PART-5 (1954-1960-...)
In 1954 Sparta used the Brussels exposition as a means to launch their new 200 and 250-cc models. New for these models was mainly in the rolling frame section: “fuller” fenders using side panels to conceal the wheels, a larger fuel tank, larger head-light and modern style mufflers. Around 1953 the swing-arm suspension was becoming fashionable and early 1954 the motorcycle community was unhappy that Sparta did not yet use this concept, while other Dutch companies were already utilizing the swing-arm in their models. In 1954 Sparta constructor Wilke made completely new designs. The 250-cc Sparta-Victoria received a completely new “swing” frame, while a completely new I.L.O. two-cylinder, also a “swinger”, became available.
Two-stroke two cylinder aficionados were also catered to, namely with two new models: the NL 150 and the NL 200, both Villiers powered. Plunger suspension remained, although modernized.
Year 1955 and 1956 brought forth a new quartet of motorcycles, such as the popular 250 twin with 15.1 horsepower and a 4-speed gearbox, the SL 250 with a Victoria block, and the Villiers powered NL 200 and NL 250. Halfway through 1956 the 150-cc Villiers block was replaced by a 250-cc Victoria. A 250-cc plunger suspension model was found by many to be the ideal sidecar combination. The Sparta management after the war was in the hands of Mr. Th. Schakel (commercial director) and Mr. D. Schakel (technical director). During the fifties Sparta was Holland’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. A very important part during this period was the manufacturing of mopeds.
In 1957 the only Motorcycle Company left in Holland was Sparta. Dwindling sales were the reason the 250 Sparta-Victoria was scrapped from the program. What remained was an attractive trio of two full swing models, and the 200-cc Sparta-Villiers. The bad situation in the motorcycle industry continued through 1958. This was the reason, sadly enough for the twin-fans, that the Sparta 250 twin was discontinued, leaving only two Sparta models, namely the NL 200 and the SL 250.
In 1960 the choices dwindled down to only one: the 200-cc Villiers model with the outdated plunger Suspension design which was suitable for military use. In 1961 the remaining motorcycle stock was sold, but Sparta had acquired a good name for themselves. As a moped and bicycle company, and they maintain this good name, even today.