Bastert: bicycles, mopeds, motorbikes and scooters
Bastert is a historic German brand that originally focused on the production of bicycles and mopeds, but later introduced motorbikes and scooters. The company, originally Bastert-Werke, was founded in 1914 by Gustav Bastert in Bielefeld-Heepen as a repair shop for bicycles and sewing machines. The company soon expanded into producing wheels and frames, which laid the foundation for their later success in the motorbike industry.
Bastert Einspur Auto
Germany
1944-55
Bastert's first motorbikes
In 1934, Bastert moved to larger premises and started manufacturing motorbikes. These motorbikes were from 100 to 250 cc and used built-in engines from brands such as ILO and Sachs. During World War II, however, Bastert was also involved in the production of weapons, like many other German companies at the time.
Bastert and the scooter: the Bastert-Einspurauto
After the war, Bastert decided to focus on another vehicle type: the scooter. The company introduced the "Bastert-Einspurauto” – the car on 2 wheels or driving on one track -, and which was promoted as an alternative to the car, especially aimed at customers who might otherwise buy a small car. The design was innovative, with the help of renowned industrial designer Louis Lepoix.
Innovations and designs
The Bastert-Einspurauto was special because of its aluminium sheet metal construction. The scooter featured a unique "seat" design, where only one person could sit on the seat, but there was a hidden second seat at the back for a passenger. There were also notable features such as fold-out turn signals, a gear indicator with lights on the dashboard, and lights under the bonnet, which further distinguished the scooter from other vehicles of the era. As propulsion, 175cc and 200cc ILO engines were fitted.
The end of Bastert: 1955
Despite the Bastert-Einspurauto's innovative features, the company struggled financially. The prototype scooter was probably stolen, however, the IWL Pitty was clearly based on the Bastert. With a circulation of only 1,200 scooters, they did not have an easy time financially but after the scooters, the company was successful in the plastic industry that was becoming popular. The brand disappeared from the market in 1955, but the Bastert-Einspurauto remains a special vehicle from the 1950s, especially for collectors of classic scooters and motorbikes. To date, 18 examples are still known to exist.
Bastert's legacy
Although Bastert was active in the scooter industry for only a few years, the brand has left a lasting impression with its innovative designs and unique approach to scooter production. Today, the Bastert scooter is considered a rare collector's item, and the brand remains a fascinating part of German motorbike history.