This is an example of an experimental mid-1960s racing snowmobile using a 600 cc Hirth "DRONE" engine. Other examples are also shown.
The period of the mid-1960s saw tremendous growth in the snowmobile industry. Some of the manufacturers used proprietary motors (think Ski Doo and their Rotax engine, or OMC with their own engines). The other manufacturers were using European engines, sourced from the likes of JLO, Sachs, or Hirth. Also at this time, snowmobile racing became popular and manufacturers wanted to win, as a means to drive sales. Engine suppliers were asked to supply bigger engines - more horsepower - more speed.
Hirth offered up an unusual 4 cylinder two-stroke engine that earned the name "DRONE" because the US Air Force utilized the engine to make up sacrificial aircraft (drones) to be used for target practice! Three manufacturers anteed up to purchase a handful of these bigger motors for their racing programs. Arctic Cat, Rupp, and Scorpion experimented with the motors.
A rare motor, indeed...
22 авг 2024