1954 brought a significant change at the CsM (at the time still called Rákosi Mátyás Factory) Motorcycle Factory: the development and production of the quarter-litre PANNONIA motorcycles began using the experience gained with the Csepel 250 machines, after the production of the 125 models was transferred to the Danuvia factory. The then leading ‘Red Csepel’ factory became the home of the biggest chapter of domestic motorcycle manufacture for the next 20 years.

Gyula Balogh, the manager of the Product Development Department is in the middle, with Endre Vígh, the manager of the Race Department.
Factory photo

They took the first step with the introduction into production of the TL model which had telescope at the front and pivoted fork at the back. Some important characteristics: 10-11hp, four-speed gearbox, 19” wheels, 135 kg bear weight, final speed of 100 km/hour.