code 13): The late 1986 to 1988 Golden Bullet had the newer seat, more powerful magneto, Domino “80s black” controls, and electrical wiring and switches, like a 1987 Golden Bullet.

1986-1991

1986-91 colors:metallic red, metallic blue, black

Side covers: Bullet had matching blue or red, but Bullet TT had black.

1986-91 Golden Bullet

1986-91 stickers: same as 1981-85 except BULLET and GOLDEN BULLET side stripes are curved

1987-88 Bullet TT stickers are slightly different from 1989-91. 1989-91 Bullet TT has longer and more color stripes, and is the same as 1992-93 Bullet TT.

First top tank: Tomos introduced it’s first “top tank” moped in 1987, the Bullet TT. It was a Bullet with the “look” of a motorcycle.

First kick model: The 1987 Bullet TT was the first “kick” model offered in the US.

6V to 12V: The lighting system (magneto, light bulbs, and horn) changed in 1986, from 6 volt to 12 volt, still alternating current (AC). The wires became thinner. The switches changed, because the controls changed. The 1986-91 switches are integrated into the Domino controls. Before they were clamped onto the handlebar separately. All of the lighting equipment is still made by CEV.

All black engines: All of the 1986-91 Tomos “late” A3 engines were black. Before 1986, the basic Bullet models had natural aluminum engine cases.

Cases: The 1986-91 crank cases were cut wider for modern one-piece bearings, 17x40x12 6302. Before 1986 they had 17x40x10 L17 three-piece bearings, obsolete and hard to get.

Carb: The carb is a Dellorto SHA14/12P, not an Encarwi A83, but still 12mm.

Controls; The controls are Domino “1980’s black”, not Magura. The throttle cable is single ended (universal), not double ended and specific.

Wheels: The wheels are still Grimeca cast aluminum alloy, “5-star” style with sealed bearings, not “snowflake” style with loose balls and cones.

121986-88 Bullet pedal (30)
1987 list $599, 50:1 gas/oil mix,
CEV 6418 magneto, points ign.
12V 28W AC lights

1386-88 Golden Bullet pedal (30)
1987 list $699, oil injection,
CEV 6436 magneto, points ign.
12V 75W AC lights

1487-88 Bullet TT pedal (30)
1987 list $699, oil inject.
CEV 6418 mag, points
12V 28W AC lights

1987-88 Golden Bullet TTLX 30 pedal
1987 list $799, oil injection,
CEV 6436 magneto, points ign,
12V 75W AC lights

2086-89 Bullet A3-01 (20) pedal
same as Bullet (25), except for
restricted exhaust

2889-91 Bullet TT (30) kick
31 89-91 Bullet TT (30) pedal
1990 list $799, oil injection,
Iskra 1215 magneto, points
12V 50W AC lights

2789-91 Golden Bullet TTLX (30) kick
3089-91 Golden Bullet TTLX (30) pedal
1990 list $899, oil injection,
Iskra 1215 magneto, points ign.
12V 50W AC lights

2689-91 Tomos Bullet (30) kick
2989-91 Tomos Bullet (30) pedal
1990 list $649, 50:1 gas/oil mix,
Iskra 1221 magneto, points ign,
12V 28W AC lights

3089-91 Golden Bullet pedal (30)
1990 list $799, oil injection,
Iskra 1215 magneto, points ign.
12V 50W AC lights

3389-91 Tomos Bullet TS (30)
pedal metallic blue
turn signals, no oil injection

First square headlights: were on 1989-91 Bullet TT models. From 1992 to 1997 square headlights were on all models, and most models from 1998 to 2013.

The first A35 engines were on the last batch of 1991 models. The next year 1992 the A3 engine was discontinued, replaced by the beefier A35.

Pryer/Tomos Trikes: Late 1980’s Tomos 3-wheel mopeds were made by Pryer Motorcraft, in Ada, Ohio USA. The front “bike part” is made by Tomos, and the rear “trike part” is made by Pryer. In the early 1980’s, Pryer made trike rear end kits for Gadabout and Motomarina Tri-Power 3-wheel mopeds, with Minarelli engines. By the late 1980’s only Tomos was making new mopeds for sale in the US. The same trike kits fit any single left side chain drive moped, pretty much.

