The Piaggio Group showcased a variety of 2023 model-year two-wheelers at the EICMA 2022 under its Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Vespa brands. Two of these products are electric. Here’s a list of the vehicles that were showcased.
Aprilia Electrica
Aprilia previewed its concept electric motorcycle whose design is quite supermoto-ish with a tall seat and minimal body panels. One can also see a twin-spar chassis with the battery and motor nestled inside. The frame itself is suspended by a USD fork and monoshock and the bike rides on what appears to be a pair of 17-inch wheels shod with Pirelli tyres.
Aprilia hasn’t revealed any specifications of the battery or motor yet; but, by the looks of it, the bike looks more mass market than an exotic EV.
Aprilia RS 660 Extrema
The RS 660 Extrema is the lightest version of the bike yet, achieved by adding a number of carbon-fibre parts. Standard equipment includes a new and lighter street-legal exhaust system. Also contributing to the overall reduction in weight are the front mudguard and the new undercover below an engine with a brand-new design, both made of high-quality carbon. The result is a bike that weighs 166kg while making 100hp.
In addition to the standard electronics on the RS 660 (traction control, cornering ABS, wheelie control), the RS 660 Extrema also has software to flip the shift pattern to a GP-style configuration.
Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello
The V100 Mandello opens an entirely new chapter in Moto Guzzi’s history. It is the first Moto Guzzi to be powered by the new ‘compact block’ engine, with its refined technical characteristics. The V100 Mandello develops 115hp at 8,700rpm and maximum torque of 105Nm at 6,750rpm. Under the bodywork is a compact and lightweight chassis, suspended by a USD fork and a monoshock. And since the bike is designed for touring, the riding position is relaxed with a generously spacious saddle.
The electronics package comprises a six-axis IMU for lean-sensitive traction control and ABS. Four Riding Modes are available – Touring, Sport, Rain, and Road. Each of these manages three different engine mappings, four levels of traction control, three levels of engine brake as well as the settings of the Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension.
Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition
The classic V7, one of the best-selling Moto Guzzis, now gets a Special Edition. It flaunts a special Shining Black colour scheme, with contrasting graphics and red details on the tank. The Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition is powered by a 66.5hp, 75Nm engine.
Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber special edition
This Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber special edition looks rather special with its unique paint job. The company calls it a special workshop with a twin-tone, black-and-grey colour scheme. Complementing the black bodywork is the matte black finish on the engine that contrasts with the Moto Guzzi branding on the cylinder heads. Speaking of the engine, the 853cc mill makes 65hp and 73Nm. Another special feature on the bike is the street-legal, slip-on exhaust.
2023 Piaggio 1 electric scooter
Piaggio unveiled the 2023 version of the 1 electric scooter and it offers more performance than the previous version. Called the Piaggio 1 Active, it has a peak output of 3kW, enough to propel it to a top speed of 60kph and that’s enough for the urban jungle. Battery range is also pretty decent at 85km and adding to the convenience is the fact that it can be removed and charged at home or in the office. Other features on the scooter include full LED lighting and digital colour instrumentation. The company claims that it is the only e-scooter in its segment with a boot that is large enough to accommodate a full-face helmet.
New Vespa GTS
This GTS’ ‘neck tie’ on the front shield is new, as are the metallic profiles of the body, and the entire lighting system is now fully LED. The tail section is new as well, including the side panels, a license plate bracket and fresh shapes for the lighting system. The mirrors sit on a wider and more ergonomic handlebar.
In terms of comfort, the new Vespa GTS gets a revised front suspension with better capability to absorb any type of bump. ABS and traction control systems come standard. In all, there are four versions in the range and 14 colours on offer.
Vespa GTV and Primavera Color Vibe
Built on the Vespa GTS base, the Vespa GTV is reborn with a completely new look and features some design elements that are reminiscent of the original Vespa, like the headlight on the front mudguard. The Vespa Primavera Color Vibe, on the other hand, has a special two-tone livery with the blue wheels adding a dash of contrast.
Rounding off the list of Vespas is 946 10° Anniversario that celebrates 10 years of the Vespa 946 and wears a special green colour.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
