NSU OSL 351

NSU OSL 351 from 1937. In 30s NSU offered a wide range of models: light ones, medium size like this one, and big and luxurious machines like 501TS, 601 TS SV i 601 OSL OHV. These heavy machines were produced in small numbers, to build the company's prestige; light machines like Quick were much more profitable.

NSU OSL 501 in 30s. Photo from hubler.de

It was a great decade for NSU company. In 1930 English ex-Norton engineer Walter William Moore joined them and designed 500cc engine based on his earlier Norton CS1 design. Moore's motorcycle was very succesful at the races and the whole new generation of NSU motorcycles with OHV engines was patterned on it; series OS and OSL. A variety of models were built: 200cc, 250cc, 350cc, 500cc and 600cc.