Historical Segment:
Premium German lightweight motorcycle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, collectors, mechanics specializing in classic German motorcycles
Key Competitors Era:
DKW RT series, BMW R series (smaller displacement), various British singles
Innovative Features:
Unique single-cylinder engine design with central connecting rod, shaft drive (on some models/variants), enclosed chain drive
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data for restoration and maintenance of a historically significant motorcycle
Covered Models:
NSU Max, NSU Super Max
Specific Variants Covered:
Standard Max, Sportmax, Super Max
Estimated Total Pages:
250-350 (approx. across all manuals)
Primary Type:
Workshop / Repair Manuals
Secondary Type:
Technical Service Bulletins (implied coverage)
Primary Language:
German (original)
Potential Translations:
English (common in digitized versions)
Digital Format:
ZIP archive containing PDF files
Engine:
Full overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling, ignition, carburetor
Transmission:
Gearbox dismantling, assembly, lubrication, clutch operation
Chassis:
Frame inspection, front fork, suspension, steering
Brakes:
Drum brake adjustment and overhaul, cable maintenance
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, ignition coil, dynamo (if applicable)
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, and carburetor specifics (e.g., Bing, Sch})/N}
Bodywork:
Fenders, seat, fuel tank mounting, minor body repairs
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common running problems, ignition, and fueling issues
Repair:
Engine rebuild, gearbox repair, fork seal replacement, electrical component repair
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for major component removal and installation
Depth Level:
Comprehensive Workshop Level
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed troubleshooting guides for mechanical and electrical faults
Rebuild Instructions:
Full engine and gearbox rebuild procedures with component tolerances and specifications
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable if scanned professionally
Original Quality:
Variable, typically black and white line drawings and text
Original Binding:
Stapled booklets or sewn hardcovers (for original print)
Original Paper:
Typically newsprint or matte paper stock
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, single-cylinder, boxer-twin configuration (conceptually, two horizontally opposed cylinders)
Bore X Stroke:
63 mm x 74 mm (Max), 66 mm x 74 mm (Super Max)
Displacement:
230 cc (Max), 248 cc (Super Max)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 6.5:1 (standard), higher for Sportmax
Valve Actuation:
Pushrod actuated overhead valves (OHV)
Horsepower Max:
14 hp @ 5600 rpm (Max), 17 hp @ 6000 rpm (Super Max)
Torque Max:
Not commonly published in readily available specs, but significant low-end torque
Carburetor Type:
Single Bing 1/24/74 (Max), Bing 1/26/74 (Super Max)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (suitable for the era, often with lead substitute or lower octane rating)
Oil System:
Wet sump, requires periodic oil changes
Crash Test Data:
Not applicable (motorcycle of the era)
Braking System:
Drum brakes front and rear
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals (optional on early models)
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame for rigidity
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 2,000 - 3,000 km or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check and clean every 5,000 km, replace as needed
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Lubricate every 500-1000 km, adjust tension as needed (refer to manual for exact slack)
Valve Clearance Adjustment:
Recommended every 5,000 - 10,000 km, critical for performance and longevity
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 30 or SAE 20W-40 motorcycle oil (consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.5 Liters
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 80 or SAE 90 gear oil
Gearbox Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.25 Liters
Brake Fluid Type:
Drum brakes typically do not use hydraulic fluid; cable lubrication is key.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, piston rings, valve guides, carburetor jets, electrical connections.
Potential Failures:
Seized engines due to poor lubrication, electrical shorts, worn gearbox dogs.
Restoration Considerations:
Availability of specific spare parts can be challenging; careful sourcing and rebuilding are essential.
Manufacturer Origin:
Neckarsulm, Germany
Nsus Legacy:
NSU was a significant pre-war and post-war German automotive and motorcycle manufacturer, later merged into Audi.
Max Development:
Introduced in 1952 as a modern, lightweight motorcycle, replacing earlier models.
Super Max Introduction:
Launched as a higher-performance variant of the Max, featuring increased displacement and power.
Sportmax Variant:
Sportmax versions offered higher compression, sportier camshafts, and sometimes different carburetors for increased performance.
Production Years:
1952-1963
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany
Production Volume:
Significant numbers, making it a popular model in its era.
Historical Reputation:
Highly regarded for its engineering and performance in its class during its production run.
Vintage Motorcycle Rankings:
Consistently features as a desirable classic German motorcycle for collectors and riders.
Historical Safety Standards:
Adhered to German technical standards of the period.
