AJS Model 18 500 Statesman vs Zündapp K 500 (1965)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the AJS Model 18 500 Statesmanstacks up against the Zündapp K 500. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecAJS Model 18 500 StatesmanZündapp K 500
Model year19651940
Price
Engine498 cc498 cc
Horsepower28 hp16 hp
Weight172 kg180 kg
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.25-18 / 3.25-18 3.50-19 / 3.50-19

AJS Model 18 500 Statesman vs Zündapp K 500 — which should you buy?

Picking between the AJS Model 18 500 Statesman and the Zündapp K 500 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the AJS Model 18 500 Statesman brings 28 hp in a 172 kg package, while the Zündapp K 500 counters with 16 hp at 180 kg.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: