NSU 501 SS vs Harley-Davidson Model X8 (1934)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the NSU 501 SSstacks up against the Harley-Davidson Model X8. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecNSU 501 SSHarley-Davidson Model X8
Model year19341912
Price
Engine494 cc494 cc
Horsepower20 hp
Weight158 kg
Fuel capacity2.9 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires2.50-26 / 3.25-26

NSU 501 SS vs Harley-Davidson Model X8 — which should you buy?

Picking between the NSU 501 SS and the Harley-Davidson Model X8 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the NSU 501 SS brings 20 hp in a 158 kg package, while the Harley-Davidson Model X8 counters with its own power figure.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: