MP3 cut loose

Piaggio Australia has just released its first three-wheeler, the revolutionary MP3 with scooter mechanicals and two front wheels.

The machine is the first of its kind in the country - and the world - offering full scooter or motorcycle leaning characteristics, but greatly enhanced front end grip and overall stability.

It can be locked in an upright position for parking and wheeling around, or when pulled up at the lights, and disengages to permit normal use once it accelerates beyond a low preset speed.

BikePoint has had a brief ride on one and we were deeply impressed.

The MP3 gives a lot of confidence in tricky turns and under hard braking, while apparently giving nothing away when it comes to being maneuverable.

We'll do a more thorough evaluation in the near future.

"Not since Enrico Piaggio introduced Vespa to the world in 1946 have we seen such a revolution in transport for individual mobility," said Piaggio's Brand Manager Simon Gloyne.

He added, "It has taken six decades for Australia to embrace scooters into our culture. Sure, the culture of the four-car family in the suburbs is well ingrained, but as fuel prices increase and our Urban areas become more consolidated, the time continues to be right for scooters. We are not experiencing a scooter craze, we are experiencing a monumental shift in the way we think about our personal transport needs."

The importers will be watching this one closely, as no-one is completely sure who or what the market is.

However many suspect that people who might have been tempted by scooters but was worried about stability might see this as a viable alternative.

It has been certified in Australia as a motorcycle, which means all the normal bike rules and licences apply.

The first version we get here is the 250, followed by a 500 Gilera Fuoco in November, and a 400 Piaggio in January 2008.

Pricing for the 250 is $10,990 plus ORC, while the 400 will be $11,990 plus ORC. Both come with a two-year warranty.

Piaggio: www.Piaggio.com.au