For 1992-later Pryer had different choices for the cargo box. Hot food, cold food, flat bed, or a small frame version with either a basket or a locking box. Because a Tomos automatic moped starts easy, with a backwards kick, even stationary with the rear tires on the ground, they make the best choice for a heavy-cargo trike. Other moped trikes with Puch or Minarelli engines must first get the trike moving forward above 7mph to start the engine. See Brands/America/others scroll down to Pryer, for more info.

1992 Pryer hot food vendor

’92 Pryer ice cream trike

Birth of a Nation: After the civil war, in 1992 Yugoslavia’s republics became separate nations. Tomos VIN digits 1,2,3 changed from Yugoslavia Two (VY2) to Slovenia One (ZZ1), after the former Yugoslavian Republic of Slovenia became a separate nation.

1992-1995

1992-95 colors: white, dark blue, dark green, emerald green, sky blue, red, black, dark gray, silver

stickers: 1992-93 A35 Bullet TT (white) has the same stickers as 1989-91 A3 Bullet TT (red or blue)

A35 Engine: New A35 reed-valve engine with wider gears and clutches, and 32% more torque.

After 1991, there are no more speed versions. All models are 30mph 2hp.

Controls: New HR (Hidria Rotomatika) controls/levers that say TOMOS, not Domino

Same Dellorto SHA14/12P carburetor center mounted

Same CEV or Saturnus square headlight, CEV electrics

Wheels: New style, nicknamed “web”, cast aluminum alloy, made by Tomos. New Grimeca-compatible cast aluminum brake plates, 90 x 20mm Grimeca-compatible “V-spring” brake shoes.

341992-93 Tomos A35 Bullet
pedal white
1992 list $899, oil injection,
Iskra magneto, points ignition
12V 80W AC lights, turn signals

351992-93 Tomos A35 Bullet TT
pedal white
1992 list $1049, oil injection,
Iskra magneto, points ignition
12V 80W AC lights, turn signals

361992-93 Tomos A35 Colibri
pedal red
1992 list $1099, oil injection,
Iskra magneto, points ignition
12V 80W AC lights, turn signals

381992 Tomos A35 Golden Bullet
pedal midnight blue sparkle (dark blue)
1992 list $949, oil injection
Iskra magneto, points ignition
12V 80W AC lights, turn signals

391992 A35 Golden Bullet TTLX
pedal dark green, dark blue
1992 list $1099, oil injection,
Iskra magneto, points ignition
12V80W AC lights, turn signals

3993 Gold. Bullet TTLX
pedal black
41 kick black not shown

401992-93 Bullet TT
kick white

421993-94 Tomos Sprint pedal
431993-94 Tomos Sprint kick
red, black, sky blue
1994 list $899, 50:1 gas/oil mix,
1993: IDM magneto, points ignition
1994: IDM or Iskra, CDI electronic
1995: Iskra magneto, CDI electronic
12V 50W AC lights

In 1993-94 new model names were introduced.

Sprint: The late 1993 Sprint and 1994 Sprint TT replaced the 1993 Bullet and Bullet TT.

Targa: The 1994 Targa and Targa LX replaced the 1993 Golden Bullet and Golden Bullet TTLX.

441994-95 Tomos Targa (white with dark green) pedal
451994-95 Tomos Targa (white w/burgundy red) pedal
471994-95 Tomos Targa (white with dark green) kick
491994-95 Tomos Targa (white w/burgundy red) kick
1994 list price $1029, oil injection
1994: IDM or Iskra, CDI electronic
1995: Iskra magneto, CDI electronic
12V 80W AC lights, turn signals

44, 471994-95 Tomos Targa white and green
All 1994-95 Tomos models had side
panels that said “M-CLASS CYCLE”

42, 431993-95 Sprint
says M-CLASS CYCLE

4695 Targa LX pedal
another bent fork

461994-95 Tomos Targa LX pedal
black, red, hunter (dark) green, sky blue
481994-95 Tomos Targa LX kick
black, red
1994 list price $1199, oil injection
1994: IDM or Iskra, CDI electronic
1995: Iskra magneto, CDI electronic
12V 80W AC lights, turn signals

461994-95 Targa LX
pedal red

461995 Targa LX
pedal sky blue

5694-95 Tomos Sprint TT (oil injection) pedal
charcoal (dark) gray, royal (ultra) blue, silver
5894-95 Tomos SprintTT (oil injection) kick
black, red (not shown)
1994 list $1049, oil injection, 12V50W AC lights
1994: IDM or Iskra, CDI electronic
1995: Iskra magneto, CDI electronic

561994 Tomos Sprint TT
pedal silver

1997-2005 Tomos Off Road

2001 Super Tom

1997 Tomos TX50

Welcome, parents of 5 to 10 year old motorcycle riders. Watch out for Superman’s cousin, Super Tom. Wring, wrang. Tomos A35 two stroke, two speed power. You can’t hold it back, it’s too strong!

