Piaggio MP3 Scooters - Can they be ridden on a car licence?

[brownsat259]

We currently have a 49cc scooter which we carry on the back of our Rapido motorhome and have been considering upgrading to something with more oomph which we would tow on a trailer. We were attracted to the Piaggio MP3 scooter (2 front wheels) because the advertising blurb said it was classified as a trike and could therefore be legally ridden with just a car driving licence. However another motorcycle dealer has said it would need a full motorcycle licence. My husband is reluctant to go back to school at his advanced age (61) if he does not need to. And if he does have to take a test we might as well go for a cheaper scooter anyway. We wondered if any of you experts know the truth of this. Over to you in hope - and thanks in anticipation.

Jan B.

[smifee]

They do 3 models of the trike. I think the only one that can be driven on a car licence is the MP3 LT. I think you can ride it without a crash helmet as well.

[AndyB]

Hi,

 

Don't think the standard MP3 can be ridden on car licence, as the width between the front wheels is not sufficient.

 

By the way I've been testing a hybrid Piagio MP3 (125cc & electric). It was a fantastic machine, with great road holding. They can still go over if you're not careful. The hybrid will cost about £9000 and weighs as much as a BMW RT.

 

Andy

[Mel B]

This is the one that is 'legal' for those without a bike licence:

 

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/bikereviews/searchresults/Bike-Reviews/Piaggio/Piaggio-MP3-LT-2009-current/

 

For that sort of money though its worth going on an expedited motorcycle course!!!

 

I'd suggest contacting one of the following and see what they have to offer as, quite apart form the 'legality' of being able to ride the MP3, a motorcycle course will give you confidence and skills, and especially safety tips, which should prove very useful to avoid being squashed by all the idots out there!

 

http://uk.local.yahoo.com/search.html;_ylt=Aq_VsJPpL__cd_qT1tjVTFrAaY85;_ylv=3?cs=&vid=&p=motorcycle+training&poi=Dorset%2C+England&yls-submit=Search

[brownsat259]

Thanks very much for your helpful comments everyone.

I think my husband is becoming resigned to having to take the motorcycle test if he wants a bigger scooter. We don't really need that much extra power and the cost of taking the test added to other 250cc scooters we've seen, will still be less than the cost of the MP3 LT.

Although we like the sound of that hybrid!

Again, many thanks for helping to clarify the situation.

Jan B.

[BGD]

Don't take a motorbike test because it'll mean you can ride a bigger cc scooter.

 

Take the motorbike test because it is the best way to save your life when riding any bike.

 

Yes, I did say save your life.

 

 

 

 

And as soon as you have taken it, then enroll on an IAM course too.

 

Best investment I every made......it's about the road craft, and sensible skills and anticpation of the rider, NOT about the cc of the bike he's perched on.

 

 

 

[brownsat259]

Point taken. I agree, and am pleased himself has decided to take a test. I will certainly feel happier knowing he's had some up-to-date education on skills needed to stay safe on the road.

Now back to a little steady nagging to actually get him started on the process...