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Sport · 1906

3 1-2 PS

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MotoLibrary Score
35 /100 Commuter
Power
6 HP
Top Speed
70 km/h
Engine
499 ccm

1906 NSU 3 1-2 PS Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in NSU's sport motorcycle lineup, the 1906 NSU 3 1-2 PS relies on a 499 cc (30.5 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 5.5 HP (4 kW) at 2,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through belt final drive. With a specific output of 11 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 3 1-2 PS measures 80 kg (176 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.07 HP/kg (14.55 kg per horsepower). The 9-liter (2.4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 70 km/h (43 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 13 indexed model years from 1906 to 1918, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
11 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.07 HP/kg (14.55 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches)
Engine Type Single cylinder, four-stroke
Engine Details Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power 5.5 HP (4.0 kW)) @ 2200 RPM
Bore x Stroke 85.0 x 88.0 mm (3.3 x 3.5 inches)
Fuel System Carburettor
Cooling Air
Transmission
Final Drive Belt (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 70.0 km/h (43.5 mph)
Chassis
Frame Type Steel tube
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 2.25-26
Rear Tyre 2.25-26
Wheels Balloon tire
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl. 80.0 kg (176.4 pounds)
Fuel Capacity 9.00 litres (2.38 US gallons)
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Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏁
Best For
Sport & Track
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