Category Archives: Piaggio

Piaggio And Vespa Retailers Partner With Tracker Network UK

Piaggio & C. S.p.A. (Piaggio Group) and Vespa retailers across the UK have joined forces with TRACKER Network UK, the UK’s leading stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) experts, to provide free TRACKER devices with all brand-new Vespa GTS 300, Piaggio Beverly 300 and Beverly 350 scooters purchased from authorised Piaggio and Vespa dealerships between 1st August and 31st October 2018.

Customers who buy a new Vespa GTS 300, Piaggio Beverly 300 and Beverly 350 between 1st August and 31st October 2018 will get their new scooter equipped with one of TRACKER’s industry-leading SVR units for free and will also receive their first year’s subscription to TRACKER’s monitoring service completely free of charge.

Piaggio Group is also pleased to announce that it is working with Lexham Insurance to support this promotion and customers will receive a 10% discount for fitting and activating TRACKER Monitor. This discount is irrespective of postcode area and will be applied upon confirmation that the vehicle is equipped with one of TRACKER’s devices. Terms and conditions will apply.

By working in conjunction with TRACKER, Piaggio Group customers will benefit from the peace of mind that comes with its proven VHF technology. In combination with traditional security precautions, TRACKER contributes significantly to a robust defence against theft and ensures a greater chance of recovery should an owner become the victim of unscrupulous criminal activity. TRACKER’s unique smart technology allows a signal to be transmitted, received and tracked regardless of location.

Mark Knight, Country Manager of Piaggio Limited agent of Piaggio & C. S.p.A., said: “Following the increase in theft and violence involving powered two-wheelers in several UK cities, plus the increase in insurance costs, we have been looking at security products that offer greater peace of mind to motorcycle and scooter owners while helping to reduce insurance costs.

“Piaggio Group settled on TRACKER’s industry-leading product because of the unique technology it employs in its successful tracking and recovering of stolen vehicles. The choice of supplier was paramount for us and TRACKER provides the most up-to-date technology in the marketplace, along with excellent support from installation to customer satisfaction.

“We’re aiming to provide a product and service that reduces our customers’ insurance costs with Lexham, our insurance partner, while offering an additional layer of customer security protection.”

Greig Hilton, Managing Director at TRACKER, added: “Although analysis of our recovery data confirms that London and Greater London remain the hot spots for two-wheeler thieves, opportunist criminals can and do strike anywhere and everywhere across the UK. It’s essential that Vespa and Piaggio owners recognise the importance of good security measures, which will not only project their pride and joy but the financial and emotional loss that comes as a result of theft.

“Our award winning SVR solutions won’t stop a scooter from being stolen, but will significantly increase the chances of police quickly locating and returning that vehicle to the owner, before it’s dismantled and sold on for parts, or sold and shipped abroad. Unlike any other SVR devices, our unique VHF technology can’t be blocked by GPS/GSM signal jammers and crucially, it can locate vehicles hidden anywhere, from the back the of a van to an underground car park or shipping container. We are delighted to be partnering with Piaggio and Lexham. Together we are playing a vital role in helping police close the net on two-wheeler thieves.”

Tony Campbell, CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Association, said: “Following the announcement of the ‘MCIA Secured’ Motorcycle & Scooter Rating Scheme, it is great to see Piaggio reacting so quickly. The industry is very much aware of the constant threat of motorcycle & scooter theft, and the crime which is being committed using these products. The industry accepts it has a role to play in combating this crime as it not only affects the market, it causes harm to our riders and the manufacturers’ customers. With the rising costs of insurance and harm caused, the UK motorcycle industry along with the riders and authorities must now work together to reduce and eventually make bike theft a thing of the past. I congratulate Piaggio on this initiative which I am sure will not only contribute to reassuring their customers but will send out a clear message to criminals to keep their hands off.”         

About TRACKER:

  • Established for 25 years
  • Uses award winning patented long-range VHF technology – the signal is extremely difficult to jam and can clearly transmit even if a bike is put in a van, shipping container, lockup or underground car park
  • TRACKER has a unique relationship with UK police – who prefer VHF technology and equip their cars with TRACKER equipment
  • 96% recovery rate
  • 80% of recoveries occurring within 24 hours
  • £527 million worth of vehicles recovered in 2017
  • All products Thatcham approved

New Piaggio Helmet Is Flipping Good

New from Europe’s largest scooter manufacturer, the Piaggio Modular Helmet is comfortable, practical and protective – the perfect riding partner both in and out of town.

