Piaggio MP3 250 - Jay Leno's Garage

[@michaelb.42112]

Hello from 2024. I'm now 55 years old and used to own a dozen sport bikes and rode the twisties like a madman. I quit riding for 25 years due to drug addiction, not having kids, and now I'm back. I own a Yamaha Stryker, a Vulcan 1500, and a Honda Elite 250 scooter - I ride the scooter 95% of the time, so I think I'm giving up on bikes and going all scooter. The Piaggio 500 seems perfect AND it has reverse !!!!

[@9988ScooterGirl]

Anyone who has ever been caught in a rain storm on a scooter can appreciate just how scary those little tires are on wet asphalt. Anyone who has ever been on two wheels at all can appreciate just how quickly the bike can go out from under you when you hit that sandy patch at the end of bottom of the road. I just bought an MP3 because I really want the stability that 3rd wheel brings. Plus they look odd and I like things that look odd.

[@psibiza]

I remember the tire story I told my parents when I was 16 and wanted a larger motorcycle rather than the scooter I already had. for safety reasons... on the road I never really felt the advantage of larger tires tbh. I can see the extra traction of the 2nd front tire and the easier stop-and-go, but tbh the only real purpose of the 3rd wheel is that in some EU countries (and apparently in CA) this *thing* can be driven with a car driving license. It's more of a 3-wheel-car than a scooter.

[@Lucas-ix5td]

If you want stability buy a car

[@H4I2I2EE]

@@Lucas-ix5td You can't split lanes in a car. In a car you are stuck in traffic just like everyone else. A scooter/motorcycle is a huge time saver.

[@michaelbrinks8089]

When it comes to motorcycle tires. There's a night & day difference in rain between better silica embedded dual compound tires & cheaper single compound no silica tires. With my Bridgestone silica dual compound MC tires. Moderate rain meant only a slight loss of grip. With my cheaper Kenda single compound no silica tires. You noticed a big difference & dread being caught in rain. With the Bridgestones it was like losing 15% grip. With the Kendas it was lile losing 55% grip.

[@rizla8602]

I love this man, calm, joyful, the grounded way he explains, everything is 10/10!

[@GarthGoldberg]

This is a fantastic vehicle in Paris or Rome, where you can park it almost anywhere, and don't have to worry about a sidestand or centerstand. It's actually fairly common over there.

[@Hydrographer1]

Garth Goldberg yes love Europe,, my wife is from Hamburg, see Paris, France, Rome, scooters everywhere. love it!

[@filiperocha4025]

Honestly all European cities really.

[@abrazilian]

I have this scooter and it's awesome - no downside --- very cool that Jay reviewed it - this is probably the best video around for the Piaggio MP3

[@snaLee1]

Do we need insurance and lic plate for this scooter ???

[@abrazilian]

@@snaLee1 yes both (at least here in CA)

[@esaedvik]

Does someone actually care if they're being "taken seriously" on the roads as long as you have fun and fill your need for transportation?

[@YouMotorcycle]

It's like dating a fat chick, it's really fun until your ex sees you.

[@9988ScooterGirl]

@@YouMotorcycle Or an ugly guy.

[@Ramonatho]

​@@YouMotorcycle easy solution: don't have exes or move very far away from them

[@YouMotorcycle]

@@Ramonatho I would rather have LOTS of exes lol

[@spinningbacksidekick]

Amazing. This is how the MP3 started, and now 10,000 of them fit in your iTunes.

[@keystonedaytrip238]

Butchzzilla LoL , that's funny 👍

[@frankcolistro6875]

I love my MP3! It has great wind protection, lots of storage space and a long, stable wheel base. I used to have a Vespa ET4 that I lost ion a wreck. I really misssed it until the Piaggio came along, so much more practical.

[@michaelbrinks8089]

I wanna build a 350cc vehicle like this Piaggio mp3 but slightly longer wheelbase and a lower seating position. Then add a lightweight aerodynamic removable weather enclosure. So you can ride in rain & cold, even light snow with proper tires. In nice weather you could quickly remove most of the enclosure. I'd add 3 removable storage cases/saddlebags. Large enough to carry 6 common size plastic bags of groceries. Use peltiers & fans for air conditioning & engine heat along with electric heated seat, heated grips. Small windshield wiper, raido,etc.. Now you have a cheap ($7000'-ish) 75 mpg year round commuter vehicle.

