MP3 CHEERS FOR A FRENCH LESSON
Paris has to be the scooter mecca of the Western world. Spend any length of time in the French capital and you’ll soon realise there are far more two-wheelers than four-wheelers on the streets and boulevards.
And there are also more three-wheelers – which brings us to Piaggio’s MP3.
This machine is already hugely popular in Paris, with 60% of worldwide sales made in France. So, no surprise the Italian manufacturer chose the city to launch two new versions – a 350cc and a 500cc. The latter is the one I rode.
It’s a great-looking vehicle, with an almost car-like front with those two tilting 13in front wheels and associated suspension equipment.
The plush saddle has improved padding and stitching, and the pillion gets a good-size backrest, retractable foot pegs and new grab handles. The dash features two round clocks and a digital panel.
Nice touches include the anti-impact pads on the leg shield, which match the saddle, and a retractable bag hook.
The latter is not to be confused with the handbrake lever, ahem.
A button below the bars opens the under-seat compartment, which has a light, carpet and a gas strut. It’s easily big enough for two full-face helmets and a couple of baguettes.
The 493cc motor has been tweaked to give a 14% increase in power, plus more torque at low speeds. There are two ride modes which alter performance and fuel consumption.
Jump on board, hit the start button and “on y va!” There’s no clutch, of course, just twist-and-go. Power delivery is smooth and linear, and there’s lots of oomph.
Around the controlled chaos of the cobbled roundabouts of Paris, it never put a foot wrong.
Braking is via triple discs, with ABS, and there is also rear-wheel traction control. And there’s no need to put your French brogues down on to the wet cobbles. As you roll towards a standstill, press a button and activate the locking mechanism which cancels the front-wheel tilt and keeps the bike upright.
I have no doubt it will continue to be a top seller in Paris and other cities around the world – c’est magnifique.