[eon]

I have been reading this site for a couple of months now and it is one I keep coming back to. I have taken the MSF class, read Proficient Motorcycling and am now counting down the days till I get something to ride.

Typical noob question now (looking to justify the machine they have bought). Unlike most I have not ordered some 600cc flying machine but instead have a deposit on a maxi-scooter. A Piaggio MP3 500 to be exact. All the reviews of this machine have been very positive, it is supposedly very fun to ride. This will be my only means of transportation so I like the idea of some storage area (without the need for top-boxes or saddle bags). I like the extra stability of that third wheel across the wet, railroad criss crossed streets of Seattle. My only concern is the price. The 500cc comes in at $10k OTD. I am fortunate enough (ie. old) that I can afford this but the thought of buying a year old Ninja 250 for $3k gives me pause.

Am I crazy to spend 10k on a big, heavy scooter? These things are almost as rare as 08 Ninja 250’s so I have not been able to test drive one. I am having to rely on the reviews which is a little scary.

Oh well, I guess if I don’t like it too much I can ride it through the winter and get an 09′ Ninja early next year.

ian

[WeaponZero]

Nothing wrong with scooters, but the price is downright scary. I’ve never heard of one being anywhere NEAR that expensive. For that price it had better offer motocycle performance, cruise control, a cd player with 6 disc sound system, and . .i dunno, all sorts of stuff. That’s equivalent to the price of middle of the line supersport motorcycles. I would really think about it before dropping that much money on a scooter.

[ShannonG]

I have seen the Piaggio and read reviews. It sounds like you’re not interested so much in the motorcycle lifestyle but more a functional, high mileage vehicle. If that isthe case, a scooter with lots of storage is probably an appropriate choice. However, the review I read said that for only a little more, the 650 Piaggio is less terrifying in highway conditions because the increased power allows it to pass cars easier, etc. If you’re going to be using it for EVERYTHING and money’s not really a concern, get the 650.

[Amoryl]

and if you’re not as into the motorcycle lifestyle near as much as the functional vehicle, and it’s going to be your only vehicle (and remember seattle gets REALLY moist from oct-jan) you really might be better off getting a super ecconomy class car, if you’re planning on dropping 10grand out the door.

[megaspaz]

Dude! I seriously dig that avatar. +1

The only time I’d pay 10+K on a bike would be if I was buying a ‘busa… which i wouldn’t, meaning, i wouldn’t spend 10+k on any bike let alone a scooter…. sorry, unless that thing is seriously uberfun, I think you spent way too much.

—
If there’s anything more important than my ego
around, I want it caught and shot now…

[shaggles]

I’m with you on the storage thing. I was originally considering a scooter too. The Italian scooters are overpriced in general and there aren’t a lot of dealers around here so you can’t shop around. Thing is the MP3 is a unique beast. If you want 3 wheels that’s pretty much the only option. The 250’s are less but still more than most 400-500cc 2 wheeler. The Yamaha Majesty and Suzuki Burgman 400 are both around $6K. I really like the look of the Morphous which is a little less because it’s a 250. On the other hand the Honda Silverwing and the Burgman 650 Executive are around the same price as the MP3. If you’re interested in used scooters I saw a 2003 or 2004 Aprilia Atlantic 500 at Moto Internationale up on 77th and Aurora. I think it was $3500 but I couldn’t swear to it.

[eon]

To be honest, I am not really into scooters. The MP3 is the only one I would consider getting. If it only has 2 wheels then I would buy a bike over a scooter any day. I live and work downtown so I will not be commuting on this, it is primarily for fun. Initially I was all set to get an 08 Ninja and if they were not impossible to get a hold of, I would probably own one by now. All reviews of the MP3 report it as uberfun, and this is from experienced bikers. I know of a biker who takes his MP3 to the track and blows past sportbikes in the corners when it is wet. The extra wheel gives you so much more grip and stability. I know driving a car would be safer but for me it is all about balancing the risks.

At this point, I can still back out and only lose my $200 deposit. I only have a week to make up my mind though.

[eon]

For those who don’t know what an MP3 is, here is the best video of one I found on YouTube. I cannot speak Hebrew but these guys make it look like fun!
MP3 500 Test Ride

It sure is an ugly beast watching this makes me want one again. I think I am sold!

[Amoryl]

also keep in mind that if you don’t have a place to keep it locked up and out of open view, downtown is the most common place to have your scooter, or bike stolen. though my experience in seattle is it’s less of an issue than in Chicago, there’s still a fair amount of theft.

that thing looks fun…personally I’m not entirely sold on it. if it was 3 or 4 grand maybe…but is it 10grand fun? only you can say for yourself

[Amoryl]

then go for it

have fun, thats the most important thing.

[eon]

My condo building has underground parking behind two locked gates so hopefully it will be safe enough. But the ‘stealability’ factor was something I had taken into consideration. I would be more worried about an 08 Ninja disappearing than this thing.

I will let you know how I get on with it once I have put some miles on it.

[shaggles]

I can see where having a little extra rubber on the road would have it’s advantages around here. Seems like you should be able to test ride it though. I wouldn’t spend $10K on a bike I couldn’t even take out for a test ride. Of course I think there’s only one Piaggio dealer in town so you can’t really tell him to stick it and go somewhere else.

[eon]

I am actually buying it from a dealer in Burlington. These things never make it onto the showroom floor before they are sold. I have been monitoring Craigslist as well and used ones sell quickly and for lots of money so I am not too concerned. If I don’t like it I should be able to move it on and not lose too much money.

[shaggles]

I saw a couple at the Vespa dealership on lower Queen Anne. I’m pretty sure one was a 500.

[Author]

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