Scooter News Piaggio MP3 We answer some questions on what makes the MP3 different from the scooters we know and love.
Allen Drysdale Later this year we will see the most revolutionary scooter to hit our shores in a long time. What makes it different and why would you consider purchasing three wheels over two? The MP3 is set to form its own niche.
Recently Italian magazine Motociclismo tested the MP3 up against the model it is based on before we see the extra wheel added, the Piaggio X8.
Using both experienced and non-experienced riders they were able to come up with the following conclusions
Here’s what they found;
1) The MP3 is more stable and precise then a normal scooter
True
2) It will brake better and provide more confidence to an inexperienced rider in general riding conditions
True
3) In heavy traffic the MP3 is more agile then a normal scooter
False
4) Consumes more petrol then a normal scooter
True
5) You will be able to guide and create a lean angle through a corner greater then a normal scooter
True
6) You can create a greater lean angle then a motorcycle in a corner
False
7) You will need a greater turning circle on the MP3
True
8) The MP3 has slightly less storage under the seat
False - MP3 will fit a Jet style helmet the X8 a full face helmet but the MP3 has a greater litre capacity
With an experienced rider on board the MP3 was seen to be slower off the mark, took longer to come to a stop as well as needing a wider turning circle. And you would expect this from a scooter that is wider and weighed in at 51 kg more.
With an inexperienced rider on board the MP3 won everything that it was compared against. Braking, cornering and control are all far superior to a novice on the MP3 then they are on a conventional scooter like the X8.
Where the MP3 wins out over a conventional scooter is its stability through corners and confidence inspired handling. Having three wheels allows it to handle any inevitable road situation with ease whether wet or dry, loose surfaces or shiny bitumen the MP3 just hangs on.
Wet road braking in emergency situations up against the conventional X8 was also handled with more confidence on the MP3 compared to that of the X8. The safety that this scooter exhumes is unconventional.
So the MP3 isn’t as nimble, isn’t as practical and no it isn’t for everyone but the MP3 could very well appeal to a whole new market segment of riders ready to take the transition.
The picture gallery gives a graphic example of the MP3 in action versus its sibling X8.
The MP3 is most likely due for release around May 2007.
published 6/02/2007 |