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* Piaggio MP3 250   *
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Piaggio MP3 250
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* Introduction   *
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Piaggio, the company that revolutionized personal transport with the launch of the first Vespa model in 1946, continues its streak of innovation with the introduction of the three-wheel scooter, the PIAGGIO MP3. The PIAGGIO MP3 provides safety, road grip and stability levels that no two-wheeler can match. Its power, performance and ease of use make for a very entertaining ride.

The two independent, tilting front wheels of the PIAGGIO MP3 re-define the very concept of ride stability to provide an unprecedented riding experience. Take on wet or patchy asphalt, cobblestone streets, train tracks and other tough riding conditions with more confidence and ease than a traditional two-wheeler.

With its compact super-scooter size and exceptional manoeuvrability, the PIAGGIO MP3 is at home in town traffic. It’s a cinch to park: an electro-hydraulic suspension locking system means there is no need to put the vehicle on its stand. The PIAGGIO MP3 is equally comfortable when heading out of town. Its road grip, cornering safety and tilt angle are unprecedented for a scooter, adding to the pleasure of riding different road surfaces at high speed.

Piaggio, the company that revolutionized personal transport with the launch of the first Vespa model in 1946, continues its streak of innovation with the introduction of the three-wheel scooter, the PIAGGIO MP3. The PIAGGIO MP3 provides safety, road grip and stability levels that no two-wheeler can match. Its power, performance and ease of use make for a very entertaining ride.

The two independent, tilting front wheels of the PIAGGIO MP3 re-define the very concept of ride stability to provide an unprecedented riding experience. Take on wet or patchy asphalt, cobblestone streets, train tracks and other tough riding conditions with more confidence and ease than a traditional two-wheeler.

With its compact super-scooter size and exceptional manoeuvrability, the PIAGGIO MP3 is at home in town traffic. It’s a cinch to park: an electro-hydraulic suspension locking system means there is no need to put the vehicle on its stand. The PIAGGIO MP3 is equally comfortable when heading out of town. Its road grip, cornering safety and tilt angle are unprecedented for a scooter, adding to the pleasure of riding different road surfaces at high speed.

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* Performance   *
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The PIAGGIO MP3 comes equipped with the Piaggio Quasar 250 i.e. engine. The Quasar 250 i.e. is the all-new Piaggio four-stroke, four-valve, liquid-cooled engine that meets Euro 3 standards, exceeding even the U.S. EPA and CARB standards. The new Quasar electronic injection series is the result of the Piaggio engine division’s commitment to creating a truly top quality, environment-friendly engine. The advanced closed loop injection with a Lambda sensor, together with a three-way catalytic converter and electronic ignition control system, considerably reduces emissions as well as fuel consumption and provides immediate throttle response. As a result, the PIAGGIO MP3 is fun to ride, quick off the mark in town traffic and comfortable with short motorway trips as well as extended touring.

The PIAGGIO MP3 comes equipped with the Piaggio Quasar 250 i.e. engine. The Quasar 250 i.e. is the all-new Piaggio four-stroke, four-valve, liquid-cooled engine that meets Euro 3 standards, exceeding even the U.S. EPA and CARB standards. The new Quasar electronic injection series is the result of the Piaggio engine division’s commitment to creating a truly top quality, environment-friendly engine. The advanced closed loop injection with a Lambda sensor, together with a three-way catalytic converter and electronic ignition control system, considerably reduces emissions as well as fuel consumption and provides immediate throttle response. As a result, the PIAGGIO MP3 is fun to ride, quick off the mark in town traffic and comfortable with short motorway trips as well as extended touring.

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* Style   *
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Mechanical Components
Innovative technical features and top-grade components make the PIAGGIO MP3 a truly unique vehicle that re-invents the entire scooter concept.
The PIAGGIO MP3 frame in high-tensile steel tubes is the result of the best CAD (Computer Aided Design) technology and computerized FEM (Finite Element Method) analysis. Elements such as frame strength and weight were precisely defined and tested from the initial phases of the project, with the suitability of each solution checked at every stage.

The innovative parallelogram suspension, an original Piaggio design, is anchored to the frame. The tilt mechanism is composed of four cast-aluminium control arms with four hinges fixed to the central tube and two guide tubes on either side of the parallelogram and is connected to the arms via suspension pins and ball bearings. The tubes on the right and left enclose the steering tube in a classic single arm setup.

The PIAGGIO MP3 uses three 12” wheels with large tires — 120/70 front, 130/70 rear. Together with the revolutionary front suspension, the wheels provide a tilt angle of up to 40° while riding like any normal two wheeler and simultaneously ensuring better road grip on any surface, especially slippery and uneven tracks. The parallelogram suspension also ensures increased stability at high speeds

The rear of the MP3 features a singlearm suspension with two dual effect hydraulic shock absorbers, a helicoidal spring and four-position preload.