[@roywalls5595]

Thanks Mr. Jay Leno`s watching video I buy used 2007 Piaggio mp3 250ie!

[@PhotoArtBrussels]

it does .... it is the guy that arrived at work 2 hours before you did, while you where stuck in the traffic jam. Have a big bike for fun, have this one for work/practical reasons.

[@MaxPower-vf8kt]

Some riders laugh at things like this but those with disabilities, hip/knee problems, a spouse who doesn't want them on a bike, those who are older or even those not confident on a two-wheeled bike now have an option that otherwise, they wouldn't. I'm in a wheelchair and have been wanting a Spyder for a longtime now as it'd also be really easy to throw my chair on. One day.

[@sross148]

this isn't at all like the Spyder. It still tips over if you don't hold it up or master the steering lock at very low speeds. Not really safe for a person wheelchair bound. Instead this is a scooter that achieves the cornering and rough surface stabiliy of a motorcycle, but easier to manage day to day than a motorcycle, more comfy.

[@MaxPower-vf8kt]

True. Which is why I still have my eye on the Spyder ;P Although if it locks at low speeds, it'd work. I've ridden dirt bikes before and just aimed to stop next to a friend or a tree to lean on. Balance isn't an issue. Just putting my feet down is a problem, HA.

[@geebeedee3578]

Hi there Sross, Help please ! Can i press and hold the shock lock button into lock position before i come on a full stop rather than clicking it once after the light comes on ? Thanks, Gee

[@apkn1955]

My wife is in a chair and has looked at two up riders and I can tell she has that dream even though she does not complain. I can see it in her face. The spider is a great option for some with mobility challenges. Just the stability when getting on is great. I hope a spider works out for you. The best of luck.

[@MultiNemesis101]

yep I second that...

[@likearaptor]

I've pushed my 250 full throttle all throughout town and easily get aorund 60 mpg. I have gotten up to 70 mpg on only in town driving and around 60-65 mpg going on long trips (speeds up to 75 mph/8000 rpm) no problem 12,000+ miles in 2 years

[@freeair7292]

Yes good scooter

[@chiconian49]

I've seen one parked in front of my favorite coffee shop and was mildly curious, now I'm impressed. Fantastic suspension!

[@itBchrisP]

These are actually really cool and unique to drive.

[@likearaptor]

I ride mine year round in Idaho. I don't ride it purposely if the roads are iced over, but if I am at work and get stuck in a storm while I'm there I'll still drive it home (4 1/2 miles). It is fun to lock up the suspension and hit the back brake. Reminds me of being in a pickup truck with no ABS. I'm extra careful in the slick conditions take off and stopping are areas I am very cautious and the same on turns.

[@emadabuhanna7716]

Great scooter, I have the 400ie 2009 model and it is simplely the greatest! I enjoy riding it. Great fun and great machine.

[@oferikola]

I had this scooter, It is great ! will not slip on wet asphalt or on Oil stains ! and you dont get you feet wet in the winter while waiting for the green light.

[@jessecondit2211]

We own one of these scooter's and have had no troubles , I get anywhere from 65 to 75 mpg on a 60 mile commute each way. I've never owned anything like it!

[@lionelhowell4972]

mixing the oil with the gas is inconvenient, just like a snowblower.. need straight gas one only

[@9988ScooterGirl]

@@lionelhowell4972 What century are you living in? The MP3 is NOT a two stroke. It's a single cylinder 4 stroke.

[@lionelhowell4972]

@@9988ScooterGirl you need to learn to listen!!! he said in this model that you have to mix the oil with the gas. yes, it's a 4 stroke but listen to what the representative says about this unit...

[@1966johnnywayne]

@@lionelhowell4972 3:20 "It's a four stroke engine, so you DON'T have to mix oil and gas"

[@treborturnoff]

impressive execution by Piaggio, Makes more sense then the can am spyder as you can still get the rewarding sensation of banking into coners

[@claycelblogthefarmerfamily]

I have a Yamaha tricity. Two wheels on front also. I love it.

