Automotive History Online

Izhmash

Izhevsk Mechanical Works (RTS:IGMA) (Russian: Ижевский Mашзавод) or IZhMASh (Russian: ИЖМАШ) is a weapon manufacturer based in Izhevsk, founded in 1807 at the decree of Tsar Alexander I, and is now one of the largest corporations in its field. It makes the famous Kalashnikov series of assault rifle, along with a host of other Russian arms, including medium cannons, missiles, and guided shells. Izhmash also produces other goods, such as motorcycles and cars.

Motocycles and automobiles

The first IZh motorcycle was the IZh 1 of 1928; a 1200cc across-the-frame V-twin with shaft drive, designed by the Soviet engineer Pyotr Vladimirovich Mokharov (1888-1934).

The IZh automobiles were copies of Moskvitch models AZLK-2138 and 2140, until the IZh-2126 Oda. The Oda, too, bore a very close resemblance to the Moskvitch AZLK-2141 Aleko, but had a completely different rear-wheel drive design.

Now, IZh produces one Kia model and two Lada models.

Between 1973 and 1979 IZh was one of the makes marketed by SATRA in the United Kingdom as Cossack motorcycles; the Planeta and Jupiter models.

Izh Motorcycles now produces 4 Motorcycles the Yunker, Planet 5, Jupiter,and Cornet. All having 350cc Two Stroke engines except the Cornet having a 50cc. The motors are Liquid cooled on the Yunker and Jupiter.

There are also Special Purpose motorcycles for police,cargo carry,and a "Swamp Rover" all based on other production models.

A 650cc Rotax Powerd Sport the PS-S 650 Rotax, and what apears to be an updated Planet 5 aptly called Planet 7 are apparently entering production soon.

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