In town, when filling up with fuel, grabbing a snack or running an errand, the single button chin bar release makes it easy to reveal your face for recognition purposes.

A quick-release, micrometric chin buckle means there’s no fiddling about in the car park or bike bay either – it’s as quick to fasten and adjust as it is to release.

Out on the open road the aerodynamically designed shell offers cleaner airflow to keep the head stable, easing pressure on the neck for a relaxed ride. Made from tough, light thermoplastic/resin for strength and flexibility, with UV protection, the helmets is certified to the current ECE22.05 safety standard for road use.

The scratch-resistant visor and internal, flip-down sun visor keep the view of the road ahead clear, while venting to the top and chin bar channels a cooling breeze through the EPS liner and out via exhaust vents to the rear.

The high quality textile lining is hypoallergenic, as well as fully removable and washable, for season-long freshness and comfort.

Piaggio’s Modular Helmet comes in two subtle colour choices – Bianco and Army Green – in sizes XS-XXL, and sells for £129.

For a complete list of original accessories for Piaggio and Vespa scooters  visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk

Layer your Scooter Security with Piaggio

With scooter theft on the rise and in the headlines, both the Metropolitan Police and MotorCycle Industry Association (MCIA) are advising riders to layer security, using more than one device to maximise protection*.

Scooter theft isn’t restricted to London – West Midlands police surveyed parking bays in Birmingham’s Cathedral Quarter and discovered that only 40% of bikes and scooters were protected with a chain, disc lock or similar device.**

Specifically designed for modern and retro scooters, Piaggio produce alarms, handlebar locks, chain and disc Locks, offering multiple ways to secure vehicles and giving owners peace of mind that their machine will be safe and sound when they return to it. The range includes:

DISK LOCK TOP – a compact brake lock with a 5mm diameter locking pin and reversible key, with drill-proof and pick-proof casing. Supplied in a carry bag with reminder cable. RRP: £33.00.

PIAGGIO ® MULTILINK LOCK TOP – cable lock, protected by steel tubes with pipe-ball joints, for increased flexibility, and extra drill protection on cylinder. Available in 100-170 cm lengths, RRP starts at: £29.00.

CHAIN LOCK – 110-140 cm long chain, with 10 mm square steel links, secured with a 12 mm diameter shackle in a hardened steel lock body, with drill-proof and pick-proof keyway. RRP from £45.00

HANDLEBAR LOCKS – Permanently attached to the scooter for convenience, they can be secured to the handlebar in seconds to immobilise the vehicle. When not in use they fit discreetly between the seat and footrest, keeping underseat storage free. Extension cables are also available, allowing owners to secure their scooter to an item of road furniture. RRP from £59.00.

Piaggio produces a range of electronic alarm systems too, including the E-POWER. This plug & play is system designed for scooters equipped with a pre-installation connection. It comes with an electronic key and two button remote control. RRP £146.00.

For a complete list of Piaggio’s genuine Alarms, Handlebar Locks, Chain Locks and Disc Locks, for Piaggio and Vespa scooters, call 0117 972 5552 or visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk

Piaggio MP3 – The Jam-Busting King Just Got More Affordable

In 2006 Piaggio continued its long tradition of innovation with the introduction of the MP3, the first parallel tilting 3-wheel scooter. 200,000 bikes later and the Piaggio MP3 has become a familiar sight in cities around the world, leading the way in the trike market.

Its status as a tricycle allows car drivers aged 21 or over* to enjoy the same jam-busting freedom and economies as scooter and motorcycle riders, but with the added stability of a third wheel.

Now, just as car travel gets more time-consuming and public transport more expensive, the MP3 gets more affordable.  New MP3s registered between 15th September and 31st October 2017 will come with one year’s fully comprehensive insurance at a fixed price of £199.**

In addition, Piaggio 3Dom PCP finance at 6.9% APR is available on all MP3 models, making it possible to put a new MP3 Yourban on the road for less than £80 a month***

The Piaggio MP3 consists of four models in two body styles, with punchy and economical Euro-4 engines and “twist and go” automatic transmission.