Besides its exceptional stability, the PIAGGIO MP3 also provides brilliant braking thanks to three powerful linked brakes, 240 mm in diameter, and the parallelogram suspension. The result is record deceleration (about 8 m per second) with braking space reduced by over 20 per cent on normal road surfaces and as much as 24 per cent on slippery roads compared to a traditional two-wheel scooter.

Design
CAD-designed down to the last detail, the PIAGGIO MP3 body offered excellent protection starting from the wind tunnel, where it was extensively tested. The front-end design is genuinely innovative in terms of technical features and concept, with car-style bodywork treatment. The headlamps and front fairing merge to form a single unit that enhances the vehicle’s dynamic look as well as providing extra rider protection.

Shock-resistant splashguards on either side of the front shield protect the rider and the vehicle. The rear loading section has been designed to offer maximum comfort and storage capacity: a boot lid painted the same color as the bodywork provides access to the under seat storage. A substantial 65-litre (approx 15 gallons) storage capacity and dual access to the storage area, from the boot lid as well as by flipping up the seat, make the PIAGGIO MP3 extremely practical. The storage area comfortably holds two full-face helmets, a small bag and objects up to about three feet in length. The under seat storage also has a courtesy light and a seat cover for use when parking in rainy weather. A handy remote control button on the ignition key opens the seat lock and the rear boot lid. The rider can also open the fuel cap and rear boot lid with a single twist of the key in the ignition unit.

The most advanced calculation programs and three-dimensional measurements were carried out from the initial phase of the PIAGGIO MP3 project to enhance the vehicle’s ergonomics. The result is a vehicle that offers top-of-the-line comfort, safety and ease of use. The front shield provides exceptional protection. An extremely comfortable seat adapted to riders of any size has been made to measure for the PIAGGIO MP3. Generous padding and the shape of the built-in backrest provides perfect ergonomical seating, while the saddle height of a mere 30.7” from the ground makes the vehicle easy to manoeuvre in any circumstances. The optimal height difference between the front and the rear parts of the saddle, in addition to the ideally located rear handgrips, ensure passenger comfort and protection.

Once the rider has pressed the handlebar switch, the control unit only activates the electro-actuator if the vehicle is travelling at a speed in the range of 5–15 mph. The exact speed at which this takes place depends on the level of deceleration: the greater the deceleration, the higher the speed at which the tilt mechanism locks. Additionally, the mechanism will not lock unless the butterfly valve is closed and the engine is running at below 3000 rpm.

To ensure rider safety, the tilt mechanism not only shuts off by pressing the handlebar switch, but is also automatically deactivated if vehicle speed exceeds 9 mph, if the butterfly valve is not fully closed or if engine rpm is higher than 3000.

A lever on the inside of the front shield actions the parking brake, making it safe to park without using the stand even on sloping ground and making it possible to park the two front wheels where there is a height difference of up to 8 inches.

The PIAGGIO MP3 dashboard provides comprehensive, at-a-glance trip information. It includes a speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature indicator, clock, trip and mileage odometer. Other features are a fuel reserve indicator, oil pressure, turn signals, low and high beam, seat or boot lid open warning and an Immobilizer LED.

Mechanical Components
Innovative technical features and top-grade components make the PIAGGIO MP3 a truly unique vehicle that re-invents the entire scooter concept.
The PIAGGIO MP3 frame in high-tensile steel tubes is the result of the best CAD (Computer Aided Design) technology and computerized FEM (Finite Element Method) analysis. Elements such as frame strength and weight were precisely defined and tested from the initial phases of the project, with the suitability of each solution checked at every stage.

The innovative parallelogram suspension, an original Piaggio design, is anchored to the frame. The tilt mechanism is composed of four cast-aluminium control arms with four hinges fixed to the central tube and two guide tubes on either side of the parallelogram and is connected to the arms via suspension pins and ball bearings. The tubes on the right and left enclose the steering tube in a classic single arm setup.

The PIAGGIO MP3 uses three 12” wheels with large tires — 120/70 front, 130/70 rear. Together with the revolutionary front suspension, the wheels provide a tilt angle of up to 40° while riding like any normal two wheeler and simultaneously ensuring better road grip on any surface, especially slippery and uneven tracks. The parallelogram suspension also ensures increased stability at high speeds

The rear of the MP3 features a singlearm suspension with two dual effect hydraulic shock absorbers, a helicoidal spring and four-position preload.

