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MZ 1000S (2004-2007)

Detail	Value
Engine size	999 cc
Power	117 bhp
Top speed	140 mph
Insurance group	15 of 17

	MCN ratings	Owners' ratings
Overall
Engine
Ride & Handling
Equipment
Quality & Reliability
Value

MCN overall verdict

MZ is trying something different with its parallel twin 1000S and Streetfighter, but it lacks the X factor and doesn't have the kind of dealer/distributor back-up you need when buying a slightly oddball motorbike. Decent to ride, and the Streetfighter version looks more appealing than the 80s style S model, but hasn't really got anything novel or unique about it.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

You have to admire MZ for building a parallel twin and making a good `un. The 1000S's 999cc motor is punchy, not too vibey and makes adequate poke. It has a cassette type gearbox too, which is a bit of a novelty talking point. But as the Yamaha TRX850 demonstrated, many bikers aren't especially keen on parallel twins and there are so many V-Twin, triple and four cylinder rivals in the 900-1200cc bracket, you have to wonder about the MZ 1000's chances in a crowded marketplace.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The MZ1000S and Streetfighter variant share the same chassis, with an Aprilia Falco-like steel tubular, twin spar type of frame, firm suspension and powerful brakes - though some road testers complain that they lack feel at the lever. It's a bike which is designed to offer a sporty ride over A roads, when you feel like a weekend blast.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

There are some nice bits, but for a sportbike, the MZ 1000S doesn't have cutting edge brakes, suspension or svelte bodywork. As a sports-tourer it has a good mix of power and handling, plus a comfortable seat - but would you be confident in getting your MZ fixed if it broke down in Spain? The fairly high end cans also limit the amount of luggage you can carry, so the MZ loses out in practical terms.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The MZ 1000S looks well made and the German factory are obviously determined to make the bike reliable if nothing else. But motorcycles need more than reliability and the trouble with the MZ badge is that is still has a little bit of an image problem. The bike itself looks durable, but with no UK distributor, you would always wonder about sourcing spares and any warranty issues.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

For eight grand new the MZ1000S waspoor value, no two ways about it. Resale values are likely to be low and the performance is hardly in the GSXR1000 league. The Streetfighter isn't such a bad proposition at about £6500, but again, depreciation could cost you 40%-50% of the bike's value in a couple of years if you're unlucky. Ouch. Find an MZ 1000S for sale.

Insurance group: 15 of 17

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2004: MZ1000S launched.
2005: MZ1000SF launched.

MZ1000 SF: Naked Streetfighter version of the 1000S; same motor, chassis, but with nose fairing and higher handlebars.

Specifications

Top speed	140 mph
1/4-mile acceleration	11.2 secs
Max power	117 bhp
Max torque	72 ft-lb
Weight	210 kg
Seat height	820 mm
Fuel capacity	20 litres
Average fuel consumption	40 mpg
Tank range	170 miles
Annual road tax
Insurance group	15 of 17

Engine size	999 cc
Engine specification	8v, parallel twin, 6 gears
Frame	Steel tubular
Front suspension adjustment	Preload, rebound, compression
Rear suspension adjustment	Preload, rebound, compression
Front brakes	Twin 320mm discs
Rear brake	243mm disc
Front tyre size	120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size	180/55 x 17

Owners' Overall Rating (2 reviews)

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Fine bike

tuxracer

Average rating

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Ride and Handling
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I tried a lot of bikes such as the Superduke and Speed Triple before finding my 1000SF by accident. For me it's a better all round package then the others, as it has a bigger tank range and better pillion accommodation as well as being much more comfortable to ride. The suspension is also fully adjustable and all the adjusters are easy to get at...no skinned knuckles with this bike! It’s got plenty of power/torque, handles very well, is well built and has loads of charcter. Although there are not many dealers, its easy to work on yourself and spares are easy to get from the new UK importer. So if you fancy something different and can find a tidy second hand one, don’t be afraid to give it a go, I'm glad I did.

01 May 2008
totally under-rated

mzsrus

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great bike, not many around, well nice bike totally different, welll over 140mph, st even better, nakes version cool too, Buy More MZ if you can, New Main importer by Nov 2007 bye

14 September 2007