Greetings,
New member here and reaching out to more knowledgeable folks in hopes of determining what makes a Monza, a Monza and not just a tarted up clone..
If I am in the wrong category, please advise !
My story is, I'm in the process of acquiring what is being offered as a 1981 V50 Monza. I've tried to do my due diligence in checking the serial numbers against the Netherland MG Owner's group, as well as reaching out to other dealers etc. who might know something about it.
Physically/visually, it appears to have all the correct tinware , gauges, switches etc. The only obvious difference is, a round headlight and aftermarket bikini fairing, which the owner admits is non standard. But it looks right at home on the bike.
From what I can see, the frame and motor numbers have certain characteristics that identify the bike as a Monza, and yet the numbers don't seem to fall neatly into the ranges shown. But maybe such serial number lists aren't the last word, as factories weren't that concerned with accuracy as much as getting product out the door !
I will finish my long winded post and list the numbers, so members can advise whether or not they look correct for a Monza.
Frame number- ZGUPEAPE7BM100127
Motor number- PE*020879*
I can post photos if there's interest and I can figure out how to do so.
Thanks in advance for any help forthcoming.
My first question to you would be: does it matter? If you want to buy it as an investment, remember that the bike is not stock, and hence not an ideal collectors item as is. If you buy it to ride and enjoy, will it affect your joy whether the bike is a clone or the real deal? Only you can know the answers to these questions
The differences has already been pointed out by others. The gearing difference is quite noticeable; the Monza turn about 4200 rpm @ 60 mph in top gear, the MkI/II/III about 4700 rpm. AFAIK, the frame, wheels and brakes are identical, but some standard Mk-versions may have a different state of tune regarding the engine than that of the Monza. None are powerhouses; the Monza tested by MOTORRAD magazine made 32 rwhp. Cycle magazine did not measure the power of their test Monza, but it was a strong - for the model - runner, turning a 14.37 quarter-mile @ 91.37 mph. It delivered 47.8 mpg, or slightly less than 5 liters per 100 km. Wet weight with a full tank of gas was 180 kg, or 397 lbs.
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