Tuesday, August 23 2011
The new Piaggio MP3 LT 400cc can be ridden on a both a bike and a car licence; strange, but true!
Whilst it may merely look like a chunky scooter with an extra front wheel, there is one specific difference which sets it apart from other three wheeled scooters: the space between its two front wheels. At over 465mm, this axel distance puts the Piaggio MP3 LT 400cc under the same category as a Trike or three-wheeled car rather than Scooter. It’s this little quirk that allows it to be ridden not only on a car licence, but also entirely helmet free!
It seems that motorbike riders have had mixed reactions to the launch of this new bike. Some have dismissed it as another attempt to encourage car drivers to use motorcycles in the ever busier cities of today, with three wheels seeming to be the happy medium in weaning commuters off their four wheels. Others have questioned the MP3’s value for money and actual appeal to the general UK biker market. However, customer reviews have in fact shown the MP3 in a rather good light with riders appreciating the fact that wearing a helmet when riding is not compulsory and the lack of skill required in handling for an experienced motorcycle rider.
What must be said in praise of this machine is its notable safety and practicality on a multitude of surfaces, the two front wheels providing a stable base and tilting suspension system for taking on uneven road surfaces, whilst 3 disc brakes give a 20% increase in braking power. Although this bike doesn’t require a motorcycle licence, Piaggio do offer a training course for the MP3 and don’t recommend that you ride helmet-free. That said, the MP3 is reportedly an easy to handle, convenient, competent and comfortable machine with ample under-seat storage
Overall, it seems that the MP3 is considered to be considerably safer than your average two-wheeler, whilst not compromising heavily on speed or performance. It’s unlikely that this ‘maxi-scooter’ phenomenon will appeal to long established bike fans that truly appreciate two wheels and would consider the MP3 one small step away from having a roof and passenger seat. However, it may become a firm favourite with a new class of commuters too tentative to halve their wheel count, but all too willing to swerve congestion charges and find a faster, cheaper way to get around town. Only time will tell whether the MP3 is hot property or a total cop out.
