2007 Piaggio MP3 Road Test
7-12-2007
by
Amyot Bachand
, moto123.com
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Since the visor is short and low, wind turbulences are felt as soon as you exceed 90 km/h. This makes highway riding less enjoyable. The MP3 is more at ease on byroads than on fast highways. It prefers to ride at a cruise speed of 90-110 km/h. Indeed, while this scooter can reach 130 or even 140 km/h, it runs out of steam beyond 110 km/h. For my weekend getaway up North, I chose to take Road 117 rather than Highway 15, where the traffic averages over 120 km/h.  | | Wind protection is decent but could be improved. |
It stands by itself!As mentioned earlier, the MP3 is equipped with an hydraulic suspension locking system that I find particularly clever. However, it requires special attention at idle. You can lock the MP3 in the upright position by pressing a switch on the right handlebar; the only thing left to do is to put your feet down. How convenient when waiting at a stop light! The system automatically shuts off when you accelerate, but you need to perform steady takeoffs if you don't want to risk falling. You can also engage the system upon bringing the scooter to a full stop: the yellow indicator then starts to flash, telling you that the scooter's speed and the engine's allow the locking device to be activated. No more need to put the vehicle on its stand, no matter how easy it is. An advanced scooterWhile some improvements still need to be made, the Piaggio MP3 is a huge step towards the future. Designed for city use, it provides a reassuring riding experience. Its stability and comfort levels are clearly higher than the competition.  | | Primarily designed for city use, the MP3 is more than capable on byroads. |
Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux
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