Description
This motorcycle is Lot 75 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online June Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between June 6th through June 16th, with lots closing from midday June 16th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th June 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 75
1958 NSU 250cc Special Max
Registration no. VAS 128
Frame no. 1815311
Engine no. 740 535
• Restored circa 2003 (bills available)
• Present ownership since 2022
• Last run in March 2025
• 641 miles recorded (believed since restoration)
NSU built its first powered two-wheeler in 1900 and went on to produce some outstanding and influential designs in the 1950s, foremost of which was the 250cc Max. Announced in September 1952, the Max used a pressed-steel frame and leading-link front fork like its Fox and Lux predecessors, but its most unusual feature was the Albert Roder-designed 'Ultramax' connecting-link drive for the single overhead camshaft. This idea was not new, Bentley had used a similar arrangement in the 1920s/ 1930s, but Roder's overcame the design's previous shortcomings. Special Max, Max 300, Supermax and racing Sportmax versions followed. Introduced in 1955, superseding the original Max, the Special Max featured full-width alloy hubs and larger-capacity fuel tank. Quick for a 250 (its top speed was 75-80mph) and endowed with exceptional handling thanks to superior cycle parts, the Max could show many a larger machine the way home over twisty terrain. Reliable, well engineered and superbly finished, the Max was one of the finest European motorcycles of its time and today is worthy of inclusion in any serious collection.
A very nicely presented example, benefiting from restoration by the previous owner in 2003, this Special Max comes with a quantity of related invoices for parts, many from Motorrad Stemler GmbH. Purchased by our vendor in 2022 and last run in March 2025, the Super Max is described by the private vendor as in good condition. The odometer reading of 641 miles is believed to be the distance covered since restoration.
The machine is offered with the following:
Headlamp key and two tool box keys
V5C Registration Certificate
2022 purchase receipt
Photocopied old V5C
NSU Max photocopied manual
Assorted marque-related literature
Included in the sale is a selection of NSU spares including engine crankcases numbered '797125'; cylinder head; cylinder barrel; rocker cover; con-rods; carburettor; pistons; footrests; air box; brake plate; and sundry other parts. Close inspection advised.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
