Scooter Reviews Manhattan M3 Gen ll Need to be seen? The Manhattan M3 will certainly have heads turning.
Allen Drysdale 
When we first rode or should I say "drove" the M3, we were mildly sceptical about the concept. The M3 has a strong visual appeal, though dynamically it could be found wanting if pushed across bumpy surfaces. Recently we were called by Manhattan to come and have a follow up ride. Here we have a few thoughts on the Manhattan M3 Gen II...
Manhattan Scooters has been working hard on the M3. Hard in getting the handling corrected on what could be seen as a little unbalanced over uneven surfaces. At higher speeds you would have the rear wanting to take over the front and both ends wanting to head in different directions.
The M3 from Manhattan in all regards is different. It bears no relationship when riding on two wheels, though you do need a motorcycle licence when riding one. The controls are similar to that of a scooter. The M3 has a twist and go automatic transmission, a hand brake lever, a 4-stroke engine, everything you'd normally find.
Where the M3 differentiates itself is with a roof and 3 wheels. Two skinny 10 inch wheels take up duty on the rear with one 12 inch wheel on the front. The roof forms the structure, a windscreen has you protected from exterior elements just like it would with a car. Though please note - each side of the M3 is open and your feet still need to balance the M3 when stationary. Unless parking, this is when you lock the body into place, pull up the lever, foot on the brake - done.
The 150 cc engine will have the M3 moving along at a top speed of around 80 km/h. Brakes are activated by using either the rear foot brake situated on the floor or the hand operated lever. Once seated you feel like you're shielded away from what would normally be causing you resistance in a normal two-wheeled situation. No wind in your face, a ten-fold increase in weather protection.
Like I said initially, Manhattan has been working hard on getting the 2nd generation of the M3 right. Compare it to the first release and it's chalk and cheese. You still have some issues like interior space being too compact for the tall or modest performance given the weight. Though you could perform local commuting duties easily and the M3 will keep up with flowing traffic.
I still see the major benefit of the M3 as a marketing tool. All wrapped up in a set of business graphics, it would be hard to pass the M3 and not notice. It sticks out like dogs "you know what". It also has a fair amount of storage space in the back thanks to the boot.
The M3 wont be as agile as your two wheeled counterpart, it wont be as quick as off the mark, and dynamically speaking, it does take some time getting accustomed to the way you steer the M3. Though, the Manhattan M3 will provide you with excellent weather protection and handy storage options. It also screams out loud "look at me".
If you're chasing dynamics or something that is easy to get on and off quickly, the M3 will not exactly fit the bill. If on the other hand, you're wanting high exposure, good storage and weather protection, the M3 is an option. As I've said many times, the M3 would work perfectly well as a marketing tool for small business.
Good on Manhattan Scooters for coming to grips with the previous models handling shortfalls. The M3 Gen II feels far more composed when cornering. Manhattan has also resolved that disconnect that was overly apparent, it now has both ends working closer in harmony.
So if being seen is your thing, the M3 is certainly something different. For more information call Manhattan directly on 02 8014 4251
published 19/12/2011 |