Can I join in?

[Howsono]

I've only got one (running) bike at the moment - an MZ ETZ 251. 1990 East German lump of Ally with a single-cyclinder 2-stroke. Not specifically designed for off-road but read about a guy doing the Exeter trial on it with a few minor modifications. Thought it could be a bit of a laugh - lots of character and made of upcycled tractors so rugged enough when I drop it. Would I be able to join in with the beginners rides?

[Stewie]

It's not what you ride, but how you ride it and a big old eastern block 2smoke should be able to tank through most of the lanes. Tyres are your achilles heel, if it were me I would be throwing some K60's at it.
Any pictures of the MZ?
Keep an eye out in the runs section for a suitable run, Oh and welcome.

[Howsono]

Unfortunately, despite passing an MOT the MZ isn't running just doesn't want to fire up. My plan of action is:

• check I had the petrol Tao on the right way
• check the choke plunger wherever that is
• check the plug
• cry cow not sure where to go next

[Howsono]

First modification needs to be a side stand I think. Then a higher exhaust maybe? Not sure how easy that is to achieve...

[Howsono]

While I'd like to get so,emknobblier tyres I've just forked out £50 for a new rear. My intention is to keep an eye out for a couple of spare wheels and when I can get them stick some knobblier tyres on and swap for the lanes, keeping the nice road tyres for commuting.

Needs a lick of paint as some rusty chips on the tank, and a higher front mudguard. Hand protectors.

But most of all needs to run.

[steve sharp]

Hi,

Its so wet and muddy at the moment, as Stewie says you will need to stick some trail tyres on it.. You will be able to do the lanes, but it will be harder work... Engine and exhaust may be a problem with rocks etc... but its do'able..

Welcome to the group.

Cheers
Steve

[Howsono]

Once I can sort out the exhaust (don't have a clue how to do that) I will look at some sort of bash plate - ie a bit of checker plate or a nicked road sign - for the engine. But tyres would be the priority.

Need to get it running first. Pulled the plug out today and it's coked up a bit and smells of petrol. I'm going to grab a new one today (I have a spare but cooler - want to hide myself the best chances). And some carb cleaner.

Need to figure out how to de-flood an engine first.

[Howsono]

It lives! New plug and starts ok. Still not happy idling so looks like a good carb clean is next on my list. Exhaust leaks at all joints and gear changes seem totally arbitrary - still not sure how many it has. Had a blast up the road though - going to take some getting used to after a cbr

[Howsono]

Following this, I don't think K60s are an option. Piddly little 16" rear wheel. Dunno about the front (18"), more likely I suppose.

Could do with a grown up bike...

...or just one that starts - fired up ok with a new plug on Sat but nothing this morning

[Dave]

First modification needs to be a side stand I think. Then a higher exhaust maybe? Not sure how easy that is to achieve...

look at that beast!

[Howsono]

I love a bit of sarcasm of an evening.
It's cheep and cheerful. If I like trialsing I'll look at buying something more suitable but a lot of money on an unsurity.

[Luke B]

They really were an awful looking thing but very robust. One other thing to consider on that is the ignition system, you used to be able to buy an after market digital set up, far better than the points IMHO.
Dont worry about the exhaust, the first deep rut and it will bend out of the way.
Luke