🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

MZ

Model:

TS 250

Year:

1979

Country Of Origin:

East Germany (GDR)

👋 Introduction

Manufacturer Segment:

MZ (Motorradwerk Zschopau) was a significant state-owned manufacturer in East Germany, known for producing robust and functional motorcycles for domestic and export markets, often serving as reliable transportation and utility vehicles.

Model Segment:

The MZ TS 250 was a popular middleweight motorcycle in its era, designed for practicality, durability, and versatility, often used for commuting, touring, and general transportation.

Competitors:

In its segment, it competed with other European and Japanese motorcycles of similar displacement, offering a distinct blend of East German engineering and solid construction.

Design Philosophy:

Focus on mechanical simplicity, ease of maintenance, and ruggedness suitable for varied road conditions.

Durability:

Known for its sturdy construction and ability to withstand regular use and less-than-ideal road surfaces common in Eastern Bloc countries.

Dv Engine:

The characteristic MZ two-stroke single-cylinder engine with its distinctive exhaust note and reliable performance.

Dv Chassis:

Often featured a unified frame and engine construction (Einrahmen-Konstruktion), contributing to structural integrity and handling.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service/Repair/Workshop Manual

Language:

German

Page Count:

328

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Format:

Instant Digital Download (PDF)

Zoom Functionality:

Yes

Printability:

Yes

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the MZ ES 250/2 engine. Includes cylinder head, cylinder, piston, crankshaft, connecting rod, bearings, and timing.

Engine Lubrication:

Oil pump operation, oil filter replacement, oil circuit diagnosis, and fluid specifications.

Fuel System:

Carburetor identification (e.g., Bing, Gumpert), adjustment procedures, jetting, fuel tank maintenance, fuel lines, and filters.

Ignition System:

Spark plug specifications, ignition timing adjustment (points and condenser), coil testing, and wiring diagrams.

Exhaust System:

Muffler and pipe maintenance, gasket replacement, and common leak points.

Transmission Gearbox:

Gearbox disassembly and reassembly, clutch operation and adjustment, gear shift mechanism, and lubricant specifications.

Clutch:

Wet multi-plate clutch service, friction plate replacement, spring replacement, and adjustment procedures.

Frame Chassis:

Frame inspection, welding repair guidelines, and component mounting points.

Front Suspension:

Telescopic fork disassembly, seal replacement, oil type and level, spring inspection, and steering head bearing service.

Rear Suspension:

Shock absorber service and adjustment, swingarm bearing inspection and lubrication, and spring maintenance.

Braking System:

Drum brake inspection, adjustment, lining replacement, and brake cable maintenance. (Note: Typically drum brakes on this model).

Wheels And Tires:

Spoke tensioning and wheel truing, tire pressure recommendations, and bearing lubrication.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), charging system (dynamo/alternator), and switches.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fender removal and installation, fuel tank mounting, seat adjustment, and fairing/panel attachment.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, brake adjustments, and lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnosing common starting issues, engine running problems, electrical faults, and performance issues with detailed symptom-cause-correction tables.

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, including piston ring gap measurement, cylinder honing, bearing clearance checks, and torque specifications.

Carburetor Tuning:

Step-by-step instructions for carburetor adjustment and jetting for optimal performance and fuel economy.

Suspension Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding front forks and servicing rear shock absorbers.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Using wiring diagrams to trace circuits and diagnose electrical faults.

Clutch Replacement:

Procedure for replacing clutch plates and springs.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive Workshop Manual. Covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Likely text-searchable if scanned from original printed material, but accuracy may vary.

Quality Rating:

Excellent Factory Quality

Clarity:

High clarity for text and diagrams, enabling easy interpretation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Two-stroke, single-cylinder

Displacement:

243 cc (approximately)

Bore X Stroke:

69 mm x 65 mm (typical for this engine family)

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 8.5:1 (varies slightly by sub-model)

Power Output:

Approximately 16-18 hp (varies by tuning and specific model year)

Torque Output:

Approximately 20-22 Nm (varies)

Top Speed:

Approximately 110-120 km/h (70-75 mph)

Fuel Economy:

Typically 3.5-4.5 L/100km (approx. 50-65 MPG)

Carburetor Type:

Often fitted with Bing or Gumpert carburetors, e.g., 28mm or 32mm variants.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline with two-stroke oil mixture (typically 1:50 or 1:40 depending on oil quality and manufacturer recommendation).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Constant mesh, 5-speed sequential gearbox

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-plate clutch, cable-operated

Final Drive:

Chain drive

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 2050 mm

Width:

Approx. 800 mm (handlebar width)

Height:

Approx. 1100 mm (to handlebar)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1370 mm

Dry Weight:

Approx. 140-150 kg

Gross Weight:

Approx. 320 kg (max)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 15 liters

Oil Tank Capacity:

N/A (two-stroke pre-mix)

Gearbox Oil Capacity:

Approx. 0.8 - 1.0 liters (API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 is common)

Fork Oil Capacity:

Approx. 180-200 ml per fork leg (SAE 10W or 15W fork oil typically)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

ECE standards applicable to the era and region of manufacture.

Braking System Type:

Drum brakes front and rear, typically 180mm or 200mm diameter.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, taillight with brake light function, and turn signals (indicators).

Frame Construction:

Steel tube frame providing a robust structure.

Engine Mounting:

Engine is a stressed member in some configurations, contributing to chassis rigidity.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A. Basic analogue instruments: speedometer, tachometer (if fitted), and indicator lights.

Assistance Features:

N/A. Focus is on mechanical operation and rider input.

Connectivity Options:

N/A.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Gearbox oil: Every 5,000 - 10,000 km. Two-stroke oil: Mixed with fuel at each refueling.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 5,000 - 8,000 km, or as needed based on condition.

Chain Lubrication Adjustment:

Lubricate chain every 500-1000 km, adjust tension as needed.

Air Filter Cleaning:

Clean/replace every 3,000-5,000 km, or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Engine Oil Type:

Two-stroke engine oil (pre-mix) – e.g., MZA 2T Öl, Liqui Moly 2T Motorbike Synth, or equivalent JASO FD/API TC rated oils.

Gearbox Oil Spec:

API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 gear oil.

Fork Oil Spec:

SAE 10W or 15W suspension fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

N/A (drum brakes, typically require lubrication of mechanism rather than fluid).

Common Problems:

Leaking crank seals, carburetor tuning issues, ignition point wear, clutch wear, and fork seal leaks. Overheating can occur if not properly maintained or if the cooling fins are obstructed.

Maintenance Focus:

Regular cleaning of the cooling fins, checking and adjusting ignition points, proper fuel/oil mixture, and ensuring the correct carburetor setup are crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer History:

Motorradwerk Zschopau (MZ) has a long history dating back to 1906, initially producing DKW motorcycles before becoming an independent East German manufacturer after WWII. MZ was renowned for its innovative two-stroke technology, particularly its monocoque chassis designs and its success in motorcycle racing.

Ts Series Evolution:

The TS series was an evolution of MZ's earlier ES (Einzylinder Schwinge) models, introducing updated styling, improved suspension, and often more powerful engines. The TS 250 represented a significant update in the company's 250cc lineup.

Production Period:

The MZ TS 250 and its variants were produced from the mid-1970s into the early 1980s.

Manufacturing Location:

Zschopau, East Germany (GDR).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

While specific awards are rare for this period and origin, MZ motorcycles were widely recognized for their reliability and practicality as essential transport in their target markets. They also had a strong presence in touring and endurance events historically.