[@esaedvik]

The hook is for bags or groceries etc :) Had an old 125cc Piaggio Skipper for 2 summers. Really nice ride and you were never a clog in traffic or anything. Really flies.

[@txsphere]

Professor Leno explaining things so us not so gear heads can understand. Thanks.

[@trefod]

True. It's less popular here in Denmark. We have the narrow streets for it, but eight months of the year it rains and snows and anybody on a scooter would be miserable.

[@makjac46]

If I had money (remember that stuff?) I'd be on one now, making great sense to me.

[@abcerase87700]

Jay got off the scooter like he would when doing so from a motorcycle. Scooter riders would just slide one foot to the other side from the front and not over from the back.

[@thieuswinkels]

I have a mp3 500 sport with a giannelli exhaust. The power in this is spectacular

[@stiggibombastic]

I have a 500 sport, 2018. Heavy, but super comfort, made for cold days in Norway. Wish it came in 600cc or bigger 🙂

[@genegoodwin8925]

I think the real advantage of a MP4 is the tilt lock system. My wife walks with a walker and can climb on a three wheeled machine whereas a two wheeled machine would fall over. We have a $37,000 HD Tri Glide and it is fine , but it doesn't lean. With a MP3 which stays up right at a stop and leans in the curves you have the best of both worlds. There are a lot of disabled people who would benifit with the tilt lock system of a MP3. I would benifit because I could sabe $27,000.

[@Tyler3209]

But now yamaha made a real bike like this. So we have a badass dual front fork motorcycle with some actual balls in the engine. Check out the niken if you havent yet.

[@GladiusYTR]

extremely popular in Italy, you find these weaving all over traffic. Best thing about it is you don't have to worry about rain or slippery conditions when you're commuting.

[@edqt]

Max. Speed: 77 mph Gas Mileage: 60-65 mpg Displacement: 244.3 cc Gas Tank: 3.2 gallons Seat Height: 30.7" MSRP: $7199

[@JohnPMiller]

These are very popular in Paris, because, until recently, you didn't need a special motorcycle license. The law changed in January, so sales may slow. The MP3 is one of the many vehicles that zooms by me while I'm stuck in traffic.

[@okm88]

NSW Ambulance service had them but got rid of them because they were breaking down so much and spent more time getting fixed then saving lives.

[@GaryRittinger]

Great review and I am a huge Jay Leno dan... I have the mp3 500 with some mods... makes a great commuter bike. Gets about 55-60 mpg. Less if I drive agressively. It is a fun and very stable bike. Greatly enjoy it!

[@freeair7292]

Yes it is great

[@dave_thomas]

Hey Jay Leno can you please do a review on the 2017 Quadro 4 Wheel Scooter. It's similar to this trike but with 4 wheels.

[@Danno382]

Do it!

[@dave_thomas]

@@Danno382 I know right. Sorry Jay Leno for coming off like I'm some sort of KZbin commander.🌿

[@krisraps]

This 3 Wheeler is Just AMAZINg, I Mean, brilliant !!!

[@slev-e7h]

And 500cc version with different styling is even more impressive!)

[@brucebyrnes5996]

They are fun to drive. I own 2009 mp3.

[@GrandpaOnATunedScooter]

Seeing Jay Leno on the mp3 makes it look kinda 😎

[@dvlarry]

Jay Leno-best automotive reviewer on the planet.

[@detroitbluesguy]

Thanks..always wanted to know about the 3 wheeler.

[@SirLoinOfsteak85]

In the UK you can get a version with slightly larger track on the front wheels meaning...it's a three-wheeler, not a bike and you can therefore use a car licence. Pretty cool idea...

[@JayDillon-mm6yv]

I like Piaggio based on my Typhoon 50cc with Continuously Variable Transmission, which I really like a lot.

[@alexukfg]

Well said:cool things are made in Italy too!

