Elegant styling combines with GT practicality and typical in-town nippiness. This is how the Medley comes calling, a model that completes Piaggio’s high-wheel scooter range, slotting in between the Liberty and the Beverly and turning the spotlight on the sophisticated, new 4-stroke Euro 4 i-get engine with Start&Stop in capacities of 125 and 150 cc.
“For us”, explains Marco Lambri, head of the Piaggio Group’s Style Centre, “the Medley is strategic, an addition to a sector that is highly popular and a direct competitor of a big seller like the Honda SH. Consequently, every tiniest detail was given painstaking attention in the development work that was done entirely at Pontedera (the model is actually produced in Vietnam, ed.). In effect, the model’s formal resolution is enhanced by personality touches while the meticulous finish takes in paintwork and componentry with the particular feature (a reminder of times gone by) of handlebars personalised with the logo. Accessories include the Piaggio Multimedia Platform for connecting a smartphone with the scooter.
Marco Lambri, Head of the Piaggio Group’s Style Centre, Management Delevelopment and Product Strategy
Ergonomics are good. The comfortable saddle is 79 cm from the ground and both rider and passenger have plenty of room. The electrically or manually operated saddle opens to reveal an amazing 36.2 litre compartment that can accommodate both a flip-up helmet plus a full jet and other items. This is due to the positioning of the tank under the footboard which also lowers the centre of gravity and improves rideability. Proof of this solution is the filler cap located in a convenient position on a ridge on the footboard (no need to lift the saddle) and immune to leakage while refuelling.
Starting is instant, with no inertia or vibrations, and the CVT transmission combines well with the good pullaway of both engines. Manoeuvrability qualities combine with motorbike-type rideability. The brakes (with ABS) are worth noting.