2003 MC50 Senior

Serial Numbers Rolex

2003 Tomos MC36

2005 MC50 Senior

2005 Tomos MC36

Welcome, race fans. The Tomos MC80 is a 79cc 3-speed semi-automatic (foot shift but no clutch).It has a Bing 14mm carburetor, 7.0 compression ratio, 5.1″ travel fork, and 105mm brake drums.Tires 2.50-16 front, 2.75-14 rear. Weight 190 lbs……

Tomos Wheels

Spoke wheel
made by Tomos
for 2.25-16 tire
90 x 20mm brakes
LH speedo driver
1974-1991 chrome

“Snowflake” wheel
made by Grimeca
for 2.25-16 tire
90 x 20mm brakes
left speedo driver
1979-1983 black

“Five Star” wheel made by Grimeca
for 2.25-16 tire
90 x 20mm brakes
left speedo driver
1983-1985 black
1985-1991 gold

“Web” wheel
made by Tomos
for 2.25-16 tire
90 x 20mm brakes
LH speedo driver
1992-1996 white
1993-1996 gray

“Slot” wheel
made by Tomos
for 2.25-16 tire
105 x 20mm brakes
LH speedo driver
1996-2006 gray
1998-2002 gold
2006-2008 black

“Ten Ray” wheel
made by Tomos
for 2.25-16 tire
105 x 20mm brakes
LH speedo driver
1997-2006 gray
1998-2006 black

Zong Chen wheel
made by Z.C.W
for 2.25-16 tire
105 x 20mm brakes
LH speedo driver
2008-2013 silver
2008-2013 black

Zong Chen wheel
made by Z.C.W
for 2.75-16 tire
LH disk brake
RH speedo driver
2008-2013 silver
2008-2013 black

1996-2006

Carburetor Location: In 1996 the carburetor location changed from center mounted to right side mounted. To the rider, the difference is not noticeable, but to the mechanic, the side mount carburetor is ten times easier to work on. Before 1996, you had to remove or at least lower the engine away from the frame to gain access to the carburetor. Changing a jet takes 50 minutes on a 1995, but only 5 minutes on a 1996.

Bigger Brakes: From 1974 to 1995 the brake drums were always 90mm diameter. From 1996 to 2013 the brake drums were 105mm diameter. So a 1996 Tomos can stop faster than a 1995 can.

Wheels: The 1996-2007 wheels, cast aluminum alloy, made by Tomos, had two styles, “Slot” or “Ten Ray”, both with 105mm brake drums and motorcycle type sealed wheel bearings. During most of the years from 1996 to 2007, Tomos would alternate wheel styles, “Slot” one year, “10 Ray” the next. The wheel styles changed at different times of the year for different models. Color also changed. See above.

611996-99 Sprint pedal
641996-99 Sprint kick
black, silver
1998 list $1029
50:1 gas/oil mix,
Iskra magneto, CDI
12V 50W AC lights

6296-99 Targa LX pedal
6596-99 Targa LX kick
black, red, met blue,
99 yellow, white
1998 list $1349
oil injection,
Iskra magneto, CDI
12V 80W AC lights

631996-99 Targa pedal
661996-99 Targa kick
black, silver, teal,
burgundy
1998 list $1199
oil injection,
Iskra magneto, CDI
12V 80W AC lights

1996-99 Sprint stickers

In 2000 the Sprint and Targa stickers changed slightly. There were no replacement Targa stickers sold by Tomos, because the name Targa was owned by Porsche. So Targa and Targa LX stickers have always been scarce.

