V-twin commuter shows its muscle

13th July 2008

Italian scooter giant Piaggio continues to push the twist and go boundaries. It pioneered the three-wheeler with its MP3 – and now, it has squeezed an 839cc V-twin into a maxi-scooter frame.

Drivers switching from four wheels would have to complete their full bike test to ride the new Gilera GP800 – but the power it gives on long commutes makes this worthwhile.

The unit is much more refined than the single-cylinders in other big Piaggio scooters. It is also stable at any speed.

Tall riders will love the generous legroom, while the screen is electrically adjustable. But you pay a price – when ridden hard, the Gilera returns less than 50mpg. Plus, the under-seat storage has enough room for only one full-face helmet. Owners will have to maintain the chain, too. Yet these are compromises we’d put up with for the comfort and pace the GP800 offers.

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