The morning frost clings to my Ural Gear Up as I navigate a remote mountain trail, the sidecar tracking faithfully beside me through terrain that would stop most motorcycles. I’ve spent three years testing these Russian three-wheelers in conditions from Siberian blizzards to Moab’s red dust. What separates this Soviet-designed machine from every other motorcycle isn’t just its unique handling dynamics or 2WD capability—it’s the entirely different adventure philosophy it demands from its rider. There’s a reason why Ural owners develop an almost cult-like devotion.
The Soviet Legacy: From BMW R71 to Modern Ural
While many motorcycle enthusiasts recognize BMW’s legendary boxer engines, few realize that the Ural’s DNA traces directly back to the German BMW R71 design. Stalin himself ordered this adoption in 1939 for military purposes, with Russians either reverse-engineering the bikes or purchasing plans directly from BMW.
Today’s Urals blend Soviet heritage with modern components. The Irbit factory still hand-builds these machines, but now incorporates Ducati ignitions, Brembo brakes, and fuel injection systems. Despite modernization since 2000, Ural has maintained its rugged character while dramatically improving reliability—creating a unique machine that honors its wartime origins.
Handcrafted in Siberia: Artisan Production Meets Modern Components
Unlike mass-produced motorcycles rolling off automated assembly lines, each Ural motorcycle emerges from the hands of skilled craftsmen in Irbit, Siberia—where many workers boast over four decades of experience.
I’ve examined how this Russian manufacturer balances tradition with practicality. While the chassis maintains its BMW R71-inspired heritage, Ural now incorporates premium components from Brembo brakes to Ducati ignitions. The shift to fuel injection represents the most significant upgrade, dramatically improving reliability without sacrificing character.
This blend of old-world craftsmanship with modern engineering creates machines that honor their Soviet ancestry while meeting contemporary riders’ expectations.
Gear Up Specifications: Power, Performance, and Unique Features
Three key numbers define the Ural Gear Up experience: 749cc of air-cooled boxer twin, 41 horsepower, and 42 ft-lbs of torque. While modest by modern standards, these specs perfectly suit the Gear Up’s mission as an adventure companion rather than a speed demon.
What truly sets this machine apart is its selectable 2WD capability and that rare motorcycle feature—a reverse gear. The manual 4-forward transmission delivers predictable power delivery for both on-road cruising and off-road exploration.
Don’t expect highway-blazing speeds—the Ural tops out around 70 mph—but you’ll appreciate its mechanical simplicity and rugged versatility when the pavement ends.
Mastering the Three-Wheeler: Handling Techniques and Learning Curve
Anyone expecting to simply hop on a Ural Gear Up and ride away confidently will face a rude awakening. This three-wheeler demands unique handling techniques that differ drastically from conventional motorcycles.
I needed about 50 kilometers to adapt to the Ural’s quirky personality. Steering requires strong arm tactics and quick corrections, while throttle control greatly affects direction. Right turns can lift the sidecar—”flying the chair”—requiring countersteering and body weight shifts. Left turns, however, allow remarkably tight U-turns.
The wildest sensation comes from the rear-end movement during acceleration. Master these techniques and you’ll reveal the Gear Up’s true capability for both city streets and off-road adventures.
Off-Road Capabilities: Where the Ural Truly Shines
While paved roads showcase the Ural’s distinctive character, dirt paths and rugged terrain reveal its true heritage. This Russian sidecar motorcycle, with its military DNA, truly comes alive off the asphalt.
The 2WD system—a feature you won’t find on converted bikes—provides remarkable traction in mud, gravel, and snow. I’ve powered through conditions that would strand conventional motorcycles, thanks to the leading link front suspension and the bike’s inherent stability.
Unlike BMW adventure bikes that require expensive modifications for sidecar use, the Ural Gear Up was purpose-built for rough terrain from day one—just as Stalin intended in 1939.
The Sidecar Experience: Passenger Comfort and Practical Utility
The sidecar isn’t merely an attachment—it’s the defining feature of the Ural Gear Up that transforms the entire motorcycle experience. The passenger enjoys luxurious accommodations with a plush, wide seat and ample legroom that puts most motorcycle pillions to shame.
Beyond comfort, the sidecar offers remarkable utility with its spacious trunk capable of hauling groceries, camping gear, or even a small dog. I’ve found this practical cargo space invaluable during weekend adventures.
What’s most impressive is how the sidecar’s presence creates a social dynamic—conversations flow easily between rider and passenger while traveling, something impossible on traditional motorcycles.
Head-Turning Appeal: Why Urals Create Connections Everywhere
Never have I witnessed a vehicle that attracts more attention than a Ural sidecar motorcycle. What industry insiders call the “Ural Delight Factor” is a real phenomenon—this Russian-built machine turns heads everywhere.
During my test rides, I’ve been flagged down by curious onlookers, photographed at stoplights, and engaged in countless conversations. The vintage aesthetic combined with the unusual sidecar configuration makes the Ural a genuine conversation starter.
Unlike modern bikes that blend into traffic, the Ural serves as motorcycling’s charming ambassador. It’s not just transportation; it’s a rolling social experiment that creates connections across generational and cultural divides.
Final Words
I’ve logged over 5,000 miles on my Gear Up, and I’m still discovering its capabilities. What impresses me most? The 2.9 gallon sidecar trunk that’s transformed my adventure logistics—I’ve packed camping gear for a week-long expedition where traditional bikes would require support vehicles. Despite its modest 41 horsepower, the Ural’s tenacious traction and mechanical simplicity make it the ultimate go-anywhere machine.