612000-01 Tomos Sprint pedal
642000-01 Tomos Sprint kick
black, silver
2001 list $1049, 50:1 gas/oil,
Iskra magneto, CDI electronic
12V 50W AC lights

622000-01 Tomos Targa LX pedal
652000-01 Tomos Targa LX kick
black, red, met blue, 99 yellow
2001 list $1379, oil injection,
Iskra magneto, CDI electronic
12V 80W AC lights

632000-01 Tomos Targa pedal
662000-01 Tomos Targa kick
black, silver, teal, ultra blue
2001 list $1229, oil injection,
Iskra magneto, CDI electronic
12V 80W AC lights

612002-05 Tomos Sprint pedal
642002-05 Tomos Sprint kick
black

622002-04 Tomos LX pedal
652002-04 Tomos LX kick
black, red, met blue

632002-04 Tomos Tomos pedal
662002-04 Tomos Tomos kick
black, red, teal, ultra blue

6105-06 A35 Sprint pedal
6405-06 A35 Sprint kick
black, silver

6205-06 A35 LX pedal
6505-06 A35 LX kick
black, red, 05 yellow

6305-06 A35 ST pedal
6605-06 A35 ST kick
black, red, ultra blue, purple

62 2005 LX Limited pedal
65 2005 LX Limited kick
silver1955-2005

722002 Revival pedal
752002 Revival kick
dark blue
2002 list $1649, oil inj
Iskra magneto, CDI ign
12V 80W AC main lights,
12V DC turn, horn, brake
electric start, disk brake

Puch Cobra Moped

72‘03-04 Revival pedal
75‘03–04 Revival kick
dark blue, burgundy

2004-2013

Low Emission High Efficiency A55 Engine: 2004 was the first year of the new A55 engine, but only on the Revival TS. In 2005 the new A55 “top end” was on Revival, Streetmate and Arrow models. The other models continued using the older A35 engine through early 2006. Through most of 2006 there was no supply, as US EPA laws for on-road under-250cc vehicles took effect. It became illegal to sell under-250cc new street motorcycles in the US, made after Jan 2006, unless they were compliant with EPA air pollution testing standards and labeling requirements. Those requirements were so strict that only a handful of two-stroke scooters and mopeds were able to comply. Tomos developed the A55 clean burning moped engine to meet these US clean air standards, as well as other countries like Switzerland.

Early A55 Idling Problem – Stumbles after a long red light: It took awhile to get some idling problems solved. During early 2005, Tomos sent free replacement intake manifolds and other things as a kit to dealers for each A55 bike that needed it. The new rubber and steel intake pipes had a constant diameter, while the old ones had two steps where the diameter changed suddenly. Even with that, the A55 often does still stumble if it’s idle mixture is adjusted too rich.

While there were a few 2006 Sprints, made at the end of 2005, there may not have been any 2006 ST or LX made at all.

By 2007 all Tomos mopeds had the A55 engine.

762006-08 Arrow-R kick
772006-08 Arrow-R pedal
2006-07: matte black
2008: black (gloss)

76’06-07 Arrow-R kick
77‘06-07 Arrow-R pedal
99 yellow

782005 Arrow pedal
??2005 Arrow kick
silver/black

792005-11 Streetmate kick
802005-11 Streetmate pedal
silver

792007-08 Streetmate kick
802007-08 Streetmate pedal
copper

792007-08 Streetmate kick
802007-08 Streetmate pedal
2007: matte black
2008: black (gloss)

812004-11 Revival TS kick
822004-11 Revival TS pedal
midnight blue sparkle

812004-05 Revival TS kick
822004-05 Revival TS pedal
burgundy red

812006-08 Revival TS kick
822006-08 Revival TS pedal
dark gray sparkle

872007-08 Sprint kick
882007-08 Sprint pedal
black (silver wheels)

872008-09 Sprint kick
882008-09 Sprint pedal
black (silver wheels)
silver (silver wheels)

872010-13 Sprint kick
882010-13 Sprint pedal
black (silver wheels)
silver (black wheels)

892007-08 ST kick
902007-08 ST pedal
black (silver wheels)
red, ultra blue (blk whls)

892008 ST kick
902008 ST pedal
black (black wheels)
red, ult blue (silver whls)

892009-11 ST kick
902009-11 ST pedal
black (silver wheels)
red, ultra blue (blk whls)

892012 ST kick
902012 ST pedal
black (silver wheels)
red (black wheels)

912007-08 LX kick
922007-08 LX pedal
black (silver wheels)
red, silver (black whls)

912008-09 LX kick
922008-09 LX pedal
black (silver wheels)
red, silver(silver whls)

912010-11 LX kick
922010-11 LX pedal
black (silver wheels)
red,silver,ublue (blk whls)

912012-13 LX kick
922012-13 LX pedal
black (silver wheels)
silver (black wheels)