The really clever part of an MP3 is the patented, twin-wheel front suspension, which mimics the riding sensations of a regular scooter.  Picture a slalom skier’s legs as they negotiate a course and you will get a feel for how the system works.  When the MP3 comes to a stop, the suspension roll lock system allows the rider to stay seated, with their feet on the footboards, ready for a quick getaway.

The MP3 range is in showrooms now and consists of:

  • MP3 Yourban 300 Sport at £6,499 on the road
  • MP3 300 Business at £7,499 on the road
  • MP3 500 Sport at £8,699 on the road
  • MP3 500 Special Edition at £8,699 on the road

Notes:

* Although not required by law, Piaggio recommends that car drivers without scooter or  motorcycle experience undertake suitable training before riding an MP3.

** Riders aged 25 or over.  Subject to acceptance by Lexham Insurance Ltd.  Terms and conditions apply.

*** Visit www.piaggiofinance.co.uk to create a finance plan that suits you

Find your Piaggio Retailer at www.piaggiogroup.co.uk

Piaggio MP3 500 Sport & MP3 500 Special Edition – Technical Specifications

Engine MASTER 4-stroke single cylinder
Displacement 493 cm3
Bore x Stroke 94 mm x 71 mm
Power 28.5 kW @ 7250 rpm
Torque 45.5 Nm @ 5000 rpm
Timing system Single overhead cam shaft (SOHC) with 4 valves and roller tappets
Fuel system Electronic injection
Ignition Electronic with inductive exhaust and variable advance integrated in the injection CPU. Closed loop system with Lambda probe for the exhaust. Electronic immobilizer, block of injection pump when the vehicle is tilted. Twin spark ignition. Dual map for butterfly valve management (STD and ECO).
Cooling system Liquid
Lubrication Wet sump
Starter Electric
Gearbox Twist-and-go CVT with torque server
Clutch Automatic, centrifugal dry clutch
Frame Double cradle in high strength tubular steel
Front suspension Articulated quadrilateral – Stroke: 85 mm. Electro-hydraulic suspension blocking system.
Rear suspension Dual hydraulic shock absorber with pre-adjusted spring in one of 4 positions – Stroke: 108 mm
Front brake Two 258 mm discs
Rear Brake Ø 240 mm disc
Front wheel rims Aluminium alloy 13″ x 3.00
Rear wheel rim Aluminium alloy 14″ x 4.50
Braking system Combined braking at the foot pedal and ABS
Traction Control ASR
Front tyres Tubeless 110/70-13″
Rear tyre Tubeless 140/70-14”
Length/Width 2225 mm / 800 mm
Wheelbase 1540 mm
Saddle height 790 mm
Fuel tank capacity 12 litres (including 1.8 litre reserve)
Fuel consumption on WMTC cycle 22.7 km/l  (64.2 mpg)
C02 emissions 102 g/km
Kerb weight 270 kg
Approval Euro 4

Piaggio MP3 300 Business – Technical Specifications

Engine Single-cylinder 4-stroke
Displacement 278 cm3
Bore x Stroke 75 mm x 63 mm
Power 15.5 kW @ 7250 rpm
Torque 22.5 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Timing system Single overhead cam shaft (SOHC) with 4 valves and roller tappets
Fuel system Electronic injection
Ignition Electronic with inductive exhaust and variable advance integrated in the injection CPU. Closed loop system with Lambda probe for the exhaust. Electronic immobilizer, block of injection pump when the vehicle is tilted.
Cooling system Liquid
Lubrication Wet sump
Starter Electric
Gearbox Twist-and-go CVT with torque server
Clutch Automatic, centrifugal dry clutch
Frame Double cradle in high strength tubular steel
Front suspension Articulated quadrilateral – Stroke: 85 mm. Electro-hydraulic suspension blocking system.
Rear suspension Dual hydraulic shock absorber with pre-adjusted spring in one of 4 positions – Stroke: 106 mm
Front brake Two 258 mm discs
Rear Brake Ø 240 mm disc
Braking system Combined braking at the pedal and ABS
Traction Control ASR
Front wheel rims Aluminium alloy 13″ x 3.00
Rear wheel rim Aluminium alloy 14″ x 3.75
Front brake Tubeless 110/70-13″
Rear Brake Tubeless 140/60-14”
Length/Width 2225 mm / 800 mm
Wheelbase 1500 mm
Saddle height 790 mm
Fuel tank capacity 12 litres (including 1.8 litre reserve)
Fuel consumption on WMTC cycle 27.8 km/l  (78.6 mpg)
C02 emissions 84 g/km
Kerb weight N/A
Approval Euro 4

