After more than ten years of history and success, the Piaggio Beverly is still a point of reference for style and technology. The new Beverly S 300 version for 2014 features a more aggressive and sportier look with safety and performance factors worthy of a model that has dominated this millennium’s scooter market

The Piaggio Beverly is an extraordinarily agile, reliable and safe scooter that revolutionized the market, quickly becoming the absolute leader in terms of sales in the competitive and prestigious "high wheel" sector.
Since the debut of the first version in 2001, the Beverly range has been constantly updated and has become famous for its superb agility and safety in the city, and for its proven comfort and reliability for tourism and medium-length trips.
The new Beverly S is part of an even more powerful and sportier line and is now available with a 300cc engine, in addition to the current 125cc unit. Both models can be easily distinguished by their new, black satin-finish fittings, new-look wheel trims, mirrors, engine covers and plastic leg shields. These new items plus other components with a dark finish enhance the captivating, aggressive “high wheel” look.

The elegant and unique form of the Piaggio Beverly stems from a careful evolution of the model’s traditional style, creating a truly sophisticated line. The front view captures the gaze, with the dual reflector headlight and the indicators built into the innovative LED running lights surrounding the characteristic chrome “tie” in the middle of the leg shield.
Dynamism and harmony blend to form a sporty front and elegant tapered tail topped by a thoroughly modern LED rear light cluster. The geometry of the saddle/handlebars/footrests provides an excellent riding position that is also ideal for tall riders, enhancing the Beverly handling characteristics and giving the rider complete control of the scooter.
The saddle has the model’s traditional separate seats for the rider and passenger, providing great comfort and excellent foot support. The design of the saddle on the new Beverly S also ensures greater comfort due to its tapered sides.
The compartment under the saddle is the biggest in its category and can hold two full-jet helmets. There is also a courtesy light and a handy compartment for documents. The load-carrying capacity is augmented by a handy luggage rack that integrates with the passenger grab handles, while the compartment in the leg shield and the retractable bag hook in the foot well offer even more options.
Once you turn the ignition key, you understand instantly that the elegant shape is more than matched by technical know-how and by equipment levels worthy of a scooter from a superior category. The instrumentation is complete and easy to read thanks to blue backlighting, and provides all the information the rider could need. The instrument panel has three round dials (speedometer, water temperature and fuel gauge) and a modern LCD display with an odometer, digital clock, battery charge meter and an external temperature gauge. There is an immobiliser warning light on the 300 version, as well as warning lights for fuel reserve, full beam, indicators, oil pressure and a fuel injection system check. The central headlight has two halogen bulbs to provide brilliant lighting while the running lights are LED, which means both excellent reliability and a long lifespan, low power consumption and greater efficiency. The new LEDs also give the new Beverly a highly attractive, instantly recognisable look.
The matte chrome finishes of the new Beverly S family reflect the strength and sporty character of the new version. The Beverly S 300 is available in matt-finished coal black or dark grey. The Beverly S 125 is also available in white.

Fabulous engines and a highly effective, original frame have always been the key components that have made the Beverly one of the best-loved high wheel scooters of all time.
The double cradle high-strength tubular steel frame and pressed steel body combine with traditional 35 mm front fork stanchions while the rear features two double-effect shock absorbers and coil springs with 4 pre-load settings specially selected for this model. This suspension set-up provides excellent absorption of bumps in the road while providing neutral, accurate handling. Thanks to the sturdy load bearing structure, the large light alloy wheels (16” x 3” up front and 14” x 3.5” at the rear) and large tyres (110/70 and 140/70 respectively), the Beverly S offers wonderful rider comfort and superb road holding, while remaining highly agile and easy to manoeuvre.
Powerful brakes add to the scooter's active safety profile. At the front is a powerful 300mm semi-floating disc. It is the biggest in its category with a floating caliper, twin pistons and a new 12 mm pump, all of which combine to provide excellent, controlled braking. At the rear is a 240 mm disc. The result is that almost 50% less pressure is now needed on the brake levers.

