A HOMEMADE 2-Stroke Motorcycle that Won the 500cc Grand Prix!

How a Motorcycle with an Outboard Engine Became the Best in the World?

The story of Kim Newcombe and the Konig 500cc Grand Prix motorcycle is a fascinating and inspiring chapter in the history of motorcycle racing. Newcombe, a relatively unknown New Zealander, and his innovative use of a two-stroke boat engine to compete against the giants of the 500cc Grand Prix class in the 1970s, remains a testament to ingenuity, determination, and passion.

Kim Newcombe and the Konig 500cc
Kim Newcombe was a talented and determined rider-engineer from New Zealand who made a significant impact in the world of Grand Prix motorcycle racing during the early 1970s. His journey is particularly remarkable because he developed and raced a highly competitive motorcycle based on a two-stroke engine originally designed for powerboats.

The Konig Motorcycle:

Origins of the Engine:
The Konig motorcycle used a two-stroke engine developed by the German engineer Dieter König, initially intended for racing powerboats.
This engine was a water-cooled, flat-four design, typically used in hydroplane racing, known for its power and reliability in marine applications.

Adaptation for Motorcycle Racing:
Newcombe worked closely with Dieter König to adapt the boat engine for motorcycle use. This involved significant modifications, including developing a custom gearbox and clutch system.
The motorcycle itself featured a simple but effective chassis, which Newcombe continually refined to improve handling and performance.

Innovations and Challenges:
One of the major challenges was the engine's cooling system. Since it was designed to be water-cooled by the surrounding water in a boat, Newcombe had to develop a cooling system that worked effectively on a motorcycle.
He engineered an ingenious water-cooling system with a radiator placed at the front of the motorcycle to ensure the engine stayed within operating temperatures during high-speed racing.

Racing Achievements:
Kim Newcombe's skill as both a rider and engineer quickly brought the Konig motorcycle to the forefront of 500cc Grand Prix racing.
In 1973, he had a remarkable season, winning several races and consistently finishing on the podium. He finished second overall in the 1973 500cc World Championship, narrowly missing out on the title to Phil Read, riding a factory MV Agusta.

Tragic End:
Tragically, Newcombe's promising career was cut short when he was involved in a fatal accident at Silverstone during a non-championship event in August 1973.
His death was a significant loss to the racing world, and he is remembered for his extraordinary achievements and contributions to the sport.

Impact and Legacy:
Kim Newcombe's story is remarkable not only for the technical achievements he accomplished with the Konig motorcycle but also for the spirit of perseverance and innovation he embodied.

Underdog Triumph: Competing against factory-backed teams and riders with vastly greater resources, Newcombe and his Konig motorcycle became symbols of the underdog spirit. His ability to challenge and often surpass established competitors demonstrated the potential of creativity and hard work in motorsport.

Technical Innovation: The use of a powerboat engine in a motorcycle Grand Prix was a pioneering approach that highlighted the versatility and performance potential of two-stroke engines. The adaptations and engineering solutions that Newcombe implemented were ahead of their time.

Inspiration: Newcombe's legacy continues to inspire engineers, riders, and racing enthusiasts. His story is a testament to what can be achieved with a blend of technical skill, racing talent, and unwavering determination.

Conclusion:
The tale of Kim Newcombe and the Konig motorcycle is one of the most compelling stories in motorcycle racing history. It illustrates how innovation, courage, and dedication can push the boundaries of what's possible, even in the face of formidable competition and limited resources.