Dnepr MT10-36 – Technical data of the modern classic with 12-volt system
The Dnepr MT10-36 was one of the most modern versions of the classic Dnepr sidecar outfits from Kiev. With its standard 12-volt electrics, the well-known 650 cc boxer engine and a practical reverse gear, it is popular not only with classic enthusiasts – it is considered a reliable basis for conversions, everyday sidecar riding and touring.
In this article you will find all the technical data of the Dnepr MT10-36 – perfect for restoration, maintenance or simply for reference.
General vehicle data – a wide touring sidecar
With its sidecar, the Dnepr MT10-36 weighs around 335 kg; solo about 220 kg. At 2.43 m long and 1.68 m wide, it is a real heavyweight that impresses above all with stability and comfort.
- Wheelbase: 1500 mm
- Ground clearance: 125 mm
- Height with sidecar: 1080 mm
- Maximum payload (incl. rider and two passengers): 260 kg
- Top speed: 105 km/h
- Average consumption: 8 l/100 km (up to 15 % more in winter)
- Oil consumption: up to 0.15 l/100 km
- Braking distance from 60 km/h: max. 30 m
- Noise level: max. 86 dB
Engine – the proven Dnepr OHV boxer with 36 hp
The air-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine with pushrod-operated overhead valves (OHV) delivers up to 36 hp (26.5 kW) at 5600–5900 rpm thanks to its higher compression. Maximum torque of 47 Nm (4.8 kgf·m) is reached at 4900–5200 rpm – ideal for sidecar use.
- Displacement: 649 cc
- Bore x stroke: 78 x 68 mm
- Compression ratio: 8.5 : 1
- Fuel: petrol with 76 octane
- Carburettors: 2x К-301Д
- Air filter: combined (inertial and oil bath)
- Cooling: air
Power transmission – 4 gears plus reverse and a proven shaft drive
The Dnepr MT10-36 has a four-speed gearbox with reverse, shifted with a foot pedal (forward gears) and a separate hand lever (reverse). The drive shaft with spiral bevel final drive ensures smooth progress.
- Clutch: dry, twin-plate
- Gear ratios: 1st 3.6 / 2nd 2.28 / 3rd 1.70 / 4th 1.30 / reverse 3.67
- Final drive ratio: 4.62
Chassis, wheels and sidecar
The chassis is based on a sturdy welded tubular frame with a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm at the rear – all three wheels have hydraulically damped suspension struts. The wheels are interchangeable and easy to remove – ideal for repairs on the road.
- Tyres: 3.75-19 inch (95-484)
- Tyre pressure front and sidecar: 1.5–1.6 bar
- Tyre pressure rear: 2.6–2.7 bar
- Sidecar frame: welded tubular construction
- Sidecar body: mounted on rubber springs
- Sidecar wheel: swingarm with suspension strut
Electrical system – 12 volts as standard
The MT10-36 comes with a complete 12-volt system from the factory – a real step forward compared to older models. It has a 150 W alternator, battery ignition with automatic advance and all the usual warning lights and switches. For more power, see our guide on replacing the Г-424 with a 40 A alternator.
- Alternator: Г-424, 12 V / 150 W
- Battery: 2x 3МТ-6 or 1x 6МТС-9
- Regulator: РР330
- Ignition: battery ignition with centrifugal advance
- Ignition coil: Б204
- Spark plugs: А10НТ / А11Н
- Horn: С-38
- Lights and warning lamps: ФГ137, ФП246, ПФ232Б, ПД20Е, РС427 and more
Maintenance and capacities
Like all Dnepr models, the MT10-36 is mechanic-friendly. Regular maintenance is easy – here are the key capacities and adjustment values:
- Fuel tank: 19 l
- Engine oil: 2.2 l
- Gearbox oil: 1.5 l
- Final drive oil: 0.11 l
- Fork oil per leg: 0.13 l
- Suspension strut: 0.105 l
- Oil bath air filter: 0.15 l
Adjustment values:
- Valve clearance (cold): 0.07 mm
- Contact breaker gap: 0.4–0.6 mm
- Spark plug gap: 0.6–0.75 mm
- Spark gap at the ignition coil: 8–9 mm
Conclusion: Dnepr MT10-36 – the 12-volt icon for everyday riding and wrenching
The MT10-36 combines classic Dnepr engineering with practical improvements such as reverse gear, 12-volt electrics and more power. It is ideal for anyone looking for a robust, easy-to-repair sidecar outfit – for restoration, touring or as a daily companion.
Need spare parts for your Dnepr MT10-36? In our shop you will find Dnepr spare parts – new, reproduction or original used.
