601 OSB

1940 NSU 601 OSB Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around NSU's sport motorcycle platform, the 1940 NSU 601 OSB utilizes a 562 cc (34.3 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 26 HP (19 kW) at 4,950 rpm. With a specific output of 46.3 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 601 OSB measures 150 kg (331 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.17 HP/kg (5.77 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,420 mm (55.9 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure.

Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 6 indexed model years from 1936 to 1941, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.