Besides its exceptional stability, the PIAGGIO MP3 also provides brilliant braking thanks to three powerful linked brakes, 240 mm in diameter, and the parallelogram suspension. The result is record deceleration (about 8 m per second) with braking space reduced by over 20 per cent on normal road surfaces and as much as 24 per cent on slippery roads compared to a traditional two-wheel scooter.

Design
CAD-designed down to the last detail, the PIAGGIO MP3 body offered excellent protection starting from the wind tunnel, where it was extensively tested. The front-end design is genuinely innovative in terms of technical features and concept, with car-style bodywork treatment. The headlamps and front fairing merge to form a single unit that enhances the vehicle’s dynamic look as well as providing extra rider protection.

Shock-resistant splashguards on either side of the front shield protect the rider and the vehicle. The rear loading section has been designed to offer maximum comfort and storage capacity: a boot lid painted the same color as the bodywork provides access to the under seat storage. A substantial 65-litre (approx 15 gallons) storage capacity and dual access to the storage area, from the boot lid as well as by flipping up the seat, make the PIAGGIO MP3 extremely practical. The storage area comfortably holds two full-face helmets, a small bag and objects up to about three feet in length. The under seat storage also has a courtesy light and a seat cover for use when parking in rainy weather. A handy remote control button on the ignition key opens the seat lock and the rear boot lid. The rider can also open the fuel cap and rear boot lid with a single twist of the key in the ignition unit.

The most advanced calculation programs and three-dimensional measurements were carried out from the initial phase of the PIAGGIO MP3 project to enhance the vehicle’s ergonomics. The result is a vehicle that offers top-of-the-line comfort, safety and ease of use. The front shield provides exceptional protection. An extremely comfortable seat adapted to riders of any size has been made to measure for the PIAGGIO MP3. Generous padding and the shape of the built-in backrest provides perfect ergonomical seating, while the saddle height of a mere 30.7” from the ground makes the vehicle easy to manoeuvre in any circumstances. The optimal height difference between the front and the rear parts of the saddle, in addition to the ideally located rear handgrips, ensure passenger comfort and protection.

Once the rider has pressed the handlebar switch, the control unit only activates the electro-actuator if the vehicle is travelling at a speed in the range of 5–15 mph. The exact speed at which this takes place depends on the level of deceleration: the greater the deceleration, the higher the speed at which the tilt mechanism locks. Additionally, the mechanism will not lock unless the butterfly valve is closed and the engine is running at below 3000 rpm.

To ensure rider safety, the tilt mechanism not only shuts off by pressing the handlebar switch, but is also automatically deactivated if vehicle speed exceeds 9 mph, if the butterfly valve is not fully closed or if engine rpm is higher than 3000.

A lever on the inside of the front shield actions the parking brake, making it safe to park without using the stand even on sloping ground and making it possible to park the two front wheels where there is a height difference of up to 8 inches.

The PIAGGIO MP3 dashboard provides comprehensive, at-a-glance trip information. It includes a speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature indicator, clock, trip and mileage odometer. Other features are a fuel reserve indicator, oil pressure, turn signals, low and high beam, seat or boot lid open warning and an Immobilizer LED.

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* Accessories   *
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Custom topcase

Tall windscreen

Protective storage cover

Custom topcase

Tall windscreen

Protective storage cover

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* Colour   *
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Colors: Graphite Black, Excalibur Gray, Cherry Red

Colors: Graphite Black, Excalibur Gray, Cherry Red

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* Disclaimer   *
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*All prices shown are MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price). Freight/destination, tax, license, title, or other dealer charges and optional or regionally required equipment (e.g., helmet) are excluded. Pricing, standard features, specifications and available equipment are those in effect when the page on which the information appears was produced and are subject to change without notice. Obey local traffic safety laws and always wear a helmet, appropriate eyewear and proper apparel. Speed achieved by a professional rider on a closed track. Actual speed may vary depending on street surface, weather and other local conditions. Some images may reflect European models. See the MP3 in person at your local dealer.

*All prices shown are MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price). Freight/destination, tax, license, title, or other dealer charges and optional or regionally required equipment (e.g., helmet) are excluded. Pricing, standard features, specifications and available equipment are those in effect when the page on which the information appears was produced and are subject to change without notice. Obey local traffic safety laws and always wear a helmet, appropriate eyewear and proper apparel. Speed achieved by a professional rider on a closed track. Actual speed may vary depending on street surface, weather and other local conditions. Some images may reflect European models. See the MP3 in person at your local dealer.

