Highlights
- Pre-war German sports-touring motorcycle
- Fitted with a sidecar, a period-correct pairing for this model
- Designed by former Norton engineer Walter Moore
The Appeal
The NSU 501 OSL is among the most notable German motorcycles of the pre-war period. Designed by Walter Moore, who had previously penned Norton's overhead-cam racing engines, the 501 OSL's 494cc OHV single was an advanced powerplant for its day, producing 22 horsepower and capable of reaching 130 km/h. The 1936 "Second Series" benefited from a four-speed gearbox, fully enclosed rear chain drive, and twin exhaust ports, a specification that made it equally suited to spirited solo touring and sidecar duties.
This example is presented in grey and black paintwork and comes fitted with a sidecar, a period-correct configuration for which the 501 OSL's robust double-pipe frame and considerable 150 kg dry weight were specifically engineered, lending the combination good stability. A rear luggage rack adds further touring practicality. Pre-war NSU motorcycles of this calibre are increasingly scarce survivors, and the opportunity to acquire a sidecar-equipped 501 OSL is one that collectors of vintage German machinery should not overlook.
Key Information
- Mileage: no odometer
- Country of registration: Germany
- Technical inspection status: offered without inspection
- Technical specs: 494cc single-cylinder OHV four-stroke, four-speed manual gearbox
- Paperwork: offered with limited documentation
The Detail
- Grey and black paintwork
- Sidecar fitted
- Rear luggage rack fitted
- OHV configuration with pushrods enclosed inside a single vertical tube, mimicking an OHC layout
- Twin exhaust ports
- Fully enclosed rear chain drive
- Rigid steel double-pipe frame
- Girder-style front fork suspension
BEFORE YOU BUY
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