The German motorcycle manufacturer MZ has launched a new touring bike into the market, the MZ 1000ST SuperTraveller, designed to appeal to the needs of the more "sporting" touring rider. The SuperTraveller is based on the 1000cc MZ model range which has already won the company several design awards. The other MZ 1000cc bikes are the sports 1000S and the naked 1000SF SuperFighter.

The frame and fairing of the SuperTraveller are to a large extent identical with the MZ 1000S that has been produced in the Zschopau factory since 2003, but the 4-stroke, inline-twin engine is the same as the unit fitted to the MZ 1000SF SuperFighter that was launched earlier this year. This engine is tuned for torque (98 Nm) rather than top end power, and has a top performance of 83 kW (113hp) at 9000 rpm.

MZ have incorporated features into the new SuperTraveller that have been designed to increase the comfort of both the rider and the pillion on long journeys, whilst retaining most of the performance and handling of the bike on which it is based. A different handlebar design and lowered footrests gives a more comfortable seating position for the rider, which is absolutely perfect for long distance travelling.

To combat any additional turbulence, the screen is 30 mm higher compared to the MZ 1000S and gives more wind protection from the upright seating position. In all these changes the passenger hasn't been ignored - they get a new rear seat cushion that should provide more comfort for the pillion. Town riding hasn't been forgotten either, as MZ have optimised the clutch springs to reduce the effort required to operate the clutch by 20%.

However, it's no use having a bike designed for touring if all you can take with you is a credit card and a toothbrush. So MZ offers a luggage system for the 1000ST that should have enough capacity for a two-up journey.

In addition, there's a luggage system that can carry the luggage of 2 people for long journeys. A custom subframe provides attachment for two 40L sidecases, and if that's not enough the system can be upgraded to add a 40L topbox for a total capacity of 120L and 25Kg.

To cope with the extra loadings, MZ have developed a special steering damper for the 1000ST to keep everything stable and under control at the front.

The name “SuperTraveller” was chosen by MZ to follow on from the success of the “Skorpion Traveller” that was produced by the factory up until 2000. Many of these bikes are still in regular daily use by their owners, and have been praised for their reliability and practicality.

The basic model 1000ST will be available from German dealers from May 2005, with a price tag of 10,290€. The complete bike with luggage subframe and two sidecases will cost 10,790€.

At the moment MZ don't have a date or price for any UK deliveries, but they expect to be able to export as soon as possible after the German launch. We'll let you know as soon as we have any further information, and of course we'll do our best to get our hands on a 1000ST so we can tell you what it's like.