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Sport · 1960

Supermax

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MotoLibrary Score
40 /100 Commuter
Power/Weight
0.1 hp/kg
Top Speed
126 km/h
Engine
247 ccm

1960 NSU Supermax Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 1960 NSU Supermax sport motorcycle, NSU pairs a 247 cc (15.1 cu in) air-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 18 HP (13.1 kW) at 6,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 72.9 HP per liter, the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the Supermax measures 174 kg (384 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.1 HP/kg (9.67 kg per horsepower). The 14-liter (3.7 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 126 km/h (78 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's NSU archive, this model family spans 8 indexed model years from 1956 to 1963, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
72.9 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.1 HP/kg (9.67 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 247.0 ccm (15.07 cubic inches)
Engine Type Single cylinder, four-stroke
Engine Details Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power 18.0 HP (13.1 kW)) @ 6500 RPM
Bore x Stroke 69.0 x 66.0 mm (2.7 x 2.6 inches)
Fuel System Carburettor. Bing HD 2/26
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 4-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Dry multiplate
Performance
Top Speed 126.0 km/h (78.3 mph)
Chassis
Frame Type Steel
Rear Suspension Swingarm
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 3.25-19
Rear Tyre 3.25-19
Front Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Wheels Spoked
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 174.0 kg (383.6 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1034 HP/kg
Overall Height 990 mm (39.0 inches)
Overall Length 2030 mm (79.9 inches)
Overall Width 670 mm (26.4 inches)
Fuel Capacity 14.00 litres (3.70 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
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏁
Best For
Sport & Track
⚖️
Handling
Manageable weight for most riders
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