Web Analytics

 Minsk - 125 MMVZ
 Back to brands list


Minsk MMVZ motocyclette motorrad motorcycle vintage classic classique scooter roller moto scooter
Photo ou archives : F-M. Dumas
1303

Capacity : 125
Model : MMVZ
Production : 1991 -
Category : (R) Street Bike

MINSK

125 MMVZ - 1991

Last production from USSR and first one from Belarus

Until recently swamped by the bureaucracy of Soviet planned production, the motorcycle industry of the former Byelorussia specializes in single-cylinder two-strokes of 125cc. The MMVZ (Minsk Motorcycle Vélo Zavod) factory in Minsk was founded in November 1945, with the first motorcycles rolling off the line in 1951. This factory has built 20 million pedal cycles and 5 million motorcycles.

Slow to Develop

Currently, the factory still makes a model little changed from its original product. Output has officially risen during the Eighties to 200,000 motorcycles and 500,000 pedal cycles a year. Proudly bearing a stork, emblem of Byelorussia, on its fuel tank, the Minsk has certainly evolved less than the MZ which comes from the same origins. It does nowadays have electronic ignition, but remains definitely more obsolescent than its East German rival, if only by virtue of its gasoline/ oil lubrication.

Competitive Pricing

Its main selling point is its extremely competitive pricing, a factor which is unlikely to remain valid for long as the ex-Soviet republics move towards a more liberal economy. It was formerly exported through a centralized state organization, but the factories of the former USSR have now signed accords with private importing companies.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: 123cc (52x58mm) air-cooled single- cylinder; electronic ignition

Power Rating: 10 hp

Valves: two-stroke

Fuel System: carburetor

Transmission: 4-speed; chain final drive

Suspension: telescopic fork (front); swinging fork (rear)

Brakes: drum (front & rear)

Wheels: 3.00x18 inch

Weight: 231 lb

Maximum Speed: 59 mph

The Minsk proudly carries a stylized stork: symbol of Byelorussia: on its tank. Its obsolescent design, however, is not really a matter for pride.




Le fichier Moto Passion réalisé par François-Marie Dumas réunit près de deux mille photos accompagnées d'un historique très complet des machines présentées.
Il sera progressivement mis à jour ici et toute information complémentaire est la bienvenue sur info@moto-collection.org.

Cette documentation unique, qui constitue sans doute l'encyclopédie la plus exhaustive jamais écrite sur l'histoire de la moto, a été réalisée avec l'assistance de nombreux spécialistes dont principalement Didier Ganneau, Christophe Gaime, Mick Woollett, Jean Goyard, Bernard Salvat, Christian Rey, Yves Campion, Helmut Krackowizer, Michael Dregni, Michel Montange, etc. que je remercie ici.

Disponible sur demande :
- Les fiches originales sur papier
- Les photos et archives signées de mon nom en haute définition ou les documents originaux.
Me contacter sur info@moto-collection.org pour les conditions et droits d'utilisation.