[@Moleanimationchannel]

With the added weight up front this bike feels really stable at speed. I love it. But you only want the 500cc version with ABS/ATS

[@JayDillon-mm6yv]

The gyroscopic balance of a motor scooter or motorcycle is half the fun of being on the road. I would miss it I think.

[@thomaslewis7883]

this type vehicle with tilting could be packaged in a fully enclosed body,using 3 or 4 wheeled tilting.The fuel gains with streamlining are incredible,almost double in most cases.Add a door to gain entry and exit,a small electric power ac compressor,sedan type seating,you would think your in your BMW,Its just a matter of time,a revolution will begin

[@greedygekko]

That's the coolest Thing on Earth

[@505197]

It makes me want to roll the Honda Helix out and take it for a ride. I enjoy the heck out of that scooter, it's so handy for running around town. I have a couple of BMW bikes and reciently bought a nice GSX550ES for next to nothing. But the Helix is still a lot of fun, it'll hit 75 mph and get's 65 or so miles to the gallon at a steady 55mph.

[@clavo3352]

Very surprised Jay didn't criticize the liquid cooling maintenance headache.

[@laughingstalk1343]

Because the Can-Am Spyder doesn't lean into turns. And it's much bigger and harder to park. And you have to be careful not to "floor" the throttle when turning left, as you have to brace yourself against it, because it doesn't lean into turns. To a novice, it feels like it should be easier to maneuver than it actually is. Looks cool, though.

[@thierryfrentz2427]

Man, that helmet can still not hide that famous chin of yours. Keep it up Mr. Leno. Greetings from Luxembourg;-)

[@matrixitalia7575]

this is the best scooter ever made! :) nice review m8 :)

[@simes205]

These have been in Europe for years, unfortunately they are crap for filtering through London traffic. However in the wet or hanging the back out on a roundabout they are excellent!

[@CarAddictGarage]

Cool...like the way it turns, but I'm disappointed....Jay didn't do the front brake wheelie!!! lol

[@bikerbeliever8169]

This is a neat vehicle. Technology is crazy.

[@666firehead]

Now they have the new quadro 4 piaggio, same concept bigger engine, they are not Harleys or super bikes but really fun to drive

[@Hydrographer1]

very informative, I have been riding since 1964, all kinds of bikes, I have a Piaggio 150 fly, good scooter. love the look of the 500cc Piaggio 3 wheeler,,, with gas at $4, scooters 150 cc or 250 very popular.

[@diwansingh8068]

Craig Wilson I

[@chrisnavin6668]

Jay needs to do a show on what’s his favorite car show

[@cuddles6938]

Unfortunately here in Washington, our license department is anal, you still have to take a motorcycle class for a 3wheel scooter.

[@gemmastone285]

Mark Fullerton it depends on what country you are in..here in the UK my local dealer in are second to none. ..They deal with all types from the huge harley Davidson to the more humble 50 cc scooter

[@WillPG12]

It's the only motorcycle Jeremy Clarkson would be comfortable to drive. Great video Jay

[@masterofsaveloy]

Jay just vaults over that fool’s “congestion and parking problems” comment. He doesn’t even give it the oxygen of a reply. He, in effect, summarily executes the foolishness with a double tap and then just walks away. Cold.

[@OstrichWrestler]

It is the noise the suspension lock makes when locking or unlocking. Kinda silly if you ask me but perhaps it was never intended to be used at a street light.

[@strait836]

Unless you're going round the block to get some shopping in your safari shorts or jeans, that you forgot to get going back home; try going in a suit on this to a meeting in +45 deg Celsius or in some of the summer deluge rains like in France....that's why people drag not just 4K lbs but up to 8k lbs of mobile luxury, sort of a continuum to the Board Meeting Room atmosphere.

[@jhnbrwnnn]

I love how there is no commercials !

[@SgtStinger]

guess where the rockstar guys got their inspitration from? Piaggio is quite old, it was founded in 1884, and started making motorcycles 1946, when they started producing the famous Vespa.

[@torod213]

He doesn't drive them, he just owns them. He has over 150 cars how can he have time to drive them all? However he uses his CTS-V a lot so your point stands. He just made that comment to be polite to the scooterman :)

[@TanmayvMukim]

Interested in Antirolling system used in this bike too....kindly make one video on it.

