Piaggio Mp3 500
The Piaggio Mp3 500 has a top speed of 160 km/h, produces 40 hp and weighs 271 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Piaggio MP3 500 is part of the MP3 family introduced by Piaggio in 2006, featuring the brand's innovative three-wheel tilting system with two front wheels for enhanced stability and grip. The 500cc variant was introduced around 2011 as a larger-displacement option targeting riders seeking more highway performance while retaining the unique tilting three-wheel platform. It is notable for being rideable on a car license in some European countries (depending on local regulations) and for its advanced parallelogram front suspension that allows leaning through corners like a traditional two-wheeler.
40 hp
Power
46 Nm
Torque
271 kg
Weight
160 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approximately 18 km/L typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Unique Three-Wheel Stability
The MP3 500's patented dual front wheel system provides car-like cornering stability and can be locked upright at stops, making it exceptionally confidence-inspiring for new riders or those returning after a break.
Watch the Tilt Mechanism
The hydraulic tilting lock mechanism is the most common trouble spot — owners report it can leak or seize over time, and repairs can be costly, so always test the lock function before buying used.
Strong Resale Value
The MP3 500 holds its value better than most maxi-scooters due to its niche design and loyal following, but high mileage examples can drop sharply in price, making them excellent used-market bargains.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original 493cc single-cylinder engine, three-wheel tilting front end, first 500-class MP3 introduced.
"Brilliant concept, but 262kg never lets you forget it."
I put nearly 8,000km on a first-year MP3 500 and the tilting three-wheel front end genuinely does what Piaggio claims — wet tram tracks and painted roundabout lines that would pucker a two-wheeler just become irrelevant noise. The 492cc single pulls cleanly from low revs and 40hp is honestly enough for city-to-suburb commuting, though it runs out of breath above 130km/h in a way that feels apologetic rather than thrilling. The weight is the honest problem: filtering through tight urban gaps requires real commitment, and if you park on anything softer than tarmac you're doing a one-man deadlift to get it off its stand. That front end also gives you a false sense of security in deep corners — the grip is there, but the geometry punishes late corrections with a slowness that catches newer riders off guard.
Pros
Cons
Revised bodywork styling, updated electronics, improved suspension tuning, enhanced braking system on tilting front axle.
New Euro 4 compliant engine, redesigned fairing, updated instrumentation, ride-by-wire throttle introduced.
Euro 5 engine compliance, revised chassis geometry, updated TFT dashboard, modernized LED lighting package.
Used Buyer Review
"Brilliant urban weapon if you budget for its unique maintenance demands."
$4,500-$7,500 usedThe MP3 500 is genuinely brilliant in traffic — that third front wheel isn't a gimmick, it's transformative. You can filter through city gridlock with stupid confidence, and the leaning lock mechanism means you can plant both feet at red lights without toppling this 280kg beast over. Maintenance costs are where used buyers get burned, though. Those front suspension linkages need regular attention and specialist knowledge, and finding a dealer who actually understands the system is harder than it should be. Mechanically the 500cc single is bulletproof if serviced properly, but always check the front suspension pivot bearings — they're expensive and overlooked. Storage is genuinely useful, running position is comfortable for hour-plus commutes, and the brakes are excellent. Avoid anything without full service history on those front forks. Budget an extra $500-800 contingency for front-end work regardless.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Piaggio Mp3 500 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALRock handlebars, check for play or hydraulic leaks
Bounce test, look for oil residue on shock body
Jerky acceleration or slipping under load
Test parking lock engages and releases cleanly
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Decent but maintenance-heavy, avoid neglected examples
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Piaggio Mp3 500
Suzuki Burgman 400
Kymco Cv3
Piaggio Mp3 400
Piaggio Mp3 300
Peugeot Metropolis 400
Compare Piaggio Mp3 500 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Piaggio Mp3 500 vs Suzuki Burgman 400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Piaggio Mp3 500 vs Kymco Cv3
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Piaggio Mp3 500 vs Piaggio Mp3 400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Piaggio Mp3 500 vs Piaggio Mp3 300
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Piaggio Mp3 500 vs Peugeot Metropolis 400
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Piaggio Mp3 500? +
Front tilting mechanism wear and leaks: Rock handlebars, check for play or hydraulic leaks (serious) | Rear shock absorber failure: Bounce test, look for oil residue on shock body (moderate) | Transmission belt and variator wear: Jerky acceleration or slipping under load (moderate)
Is the Piaggio Mp3 500 a good motorcycle? +
Brilliant urban weapon if you budget for its unique maintenance demands. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: Daily urban commuters wanting car-like stability. Avoid if: You want weekend canyon carving fun.
What is the horsepower of the Piaggio Mp3 500? +
The Piaggio Mp3 500 produces 40 hp @ 7,500 rpm, with 46 Nm @ 5,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 160 km/h.
Is the Piaggio Mp3 500 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Piaggio Mp3 500 is a reasonable choice for new riders (40 hp is manageable), weighing 271 kg. Daily urban commuters wanting car-like stability
Is the Piaggio Mp3 500 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Piaggio Mp3 500, notably: Front tilting mechanism wear and leaks (Rock handlebars, check for play or hydraulic leaks). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Piaggio Mp3 500 good for daily use? +
Daily urban commuters wanting car-like stability Fuel: 5.5 L/100km (approximately 18 km/L typical real-world average).
How fast is the Piaggio Mp3 500? +
The Piaggio Mp3 500 reaches a top speed of 160 km/h, producing 40 hp at 271 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Piaggio Mp3 500? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Piaggio Mp3 500, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/piaggio/mp3-500/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
