Engineered by Piaggio for the scooter motorcycle segment, the 2012 Piaggio BV Tourer 500 features a 492 cc (30 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 38.9 HP (28.4 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 43 Nm (31.7 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a automatic gearbox. With a specific output of 79.1 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (5,500 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the BV Tourer 500 measures 189 kg (417 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.21 HP/kg (4.86 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 775 mm (30.5 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,550 mm (61 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 13.1-liter (3.5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.06 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 323 km (201 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 159 km/h (99 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Piaggio archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2011 to 2012, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
79.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.21 HP/kg (4.86 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,500–7,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~323 km (201 mi)
Engine
Displacement492.0 ccm (30.02 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Engine DetailsPiaggio Master engine
Power38.9 HP (28.4 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque43.0 Nm (4.4 kgf-m or 31.7 ft.lbs) @ 5500 RPM
Bore x Stroke92.0 x 69.0 mm (3.6 x 2.7 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
GearboxAutomatic
Performance
Top Speed159.3 km/h (99.0 mph)
Fuel Consumption4.06 litres/100 km (24.6 km/l or 57.94 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases94.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Emission DetailsEuro 3, EPA and CARB
Chassis
Frame TypeDouble cradle in high-tensile steel tubes
Front SuspensionTelescopic hydraulic forks, 41 mm
Rear SuspensionTwo dual effect hydraulic dampers
Wheelbase1550 mm (61.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre110/70-16
Rear Tyre140/70-14
Front BrakesDouble disc
Front Brake Ø260 mm (10.2 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Rear Brake Ø240 mm (9.4 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.189.0 kg (416.7 pounds)
Seat Height775 mm (30.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.