[@Ian-Hall]

So true, Last century in England we got taxed for how many Chimneys we had, The more fires you burnt the more taxes you paid...no different from the engine size of you car now...funny how things go round.

[@aydinvideo]

I wanted to see him taking it around corners :( Come on Jay, you got to do more through testing!!

[@geebeedee3578]

Hi Jay, Help please ! Can i press and hold the shock lock button into lock position before i come on a full stop rather than clicking it once after the light comes on ? Thanks, Gee

[@thomaslewis7883]

great technology,a 4 wheeled version in a aerodynamic body is the future

[@terraria103]

Excellent design. Someone did their thinking

[@infinati]

I love the suspension on this thing. Very sexy. Too bad Jay didn't give us a look under the plastics!

[@Ruxpinx]

should review a dual clutch/auto motorcycle... would be interesting

[@colinclarke4285]

+dirk bowman as gemma says in the UK the laws are different. ..it the wheels are more than 46 cm apart then it counts as a tricycle. .In the EU driving licences are harmonised...Therefore are British licence is recognised in every other EU country. ..piaggio have engineered the mp3 500 around the legislation allowing holders of ordinary car driving licences to ride one without the need to take a motorcycle test

[@fofalooza]

That would be such a strange sensation. Like going from a manual to an automatic but instead of hunting for a clutch pedal, your foot is hunting asphalt.

[@bf109e4trop]

I live in Sardinia, where the climate does not reach the extremes that have the Denmark.But it's true impossible to drive on a scooter in the snows!

[@rizalinainfante7583]

Nice.Whennit will be available in the Philippines I like it for my transpo going to work

[@petrindodona3352]

Jay can you pleaseeeeeee do a old Vespa? it was all different from others with engine in the back and aero type front suspension. Looking forward :)

[@roywalls5595]

I thinking buy use one because i can not afford new one! Mr. Jay

[@TanmayvMukim]

Want to know more about rotation sensor & it's working in this bike..I'm searching on web but not getting the right information except designs related to it

[@roush26]

It looks fun to drive. Do I need a motorcycle license? How much does one cost? I read somewhere $360. Don't think that's true.

[@H76Pro]

I really love Jay's reviews!

[@tarametalbabe]

lol no pets at 7: 15

[@landon33071]

I know this video was made 11 years ago, but you're wrong about one thing. Jay Leno that was not made in Japan that was made in Italy just so you know

[@shananagans5]

Very interesting concept. It clearly has advantages over traditional scooters,especially for beginners but I am not sure how experienced riders will view this. Personally I wouldn't buy one. It's not my taste but I absolutely hate Smart cars & they are getting popular. I guess I have odd taste. lol Thanks for showing us this. It's very interesting new technology. I don't need to personally like or want something to appreciate the new technology.

[@kaal4137]

Pls confirm the price ??? My first choice is mp3 after atv bike or Quadro

[@korbindallis]

thats out of the box thinking not for you 20 year old but some one in their late 30s and 40s perfect

[@RobertoGodfrey]

I would love to tune this thing up a lil'. Slap on an K&N air filter, and a sport exhaust system!

[@lordozzer9172]

yes.

[@domdegood5376]

Piaggio also makes the fastest piston engine private plane.

[@MIGHTYcbu]

Beautiful and practical. Does is have a reverse? Btw CVT was invented by a Dutch carcompany called DAF.

[@FrenchValleyAirport]

This is pretty cool. I'd like to test it out to its limits :)

[@andrewhall2554]

Notice the "No Pets" warning sticking in the rear compartment (4:33)...

[@mikehydropneumatic2583]

For city traffic a 250 is good enough but outside the city I prefer a 500.

[@thelarry383]

Get the new S class on the show ASAP Jay!

[@keiannschyler]

yamaha launched it's own 3 wheel scooter. it's called tricity. a good looking too.

[@colinclarke4285]

teeburshow the yamaha tricity is still classed as a two wheeler due to the wheel spacing. ..

[@fofalooza]

Hard to be a knock off when you're not only selling an almost completely different machine but also the first one to market.