[2] The V engine initially displaced 884 cc (53.9 cu in) and delivered 6 hp (4.5 kW), through a two-speed gearbox and a belt drive, for a maximum speed of 97 km/h (60 mph).
A motorsports version without brake was available with a 997 cc (60.8 cu in) engine, including roller bearings, Bosch magneto ignition, Schebler carburetor, and chain drive.
The Flying Merkel had an automatically dripping oil feeder, which was subsequently copied by Indian and Harley-Davidson.
[2] In 1913, a new model appeared; the engine had now an automatically controlled inlet valve and a spring-loaded kickstarter.
The Flying Merkel achieved its iconic status through the shape of its tank and the colorful body paint.