The modern products from the Irbit Motorcycle Plant are not inexpensive. Before the crisis, models like the Gear Up, Citi and Weekender carried prices that topped a million rubles, and now pricing is shared with customers on request. Naturally, these handsome motorcycles trace their lineage back to a single origin—the Soviet Ural M-67-36, built at IMZ from 1976 to 1984.
People often say that the release of this model set the direction for Urals. Other updates followed, but the fundamental character stayed recognizable. A surprising number of these motorcycles remain in circulation, and the used market is crowded with offers. The M-67-36 caught the eye of creators of the YouTube channel Sanya Chetodel, who found the cheapest example available at 7,000 rubles.
What followed was a string of problems: missing carburetors and batteries, a gearbox that stuck, and an engine in not-so-ideal condition. The kickstarter behaved unpredictably due to the linked gearbox issues, and the paperwork proved to be Soviet-era, casting doubt on the possibility of legal registration.
Still, the veteran’s mechanical state improved considerably with little cost, and after being fitted with new off-road tires, the Urals prepared for a first trial run. Handling proved rather ambiguous, with minimal suspension, a heavy feel, and several nagging faults, yet the Urals showed resilience and earned a place for a future restoration and extended life.
- Where did the Soviet Urals and the Dnieper originate from? The story includes the army motorcycle M-72 and its roots.
- Readers can explore more through the Viber channel on restoration stories.
Video: YouTube channel Sanya Chetodel