1955 NSU Baumm II

The NSU Baumm II is a notable motorcycle designed by Gustav Adolf Baumm, a German graphic artist and motorcycle racer. His innovative approach to motorcycle design involved adopting a recumbent riding position, which not only lowered the rider's center of gravity but also significantly improved aerodynamics. This design philosophy was first realized in 1951 with the Baumm I, which earned the nickname "Flying Deckchair" due to its unique riding posture.

Both the Baumm I and Baumm II were supported by NSU, a German motorcycle manufacturer, in the development of these record-breaking vehicles. The Baumm I, with a displacement of 49 cc and producing 3.4 hp, achieved speeds of 127 km/h and later set a record of 151 km/h in 1955. The Baumm II was more powerful, featuring a 98 cc engine with 7.2 hp and reaching an impressive speed of 178 km/hm's life was cut short on May 23, 1955, during a demonstration race at the Nürburgring, where he tragically lost control and died at the age of 34 . His contributions to motsign, particularly in speed and aerodynamics, remain significant, marking him as an influential figure in the history of motorcycle racing.