Modern Vespa

Hi All

Just put a deposit down on a new 530 exclusive.

Anyone got experience with the steering bearings/notch risk on this latest model yet, and would you grease them immediately after delivery or wait for the first service?

I have the Piaggio grease tool as I use it on my 2013 MP3.

I just had my first service on my 530, and based on my last two MP3's, requested the notch prevention service as well. But my mechanic said the notch problem has been much reduced in these later models, so he didn't think it was as critical to lube frequently as it was in the past. I would recommend waiting until your first service at 1000 km.

Grease the headstock bearings when the bike hits 1K km/600 miles at the latest and retorque the bearings if you want to avoid the biggest single Achilles heel on the MP3

Thanks, thats helpful!

How are you finding the 530 so far?

This is my favorite, and third, MP3 since they came out in the US in 2007. Everything about it is better. The keyless system has a learning curve but I like it now (provided it is reliable over time!) I am getting between 55-60 mpg, which is great. I prefer sport mode. I have not needed to calibrate the traction control system like I needed to on my 2020 hpe, which is fantastic. The ABS and traction control work as they should from the start. The instructions for cruise control are wrong, but cruise control works, and I love having it for the first time on a bike. The throttle works much better than on the 2020 version.

My mechanic can't get the heated grips installed due to no available service manual and some missing third part (grips, control module, and ???). This means my riding season is basically done at this point, because I have a long commute. If anyone can share the 530 service manual or clarify the heated grips installation procedure, that would be great!

Off main topic. About the comment for installing the the heated grips.

I just installed the wiring for the Piaggio branded heated grips for my 2016 Mp3. Once I had the plastic off the handle bars the installation was rather smooth and parts placement was surprisingly intuitive. I had the job done in a couple hours mostly because I was being very careful.

If the central wiring harness for the bike already has the needed outlet on the steering wheel then I'd wager you could do it yourself. You'll be able to spot it, just take the plastic off and see if there is a large multi-pin electrical connection just sitting there idle / unused, its probably the heated grips.

The only part where I need a professional mechanic is the actual installation of the hand-grips themselves. The left side is easy because it doesn't have a function. The right-side needs a professional because the throttle cables are linked to it and I have zero experience with those so cannot recover if I make a mistake.

Sure enough, but the big crime by Piaggio here is that according to the OP, the US dealers and service shops have no idea how to successfully install the heated grips they are told to sell. That is very hard to defend.

Woah, I hadn't realized that was the case. Pretty poor that the dealer's own service department refuses to install a factory branded part.

Mine did not refuse. They tried, asked Piaggio for help, received insufficient guidance to complete installation. They installed them on my 2020 without difficulty.

Rechargeable heated m/c gloves?

I have asked my dealer to install heated grips, hopefully they can figure it out. I agree there seem to be several components required, not like when I fit heated grips to my other motorcycles myself, so I'll let the dealer sort it out. The bike should be arriving in the next few weeks.

Glad to hear you are happy with yours!