NSU, it's like Peugeot but more dramatic. Founded in 1873, the iconic German brand foundered twice during the XNUMXth century. Now forgotten, it was in its time the most important motorcycle brand on the globe. A look back at an extraordinary story, carried by true legends of motor sports.
La Neckarsulmer Strickmaschinen Union, meaning “Neckarsulm Knitting Machine Union”, was founded 148 years ago by Christian Schmidt and Heinrich Stoll. Faced with the relative success of their business, the two partners turned, in 1886, to a more lucrative activity: bicycles.
From 1900, motorcycles, useful and inexpensive, were the target of the German brand. Car manufacturing would follow, but it was this that precipitated the company's first downfall. NSU is experiencing enormous financial difficulties, and is forced to sell the automotive part to FIAT.
The NSU Factories in 1900. Joakim Kohler
Small displacement motorcycles therefore become the priority. Once the Second World War was over, NSU became the world's leading manufacturer in the sector. Leaders are venturing into all kinds of categories, ranging from 50cc to 500cc. A great reconversion after the first turnaround in 1929.
One thing leading to another, the brand is establishing itself in the rich European landscape. Like all vintage manufacturers, the Baden-Württemberg firm has one foot in competition and speed records. Wilhelm Herz, on a Max Standard model, becomes the first man to pass the 200 mph mark (i.e. 322 km/h) In 1956.
The motorcycle world championship, launched in 1949, does not go unnoticed. It brings together the best European drivers and manufacturers; in other words, it is a golden opportunity to further increase its influence.
Great Mike Hailwood for example, rode an NSU during a championship. In 1958, he chose the German firm for the 250cc category. Two podiums later, he concluded the season with a good fourth place overall. Three years earlier, it was the legendary John Surtees which propelled NSU to the top during the Ulster Grand Prix.
Don't see anything comparable there with Gilera,
Norton ou MV Agusta : NSU remains a popular firm, more specialized in small, low-cost motorcycles. Thus, the involvement in Grands Prix remains less compared to the brands listed above.
However, how can we not mention Werner Haas, spearhead of the brand in competition. A pure NSU product, he only rode these machines during his short career, which lasted from 1952 to 1954. During his rookie year, he shocked the specialists by winning the 125cc German Grand Prix. He failed to repeat the feat at Monza in front of the Moto Guzzi to the direction Enrico Lorenzetti snatched first place in the final moments.
1953 is the year of consecration for the fantastic duo
NSU/Haas. The German prodigy finished on the podium five times in six races and won the 250cc title. Better yet, he did the same in 125cc, never coming off the podium. A coronation in this category is a real achievement, especially at the time; four MV Agustas followed in the ranking.
An NSU Sportmax from 1956. Photo: Lothar Spurzem
The double world champion does not intend to stop there. In 1954, he delivered his finest performance by triumphing in all rounds of the 250cc championship. NSU, at that time, dominated the category (seven representing in the top 10).
The firm does not hesitate to play on its competitive status during various advertising campaigns. Unfortunately, it will have difficulty lasting over time. The manufacture of automobiles, which has since resumed, is not working any better than the first time, at the expense of motorcycles. Acquired in 1969, then dissolved in 1977. This is the sad end of a legendary brand ahead of its time.
Werner Haas, killed in a plane crash in 1956 will not be able to live and recount his exploits in the world championship. It's a shame, because he is one of the best German drivers of all time, his career win ratio being 50%. NSU was destined to make history. Lasting over time is harder.
Cover photo: Lothar Spurzem
