Neckarsulm – WEBWIRE – Wednesday, December 20, 2023
The NSU Rennfox Dolphin, and Rennmax Blue Whale: streamlined motorcycle models which garnered many prestigious victories in the 1950s. These motorcycles, manufactured by NSU, showcased their early wind tunnel research into aerodynamics on the race track and in record-setting runs. In the final episode of the NSU history series, celebrating the brands 150th anniversary, Audi Tradition presents some of the heritage brands unique vehicles.
Aerodynamics at NSU: In the late 1960s, the NSU Ro 80 achieved fame due to its futuristic, streamlined shape and wedge-shaped body that allowed for a drag coefficient of 0.35 cW. The Ro 80 was highly praised for its unique design and innovative Wankel engine, earning it the title of Car of the Year in 1967. However, NSU’s motorcycles two decades earlier already boasted highly streamlined designs, securing remarkable victories on international race tracks and establishing several world records.
In 1951, NSU motorcycles achieved eight new world speed records, highlighting the brand’s commitment to breaking records. Spearheading these ambitious goals in Neckarsulm was Wilhelm Herz, an experienced motorcycle racing rider who had enjoyed numerous successes with NSU. The company’s chief engineers, convinced of Herz’s vision, initiated plans to set a record with a design by aerodynamics pioneer Reinhard Freiherr von Koenig-Fachsenfeld. Despite setbacks, including an accident that stalled the project, NSU’s aerodynamic concepts continued to find success. Notably, in April 1951, NSU bikes participated in speed record runs on the Munich-Ingolstadt autobahn, where Herz rode a 500cc NSU supercharged bike named the Dolphin I to achieve a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph) for a world record. This marked the beginning of an impressive year for NSU, with the brand setting eight new world speed records. It was also the year when graphic designer Gustav Adolf Baumm presented his own record-setting vehicle project to NSU, receiving unprecedented financial and technical support from the company.
