Data sheet
- Year: 1958
- Manufacturer: Nymans Verkstäde
- Model: NV 38 Special
- Color: Orange
- Interior color:
- Interior material:
- Engine displacement: 250cc
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive
- Propulsion: Gasoline
- Steering: LHD
- Transmission: Manual
- VIN: 2info
Nymans Verkstäder NV 38 Special – No. 2 of 5 Factory-Built Racing Machines
Basic Information and History
Manufactured in 1958 by Nymans Verkstäder in Uppsala, this NV 38 Special is one of only five units built specifically for racing purposes, equipped with engines from DKW’s racing division in Germany. This motorcycle is a genuine piece of Swedish industrial and motorsport history. It is fitted with engine no. 2 (of a total of 5), identified by two center punch marks on the engine block, in accordance with how the factory replaced the original ground-off engine numbers.
This particular machine is believed to have a connection to the legendary racer Roine Lööf, active between 1953 and 1966, as suggested by the initials "R.L." engraved on the cylinder head. The bike is based on the NV 38 model but was heavily modified at the factory and built strictly for competition use, not for the road. All five units were painted orange and featured a Crescent logo – some remained with Nymans, while others were later sold to private buyers.
The engine is a highly specialized 250 cc DKW unit with significant modifications: a cast-iron "Stachelschwein" (hedgehog-style) cylinder with an aluminum cylinder head, a special cast engine case with four mounting bolts (instead of the standard three), and enhanced porting and piston. The estimated output is approximately 19.5–20 hp, compared to the original 14.5 hp.
Equipment and Features
- Specially built 250 cc DKW racing engine (no. 2 of 5)
- Mikuni 35 mm carburetor (original included)
- Japanese dual reed valve intake
- Ignition system with dual SAAB breaker points
- Norton front fork (outer legs) with Marzocchi inner tubes
- Wheels from DKW 175 Gelände Sport
- 6V battery
- Original carburetor and additional spare parts included
- Exclusive book on the history of Nymans Verkstäder included for the right buyer
Condition
The motorcycle is in good, running condition with no damage, dents, scratches, or rust. The fuel tank has been repainted in the correct color at an unknown time, and the finish is glossy and well-kept. Chrome and headlight lens are well preserved, and controls and grips are in good condition. All hoses, cables, and small fittings have been recently replaced. The tires are in excellent condition with a knobby tread pattern.
The engine has been serviced and tuned, delivering a very crisp throttle response. Gearbox, drivetrain, and brakes function perfectly, and all mechanical components are in full working order.
Service History
The most recent service was performed in autumn 2024 and included:
- Replacement of fuel hoses
- General lubrication
- Inspection of bulbs, cables, and connectors
Earlier history is undocumented, but the motorcycle has been carefully maintained for exhibition runs and enthusiast care.
Summary
A unique opportunity to acquire a piece of Swedish racing history – this is engine no. 2 of only five special-built NV racing motorcycles from Nymans Verkstäder, featuring a specially tuned DKW engine and a documented link to one of the era’s most prominent riders. For the collector, historian, or racing enthusiast, this is an unmatched offering – both as an investment and as a living piece of industrial heritage.
For the right buyer, an exclusive book on the history of Nymans Verkstäder is also included – a rarity as exceptional as the motorcycle itself.