Piaggio MP3 300 Yourban Sport – Technical Specifications

Engine Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement 278 cc
Bore x Stroke 75 mm x 63 mm
Power 15.5 kW @ 7250 rpm
Torque 22.5 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Timing system Single overhead camshaft (SOHC) – 4 valves
Fuel system Electronic injection
Cooling Liquid
Lubrication Wet sump
Starter Electric
Gearbox Twist-and-go CVT with torque server
Clutch Automatic, centrifugal dry clutch
Frame Closed double cradle in high strength tubular steel
Front Suspension Articulated quadrilateral
Rear Suspension Double hydraulic shock absorber with preload adjustment
Front brakes Ø 258 mm double disc with dual piston fixed calliper
Rear Brake 258 mm diam. disc with dual piston floating calliper
Braking system Combined braking at the pedal
Front wheel rims Aluminium alloy 13″ x 3.00
Rear Wheel Rim Aluminium alloy 14″ x 3.75
Front Tyre Tubeless 110/70 – 13″
Rear Tyre Tubeless 140/60 – 14″
Length/Width 2040 mm / 760 mm
Track 465 mm
Wheelbase 1440 mm
Saddle Height 780 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 11 litres
Fuel consumption on WMTC cycle 30.3 km/l (85.6 mpg)
C02 emissions 76 g/km
Kerb weight 222 kg
Approval Euro 4

TomTom Vio | Piaggio and Vespa Edition

TomTom’s smartphone-connected VIO satnav is now available in a version specifically designed for use on the current range of Piaggio and Vespa scooters

The VIO’s weatherproof display unit mounts to the rear view mirror bar and connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth® to provide turn-by-turn navigation.

Its circular touchscreen is glove-friendly and the VIO has built-in GPS, acting as an extension to a connected smartphone.

Users benefit from many advanced features, including TomTom’s speed camera warning system and TomTom Traffic, which offers alternative routes in real time. There’s even caller display, so riders can see who’s trying to call them while on the move.

Using TomTom VIO allows riders to keep their smartphone safely tucked away in a pocket or in a storage compartment on the scooter. At the end of the journey, the compact touchscreen device can be quickly and easily un-clipped from the mirror mount and taken away by the owner until the next time it is needed.

Models covered:

  • PIAGGIO – X10 350/500, MP3 ABS (2014-on), MP3 Yourban (LT), Beverly 350 ST, Medley EU4, Liberty iGet, New Fly, Zip and Typhoon
  • VESPA – Sprint, Primavera, PX, GTS Super & Super Sport

The TomTom VIO for Piaggio and Vespa retails at £158.99.

For further details, together with the complete range of Genuine Piaggio Accessories, visit www.fowlersparts.co.uk.

Extras for new Piaggio Beverly EU4

Piaggio has announced a range of Genuine Accessories for the new Beverly Sport EU4, many of which will be especially welcome for owners planning to ride through the autumn and winter seasons.

With combined ABS and traction control for safety in even the most challenging weather conditions, the Beverley Sport Touring makes the ideal run-around, whatever the weather.

Helping to keep the worst of the wind and weather off the rider is the tall Windscreen Kit. Made from shock- and scratch-resistant 4 mm methacrylate, it shields the upper body and hands and is fully tested and approved by Piaggio. SRP £145.99 including VAT.

The Outdoor Cover keeps the rain, frost, road spray and prying eyes off the Beverly 350cc scooter. Tailored to fit the scooter snugly, it comes in black with reflective strips for added visibility, openings for accessories, a transparent number plate window and chain ring. SRP: £73.00.

Ideal for stashing waterproofs, spare gloves and other useful seasonal accessories, the handy Tunnel Bag is made from nylon with waterproof zips. It will hold up to 16-litres, has extra side pockets and is designed so that it will not interfere with the riding position. It detaches quickly and easily for use off the scooter. SRP: £58.99.

