The MZ Skorpion was an example of what an international economy can achieve – a East German manufacturer brought together Japanese motors (from Yamaha) and a British design firm (called Seymourpowell) to create something that worked well on paper and on the road. It wasn’t a huge commercial success, but nowadays it’s definitely a cult classic.
The international theme continues with the Bilstein rear shock (German), Acerbis bodywork (Italian), and Grimeca brakes (also Italian).
Weighing just 380 pounds and packing 48 horsepower, the Skorpion utilizes the engine and electrical systems from a Yamaha XT660. They were well equipped from the factory, including adjustable clip-ons and rear sets. This is a Sport model, which got a half fairing and low bars.
Manufactured in October 1995, this example is VIN: SNZ6SE206T7503990.
During his ownership, the seller has covered 14,697 miles. The odometer shows 17,758 miles.
“Based on records received from the prior owners it appears that the original owner (Delray Beach, Florida) purchased the bike some time before 2003 and sold it on November 3rd 2003 with 750 miles on the odometer. The second owner (Erie, Colorado) then sold the bike with 3,061 miles on the odometer on August 10th, 2011 to the present owner (Laguna Niguel, California).”
“I can only reconfirm the statements in many publications. For expert riders this bike is an absolute blast to ride on twisty roads and it is fun to embarrass much bigger and newer bikes with only 50 BHP. The bike always feels like on rails and is very confidence inspiring! Due to the smaller size and low weight it also makes for a great beginner or female riders bike. It is simple and allows the rider to keep the bike for a long time since they won’t outgrow it quickly. I have two 1996 MZ Skorpion Sports and am thinning the herd at age 67.”
Maintenance:
“Since the purchase in 2011 I have done all service work myself and have logged it in a spreadsheet, and saved most receipts. No known mechanical issues! No leaks, no electrical issues/malfunctions. The bike has received very recent complete fluid changes, engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, fork oil. About 1,000 miles ago, valves adjusted, carb fully cleaned and adjusted. New spark plug, air filter, lithium battery, chain and sprocket set, and cleaning and lubrication of all Bowden cables. This bike has been very reliable and requires only low budget services.
Parts for the Yamaha engine and service are readily available from Yamaha and independent shops. And MZ parts are readily available from Graham’s in the UK, and even on eBay.”
Modifications:
Carbon fiber slip-on exhaust, rider seat reupholstered by HT Moto in Orange County, California.
Smaller front turn signals.
Clip-on handlebars.
Aftermarket tank protector.
Battery tender lead.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Metzeler Sportec M7 RR tires with date codes of 0122 and 1122.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys.
The sale also includes “the OEM muffler, the plastic rear seat cover (race cowl) and a spare “Skorpion” sticker for left rear seat cowling.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The bike has been ridden and shows smaller scratches and wear indications that would be consistent with the age and mileage, i.e. stone impingements on fork and main and side stand. The body and frame paint is in clean and shiny condition! The engine block paint shows some flaking, has not changed in past 15 years! The bike is crash and tip-over free! However, it has a couple of scratches from another bike falling over and that handle bar hitting the passenger seat section.”
Currently located in Laguna Niguel, California, this MZ is offered on a clean California title on Planned Non-Operational registration.
Only if the bike is registered in California before September 2nd 2026, the DMV website estimates that it would cost $311 to make registration current through September 2027, as it would also have to include the registration from September 2025 to 2026. However if the bike is registered after September 2nd, the registration fee’s will be approximately $158, and only apply from September 2026 – 2027.
Have any Skorpion Sport stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
