MP3 300 and 500cc
In brief
When is a scooter not a scooter? When it’s an MP3. Thanks to its pair of close coupled front wheels, in the eyes of licensing authorities across Europe and beyond, this is a car. You read that correctly, 500cc on a car licence. Is there a catch? The only one I can see is that bigger isn’t necessarily better. Although they look the same there’s more than engine size separating the two models. In classic scooter terms think 125 Primavera and PX200, there’s a family resemblance but they’re different machines.
■ What does it cost? £7100 (300cc) £9700 (500cc).
■ How does it ride? It’s a hoot. If you’ve never tried one then you’re missing out. The locking mechanism for the front wheels takes a bit of getting used to but once that’s mastered you can forget Del Boy’s Reliant, this is the most fun you’ll have on three wheels. It’s not impossible to drop, but it takes a certain degree of commitment to lowside an MP3. The 300cc version is powered by the same HPE motor as the GTS but has a few tweaks which make it more responsive across the whole power spread. In contrast the 500 isn’t quite so much fun, the additional bulk makes it less nimble and there’s very little difference in top end speed.
■ Is it practical? If Vespa’s GTS has an under-seat storage ‘bin’, the 300cc MP3 has an under-seat bath and the 500’s fitted with a small jacuzzi. There’s plenty of weather protection and despite their bulk both versions are surprisingly manoeuvrable at low speeds. ■ Is it City scooter? Most HPEs are sold in Paris, what more can I say?
■ Is it a Commuter? If I ever return to the rat race this would be my weapon of choice for the daily trek.
■ Is it a Tourer? The MP3 is designed to crunch miles without taking breath, however for such a large scooter there’s surprisingly little room in the rider’s ‘compartment’. Tall or long-legged riders will find long distances on the 300 to be a somewhat cramped riding experience.
■ Conclusion: If the badge said ‘Vespa’ instead of ‘Piaggio’, scooter rallies would be filled with MP3s. They are superb pieces of kit and great fun to ride.