To view the complete range of genuine accessories for the Beverly Sport Touring, visit uk.piaggio.com or call 0117 972 5552

New Piaggio Group All-Brand Retailers In Shepherd’s Bush And Colchester

The Piaggio Group UK retailer network continues its expansion with two significant appointments in the south-east.

Central Bikes, who has enjoyed great success with the Vespa, Piaggio and Gilera scooter brands in London’s West End, has launched a high-profile second site in Shepherd’s Bush, where the entire Piaggio Group portfolio of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Vespa, Piaggio and Gilera is available.

Meanwhile, in Essex, Colchester Piaggio has completed their relocation and has added the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi bike brands to their existing Vespa, Piaggio and Gilera line up, making all of the Group’s products available under one roof in a superb new facility.

Both sites showcase the Piaggio Group’s Motoplex identity, which perfectly complements the comprehensive range of bikes, scooters, accessories and merchandise on display.

Dan Rose, MD of Central Bikes, said “We have been eagerly waiting for the opportunity to extend our already successful West End business into the Shepherd’s Bush area, where we feel there is real untapped potential in the high-quality bike and scooter market. With our bigger store and workshop and wider range of accessories, we can now showcase all Piaggio Group brands, including Aprilia and Moto Guzzi”.

Luke Gregory, MD of Colchester Piaggio, said “Our new premises is another step in our evolution and is part of our mission to always offer the best customer experience.  We’ve long wanted to add the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands to our portfolio and our new premises, with its Race Cafe, onsite performance and Dyno facilities, in-house training centre, clothing, parts & service departments is the perfect location”

Peter Cleverly, Network Development Manager at Piaggio UK, said “Great products deserve great retailers and both Central Bikes and Colchester Piaggio have made significant investments in representing all Piaggio Group brands to the highest standard to give their customers the best experience”

Central Bikes Colchester Piaggio
15 Shepherd’s Bush Road Commerce Way
London Colchester
W6 7LX CO2 8HH
Tel:  020 3319 2800 Tel:  01206 860 006

Active & Comfort Accessories for Piaggio Wi-Bike

Piaggio now offers a comprehensive range of accessories so that riders can get even more out of their new Wi-Bike pedelec

With 250 Watts of power, three pedal-assist modes and a potential range of 120km, Piaggio’s range of electrically-assisted bicycles make nipping around the city, commuting to work or enjoying country lanes a doddle.

Add-ons for the Active models of Wi-Bike include:

  • Steerer Smartphone Holder – this universal holder mounts to the centre of handlebar and has an easy-to-use ‘click & fix’ quick-release system. SRP £41.99 including VAT.
  • Dynamic Rear Bag – made from a tough technical fabric, the bag mounts on the rear luggage rack. Expanding side bags give extra carrying capacity and a shoulder strap makes it easy to carry off the bike. A splash-resistant zip and integrated rain hood protect contents from the weather. SRP £91.00.
  • Dynamic Under-Saddle Bag – fitting neatly under the saddle, with the ‘KLICKfix’ quick release system, it offers a neat home for keys, phone, wallet, etc. Finished with a high visibility reflective strip. SRP £37.99.
  • Flow Helmet – stay safe and comfortable, thanks to an innovative system of removable panels, making it adaptable for all-season use. Monoshell in-mould technology, an antibacterial liner and Ultrafit+ adjustment system give a great fit & finish. SRP £79.99.

Riders of the Comfort range of Wi-Bikes can also accessorise their ride:

  • Journey Leather Set – hand-crafted in Italy, the set consists of an elegant handlebar bag with shoulder strap and a pair of rear side panniers, with security attachment system, for transporting larger loads. SRP £454.00.
  • Comfort Hand Grips With Turn Indicators – these hand grips have integrated LED turn indicators for improved road safety. Their ergonomic design follows the profile of the hand for improved rider comfort. SRP £59.99.
  • Frame Lock – Installed directly onto the frame, this lock offers excellent security with a drill-proof lock barrel and a bracket in tempered steel. A folding key adds to the practicality. SRP £22.00
  • Tyre Repair Kit – essential for any journey, this kit contains everything necessary to repair a tyre quickly in the event of a puncture, all contained in a neat carry case. SRP £34.00.

