Funky Gilera 500ie unleashed! May 08
The Gilera Fuoco 500ie, which shares the same technological platform as the revolutionary Piaggio MP3, is now on sale.
The 492cc four valve fuel-injected single remains true to the sporting principles of Gilera, with show stopping looks, great performance and an undeniable "X factor" that makes it stand out from other maxi scooters.
Like the MP3, the Fuoco 500ie handles variable road conditions with aplomb, thanks to its parallelogram front suspension. Combined with the extra grunt from the Fuoco's 492cc engine, this set-up ensures impeccable road holding in all riding conditions, with stability and braking power that no conventional scooter can provide.
The Fuoco 500ie is particularly in its element on twisty roads, where the razor sharp handling is complemented by a superb three disc braking system, while the double ignition "Master" engine, which produces a heady 40 horsepower at 7250rpm, and maximum torque of 42Nm at 5500rpm.
The attention grabbing front end sets the tone for some distincive and innovative styling, and flows into the tapered bodywork.
Other nice touches include the 'naked' handlebars, black 10-spoke rims, five lamp headlight (with shockproof covers), and the minimalist tail design. The seat offers a wide and comfortable ride for both rider and pillion.
Parking is ridiculously easy on the Fuoco 500ie, too. An electro-hydraulic tilt locking system, as per the MP3, means there's no need to put the vehicle on its stand, although one is provided. The system will operate at any angle, so you don't need to find a level parking area. The system also means you don't have to put your feet down at traffic lights, or worry about maintaining balance if you're 'vertically challenged'.
"In just a short period of time, the MP3 has made a huge impact in Australia. . . ." said Piaggio Brand Manager, Simon Gloyne.
"Now we have the Fuoco 500ie, which maintains all the attributes of the MP3, but in a sleek package which sticks to Gilera's sporting platform. This is the archetypal go-anywhere scooter - all with a minimum of fuss and with superb handling and performance."
A large range of accessories are available for the Fuoco 500ie, including a 42-litre top box, adjustable windshield, handguards and navigational system.
The Fuoco 500ie is type-approved as a standard two-wheeled motorcycle. This means licensing and registration requirements are the same as for a motorcycle. RRP is $12,990 plus ORC.
Fuoco 500ie features:
-Powerful and economical 492cc fuel-injected liquid-cooled four-stroke, double ignition engine
-Electric start
-Front assembly with dual independent tilting wheels providing a lean angle of up to 40 degrees
-Electro-hydraulic front suspension locking system that keeps vehicle upright without using the centre stand
-Analogue dash w/speedo and clock
-Three disc braking system
-No wider than comparable two-wheel maxi scooters
-Handbrake for parking
-Low-emission, environmentally friendly Euro 3 compliant
-Two-year unlimited kilometre warranty
