First Impression: MuZ Skorpion Tour - Motorcycle.com
Motorrad und Zweiradwerk, known as MuZ or just MZ, produces unique motorcycles. "Simply great motorcycles," if you read their hype.
The company has based its recent history upon a variety of single-cylinder machinery -- from sidecar rigs to sportbikes and dualsports, MZ has bet the Zschopau factory on the appeal of thumpers.
In fact, the choice of a single-cylinder powerplant for the Skorpian Tour represents commitment to a design philosophy of simplicity and light weight. Weight saving measures are evidenced throughout: single front disc brake, small rear disc brake, no cumbersome fairings or excess bracketry, and a single round headlight to guide your way. At 416 pounds "ready to ride," as is claimed in the owner's manual, the Skorpion Tour is a lithe, nimble machine.
The entire Skorpion line shares the same frame, a stunningly simple tubular deltabox piece that was penned by London design house Seymour Powell. The award-winning steel tube design is braced near the steering head, and mates to a bolt-on plate that connects the motor, frame and swingarm pivot. The motor, incidentally, is a stressed member of the chassis.
The ergonomics of the Skorpion can be easily altered to better suit your size or riding style. The clip-on handlebars are adjustable in three planes, and can be moved to a variety of positions. Whether you are sport riding, commuting, or touring there is an excellent chance you can find a setting that'll be right for you. The footpegs are also adjustable,
The Skorpion's simple approach yields a complete package that was enjoyable to ride. The lack of power (our test bike's poor carburetion certainly not helping) can be remedied to a point of satisfaction, and to a point that would surprise some sportbike owners in the canyons. The MZ's attention to smaller details make it a great choice for those seeking an alternative mount, or for newer riders looking for a bike they can handle that retains a high fun factor.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Motorrad und ZweiradwerkModel: Skorpion TourPrice: ,895Engine: liquid-cooled, SOHC, 5-valveBore x Stroke: 100mm x 84mmDisplacement: 660ccCarburetion: N/ATransmission: 5-speedWheelbase: 55.9 in.Seat height: 30.3 in.Fuel capacity: 5.52 gallons (including 0.92 gallon reserve)Claimed dry weight: 416 lbs.
More by Todd Canavan
Comments
Join the conversation