To view the complete range of Piaggio Wi-bike accessories and find out more about the bike range, visit: www.piaggio.com/wi-bike/uk_EN/#home or call Fowlers Parts on 0117 972 5552

Great Summer Offers on Piaggio Group Bikes and Scooters

This week Piaggio Group announces some great offers on a variety of bikes and scooters:

Moto Guzzi V9

To help put more sunshine into your summer ride, the Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber and Roamer models are now available with 5.9% APR PCP. This equates to a monthly payment of £93, based on a 36 month agreement with a 25% deposit, meaning the most authentic of all heritage bikes is even more affordable.

Vespa GTS

70 years young and still as fresh as ever, the original scooter comes with an extra summer incentive this year, with 0% APR finance available on all GTS125 & 300 models, including the 70th Anniversary Special Edition.

Piaggio Medley 125

With its lively Euro 4 engine giving 135mpg, thanks to Piaggio Start-Stop technology and its class-leading under seat storage giving space for two full-face helmets, the new Piaggio Medley 125 has reset the benchmark for stylish and practical commuters. Already great value at just £2,771 on the road, the Medley 125 is now available with 0% APR finance over 24 months and 10% deposit.

Aprilia V4 and Moto Guzzi V7

Although not part of the summer promotion, you’ll find your local Aprilia and Moto Guzzi retailers in extra generous mood when talking about the multi-award winning Aprilia RSV4 RF, Tuono 1100 family and Moto Guzzi V7 range, so get in fast while the sun shines.

The finance promotions shown above are valid from 25th July until 30th September 2016 and Piaggio Group Retailers can supply full information.

Medley of add-ons for new Piaggio scooter

Piaggio have unveiled a comprehensive range of accessories for their new Medley 125, enabling owners to tailor the big-wheeler scooter to their needs.

STORAGE:
Complementing the Medley’s already generous on-board carrying capability are two Top Boxes, available in 32-litre (£113.99) and 37-litre (£196.99) sizes. Both share the same Medley-specific fitting kit (£49.99) and both can accommodate one full-face or two open-face helmets. Colour-coded to match the Medley, the larger box comes with a Passenger Backrest too.

PROTECTION:
Two screen options help to keep the weather at bay – choose between the sporty Flyscreen (£99.99) or the larger Windscreen (£149.99), which has built in hand-guards for extra protection. Both are made from high quality shock- and scratch-resistant 4 mm methacrylate.

TECHNOLOGY:
Heading up the range are three advanced electronic systems that can be installed simultaneously – the Bike Finder (£86.98) enables owners to locate their Medley in crowded areas and busy parking bays, and also allows them to open the under-seat storage bay remotely.

Fitting the Piaggio Sound System (£476.98) uses the body of the Medley as a diffuser/speaker to play music or information from navigation systems. In other words, the scooter becomes a speaker.

For complete digital integration, the Piaggio Multimedia Platform (£207.98) links most smart phones to the scooter via Bluetooth®, displaying a wide variety of information, including speed, rpm, engine power and torque, instant and average fuel consumption, average speed, battery voltage and more, all of which are displayed on the phone’s screen, in real time.

For further details of these, together with the complete range of Genuine Piaggio accessories, call 0117 972 5552 or visit www.uk.piaggio.com

Notes: All prices inclusive of VAT and correct at time of going to print.

The Piaggio Group And (RED) Together In The Battle Against Aids

The Piaggio Group and (RED) announce the start of a partnership in support of raising funds to finance programmes that battle against AIDS. Attending the event that launched collaboration between Piaggio and (RED) was also Bill Gates who, with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is one of the main global protagonists in the battle for health and wellbeing in developing countries.

It will be Vespa, the most beloved and famous two-wheeler brand in the world, that develops a (RED) vehicle. From the sale of each unit, $150 (USD) will go toward supporting the activities of the Global Fund for the battle against AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. Two prestigious brands, recognised all over the world, combine forces in the battle for a world where no child will be born with the HIV virus.

