✦ publish
NSU 3 1-2 PS
1914
1914
The NSU 3 1-2 PS from 1914 represents an important chapter in early motorcycle history. As the company expanded its range beyond bicycles, this model occupied a middle ground in their offerings, balancing practicality with the growing desire for motorized personal transport. In an era dominated by single-cylinder machines, it faced competition from models like the Wanderer 5/8 PS, which offered a similar level of performance and reliability for the discerning rider.
Powering the NSU 3 1-2 PS is a 499.0 ccm (30.45 cubic inches) single-cylinder engine. While not groundbreaking in its design, the engine provided adequate power for the period. The motorcycle could achieve a top speed of 70.0 km/h (43.5 mph) under ideal conditions, making it suitable for navigating the road conditions of the early 20th century. The engine's simplicity also meant easier maintenance and repair, a crucial factor given the limited availability of specialized mechanics.
Riding the NSU 3 1-2 PS in 1914 would have been a very different experience from modern motorcycling. The motorcycle features a rigid frame, so the rider feels every bump and imperfection in the road. The seat is sprung, to aid in rider comfort. The upright riding position provides good visibility of the road ahead. The controls are basic but functional, requiring a degree of mechanical sympathy and understanding from the operator.
The NSU 3 1-2 PS would have appealed to individuals seeking a practical and relatively affordable means of transportation. Doctors, tradesmen, and even adventurous leisure riders might have considered it a viable alternative to horse-drawn transport or early automobiles. While not a high-performance machine, its reliability and ease of use made it a valuable tool for those who needed to cover distances quickly and efficiently. It represents a solid, if unspectacular, step in the evolution of the motorcycle.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Simple, robust design facilitates relatively easy maintenance and repairs, crucial given the limited infrastructure of the era. • Its single-cylinder engine offers decent reliability for the period, minimizing breakdowns on long journeys. • The 499cc displacement provides ample power for solo riding on the mostly unpaved roads common in 1914. • Relatively lightweight construction enhances maneuverability and ease of handling compared to larger, heavier motorcycles. • The NSU brand already had a reputation for quality, offering some assurance to buyers in a nascent market.⚠️ Things to consider
• Limited top speed makes it unsuitable for modern traffic conditions or even faster travel on improved roads. • The lack of suspension offers a harsh and uncomfortable ride, especially on rough or uneven surfaces. • Basic braking system provides limited stopping power, posing a safety risk in emergency situations. • Fuel efficiency is relatively poor compared to modern motorcycles, requiring frequent refueling stops on long journeys. • Finding original parts for restoration or repair is incredibly difficult and expensive due to its age and rarity.Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.
Estimated average for 499cc class: 45-60 mpg (4.0-5.5 L/100km)
Insurance grouping for NSU 3 1-2 PS (499cc):
Personalised premium estimate for the NSU 3 1-2 PS (UK rates):
💡 Estimate based on UK market averages. For real quotes, compare on Compare the Market, MoneySuperMarket, GoCompare.
Find new and used NSU 3 1-2 PS 1914 listings:
💡 Third-party listings. MotoBike Info is informational only.
No comments yet. Be the first to write one!