601 OSL WH

1939 NSU 601 OSL WH Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by NSU for the allround motorcycle segment, the 1939 NSU 601 OSL WH relies on a 562 cc (34.3 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 24 HP (17.5 kW) at 4,300 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through chain final drive. With a specific output of 42.7 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 OSL WH measures 190 kg (419 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.13 HP/kg (7.92 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. The 13.5-liter (3.6 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 110 km/h (68 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 1938 to 1941, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.