The largest single-cylinder engine ever produced in a motorcycle is the NSU Delphin III, an innovative and impressive machine created in the 1950s by the German manufacturer NSU. With a 500 cc single-cylinder engine, the Delphin III set new standards in terms of power and performance for single-cylinder motorcycles.
This 500 cc engine was remarkable not only for its size, but also for its advanced engineering. Equipped with an air-cooling system and a dry sump configuration, it was designed to offer a combination of high performance and durability. The power produced by this engine allowed the Delphin III to reach impressive speeds at the time, making it a symbol of innovation and cutting-edge engineering.
The NSU Delphin III was primarily designed to break speed records and indeed, it managed to break several records in its time. With its aerodynamic design and powerful engine, the Delphin III reached speeds exceeding 200 km/h, something extraordinary for a single-cylinder motorcycle.
In addition to its impressive performance, the Delphin III also stood out for its elegant and aerodynamic design. The full fairing and aerodynamic shape were carefully designed to minimize wind resistance and maximize speed efficiency.
Although the NSU Delphin III was not produced in large quantities, its legacy remains as a milestone in motorcycle history. Its 500 cc single-cylinder engine continues to be the largest in its class, symbolizing a period of extreme innovation and passion for speed in the world of two-wheelers.
