A superb and rare
photo of the magnificent MZ 125 RT motorcycle.
MZ was a motorcycle manufacturer located in
Zschopau,Germany. MZ r Motorradwerk Zschopau (German for motorcycle factory at
Zschopau) in the Erzgebirge region of Saxony. From 1992 to 1999 the company was
called MuZ an acronym for Motorrad und Zweiradwerk (German for motorcycle and two-wheeler
factory). The Zschopau works was one of
the oldest motorcycle factories in the world, producing motorcycles since 1922.
The most well known models were the two-stroke 125/150 and 250 series, with the
variants ES, ETS, TS und ETZ. MZ
was one of the few producers that made motorcycles with sidecars, though prior
to 1972 sidecars were manufactured by Stoye. MZ also has a very interesting
racing history. At one point in time,
the German company build and designed the most technological advanced
two strokes in the world. In 1958 the MZ company booked its first wins in
125/250 cc Grand Prix racing and scored an over all second place in the 250cc
World Championship. The MZ two strokes, developed by engineer Walter Kaaden
have influenced motorcycle racing for decades. His 1961 125cc race engine
design was the first engine to achieve an output of 200BHP/litre.
His revolutionary two stroke system was copied widely in the sixties by
Japanese manufacturers. Yamaha and Suzuki two-stroke engines became competitive
in motor sport only after they gained possession of MZ design secrets. MZs were
ridden to 13 GP victories and a further 105 rostrum places between 1955 and
1976. Sadly, the German government did not exactly support the international
racing aspirations of MZ. The defection to the West of grand prix rider Ernst
Degner, complete with a set of secrets, started the end of the glory years of
Kaadens bikes. The Skorpion Sport 660 cc single got its own MuZ-cup racing
series in several countries at the end of the nineties. It is famous for its
precise handling. It is still a popular mount for clubracing and Supermono
racing. Its withdrawal from the official factory program is much mourned by
fans. The Yamaha-based engine can be reliably tuned to 150% of its original
performance. At that stage, it can become competitive in Supermono racing
classes and in single and twin cylinder racing classes.
This is a very nice and very rare photo that reflects a wonderful era of motorcycle history in a wonderful way. This is your rare chance to own this photo, therefore it is printed in a nice large format of ca. 8" x 11" (ca. 20 x 27 cm). It makes it perfectly suitable for framing!
No copyright expressed or implied. Sold as collectable item only. We are clearing out our archives that we have gathered from various sources.
All items always sent well protected in PVC clear files and board backed envelopes.
They make the perfect gift and are perfectly suited for framing. They will look gorgeous unframed and will be a true asset nicely framed with a border. They are a gorgeous and great asset in every home, workshop, workplace, restaurant, bar or club!
First come - first served. And you can always contact us for your requests. Please ask any questions before the auction ends.