Mz Twin In the Works

MZ TWIN IN THE WORKS

Z ISN’T RESTING ON its laurels, having unleashed the wellreceived Skorpion, powered by Yamaha’s 660cc Single (see Cycle World, August). Now comes news that MZ is moving upscale with a motorcycle powered by a Yamaha 950cc Twin. This engine, which has never appeared in a Yamaha, is an enlarged version of the

TDM850 motor. Housing the Twin is an oversized steeltube frame similar to that of the Skorpion. A cast subframe supports the bike’s rear bodywork, which sports a removable cowl. Inverted forks from a Yamaha FZR1000 are fitted, while the rear suspension is a cantilever type with a nearly horizontal Bilstein shock. Production of the MZ is due to start next Also expected is the Skorpion Country, a dualpurpose machine destined to compete with BMW’s F650 Single. Prices for the new bikes have not been released.

-Alan Cathcart