FAQ or Everything you ever wanted to know about the NSU - Max , but were afraid to ask

1.   Is it true that you need special tools for maintenance work at the Max?

The answer is , as so often: It depends! Normal maintenance activities, as described in the operating instructions can be handled with common tools and the contents of the tool kit bag. The latter should be complete. For some more, especially for the disassembly of the fork, tools are needed, as they gave NSU only to his representatives.

2.   Is it true that many parts of the NSU Lux also attached at the Max?

Here the Year is crucial. From the end of 1953, there was the so-called unit frame for Lux and Max, the chassis are thus equal. Also Spezialmax and Superlux have the same frame. Engine parts are almost always different. Tip: All parts that start number in the spare parts list with a "7", are originally from the Lux.

3.   Can I make a Max from a Lux?

In principle, yes. Here the true predicted in the previous point. When the unit frame the threads for the oil tank mounting and the hole for the oil spill are available. However, Lux or Superlux has also become a rare vehicle. They belong to NSU history and should be treated at the present time that way.

4.  Is it true that the Supermax engine has the power of 18 hp?

Yes. Therefore one must also know that the serial dispersion greatly deviated upward even at the Max engines previously produced but. The Supermax engine is basically the same design as its predecessors. Only in conjunction with the Supermax frame and whose modified intake air ducting and the custom in his assembly carburetor higher performance is achieved.

5.   Is it true that the first Mäxe 1953 had only 15 hp?

No! The series machines had already 17 hp . Only the pre-series of 60 machines equipped with less powerful engines.

6.   Is it true that the Supermax in Yugoslavia was further built after the abandonment of production in Germany?

No. NSU had delivered to the company Pretis Sarajevo Mäxe as "kit ", which were assembled there and authorities were reserved. The machines did not differ from those who ran in Neckarsulm off the assembly lines. After giving up the two-wheeler production of vehicles over 50 cc in Neckarsulm built the Yugoslavs under the name Pretis NSU models Maxi and Prima D to the original equipment supplied in the plant there. That was the magazine "Der Spiegel " on 25.12.1963 even an  article worth.

7.   Cost spare parts for Max a lot of money?

      How you take it. The prices of many parts move at the level of those for modern motorcycles or auto parts . Expensive it is in things for which there is ( still ) are not reproductions. In particular, bump -free 14 - liter tanks are searched. However, still a large amount of used parts are available, which can be processed. The cost of reprocessing lie depending on complexity in three-digit euro range. But beware: The sheet of this tank is relatively thin, so that the work-up can not be repeated.

8.    What is the supply of spare parts in general?

The answer must be: Excellent! In the Internet era, all the parts are (almost) available and in a few days at the hobbyist at home. Share markets, at least that is the experience of recent years, as a source of searched parts are less and less productive. For members of the NSU-Max-IG has its own spare parts service. The current offer will be published in each issue of the magazine for members "The Maxfahrer".

9.  Is a Max suitable as an investment?

In times of DOX ( German Oldtimer Index ) this question is entirely justified. The answer is rather "No". Certainly, there are many years an increase in value be found, although it is so, that the restoration costs exceed the value by far. When it but otherwise see, and, "investing" his money, instead of bringing it to the bank in a Max, you have fun and tinker joy that can not be bought for all the money in the world And should one day but then have to sell the bike, then, in contrast to a modern motorcycle or car to expect a loss of value.

10. If a license plate for vintage cars make sense?

This question is answered in the German FAQ for Germany. In other states, different rules apply, so that here the authorities be consulted.

11. Is a NSU - Max for everyday use?

Yes! However, one must be aware of the fact that this everyday suitability is given only when the machine is treated as the instruction-manual requires it. Regular oil changes, regular lubrication and constant monitoring of wearing parts are a prerequisite. The NSU-Max was at her production-time on the amount of time, not in our days.

12. Tolerates a NSU - Max modern gasoline?

Yes , but there are some things to consider! The knock resistance of today's super fuel is higher than that of gasoline blends fifties, the power thus does not change. The problem arises when gasoline has long remained in the tank.Here is the advice as before the winter break, the fuel tank to empty completely and, if it is not sealed to protect against rust penetrating oil. The compatibility of E10 super gasoline in rubber parts, carburetors or fuel lines seem to be given. So far we have not received any negative.

13. What oil need the Max?

NSU recommended in summer SAE 20 monograde winter SAE 10th This is also true today, particularly in engines that were previously unopened, which can definitely still happen. Modern oils have added substances to loosen dirt particles. What is certainly meaningful and useful today, when a motor used for years can cause it to leak. The Council therefore, to use modern multigrade oils with motors that have been completely overhauled.
Importantly, no matter which oil is used, the oil change takes place regularly. The oil is used in this engine and the lubrication of the transmission. This makes it an additional burden.
We have made good experiences with SAE-30 monograde oil.

14.  Why is the oil tank of a Max almost empty when the engine has been standing for a while?

The reason for this can be found in the nature of the oil supply. The Max-motor is equipped with a so-called dry sump lubrication. This special design means that when driving the oil is pumped through the pump into the oil tank and lubrication points are supplied specifically in the motor by drilling. Oil , which collects in the bottom of the engine, is immediately sucked. The interior is so down almost dry; therefore the name. If now the motor and thus also the oil pump to a standstill, the oil runs more or less quickly in the engine block in, and only a residue remains in the reservoir. The overall system holds 1,8 to 2 liters. Thus, the oil level must always be checked with the engine running!

15. If the NSU Max suitable for a sidecar?

Yes! As a typical motorcycle of the fifties the Max had to move a sidecar, this it was still too much of transport.

Good are the little sidecar of Steib ( LS 200 , S250 ), Kali or Stolz. It should be noted that today's replicas usually heavier than the originals. Thus, the vehicle accelerates even tidy, changing the transnission is necessary. From NSU a pinion was provided with 14 teeth for it. Drivers of Standardmax - sidecar combinations have only this one chance. To later Maxes with full hub brakes this can be changed and possibly find a better transmission and the rear sprocket.

16. I have a NSU - Max , but do not know which one?

You have a NSU-Max inherited, found or it has been given to you? You've bought it, because it just liked you well? Apart from the chassis and engine number you have not any information? But you want to know exactly what you have there?

We can help you! Send your request with all the information that you can identify , to us. In our database, we have VIN , engine number, year and entry into service of around 1,800 NSU two-wheelers. So we can see where your machine is classified. Your data are then recorded. We guarantee this to be used for statistical purposes only.
Send an email to Der.Maxfahrer. We will respond as soon as possible!

17. I have a NSU - Max , but no papers to and will bring them into the road. What should I do?

On the German FAQ page we have explained the rules of the Federal Republic of Germany. Please ask the authorities in your country, what to do.