B.M.C. Z78/2 Motorcycle
Medium motorcycle used by the Principality of Zeon during the One Year War.
The B.M.C. Z78/2 Motorcycle was a medium motorcycle used on Earth by the Principality of Zeon during the One Year War in UC 0079.
The B.M.C. Z78/2 represented a practical approach to ground transportation for Zeon forces operating on Earth. Designated as a medium motorcycle, the vehicle provided reliable mobility for reconnaissance missions, courier duties, and rapid personnel transport across diverse terrain conditions.
History
The B.M.C. Z78/2 Motorcycle was first deployed by the Principality of Zeon in UC 0078, making it one of the earlier ground vehicles to enter service with Zeon’s Earth-based forces. The motorcycle’s development preceded the One Year War as part of Zeon’s preparation for extended Earth operations.
During the One Year War in UC 0079, the B.M.C. Z78/2 saw widespread deployment across multiple battlefronts. The motorcycle proved particularly valuable in European operations, where its mobility and reliability made it suitable for reconnaissance missions and rapid communication between Zeon ground units.
The vehicle was utilised extensively in the period leading up to the Battle of Odessa, where Zeon forces required fast, reliable transportation for coordination and intelligence gathering. Notable among its operators was Zeygan, who used the motorcycle for reconnaissance duties in the European theatre.
Design
The B.M.C. Z78/2 Motorcycle embodied a conservative design philosophy that prioritised reliability over innovation. Its design was essentially unchanged from military motorcycles used during the pre-Universal Century Anno Domini era, reflecting Zeon’s practical approach to ground vehicle development.
The motorcycle measured 1.8 metres in overall length and 0.8 metres in height, providing a compact profile suitable for operations in varied terrain. With an empty weight of just 0.12 metric tons, the B.M.C. Z78/2 offered excellent manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency for extended operations.
The vehicle accommodated a single rider and was designed for simplicity of operation and maintenance. This approach ensured that the motorcycle could be operated by personnel with minimal specialised training, whilst also reducing the logistical burden of spare parts and maintenance equipment.
Operational characteristics
The B.M.C. Z78/2’s design prioritised functionality over comfort, reflecting its military application. The motorcycle’s robust construction allowed it to operate effectively in diverse environmental conditions, from the temperate climates of Europe to more challenging terrain encountered during Zeon’s global operations.
The vehicle’s compact size and relatively quiet operation made it ideal for reconnaissance missions where stealth was essential. Its ability to navigate terrain impassable to larger vehicles provided Zeon forces with tactical flexibility in their ground operations.
Armament
The B.M.C. Z78/2 Motorcycle carried no fixed armaments, reflecting its role as a transportation and reconnaissance vehicle rather than a combat platform. This design decision kept the motorcycle lightweight and focused on its primary mission of providing rapid mobility for Zeon personnel.
Known drivers
- Zeygan
Behind the scenes
The B.M.C. Z78/2 Motorcycle’s design reflects the practical military philosophy employed in early Universal Century vehicle development. The designation “B.M.C.” likely refers to the manufacturer or design bureau responsible for the vehicle’s development within the Zeon military structure.
The vehicle’s conservative design approach, essentially unchanged from Anno Domini-era motorcycles, demonstrates Zeon’s focus on proven technologies for ground operations rather than experimental designs that might prove unreliable in combat conditions.
Appearances
- Mobile Suit Gundam
- Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO 2: The Gravity Front
External links
- B.M.C. Z78/2 Motorcycle on MAHQ