MZ 1000S roadtest review on menandmotors (UK)

[bvitsenko]

http://www.menandmotors.co.uk/fastbikes/article.xml?id=53&page=1

MZ has a reputation for smoky, two-stroke commuters but this is about to change with the launch of the high-spec MZ1000S sports-tourer.

IT'S always interesting when an old manufacturer attempts to revive its fortunes with the production of a brand new high-capacity sports bike. It's like an old rocker from the '60s bringing out a drum and bass record to see if the kids will still buy it . And as motorcycle manufacturers go, they don't come much older than MZ. In 1929, it was the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles, the Honda of its day, producing over 60,000 a year.

A small matter of a world war and communist totalitarian regime made a bit of a mess of the business plan, but now MZ is making a comeback. At first sight things look promising. The finish on the 1000S is second-to-none and it is adorned with gorgeous details like the company logo embossed on the foot-pegs and the stunning gold-link chain. Clearly this is no parts-bin pirate. MZ has taken a lot of care to build this bike to the highest standards.

It looks absolutely delicious, not like the bizarre Baghira and Mastiff, which MZ released seven years ago! The front-end, with its double twin-stacked headlights, is particularly striking. The Germans can be quite stylish, in a quirky sort of way, when they put their minds to it - look at BMW's R1200C for further proof.

Of course there's no room for slacking, considering what MZ is up against. Priced at just over eight grand it's set in direct competition with Honda's ever-popular VFR800. The Honda has a reputation for build-quality, reliability and for being an all-round top-notch piece of kit.

But MZ isn't going into battle without hope. On paper it has a spec list that easily outguns the VFR. Complete with fully adjustable 43mm Marzocchi USD forks and fully adjustable Sachs rear shock, the MZ is up there with the best. Also, the super sticky Metzeler Sportec M1 tyres are a real treat.

On a twisty road the sporty potential of the MZ1000S is fully realised. It will comfortably plant itself in the corners, gripping all the way, and power out effortlessly. It never weaves or wobbles and, so, inspires lots of confidence to be ridden faster.

The big parallel twin engine is much smoother than I'd expected it to be. Unsurprising, there is still some vibration but this is well masked by effective dampening and won't spoil a ride or cause discomfort.

The fuel injection has been much improved since the prototype version was released in November. It is smooth, responsive and offers power delivery that is suited to a road and not a drag strip.

The mid-range surge of the MZ is impressive and makes frequent gear-changes unnecessary. This isn't such a bad thing considering the gearbox on the MZ1000S isn't the slickest around. Riders used to Italian or Japanese sports bikes might need some miles to readjust.

One thing it isn't is slow! If you're crazy enough then you could see 130mph on the analogue dash. This is certainly not to be recommended, especially since the twin four-piston Nissin brakes, whilst being perfectly adequate for everyday situations, might not provide the necessary stopping power necessary for such MotoGP inspired antics!

But MZ is releasing the machine as a sports-tourer so it needs to make a gesture towards practicality and comfort. In this respect, the rider and pillion's seat is padded and spacious and the bars and pegs are well positioned.

A taller screen is available as an after-market extra and would be invaluable if you make a lot of long-motorway journeys. Pillions might also complain about the lack of a grab rail. No problem if your passenger is of the opposite sex but you might break some long-established, social taboos when you ask your mate to hold you tightly around the waist!

Joseph Stalin loved MZ so much that he took it back to Russia with him after the war. The MZ 1000S is a terrific bike, but for a few more pounds you could get a VFR800 with ABS, which is reliable, well respected and has half the personality of the German twin.

The smart money is on the Honda, but VFRs are ten a penny, ride an MZ and people will notice . should you care.