The Heavy Uniform Motorcycle Combination was developed in 1936 at the request of the Heer for a common replacement for the many makes of civilian motorcycles with sidecars then in service throughout the Heer. Standardising upon one design was seen as beneficial to the maintenance of vehicles in the field and in maximizing production in the event of mobilisation.
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, München and Zündapp-Werke GmbH, Nürnberg were tasked with the responsibility for developing the uniform machine, which first appeared in 1937. The products of the two companies differed only in engine and in the fittings.
The two manufacturers forming the production group had by 31 December 1939 delivered more than 12,500 examples of the Heavy Uniform Motorcycle Combination to the Heer, in addition to exports to friendly nations. Production is continuing.