Piaggio Beverly 300 (2016-2018) Review: The Refined Urban Cruiser

For riders seeking a sophisticated blend of Italian style and urban practicality, the Piaggio Beverly 300 stands as a compelling proposition in the mid-size scooter segment. Produced between 2016 and 2018, this generation refined Piaggio's formula of combining commuter-friendly ergonomics with surprising long-distance capability. Let’s dissect what makes this Beverly iteration memorable – and why it remains relevant for today's riders.

Design & First Impressions

The Beverly 300’s design language strikes an elegant balance between classic Mediterranean curves and modern athleticism. The teardrop-shaped front fairing flows seamlessly into a sculpted seat cowl, while the chrome accents and LED lighting add premium touches. At 790 mm (31.1"), the seat height accommodates most riders, though taller pilots might wish for more legroom during extended rides.

Build quality feels typically Piaggio – plastics have a dense, vibration-free texture, and the metallic paint options (like the iconic Blu Laguna) still turn heads. The 12.5-liter (3.3-gallon) underseat storage swallows a full-face helmet with room for groceries, a feature that remains unmatched by many modern competitors.

Engine & Performance

At its heart lies a 278cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 21 HP @ 7,500 RPM and 22.5 Nm (16.6 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 5,750 RPM. These numbers translate to real-world usability:

• 0-50 km/h (0-31 mph): ~4.2 seconds
• Top speed: 130 km/h (81 mph) indicated
• Fuel efficiency: 27-30 km/l (63-70 mpg)

The engine’s character is distinctly un-scooter-like. Unlike high-revving rivals, the Beverly delivers torque early, making stoplight launches satisfyingly urgent. At highway speeds, vibrations are minimal thanks to the counterbalancer – a rarity in single-cylinder scooters. The liquid cooling system ensures consistent performance even in summer gridlock.

Handling & Ride Quality

Piaggio’s chassis geometry shines here. The 1,535 mm (60.4") wheelbase and 16-inch front/14-inch rear wheel combo strike a perfect balance between stability and agility.

• Front suspension: 35mm telescopic fork with 80mm (3.1") travel
• Rear suspension: Dual shocks with 91mm (3.6") travel and 4-step preload adjustment

The setup leans toward comfort without sacrificing cornering prowess. Over broken asphalt, the Beverly glides where rivals jitter, though enthusiastic riders might desire more damping control during spirited rides.

Braking is handled by dual 240mm front discs and a single rear disc, both with ABS. Bite is progressive rather than abrupt – ideal for slippery urban conditions.

Technology & Features

For a mid-2010s scooter, the Beverly 300 offered thoughtful tech:
- Dual-channel ABS: Uncommon in this class during its era
- LCD instrument cluster: Includes fuel gauge, clock, and trip computer
- Keyless ignition: Optional on some variants
- 12V charging port: Conveniently located in the glovebox

While lacking modern TFT displays, the analog-digital dash remains highly legible in direct sunlight.

Competition

The Beverly 300 faced stiff competition from three key rivals:

1. Honda Forza 300
2. Pros: Larger 279cc engine, superior wind protection
3. Cons: Bulkier dimensions, less engaging ride

4. Verdict: Better for pure touring; Beverly wins in urban agility

5. Yamaha XMAX 300

6. Pros: Stronger acceleration, more storage
7. Cons: Generic styling, firmer seat

8. Verdict: Tech-forward choice vs Beverly’s emotional appeal

9. Vespa GTS 300

10. Pros: Iconic design, steel monocoque chassis
11. Cons: Smaller wheels reduce stability, higher price
12. Verdict: Style vs substance trade-off

The Beverly’s unique value proposition lies in its blend of Italian design and Japanese-like reliability – a middle ground between the Vespa’s romance and the Forza’s pragmatism.

Maintenance

Owning a Beverly 300 is relatively straightforward, but attention to these areas ensures longevity:

1. Belt & Rollers: Replace every 12,000 km (7,500 miles). Symptoms of wear include sluggish acceleration and vibration. MOTOPARTS.store offers high-performance kits reducing maintenance intervals.

2. Oil Changes: Every 5,000 km (3,100 miles) using 10W-40 JASO MA2 oil. The accessible filter location makes DIY changes feasible.

3. Cooling System: Flush coolant every 2 years. Monitor the liquid-cooled engine’s temperature gauge during summer traffic.

4. Brakes: Pad replacements every 15,000 km (9,300 miles). Consider upgraded sintered pads from MOTOPARTS.store for riders frequently carrying passengers.

5. Tires: The 110/70-16 front and 140/70-14 rear sizes benefit from modern radial options like Michelin City Grip 2, improving wet grip over original rubber.

The MOTOPARTS.store Advantage

Enhance your Beverly 300 with:
- Adjustable Windshields: Reduce fatigue on highway rides
- Ergonomic Seats: Customize foam density for all-day comfort
- Performance Variators: Sharpen acceleration response
- LED Lighting Kits: Modernize visibility and style

Final Thoughts

The 2016-2018 Piaggio Beverly 300 remains a benchmark for riders valuing style and substance in equal measure. Its torquey engine devours city streets yet remains composed on weekend getaways. While newer models boast more tech, this generation’s mechanical simplicity and proven reliability make it a smart choice for pragmatic enthusiasts.

For owners looking to refresh or upgrade their Beverly, MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from OEM-spec maintenance kits to performance-enhancing accessories. Whether you’re replacing wear items or personalizing your ride, we’ve got your back – just like Piaggio’s venerable scooter has mile after mile.

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