Modern Vespa

A local dealer has a new 2016 MP3 500 for an OTD price of $7999. I'm tempted ...still a lot of money for a 500cc bike.

Thoughts???

thats a very good price.

Thats a great price for an early christmas pressent.

They have it on ebay for the past few weeks, been watching it.
Way cheaper then what I paid for mine.
If it was local to me, I would probably buy it.

I would offer them $7500.00 to test the waters.

Keith,
Marietta, GA

Do you own a MP3 now or have taken one for a test ride?

Good question.

I've owned a 2009 MP3 400 and MP3 500 in the past. Currently on a Yamaha SMAX.

That should mean that you have a fairly good idea whether you want to own another one. I swapped my MP3 for a BV350 some time ago. I found the BV to be lighter, more economical, and a more spirited performer. What are you looking for that you are not getting with the SMAX?

I really like my SMAX. Very easy to ride, quick and affordable. What I need is something capable of sustaining higher speeds for longer periods - longer rides more than just around town. Driving the SMAX at 65 mpg requires a sustained RPM of 7500-8000. That's HIGH! I don't feel comfortable doing that for long periods of time. I sort of baby my vehicles. Your point is a good one as I do wonder about having to deal with the bulk of the MP3 again.....it's a big girl!
But I like the secure feeling the MP3 gives on the road......and now with ABS and ASR, it's much safer. No more scoots without ABS!!

Dooglas - I'm really glad you posted your comment re: the BV 350. As I said, I've owned two MP3s in the past but talking about the BV 350 being lighter really got me thinking. I did some checking and realized the 2016 MP3 500 weighs over 600lbs!! My previous MP3s weighed less but not that much so and it was one of the reasons I didn't like them. I've started looking at the BV 350 and a plus is they also have ABS and ASR (ABS is a must). So thanks for putting that "bug" in my ear.

Good stick with the BV350, you'll be happy. The new MP3 500's have some issues.

If I ever switch to another two wheeler, I am going to a Non-Scooter Shop Environment. I just don't like the turnover in Scooter Shops for Service and lack of Skills.

That is why I have gone the route to do my own as much as possible.
Maybe I'm living the dream that other shops are different?

Keith
Marietta, GA

I had a BV350 and then I was completely intrigued by the MP3 400. Yep, I sold the BV and bought the MP3. It was fine, but the mystique soon wore off. I sold that too. I really miss the BV350. To me, the BV was more like a motorcycle than the MP3 was. Light, powerful and flickable. And stylish.

I'm not aware of the "issues" mentioned with the new MP3s, other than they are slightly heavier because of the added safety features. At that price you could buy it and decide for yourself if you like it. If you don't, you could sell it for only a very small loss six months from now. (Maybe none if gas prices go up again.)

The added safety, stability, and grip keep me from even considering returning to two wheels for my riding. My 500 turns 5900 rpm @ 65mph effortlessly and at least 52mpg mile after mile.

Lastly, I am buying a new 500 in the spring myself, if that tells you anything.

As I recall my 400 MP3 runs @ 5,500 rpm @ 65 mph and my 250 MP3 runs @ 7,000 rpm @ 65 mph.

The MP3 500 Sport is Excellent for the Highway, but you will have to deal with the "Oil Blow Issue" and learn how to Manage this.
Search the other Threads on this Topic.
If you can live with this possible "Risk" of it getting worse, then Go for it !
Me personally I am commited to this bike, and was aware of the Risks the day I purchased it.

Keith,
Marietta, GA