2007 Piaggio MP3 Road Test
7-12-2007
by
Amyot Bachand
, moto123.com
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Sometimes dazzling instrumentsThe instrument panel is comprehensive and requires a good learning session because of the frame's locking system. You have to become familiar with the flashing stability indicator when decelerating or stopping (more on that later). The instruments and gauges are easy to read in normal conditions, but when the sun is high, the light is reflected directly to the rider's face. The mirrors are decently-sized and simple to adjust.  | | The gauges have a tendency to reflect sunrays. |
StorageThe MP3 features a dual-opening trunk under the seat. A remote control button (which didn't work after 1,000 km) allows you to lift the seat up; then, by pushing the ignition key, the trunk lid opens up to swallow a number of items, some as long as a camera tripod or a stick of bread. Of course, the 65-litre trunk will allow you to store a standard helmet plus a full-face helmet, but not two full-faces. Elsewhere, there are no pockets or bins at the front of the scooter. That's another area Piaggio needs to revise.How does it work?That's the question I was asked most often by other riders, car drivers or pedestrians. Well, it runs just like any other bike or scooter. Thanks to the parallelogram suspension and their independent articulation, the front wheels tilt like those of a regular motorcycle. When cornering, this translates into higher stability because there is one more wheel to carry the weight of the scooter. In addition, the independent suspension allows the wheels to soak up bumps and potholes individually. I even rode with the left wheel on asphalt and the right wheel on gravel while maintaining the utmost stability. I tip my hat to Piaggio engineers and executives who dared to introduce such an effective innovation. As for braking, stability is never compromised. I took 22 meters to stop from 80 to 0 km/h and 35 meters from 100 to 0 km/h. With a slightly less firm right brake lever, these results could be improved. On the roadWhen entering a corner, I noticed that you have to turn the handlebars a bit earlier than with a similarly-sized two-wheeler (probably because of the two front wheels). I also found that the "sidecar technique" allows the rider to benefit from increased stability in tight turns. Thanks to this breakthrough, comfort is also enhanced; whether you're riding downtown or in the country, the MP3 offers a more compliant ride.  | | The three-wheel setup provides increased stability. |
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