Photo ou archives : F-M. Dumas
7219
TERROT
500 NSSO 2 - 1929
Return to the big league
Terrot returned to the 500cc category in 1927, following Monet-Goyon, the leading French constructor. Terrot again challenged Dollar and Gnome & Rhône, but overhauled Alcyon, Motobécane and Peugeot. A rapid evolution from a flat-tank to a saddle-tank followed. In the summer of 1929, one of the best 500s of the period was produced – the NSSO 2.
Back in Business
Terrot, which had been a leading manufacturer in 1914, was reduced to a shadow in 1919 since its property had been sequestered during WWI. After the war, the Dijon-based firm could only offer a skeleton range: in 1924 three small two-stroke models of 270, 175 and 147cc. The firm 's renaissance really began in 1927, with the arrival of 250 and 350cc four-strokes, but what was still lacking was a 500.
Rapid Update
This was achieved in 1927, with the 500 JAP-engined Model. However, this had an outdated cycle part with an unfashionable flat-tank. Terror's return as a front-rank manufacturer was heralded by the saddle-tank 500s, whose top model was the NSSO 2. For this 500, Terrot took the best elements of its 350 which had become Champion of France: a robust frame, an elegant saddle-tank, a gearbox with a four-point attachment to the frame guaranteeing perfect chain alignment and Druid type forks with limited travel. All that was missing was the powerful AYA front brake – but that was so expensive that Terrot had decided not to use it. In compensation, the JAP engine made this a lively and reliable 500.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 489cc (85.5x85mm) air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke; tortal-loss lubrication
Power Rating: 18 hp @ 4500 rpm
Valves: overhead
Fuel System: Amal carburetor
Transmission: close-ratio 3-speed, chain final drive
Suspension: Druid girder forks (front); rigid (rear)
Brakes: 6.7 inch drum (front); 8.25 inch drum (rear)
Wheels: 700x100mm balloon tires (from & rear)
Weight: 331 lb
Maximum Speed: 78 mph
Handsome but costly, the Terrot NSSO 2 was the peak of the 1920s range.