792008 Streetmate-R pedal
black, sky blue(silver wheels)
red (black wheels)

932009-10 Streetmate-R kick
942009-10 Streetmate-R pedal
sky blue (silver wheels)

932009-11 Streetmate-R kick
942009-11 Streetmate-R pedal
red (black wheels)

932011-13 Streetmate-R kick
942011-13 Streetmate-R pedal
silver (black wheels)

2017-2018

B1 2017-18 Tomos Sprint pedal, black (black aluminum wheels)

B1 2017-18 Tomos Sprint Classic pedal, ivory (chrome spoke wheels)

B1 2017-18 Tomos Racing TT pedal or kick, light green

Tomos VIN numbers (US models):

From 2000 to 2013, the US importer was Tomos USA, a division of Hidria (Tomos).

From 2014 to 2016, there was no US importer. No US models were made or sold.

From 2017 on, the US importer was PGI Moto (Tomos America). The VINs changed.

2013 Streetmate R kick: ZZ1A9312xDKxxxxxx
2013 Streetmate R pedal: ZZ1A9412xDKxxxxxx

2017 Sprint xxxxxx pedal: ZZ1MB1BExHSxxxxxx MSRP $1750 (plus assembly, freight, tax)
2017 Sprint Classic pedal: ZZ1MB1BExHSxxxxxx MSRP $1825 (plus assembly, freight, tax)
2017 Racing TT xx pedal: ZZ1MB1BExHSxxxxxx MSRP $2250 (plus assembly, freight, tax)
2017 Racing TT xx kick: ZZ1MB1BExHSxxxxxx MSRP $2250 (plus assembly, freight, tax)

The 2017-18 Tomos models all have the same model code.

So a 1981-2013 Tomos can be identified by the VIN code, but a 2017-18 cannot.

2. VIN model codes

Motor vehicles worldwide since 1981 (and USA-made since 1954) have a 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number.

VIN digits 1, 2, 3 are the world manufacturer identifier.
Tomos VIN digits 1, 2, 3 are VY2 (Yugoslavia 2) up to 1992, ZZ1 (Slovenia 1) from 1992 on

VIN digits 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 are the vehicle attributes.
Tomos VIN digit 4 is “A” up to 2013, “M” after 2013.
Tomos VIN digits 5, 6 are the 2-digit model code. See table below.
Tomos VIN digits 7, 8 is “11” up to 1992, “12” in 1992-2013, “BE” after 2013.

VIN digit 9 is a security or error check digit
VIN digit 10 is the year A=1980, B=1981, C=1982, D=1983, E=1984, F=1985, G=1986, H=1987, J=1988, K=1989
VIN digit 10 is the year L=1990, M=1991, N=1992, P=1993, R=1994, S=1995, T=1996, V=1997, W=1998, X=1999
VIN digit 10 is the year Y=2000, 1=2001, 2=2002, 3=2003, 4=2004, 5=2005, 6=2006, 7=2007, 8=2008, 9=2009
VIN digit 10 is the year A=2010, B=2011, C=2012, D=2013, E=2014, F=2015, G=2016, H=2017, J=2018, K=2019
VIN digit 10 is the year L=2020, M=2021, N=2022, P=2023, R=2024, S=2025, T=2026, V=2027, W=2028, X=2029

VIN digit 11 is the plant code.
Tomos VIN digit 11 is “K” (Koper) up to 2013, and “S” after 2013.

VIN digits 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 are the 6-digit serial number.

model year ngine model name x vspxed (mph) grid xxx tire size xxxxxxx controls xxarburetor xxx brake size
code range engine model name xxxx version column frontxx rear xxcontrols xxx carburetor xxx front rear

