601 TS

1931 NSU 601 TS Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by NSU for the allround motorcycle segment, the 1931 NSU 601 TS features a 592 cc (36.1 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 12.5 HP (9.1 kW) at 4,250 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through chain final drive. With a specific output of 21.1 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 TS measures 165 kg (364 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.08 HP/kg (13.2 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,390 mm (54.7 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 13-liter (3.4 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.5 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 289 km (180 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 105 km/h (65 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 10 indexed model years from 1930 to 1939, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.