Piaggio MP3 400

Built between 2007 and 2012, the Piaggio MP3 400 was the original three-wheeled MP3 flagship and introduced many riders to the concept of a scooter with two independently tilting front wheels. The 399 cc MASTER four-stroke single-cylinder engine with CVT automatic produces around 34 hp and gives the trike brisk motorway pace beyond 130 km/h. Its front parallelogram suspension, letting each wheel tilt independently, delivers exceptional grip on wet asphalt, tram tracks and loose gravel, while the tilt-lock holds the scooter upright at standstill so the rider doesn't have to put a foot down.

The MP3 400 targets commuters who want comfort and weather protection combined with the added security of three wheels. Under the Dutch LT regulation a qualified car-licence holder could ride the MP3 400 LT (with sport handlebars) without a motorcycle licence, which made it popular in the business commuter market. Rivals at the time were the Yamaha TMAX 500 (a conventional two-wheeler) and later the Quadro 4D. The MP3 400 has been out of production for over a decade now; expect a sizeable used inventory from corporate lease fleets, with the matching mileage and wear patterns.