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Scooter · 2012

MP3 Sport 500

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MotoLibrary Score
44 /100 Commuter
Power/Weight
0.17 hp/kg
Top Speed
143 km/h
Torque
44 Nm
Engine
493 ccm

2012 Piaggio MP3 Sport 500 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Piaggio's scooter motorcycle lineup, the 2012 Piaggio MP3 Sport 500 relies on a 492.7 cc (30.1 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 40 HP (29.2 kW) at 7,250 rpm while maximum torque reaches 44 Nm (32.5 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a automatic gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 81.2 HP per liter and a 1,750 rpm working window between peak torque (5,500 rpm) and peak power (7,250 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 MP3 Sport 500 measures 245 kg (540 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.16 HP/kg (6.13 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 785 mm (30.9 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 12.11-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 143 km/h (89 mph).

Specific Output
81.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.16 HP/kg (6.13 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
5,500–7,250 rpm
Standover Height
785 mm (30.9 in)
Engine
Displacement 492.7 ccm (30.06 cubic inches)
Engine Type Single cylinder, four-stroke
Engine Details Single cylinder, four-stroke
Power 40.0 HP (29.2 kW)) @ 7250 RPM
Torque 44.0 Nm (4.5 kgf-m or 32.5 ft.lbs) @ 5500 RPM
Bore x Stroke 94.0 x 71.0 mm (3.7 x 2.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 4
Fuel System Injection
Fuel Control Single Overhead Cams (SOHC)
Ignition Digital CDI
Lubrication Wet sump
Cooling Liquid
Transmission
Gearbox Automatic
Final Drive Belt (final drive)
Clutch Automatic dry centrifugal
Driveline Twist-and-go CVT
Performance
Top Speed 143.2 km/h (89.0 mph)
Chassis
Frame Type Double cradle trellis made if high-strength steel tubes
Front Suspension Tilting parallelogram with 4 arms supporting 2 steering tubes.
Front Travel 85 mm (3.3 inches)
Rear Suspension 2 double acting hydraulic shock absorbers, swing arm.
Rear Travel 110 mm (4.3 inches)
Wheelbase 1550 mm (61.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 120/70-R12
Rear Tyre 140/70-R14
Front Brakes Double disc. Twin piston
Front Brake Ø 240 mm (9.4 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc. Twin piston
Rear Brake Ø 240 mm (9.4 inches)
Wheels Black rims
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 229.0 kg (504.9 pounds)
Weight incl. 245.0 kg (540.1 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.1747 HP/kg
Seat Height 785 mm (30.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height 1350 mm (53.1 inches)
Overall Length 2150 mm (84.6 inches)
Fuel Capacity 12.11 litres (3.20 US gallons)
Other
Color Options Matte grey, black
Warranty 1 year
Notes

Two front wheels. Windshields.

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Before You Compare This Bike

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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
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Weight
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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.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟢
Beginner
A2 license compatible, manageable power.
🏙️
Best For
City & Commuting
📏
Seat Height
78.5 cm / 30.9 in
⚖️
Handling
Heavy bike — requires confident handling
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