Built around NSU's sport motorcycle platform, the 1935 NSU 201 OSL features a 198 cc (12.1 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 8 HP (5.8 kW) at 4,100 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 40.4 HP per liter, the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the 201 OSL measures 120 kg (265 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.07 HP/kg (15 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,285 mm (50.6 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 11.5-liter (3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 2.3 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 500 km (311 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 90 km/h (56 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 1933 to 1939, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
40.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.07 HP/kg (15 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~500 km (311 mi)
Engine
Displacement198.0 ccm (12.08 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power8.0 HP (5.8 kW)) @ 4100 RPM
Bore x Stroke58.0 x 75.0 mm (2.3 x 3.0 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Amal
IgnitionBattery-Bosch
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed90.0 km/h (55.9 mph)
Fuel Consumption2.30 litres/100 km (43.5 km/l or 102.27 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases53.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