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* Specifications   *
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MSRP: $8,995*

Engine: Single-cylinder QUASAR, four-stroke, four-valve,
electronic injection, catalysed

Capacity: 244.3cc

Bore: 72 mm

Stroke: 60 mm

Fuel: Unleaded

Max Power 22.5 CV (16.5 Kw) @ 8,250 rpm

Max Torque: 21 Nm at 6,750 rpm

Max speed: 77 mph

Cooling: Liquid

Ignition: Port Injected Alfa/n type with closed loop system, Lambda sensor in exhaust pipe and three-way double catalytic converter

Lubrication: Wet sump, gear driven trochoidal pump, full flow cartridge oil filter 

Electronic Management System: Alfa/N type with injection/ignition mapping linked to environmental conditions

Fuel supply: Magneti Marelli lAW electronic injection system with triple filter pump

Throttle body: Butterfly valve integrated with position sensor, motor and air temperature sensor

Injector: Marelli pico-injector, high impedance electronic

Starter: Electric (freewheel) with torque limiter

Transmission: Twist and go’ automatic CVT, torque server

Frame: Twin cradle: tubes in high tensile steel

Front Suspension: Parallelogram composed of four aluminium arms
supporting two steering tubes, cantilevered suspension — Travel: 3.35” (85 mm)

Rear Suspension: Two dual effect hydraulic shock absorbers and
adjustable spring preload — Travel: 4.33” (110 mm)

Front Brakes: Two stainless steel disks, 0 9.45” (240 mm) and
floating caliper with two pistons, 0 1.2” (30 mm)

Rear Brakes: Stainless steel disk, 0 9.45” 240 mm and caliper with
opposite pistons, 0 1.2” (30 mm)

Front wheel rim: Die-cast aluminium alloy, 12” x 3.00

Rear wheel rim: Die-cast aluminium alloy, 12” x 3.50

Front tire: Tubeless 120/70 - 12”

Rear tire: Tubeless 130/70 - 12”Length: 84”

Width: 29.3”

Wheelbase: 58.6” Seat Height: 30.7”

Running Weight: 449.7 Lb.Fuel Tank: 3.2 gallons

Under-seat Storage: Fits one briefcase or a full face helmet plus one open face helmet. Two extra storage spaces behind front shield

Emissions: Has EPA-CARB certification: meeting all the federal and state requirements.

Warranty: One year factory warranty and 24-hour roadside assistance

Extended Warranty: Two year factory extended warranty available. Please see Vespa Kelowna for details.

MSRP: $8,995*

Engine: Single-cylinder QUASAR, four-stroke, four-valve,
electronic injection, catalysed

Capacity: 244.3cc

Bore: 72 mm

Stroke: 60 mm

Fuel: Unleaded

Max Power 22.5 CV (16.5 Kw) @ 8,250 rpm

Max Torque: 21 Nm at 6,750 rpm

Max speed: 77 mph

Cooling: Liquid

Ignition: Port Injected Alfa/n type with closed loop system, Lambda sensor in exhaust pipe and three-way double catalytic converter

Lubrication: Wet sump, gear driven trochoidal pump, full flow cartridge oil filter 

Electronic Management System: Alfa/N type with injection/ignition mapping linked to environmental conditions

Fuel supply: Magneti Marelli lAW electronic injection system with triple filter pump

Throttle body: Butterfly valve integrated with position sensor, motor and air temperature sensor

Injector: Marelli pico-injector, high impedance electronic

Starter: Electric (freewheel) with torque limiter

Transmission: Twist and go’ automatic CVT, torque server

Frame: Twin cradle: tubes in high tensile steel

Front Suspension: Parallelogram composed of four aluminium arms
supporting two steering tubes, cantilevered suspension — Travel: 3.35” (85 mm)

Rear Suspension: Two dual effect hydraulic shock absorbers and
adjustable spring preload — Travel: 4.33” (110 mm)

Front Brakes: Two stainless steel disks, 0 9.45” (240 mm) and
floating caliper with two pistons, 0 1.2” (30 mm)

Rear Brakes: Stainless steel disk, 0 9.45” 240 mm and caliper with
opposite pistons, 0 1.2” (30 mm)

Front wheel rim: Die-cast aluminium alloy, 12” x 3.00

Rear wheel rim: Die-cast aluminium alloy, 12” x 3.50

Front tire: Tubeless 120/70 - 12”

Rear tire: Tubeless 130/70 - 12”Length: 84”

Width: 29.3”

Wheelbase: 58.6” Seat Height: 30.7”

Running Weight: 449.7 Lb.Fuel Tank: 3.2 gallons

Under-seat Storage: Fits one briefcase or a full face helmet plus one open face helmet. Two extra storage spaces behind front shield

Emissions: Has EPA-CARB certification: meeting all the federal and state requirements.

Warranty: One year factory warranty and 24-hour roadside assistance

Extended Warranty: Two year factory extended warranty available. Please see Vespa Kelowna for details.

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