Few may recognize the NSU marque, but there was a time the company was the largest motorcycle producer in the world.

After World War II, Germany was rebuilding and NSU, which had its roots in sewing machines and bicycles before transitioning to cars and motorcycles at the turn of the century, was re-invented again.

One of the more notable models was the NSU Max. The Max was powered by an air-cooled 250cc engine with overhead camshafts driven by two connecting rods running alongside the cylinder—a patented design. The most distinctive feature was the pressed frame with its graceful, flowing lines. The elegance was accentuated by pinstriping, flared fenders and functional control layout.

The NSU Max was more than just a stylish looker. It was also a performer. Factory racebikes, including the Rennmax and the Sportmax, improved on the stock model. The brand won numerous championships at every level in all disciplines. At one of the last factory-sponsored efforts, NSU set 54 world speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats, most notably a 210.64 mph world record piloted by Wilhelm Herz.

This model is a 1957 NSU Supermax. It is factory rated at 18.2 horsepower and weighing about 380 pounds. It has a four-speed transmission and a dry clutch.

Unfortunately for NSU, its mid-1950s success led to its demise. The emboldened company returned to the car market, developing the first car powered by a Wankel engine. Although considered technical marvels, Wankel engines failed to power NSU to commercial success. In 1969, Volkswagen bought the company and folded it into the Audi brand, fully eliminating any references to the marque by the late 1970s.

This NSU was donated to the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame by the late Helmut Kern, who restored it to like-new condition. You can see it and other historic models at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame museum on the AMA campus in Pickerington, Ohio.