Modern Vespa

Anybody have any idea what the Piaggio GP800 is like? Have seen a couple of this on the road and having the urge to upgrade. Wish that the workshop manual is available online so as to have a look at what kind of maintenance is needed. Cheers!

When they go to MP3-800, I'm in!

I want a Mana 850.

It's great fun - tremendous pulling power and surprisingly sure-footed for low-speed manoeuvres. I should have had one out on a track-day yesterday, but sadly the weather was too wet to make it a sensible option. http://manuals.wotmeworry.org.uk/Gilera%20GP800/
http://manuals.wotmeworry.org.uk/Mana850/

JimC you're da man! Please keep us informed after you get the test ride. Cheers.

I don't know when the next track-day chance will come up - but I've test-ridden the GP800 several times.

Pros:
Powerful and fast, combined with excellent slow-speed stability.
Super-smooth clutch take-up.
Best brakes of any 2-wheeled scooter.
Great looks, nice sound.
An effortless tourer and long-distance commuter.
Sidestand and hand-brake combine for easy parking.
Engine and gearbox are no longer unsprung weight, this helps to give an exceptional ride.
Fuel economy is excellent for 'average' riding.

Cons:
Limited space under seat, not all helmets will fit, top-box required for a laptop or briefcase.
Fuel tank(s) can take some time to fill - it's split into two with a connecting pipe, and the filler is under the seat.
The tunnel is wide and high, I feel my feet are too far apart - this is subjective though.
The screen would be improved by a Lip of some sort, 3rd party ones are available.
Chain final drive, so chain needs lubing every so often - not a problem with the centre-stand and a spray-can.
Servicing costs are greater than for any other Piaggio.
Rear tyre size is not a common one.
Handbrake not locked by steering lock.
No 4-way hazard warning button - the blinker device has an input for one though.
Insert usual kph speedo whinge here...

Verdict - Huge fun, the pros vastly outweigh the cons for me.

JimC,hows the bike at 150 to 160kmh? I guess if I am getting it thats the fastest I will ride." ITS NOT HOW FAST YOU RIDE, BUT HOW LONG YOU LAST TO RIDE" Cheers! ( At what speed is 'average' riding?)

It only has 2 wheels, Ridiculous! How will you ever keep from falling over?

Maybe like this? No, just joking

Nice bike. Personally, I'd like to upgrade to the Yamaha FJR1300AE.



Clutch-less shifting!

My dealer got a mana in and I was able to look at it. (no test drive.) Pictures do not do it justice, You have to see it in person.. Beautiful bike. It even has a parking brake.

At Americade (the big Goldwing Rally) this year an associate of mine told me he talked to the Piaggio Rep and the MP3 800 is a done deal. ETA is unknown.

We will just have to wait and see if my friend speaketh the truth, I for one will buy one... who is in??

At 160kph (the recommended maximum break-in speed!) it's solid as a rock. You could cruise effortlessly at that speed.

Yeah! The Yahama can be real cool. But it can cost me an arm and a leg here in Malaysia! My mp3 250 cost me about USD9500 OTR and an mp3 500 cost about USD12000 AND the GP800 cost about USD 16500 here in Malaysia! Not too much fun being an average Tom, Dick and harry here! Cheers!

Only slightly higher than our prices - and could just be the difference in shipping.

Looking forward to the MP3 800.

I just had my mp3 serviced today and mentioned the possibility of the MP3 800, so the Tovas (salesman) called a Piaggio rep and confirmed it. We'll be seeing it here in the States in 2010.

I actually believe you!
When my search began, I was waiting for Fuoco release in July 2007 in Europe, then MP3 500 in U.S. in April 2008.
So, 18 months sounds reasonable and a fair enough amount of time for us to save our money for a new one

can't wait for the 800. MORE POWER. any pics?

I would be interested if they take into consideration some of the issues we are already having with the 500. (i. e. a more comfortable seat...or at least a seat option, optional foot pegs, "glove box" type compartment, etc.)

I don't want the MP3 to turn into a burgman.

Nice looking bike. It looks like it's about the same size as an MP3 in terms of setting position and leg room.

Actually, if the MP3 took all the positive characteristics of the burgman and added them to the technology they presently offer, that would be some awesome ride indeed! It would still be an MP3, it would just be a BETTER MP3! (And it would cost MORE as well.)