RealClassic MZ 250
I probably became aware of MZ in the early 1970s when they were first imported. I read Motorcycle Sport avidly and when the ES250 appeared it was a case of WOW. It was certainly different: the leading link forks, massive front mudguard, chunky-looking all-alloy engine with the carburettor hidden below an aluminium cover and the crowning glory (in some minds, anyway) the headlamp which ran smoothly back, almost becoming part of the petrol tank. However I had a job with a company car so I had no immediate requirement for a new bike.
When my new job in 1982 didn't provide a car, commuting transport was required. A locally advertised TS250/1 Supa5 looked to fit the bill. The bike was only a couple of years old and had done about 1800 miles, so was to all intents and purposes brand new. My daily commute was about 20 miles through Epping town and forest so the route was fairly varied. The Supa5 coped admirably, was plenty fast enough and returned around 60mpg.
By 1984 I was rapidly approaching my 40th birthday and I realised that I had never been to the Isle of Man for either the TT or the Manx GP. I also had a hankering to ride an MCC long distance trial. Consequently I went off to the Island for the Manx in 1984 with a couple of friends, then joined the MCC and started to modify the MZ with the intention of entering the 1985 Edinburgh Trial.
Modifications consisted of forming a crude bash plate to protect the engine, because as it hangs from the spine frame the crankcase is rather vulnerable. The rev counter drive was removed and a pair of trials bars fitted. This