00 1975-76 A3 Automatic xxxxxxx pedal (30) 03 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi A83 xxx x 90 90
001976-78 A3 A3SP xxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi A83 xxx x 90 90
001976-78 A3 A3GM xxxxxxxxxx pedal (25)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi A83 xxx x 90 90
001976-78 A3 A3SL xxxxxxxxxxx pedal (20) 04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi A83 xxxxx 90 90
001979-80 A3 Bullet SP xxxxxxxxx pedal (30)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi A83 xxxxx 90 90
001979-80 A3 Bullet GM xxxxxxxx pedal (25) 04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi A83 xxxxx 90 90
00 1979-80 A3 Bullet SL xxxxxxxxx pedal (20) 04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi A83 xxxxx 90 90
011981-85 A3 Bullet SP xxxxxxxxx pedal (30)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/102 90 90
02 1981-85 A3 Bullet GM xxxxxxxx pedal (25)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/102 90 90
03 1981-85 A3 Bullet SL xxxxxxxxx pedal (20)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/102 90 90
041981-83 A3 Silver Bullet SP xxxx pedal(30)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/102 90 90
051981-83 A3 Silver Bullet GMxxx pedal (25)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/102 90 90
061981-83 A3 Silver Bullet SLxxxx pedal (20)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/102 90 90
071984-85 A3 Silver Bullet (spoke)xpedal (30)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/103 90 90
081984-85 A3 Silver Bullet SPxxxx pedal (30)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/103 90 90
091984-85 A3 Silver Bullet GMxxxx pedal (25)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/103 90 90
101984-85 A3 Silver Bullet SLxxxxx pedal (20)04 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/103 90 90
111985-86 A3 Golden Bulletxxxxxx pedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/103 90 90
11 1985-86A3 Golden Bulletxxxxxxpedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Magura Encarwi 88A85/103 90 90
121986-88 A3 Bulletxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
12 1986-88 A3 Bulletxxxxxxxxxxxxpedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
131986-88 A3 Golden Bulletxxxxxx pedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
131986-87 A3 Golden Bulletxxxxxxpedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
14 1986-88 A3 Bullet TTxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
14 1986-87 A3 Bullet TTxxxxxxxxxxpedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
15
16
17
18
191986-88 A3 Golden Bullet TTLX xpedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
191986-87 A3 Golden Bullet TTLX xpedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
201986-89 A3 Bullet A3-01(1hp)xxxpedal (20)0same as Bullet (25) except for restricted exhaust 90 90
21
22
23
24
25
261989-91 A3E Bulletxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
271989-91 A3E Golden Bullet TTLXx kick (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
281989-91 A3E Bullet TTxxxxxxxxXx kick (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
291989-91 A3E Bullet xxxxxxxxxxx pedal(30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
291989-91 A3E Bullet xxxxxxxxxxx pedal(25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
301989-91 A3E Golden Bullet TTLX pedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
301989-91 A3E Golden Bullet TTLX pedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
301989-91 A3E Golden Bullet TTLX pedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
301989-91 A3E Golden Bullet TTLX pedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
31 1989-91 A3E Bullet TTxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
311989-91 A3E Bullet TTxxxxxxxxxpedal (25)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
32
331989-91 A3E Bullet TS (turn sigs) pedal (30)05 2.25-16 2.25-16 Domino Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
341991-93 A35 Bulletxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
351991-93 A35 Bullet TT xxxxxxxxxpedal (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
361992-93 A35 Colibrixxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
37
381992-93 A35 Golden Bullet xxxxxpedal (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
391992-93 A35 Golden Bullet TTLX xpedal (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
401992-93 A35 Bullet TT xxxxxxxxxx kick (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
411992-93 A35 Golden Bullet TTLX xxkick (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
421993-95 A35 Sprintxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)07 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
43 1993-95 A35 Sprintxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30)07 2.25-16 2.25-16HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
441994-95 A35 Targa (white/grn) xx pedal (30)08 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
451994-95 A35 Targa (white/red) xx pedal (30)08 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
461994-95 A35 Targa LXxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)08 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
471994-95 A35 Targa (white/grn) xxx kick (30)08 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
481994-95 A35 Targa LXxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30)08 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
491994-95 A35 Targa (white/red) xxx kick (30)08 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
50
51
52
53
54
55
561994-95 A35 Sprint TT (oil inject) pedal (30)07 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
57
581994-95 A35 SprintTT (oil inject) x kick (30)07 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
591994-95 A35 Colibri xxxxxxxxxxxxpedal (30)06 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto SHA14/12P 90 90
60
611996-02 A35 Sprintxxxxxxxxxx x pedal (30) 10 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
612003-06 A35 Sprint xxxxxxxxxx x pedal (30)12 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
621996-02 A35 Targa LX xxxxxxxxx x pedal (30) 09 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
622003-06 A35 Tomos LX, LX xx xxxx pedal (30) 12 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
622005-06A35 Tomos LX Limitedx xx pedal (30) 11 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
