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Sport · 1954

Sportsmax

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MotoLibrary Score
41 /100 Commuter
Power/Weight
0.25 hp/kg
Engine
247 ccm

1954 NSU Sportsmax Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in NSU's sport motorcycle lineup, the 1954 NSU Sportsmax utilizes a 247 cc (15.1 cu in) oil & air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 28 HP (20.4 kW) at 9,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through chain final drive. With a specific output of 113.4 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the Sportsmax measures 112 kg (247 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (4 kg per horsepower). The 22-liter (5.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.

Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1954 to 1956, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
113.4 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (4 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 247.0 ccm (15.07 cubic inches)
Engine Type Single cylinder, four-stroke
Engine Details Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power 28.0 HP (20.4 kW)) @ 9000 RPM
Compression 7.4:1
Bore x Stroke 69.0 x 66.0 mm (2.7 x 2.6 inches)
Fuel System Carburettor. Amal
Fuel Control Overhead Cams (OHC)
Ignition Coil
Lubrication Dry sump
Cooling Oil & air
Transmission
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Chassis
Rear Suspension Telescopic
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 2.75-18
Front Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Wheels Spoked
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 112.0 kg (246.9 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.2500 HP/kg
Overall Height 950 mm (37.4 inches)
Overall Length 1960 mm (77.2 inches)
Overall Width 500 mm (19.7 inches)
Fuel Capacity 22.00 litres (5.81 US gallons)
Other
Starter Kick
More from NSU
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

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
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Weight
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Fuel Capacity
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Brakes
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Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏁
Best For
Sport & Track
⚖️
Handling
Very lightweight — easy to handle
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