Big-wheeled scooters returned to favour in southern European
markets several years ago, but still haven't made an impression here, which is a
shame because they offer superior stability and potential ride quality, as
Piaggio's new, upmarket B125 confirms. The deeply uncool image of gawky old
Mobylettes is a big hurdle to overcome, but 16in wheel size aside, the slickly
styled Piaggio is a world apart.
The downside is that the rear wheel eats into the underseat storage space and,
sure enough, the B125 is only capable of stowing a couple of shallow, open-face
crash helmets, above - if you wear a full-face lid (and you really should)
you'll have to carry it around with you.
The suspension is surprisingly firm, which gives a harsh ride on poor surfaces,
but it's another reason why the handling is especially good. The sportiness is
further enhanced by disc brakes front and rear, although it's the rear that
offers the most effective stopping power.
The engine is a four-stroke unit, which uses Piaggio's latest low-emissions
technology and is capable of delivering more than 100mpg, although it's sluggish
pulling away from a standstill compared with most two-stroke 125s - so much so
that you think twice about nosing your way to the front of a queue of traffic in
case you then hold it up when the lights change.
The B125 is well finished and equipped, with an adjustable screen, waterproof
seat cover and phone-charging socket, and with road charges and yet more fuel
tax looming, it doesn't seem so expensive after all.
Kevin Ash, 2002
Any corrections or more information on these motorcycles will be kindly appreciated.