631996-02 A35 TargaxxxxxxxxxXx pedal (30) 09 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
632003-06 A35 Tomos, ST xxxxx xx pedal (30) 12 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
641996-02 A35 Sprintxxxxxxxxx xxxx kick (30) 10 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
642003-06 A35 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30)12 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
651996-02 A35 Targa LXxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 09 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
652003-06 A35 Tomos LX, LX xxxxxxxx kick (30)12 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
652005-06A35 Tomos LX Limitedxxxxx kick (30)11 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
661996-02 A35 Targaxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 09 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
662003-06 A35 Tomos, ST xxxxxxxxxx kick (30)12 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 105 105
67
68
691998-99 A35 TT Classic xxxxxx xxx pedal (30)11 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Del.SHA14/12P side 90 90
70
71
722002-04 A35 Revivalxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)15 2.50-17 3.25-16 Domino Del.SHA14/12P side disk 118
73
74
752002-04 A35 Revival xxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30)15 2.50-17 3.25-16 Domino Del.SHA14/12P side disk 118
762006-08 A55 Arrow Rxxxxxxxxxxxxkick (30)17 both 120/70-12 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 xx disk 110
772006-08 A55 Arrow R xxxxxxxxxxxpedal(30)17 both 120/70-12 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 110
782005-06 A55 Arrowxxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30)16 both 120/70-12 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 110
782005-06 A55 Arrowxxxxxxxx xxxxx kick (30)16 both 120/70-12 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 110
792005-07 A55 Streetmatexxxxxx xxx kick (30)20 2.75-17 3.25-16 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
792008-09 A55 Streetmatexxxxx xxxx kick (30) 21 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
792010-11 A55 Streetmatexxxxx xxxxkick (30) 22 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
802005-07 A55 Streetmatexxxx xxxpedal (30) 20 2.75-17 3.25-16 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
802008-09 A55 Streetmatexxxx xxxpedal (30) 21 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
802010-11 A55 Streetmatexxxxx xxpedal (30) 22 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
812004-07 A55 Revival TS xxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 23 2.50-17 3.25-16 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
812008-09 A55 Revival TS xxxxxxxxxxkick (30) 24 2.50-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
812010-11 A55 Revival TS xxxxxxxxxxkick (30) 25 2.50-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
822004-07 A55 Revival TS xxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 23 2.50-17 3.25-16 Domino Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
822008-09A55 Revival TS xxxxxxxxxpedal (30) 24 2.50-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
822010-11A55 Revival TS xxxxxxxxxpedal (30) 25 2.50-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
83
84
85
86
872007-08 A55 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 32 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
872008-09 A55 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 33 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
872010-13 A55 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 34 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
882007-08 A55 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 32 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
882008-09 A55 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 33 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
882010-13 A55 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 34 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
892007-08A55 ST xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 29 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
892008-09A55 ST xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 30 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
89 2010-13A55 ST xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 31 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
90 2007-08A55 ST xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 29 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
90 2008-09A55 ST xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 30 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
90 2010-13A55 ST xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 31 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
91 2007-08A55 LX xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 26 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
91 2008-09A55 LX xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 27 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
91 2010-13A55 LX xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kick (30) 28 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
922007-08 A55 LX xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 26 2.25-16 2.25-16 HR xxxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
922008-09 A55 LX xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 27 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
922010-13 A55 LX xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pedal (30) 28 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
93 2008-09 A55 Streetmate R xxxxxxxxkick (30) 18 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
93 2010-13 A55 Streetmate R xxxxxxxxkick (30) 19 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
94 2008-09 A55 Streetmate R xxxxxxx pedal (30) 18 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
94 2010-13 A55 Streetmate R xxxxxxx pedal (30) 19 2.75-17 3.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 105
95
96
97
98
99
B1 2017-18 A55 Sprint xxxxxxxxxxxxxpedal (30)35 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
B1 2017-18 A55 Sprint Classic xxxxxxpedal (30)36 2.25-16 2.25-16 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 105 105
B1 2017-18 A55 Racing TT xxxxxxxxxxpedal (30)37 both 120/70-12 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 110
B1 2017-18 A55 Racing TT xxxxx0xxxxxkick (30)37 both 120/70-12 TBS xxx Dellorto PHVA14 x0 disk 110