“The partnership with (RED), one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, represents another concrete commitment by Piaggio in this area.” The Piaggio Group CEO and MD, Roberto Colaninno, emphasises “We are happy and proud today to have been chosen by (RED) to represent the mobility sector as one of their partners. This will be a global collaboration between two organisations recognised all over the world as symbols of professionalism and excellence.”

The Vespa (RED) that will be presented in its definitive form at the next Eicma show (Milan from 10 to 13 November) was on display today in Rome as a sneak peek during a Global Fund event at the National Institute of Health.

The Vespas that are manufactured in partnership with (RED) will be sold in Europe, Asia, the Pacific and the United States. The first group of Vespa (RED) vehicles will go on sale in December 2016, to coincide with (RED)’s Shopathon campaign.

Founded in 2006 by Bono and Bobby Shriver, (RED) has contributed $350 million (USD) to the Global Fund in the battle against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. These funds have arrived in Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania and Zambia, with 100% of the resources destined to activities on site. (RED)’s support for the Global Fund has had an impact on more than 70 million people with prevention, treatment and consulting operations, as well as HIV tests and assistance services.

Deborah Dugan, CEO, (RED) said: “We’re honoured to have Piaggio join the AIDS fight with the launch of their iconic (Vespa) RED that will raise money to support the critical work of the Global Fund.”

With more than 18 million vehicles sold around the world since 1946, Vespa is a unique case in the history of individual mobility. First introduced as the vehicle that would relaunch Europe in the post war era, it has become a symbol of freedom, uniting different generations all over the five continents and today it is a globally recognised icon of Italian style.

The Piaggio Group has historically been sensitive to the problems connected with protecting the health of children. An example of this is the recent Vespa For Children initiative, an international charity that, in collaboration with the Bambino Gesù Hospital of Rome, paved the way for a medical-surgical programme at the National Hospital For Pediatrics of Hanoi in Vietnam

New Piaggio MP3 Thermoformed Luggage

Light, easy to use, and providing up to 72-litres carrying capacity, Piaggio’s new Thermoformed Luggage adds plenty of extra storage space to the MP3  three-wheeler.

Made from tough, yet light, thermoformed ABS, the cases keep their shape and are much easier to pack than soft luggage, but weigh less and are easier to manage off the bike than ‘traditional’ hard cases.

Each case features an ergonomic handle for comfortable carrying and easy mounting/removal, while their slim ‘suitcase’ shape makes handling them off the scooter much easier.

The thermoformed shell is resistant to vibration and shocks and each bag features a rubber protective ‘bumper’, to soak up any knocks. Internal elastic belts restrain contents and prevent them from shifting around on the move. For added peace of mind, an anti-theft lock system and lock rings on the zips are included as standard.

Extra-strong, waterproof zipper closures seal out the elements and all bags come with waterproof, UV-proof and stain-resistant rain covers.

The quick-release mounting frames are designed specifically for the MP3 and are engineered to have a minimal impact on the vehicle’s width and weight. They’re compatible with all Piaggio quick-release cases and bags.

The Thermoformed Top Bag holds 30-litres and costs £144.99; the Panniers hold a total of 42-litres and cost £219.99. Fitting kits retail at £124.99 for the top case and £234.99 for panniers.

For details of this and the complete range of Piaggio accessories call 0117 972 5552 or visit www.uk.piaggio.com.

Notes: All prices inclusive of VAT and correct at time of going to print.

Piaggio Rides into Coventry with Fargo

Lifelong scooter fans Steve Parker-Brown and Alex Cavaliere realised a long-held dream when they opened Fargo Scooters in September 2014 and have now added the icing to the scooter cake with their appointment as official Vespa, Piaggio and Gilera retailers.

Situated in funky Fargo Village on Coventry’s Far Gosford Street, Fargo Scooters rubs shoulders with street food outlets, pop-up shops, a music venue and even a micro-brewery, so the iconic Italian brands are a perfect fit for this up-and-coming urban community.

Alex and Steve live and breathe scoots and having built their business around both the classic and modern scene, have made sure their shop sells everything a scooter fan could want, from a Vespa GTS300 to a Harrington Jacket.

Fargo Scooters
Fargo Village
Coventry
CV1 5ED

Tel: 02476 019 466

Piaggio Group Finance Offers

Piaggio UK is pleased to announce that some of its Aprilia and Moto Guzzi motorcycles and Piaggio scooters are now even more accessible through its Freedom Finance brand, following the introduction of 0% APR and other preferential offers.

