Highlights

A rare and fascinating piece of pre-war motorcycle racing history
Superbly preserved and beautifully patinated
Ridden at various historic events

The Appeal

When it came to motorcycle racing during the 1920s, British marques were the ones to beat. Recognising British engineering was ahead of the game, German motorcycle manufacturer NSU poached Walter Moore from Norton, as he had been behind the firm’s successful works bikes in 1927.

Under Moore’s guidance, NSU would develop the 501 and 601 ‘Supersports’, which both met with considerable success in Europe with the team being led by fellow Brit, Tom Bullus. While the outbreak of the Second World War would bring an end to NSU’s fruitful, Anglo-German alliance, we still have a handful of bikes like this 1936 NSU 501 SS with which to remember this fascinating period of motorcycling history.

This NSU is in remarkably good condition for a race bike of this age. We adore the patina it has accrued over the years, and while it has evidently undergone some restoration work in the past, this has not in any way compromised its commendable originality. The bike was subject to mechanical recommissioning in 2011, having reportedly formed part of a static collection for around four years. We’re informed that the bike took part in an event at Varano in 2013 and has since been part of the vendor’s collection after they acquired it at auction the same year.

The History and Paperwork

We’re informed that this bike was constructed in 1936
Frame No: 1104808
Engine No: 160741
No odometer fitted
As a race bike, it is not road-registered
Acquired by the vendor at auction in 2013
The antepenultimate registered keeper reportedly kept the bike in their static collection
Subject to recommissioning work in 2011 and ridden at Varano in 2013

The Condition

Simply finished - as befits a paired-back racer
The frame has evidently been repainted in the past to a good standard
Period-correct decals fitted applied to the fuel tank and rear mudguard
No notable ear to the grips, pegs and seat upholstery
Period-appropriate Avon Speedmaster tyres fitted and in good visual order
Equipped with race number boards fore and aft
The black-painted wheels appear in good condition
Slight pitting to the plated parts, but nothing noteworthy
Gently patinated fuel tank, oil tank and primary chain cover

The Mechanics

494 cc four-stroke single with hairpin valves
Four-speed gearbox
Bevel-driven camshaft developed by Walter Moore
Bosch magneto
Amal carburettor
Clutch may need some attention
Various spares included in sale
Suspension consists of a girder forks up front and a live rear end
We understand that this bike has been run sparingly over the years, as is not uncommon for machines that are not road registered

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

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