We passed: Piaggio MP3 500 LT Sport
From the beginning to the present day, they have sold 150 pieces, and this is not a bad number, which continues to grow rapidly. This three-wheeled wonder caught on and answered the most common question right from the start: yes, it rides great like a regular maxi scooter, but with a huge added value in terms of safety. The front end has a pair of larger wheels (previously 12 inches, now 13), only with more contact area with asphalt or granite cubes than if the scooter had only one wheel. This is known both for the speed at which you can turn and, above all, for the difference you feel when the ground is slippery. We tested it on wet pavement on a full slope, but it didn't work. This is something the motorcyclist's head needs to get used to, as with a two-wheeled motorcycle in this situation, he would most likely already be on the ground. An important acquisition that complements the debugged brakes (the front discs are increased from 240 to 258 millimeters) and ABS is the ASR or anti-slip system of the rear (driving) wheel. Turns on when grip is insufficient. We tested it, for example, leaning against a curve above an iron shaft, and can only say that we warmly welcome the novelty. MP3 is the first tricycle with this new safety device.
Since he also passed the category B exam, he has a total of three brake levers. On the right is the front brake lever, on the left is the rear brake, and on the right side on the threshold is also a foot brake, which is built-in, i.e. distributes the braking force to both the front pair of wheels and the rear. wheel.
The all-new frame provides better handling and stability as well as greater comfort. There's really no shortage of that for the MP3 500 LT Sport, it's one of those maxi scooters where even larger riders won't have a hard time putting their feet up. The only criticism regarding ergonomics is that the front brake lever is too far out for those with shorter fingers. The rest of the comfortable seat, ergonomic steering wheel and a three-stage adjustable windshield (unfortunately, you have to unscrew a few screws, the tilt and height cannot be changed at the touch of a button) make the car very comfortable to move. city or even longer route. Then you can store 50 liters of luggage under the large and comfortable seat or safely store two helmets in it.
Since the 500 cubic meter engine offers great agility from the start, up to 130 kilometers per hour, you can easily take it on a serious motorcycle journey. The speedometer stops at 150 kilometers per hour, which is enough for a pleasant and relaxed ride full of pleasure.
Since it is a modern product that keeps up with its urban kids, MP3 also offers state-of-the-art, in-car sensors that provide all the basic information. For those who are not enough, they can plug (or charge) their smartphone to the USB connector and play with data on inclination, acceleration force, average and current fuel consumption, current torque and help with GPS navigation.
text: Petr Kavčič, photo: Saša Kapetanovič