Moto Guzzi V7, Aprilia Shiver and Dorsoduro models are available with 0% APR finance over 24 months following a 40% deposit. Piaggio Zip 50 and Fly 125 scooters are available on a similar scheme with a 30% deposit.

Additionally, the Aprilia RS4 125 is offered with 2.9% APR finance over 24 months and a 30% deposit resulting in a monthly payment of under £138.

Riders who prefer to finance their bikes through a PCP scheme are not forgotten either, with Moto Guzzi Griso, Norge and Stelvio models all available at lower than usual rates.

All offers are available from now until the 31st March 2015 and more details are contained in the attached table or from Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Piaggio retailers.

Piaggio ‘tune-up’ their scooters

Music fans can turn their scooters into a mobile sound system, with a unique new accessory from Piaggio.

Piaggio’s Sound System (PSS) turns the body parts of the scooter into a loud speaker, allowing riders to listen to their favourite songs without having to install messy and complicated wiring or lose storage space to speakers.

The unique system consists of a Digital Amplifier, powered by the scooter’s battery; a Bluetooth receiver, which picks up the music from the user’s smartphone; and two ‘Exciters’, which turn the plastic body panels into a soundboard.

It is possible to pump out more than 100Db with the system.

PSS is fully controlled from the user’s smartphone. To start playing, simply synchronise the ‘phone with the PSS once and it will automatically connect every time the ignition is switched on.

PSS is currently available for the 2014 Piaggio Mp3, and the 2013/14 Vespa 946. A complete system costs £413.98, including a model-specific installation kit.

For further information contact your nearest Piaggio dealer, via the dealer locator at www.piaggio-scooters.co.uk/uk

Analyze Your Ride with Piaggio Multimedia Platform

The Piaggio Multimedia Platform (PMP) transforms your smartphone into a multifunctional on-board computer.

Linking smartphone to scooter via Bluetooth®, PMP collects information from your machine and displays it on the phone’s screen in real time, as you ride. Speed, rpm, power and torque, instant and average fuel consumption, average speed and battery voltage can all be viewed.

Depending on the machine and the smartphone’s features, PMP will flash your  virtual dashboard if you forget to cancel the indicators; warn you of low fuel and automatically guide you to the nearest petrol station; and can also check the status of your scooter, tell you what to do in case of a fault and direct you to the nearest authorised dealer.

The App stores your trip statistics and performance, so they can be viewed along your route map. They can be downloaded to your MyPiaggio profile to share, compare and comment with other users.

The PMP system costs £127 and is available for the 2014 Vespa GTS ABS and 946;  the 2014 Piaggio X10 350/500; and the 2014 MP3 ABS. It will be rolled out across other models from the Piaggio group soon. The App – and updates for it – can be downloaded free of charge from Appstore and Google Play. For further information contact your nearest Piaggio dealer, via the dealer locator at www.piaggio-scooters.co.uk/uk

New: Piaggio Mp3 Sport Genuine Accessories

Piaggio has introduced a range of practical accessories for the new MP3 500ie Sport, enhancing the potential of its flagship three-wheeler for both commuting and touring.

Two sizes of top box are available, in 37 and 50 litre sizes, at £299.99 and £399.99 respectively (including VAT). Colour-coded to match the scooter, they have a quick release mechanism and come complete with mounting plate and fixing kit. A backrest pad is also fitted to give passengers a feeling of security and comfort.

Offering extra protection from the elements, the Large Windscreen (£229.99) is constructed from anti-impact, anti scratch, 4mm thick Plexiglas. Aerodynamically shaped and higher than the standard screen, it helps to keep wind and rain off rider and passenger.

For technology lovers, Piaggio’s Multimedia Platform (£156.99) can be fitted to the Sport. Taking information direct from the machine’s ECU, the Platform allows the rider to monitor average speed, fuel consumption, temperature and more besides. A Multimedia Bracket Kit (£49.99) that enables the fitment of a Sat-Nav system and a Smartphone Holder (£43.99) are also available.

To view the complete range of genuine Piaggio MP3 500ie Sport accessories call O117 972 5552 or visit www.uk.piaggio.com.