Sources

1. Tomos Parts Manuals: From 1981-2002 model codes and versions were listed on the inside cover.
2. Tomos Owners Manuals:Most appear in the consumer information about braking and passing ability.
3. Tomos Sales Flyers:They do not show model codes, but show everything else, versions and colors.
4. Dealer Price Lists:They show exactly what models and colors were offered at that date.
5. Actual Bikes:Myrons has photographed and documented the specs and model code of every new Tomos model since 2000, and many other older models whenever the VIN number was known.

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by Phil Rogers

With the demise of the BSA Bantam in the early 1970s, the PostOffice evidently felt able to experiment with the more widelyavailable alternative - the moped. A large trial saw thepurchase of small batches of Garelli, Honda, MotobécaneMobylette and Steyr-Puch Maxis as replacements for the ageingRaleigh Runabouts and Supermatics. A total of 25 Steyr-PuchMaxi machines was purchased in 1971 as part of this evaluation;this after the company demonstrator, UAU 86H, was shown tothe Post Office. These 25 Maxis were the first and last tobe used by the Post Office as the corporation elected in favourof the larger Puch MV50. This machine was, along with theBSA Bantam, to prove the mainstay of the two-wheeled operationsin the 1970s.

The initial batch of deliveries was split between Postal andTelegram operations with the former taking 170 and the latter190.

These early machines were a pedal-start, two-speed versionfinished, as were all of this type, in Post Office red. Additions were front number plates, steel leg shields and a small'toast rack' carrier over the rear mudguard to fix the twopanniers to. These canvas panniers were used mainly ontelegram bikes while the postal versions were fitted with a steelframe carrier that was bolted on and used to carry the postman'scanvas mail pouch. All Royal Mail mopeds were single-seatbikes.

The Royal Mail serial number was always stencilled on thenear-side of the petrol tank in white letters, using a prefix of'P' for postal work and 'T' for telegram duties. Each mopedhad its own fleet number, known as a serial, and the system usedfrom 1971 is still in use today. Consisting of sevenfigures, the first figure denotes the year of purchase, socurrent vehicles are entering service with a figure '5'indicating 1995/96 fiscal year of purchase. The second andthird digits denote the vehicle type with the final four digitsdenoting the individual vehicle in a series from 0001 upwards foreach type. Other markings included the tyre pressures inwhite on the near-side mudguards (25 front, 32 rear) while theleg-shields on the early examples carried 'PO' in shaded goldblock letters vertically on both sides (the same style as the'GPO' lettering used on the leg-shields of Bantams).

The 1976 delivery of Puch MV50s found the type fitted with alarger fuel tank as per the Puch M2 in place of the MS50 styletank. The need for a front number plate had been dispensedwith, although several mudguards were drilled out forfitting. Another change was a new style of leg-shields,which were of white self-coloured glass fibre design.

The normal practice was for the Queen's Cypher sticker (goldon a red square) to be fitted to the near-side while on theoffside a similarly coloured sticker bore the legend 'POSTOFFICE' vertically. This was the correct way to positionthe stickers although several were noted the wrong wayround. The final delivery of these bikes took place in 1979with the bulk being used for telegram deliveries. The majorchange on this 'moped' was a kick-start in place of the old pedalstart and, in place of the hand-change gears, it had afoot-change system - basically, the moped had become amotorbike. This last batch of MV50s was, like the 1976batch, slow in entering service, mainly being stored untilneeded. This process could be lengthy: I have a 1976-builtbike that was not registered until 1979. A lot sufferedaccidents with young riders and a fair proportion was stolen, sokeeping a reserve fleet in store was good housekeeping by thecorporation.

The demise of the telegram was on the cards during the late1970s. With the split up of the old Post Office into twocorporations the end was in sight. In 1969 there were 1,500vehicles involved in telegram delivery work but this had shrunkto about 400 by 1981. Telegrams, although delivered by thepostal service, were deemed a Telecom function and this meantthat one corporation delivered the loss-making telegrams for theother corporation. Just a handful of Bantams supported thePuch fleet on telegram duties right up until the end of serviceon 1st October 1982. Disposal of these vehicles was carriedout at a local level with most being sold through the variousHead Postmasters, normally at very reasonable prices. Several of these machines carried on finding work on postalduties before the arrival of the Honda City Express.

The mopeds have survived quite well since withdrawal although,as is the case with most mopeds, they have to be dug out ofgarden sheds.

Those shown in parentheses have been renumbered.

Totals: Puch Maxi = 25, Puch MV50 = 2,862.

First published - December 1995

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