When scooters were introduced to the United States that were capable of triple digit speeds, we took notice. Subsequently, we tested large-displacement scooters offered by both Honda and Suzuki. We intend to test other large-displacement scooters in the future, as well. Why? Because they represent a legitimate two-wheeled alternative to motorcycles here in the States.
Enter the three-wheeler. Three-wheeler? No, we’re not talking about those off-road machines that caused so much litigation a couple of decades ago (the industry would like to forget those), we are talking about the Piaggio MP3, a three-wheeled scooter recently introduced by the European manufacturer (and owner of Vespa and Moto Guzzi, among other brands). MP3 has two wheels in front, and one in the back. It also leans like a motorcycle or two-wheeled scooter (see the photo, above). Although presently powered by lower-displacement, four-stroke engines, this could easily be a design carrying larger displacement in the future.
We will have a brief test ride on the Piaggio MP3 next week here in Southern California. Stay tuned for our report.
