Zündapp Bella: history, design and models

The Zündapp Bella was an iconic motor scooter produced by German manufacturer Zündapp between 1953 and 1964. With over 130,000 units sold, the Bella was one of the most popular scooters of its time, with engine sizes ranging from 150cc to 200cc.

The Bella's design was heavily inspired by the Parilla Levriere, visible in the elegant air tunnels along the scooter's centreline, which provided cool air to the fanless engine. Praised for its innovative engineering, the Bella in its early years was equipped with a 146cc two-stroke engine, 12-inch wheels, and an undamped telescopic fork.

A version for the US market was also released in 1953, the Suburbanette, which was distinguished by the lack of body panels around the engine. Later versions of the Bella with larger engines and improved suspension were introduced, giving the scooter its characteristic comfort and performance. The Zündapp Bella remains a popular model among vintage scooter enthusiasts and collectors to this day.