Piaggio's game changer returns

When Piaggio released the original MP3 scooter in Australia in 2007, it changed the way many people thought about scooters. Making use of two front wheels -- that could tilt -- instead of one, it provided the rider with unparalleled grip but the same sense of freedom and practicality that two-wheeled vehicles provide.

Better yet, it was still the same width as a maxi scooter, meaning you could split traffic with impunity.

With double the front end contact patch of a regular scooter, and individually sprung wheels, the MP3 made riding on bodgy roads and during wet weather markedly safer, and was an absolute hoot to punt around on, delivering silky smooth transitions through corners.

Fast forward three years and the MP3 range has been updated with a new-look 300cc model. The 300 is now the sole variant in the range, but the Fuoco 500 will also be offered for those who want a bigger and sportier bang.

PS Importers, the Australian distributor of Piaggio, decided to consolidate the range, swapping out the 250 and 400 versions for a sole 300 variant, because it outputs similar power and torque to the 400cc model yet is more efficient than the 250cc version.

While 22hp and 23.2Nm may not sound like much, the boost in power over the 250 version makes a significant difference on the road, with improved acceleration across the board and a top speed of around 130km/h.

Yep, this one's freeway friendly and can even charge past 110km/h should the situation require a hasty overtake.

The Bikesales Network attended the national media launch of the MP3 300 and witnessed first-hand the range of updates, including the new 278cc engine, plus all-new fuel injection, a larger 14-inch rear wheel, new front and rear suspension, a taller front screen, a pillion passenger backrest, and a new look front-end design. The machine also comes standard with sticky Pirelli tyres.

While this isn't a completely new model, the various updates make one of the best maxi scooters on the market even better, and best of all the price of the new 300cc model is the same as the superseded 250cc: $9990 (plus on-road costs). It will be available in silver, black, red and blue.

First impressions of the new 300 are favourable: it has excellent balance and traction in a variety of different scenarios, with decent feedback to boot. As far as scooters go, there are few that can match the MP3 in terms of pure fun factor.

We'll have a full review of the new model soon, with plenty of details and opinion, so stay tuned.

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