PIAGGIO DEALERS?

[kilowop]

  I've been reading numerous road tests/reviews about the MP-3, Three wheeled motorcycle models from PIAGGIO.  Rather than give up riding I'd like to consider one of these rigs. Has anyone on the forum had any experience with them?  Can you advise me of any dealerships in B.C. or even in Alberta that carry them. I've contacted a couple on the lower mainland, but they rarely have any stock, and said you had to order one. Without being able to inspect or ride first?  Not too bloody likely for that sort of investment. The Can-Ams are very expensive, and apparently a bit tricky to ride compared to motorcycles. The Trikes built from Harleys, and Gold Wings, don't appeal to me. The MP3 units tilt around corners like a normal M/C so should be easy to adapt to. I'd appreciate any insight you may have.  Been riding since 1961 and without a bike, life just wouldn't be worth much.
CHEERS

[Steve G.]

  Aside from the 2 wheels versus 3 wheels , versus 2 wheels in the front, versus 2 wheels in the back,  I don’t place much confidence in products directly from PIAGGIO these days. Of course Moto Guzzi , Aprilia, Derbi, and many other brands are under PIAGGIO ownership, but some of those still ‘do their own thing’, and are only under the greater financial stability umbrella of Piaggio.

  3 wheeled motorcycles, 2 wheels at front, and able to steer like a bike in typical counter steer, there are two out there. Well, 3, but the Chinese made unit should be avoided because “Chinasshoe”.   So we have the PIAGGIO MP3. And the Yamaha Niken. Without question the Yamaha is far superior in every measure you could compare things. Essential Yamaha Tracer, highly superior Yamaha engine, electrics, everything really, including dealership status.

  Or you could buy a Honda Monkey, super easy to ride, does 120 km hr, full
Electric safety package.

[hardrockminer]

I think Yamaha made a similar product a few years ago.   And I've seen at least one Goldwing conversion.

[Steve G.]

https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/reviews/yamaha-niken-gt-first-ride-review-2023/



https://www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-reviews/piaggio/mp3-300/2022/

[Twisted_Twin]

Based on my customer service experience with a new Piaggio product.

Piaggio can eat an entire bag of dicks.

I'll buy a used Guzzi again, all day long but they're never getting another cent from me on a new machine.

[kilowop]

I've heard similar reports from numerous others.   I read a number of reports on the Yamaha TRICITY, and they were all positive.  So I went into the local Yamaha dealer to inquire.  NOT coming to North America was his reply. There are hundreds, if not Thousands of us old buggers, that can't handle big bikes any more and those TriCity rigs would likely sell decently.  Gold Wing Trikes, Harley Trikes, and of corse Can Am's are all WAAAAY too expensive for us pensioners.

[rz5mark]

Is the Vstrom just not working out, or thinking in the future ?

[kilowop]

Enjoying the V-Strom.  But after having a Tip Over, (no damage, just a scuffed engine guard, which I've touched up) and finding it a bit difficult to maneuver at slow speeds in Gravel, I'm riding SCARED of dropping it. Don't want to stop riding, but reality is, I need something lighter and easier to handle.  I've already lowered the Strom, and cut down the seat so it's not a problem with flat footing it.  More a problem of lacking confidence in my ability to handle it. I've stopped topping up the 20 litre gas tank to help keep the weight more manageable.  Appreciate any insight you have.

[hardrockminer]

Have you looked at smaller bikes?  Maybe a Versys 300?  There is one for sale in Lillooet.  And what happened to the 550 Suzuki?

[Steve G.]

300 Versys is a great option! 

 And again, don’t disregard Honda’s Monkey series. Very capable, incredibly easy to ride, full electronics safety package.  Some are 4 speed semi automatic , some 5 speed manual. 120km hr capability, 100 mpg.

[kilowop]

Sold the 550 Suzuki and Actually made a few $$ on it. I've been reading all the reviews and road tests on the 400 and under sized machines.  I'll have to take a few test rides.  There is a new Triumph 400 and a new Royal Enfield 450 worth looking at.  I currently have a Very Low mileage (10K) Suzuki GS400 in pieces in my workshop. Poor thing was badly neglected.  It's my winter project to resurrect it, and maybe ride it, come spring. Need something to occupy my time in winter.
Thanks for all the feedback guys.

[rz5mark]

I would stay away from Royal Enfield. I just turned one down with a broken rod at 10k. Owner is pretty disappointed with the whole experience.

[Twisted_Twin]

Wife unit has a Vespa 300GTS and loves it.

[Steve G.]

  My Brother-in Law's experience with purchase of a brand new Royal Enfield, it's complete engine destruction within 700 kms, because of faulty manufacture,,,,,it's relative "inconsistency" with the local dealer,,,,,,,was so FU##### bad, I strongly will say if you buy a Royal Enfield, you plainly deserve any and all grief that will most likely be in your future.

[rz5mark]

I see a lot of RE product for sale with very low KM's.

 You have been able to adjust the clutch cable at the handlebar for 50 years on most bikes, not on the RE Himalayan...The ignition switch mechanically felt like it was made from wood. The owner doesn't know what to do with the bike. A 4k bike running, it likely needs 2500 in parts/shipping never mind labour if you are not handy.

Ron, have you considered a sv650, same drivetrain as the vstrom but quite a bit lower. I would be concerned most bikes under 500cc will be a bit breathless over 110kms...?