The Beverly S is available with two different engines, the 300 ie and the 125 ie. The single cylinder 4-stroke 300cc engine with electronic injection provides a maximum of 22.2 CV at 7,250 rpm and peak torque of 23 Nm at just 5,750 rpm. These figures mean that the Beverly responds immediately to the throttle and offers excellent performance, thus making it the ideal means for escaping from daily traffic jams as well as for longer journeys, whether alone or with a passenger.
The 125cc engine on the Beverly S also has fuel injection and is incredibly fuel efficient. Both of the Beverly engines are fast, exciting and powerful, with very smooth power delivery due to the fuel injection system. They are also quiet and eco-friendly. The automatic clutch sits in an oil bath to cut down noise, whereas, while riding, the lower noise level is due to a new engine cover, which also provides improved cooling to transmission.

Bollywood stars, much loved at home, are becoming the preferred endorsers for high range product launch events. The Piaggio Group is no exception: for the launch of the Vespa S model in Mumbai, has invited Imran Khan, one of the most popular actors of India's star system. Imran, 31, was born in the United States (in Madison, Wisconsin) and comes from an important Indian family of actors, directors and producers. He has won various awards for Best Male Debut (Filmfare and Star Guild Awards).
After the presentation at the beginning of the year at the important Delhi Auto Expo, along with the complete range of two-wheeled vehicles distributed in India, the sporty Vespa S was launched on 5 March. The young and charismatic Khan unveiled the new model in its brand new orange and matt black colours.

PHOTO GALLERY

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This model embodies Vespa culture perfectly and reinforces the Italian brand's reputation in India. The introduction of the Vespa S, with its sporty design and style, strengthens Piaggio's position in the premium scooter segment. The Vespa S will join the LX and VX models, enhancing the range already present on the Indian market. Intended for a young audience with its bright colours and specifically designed to express a unique and individual lifestyle, the Vespa S will not go unnoticed on the Indian roads.
At the launch of the new model, the managing director of Piaggio Vehicles Private Limited (PVPL, the Piaggio Group's Indian associate) expressed that “Piaggio is delighted to present Vespa S to the dynamic youth in India. We are proud to launch our third Vespa to further strengthen the premium segment we have successfully created. The Vespa S is truly a game changer. With its square design elements, it has opened up a new, non-conventional space.”
The Vespa S confirms the insurmountable success of Italian design and style that has endured many decades. Touted to be the sportiest and most youthful Vespa, the Vespa S’s clean, essential lines express a dynamic and lively character. It is a model that makes minimalist design its distinguishing feature in order to win the approval of young enthusiasts. The square headlights and mirrors, the new sporty speedometer cluster, the sculpted and contoured saddle and black alloy wheels are distinguishing features that give the Vespa S a sporty appeal.
The Vespa S comes with an efficient and technologically advanced 125cc, 3 valve engine, delivering excellent performance and good mileage. Some of its main features include disc brakes, tubeless tyres and a single piece steel monocoque chassis. It is available in 4 colours: matt black, orange, red and white.

Motodays is a now a classic early-season event in the two-wheeler world. This year’s show, the sixth, attracted more than 140,000 visitors to the Rome Fiera exhibition centre (from 6 to 9 March 2014).
Marco Melandri and Sylvain Guintoli were there too, fresh from the first two WSBK races at Australia’s Phillip Island track. A debut round that saw Aprilia, the reigning world Manufacturer champion, set the lead in both heats thanks to the victory won in Race 2 by Guintoli – who also took the Superpole – and Melandri’s second place in Race 1.
Marco Melandri and Sylvain Guintoli opened Motodays 2014 and launched the many new products presented in Rome by the Piaggio Group for the Aprilia and Moto Guzzi motorcycle brands, and for its Vespa, Piaggio and Scarabeo scooter brands. THE NEW PRODUCTS FOR THE 2014 SEASON
Rome saw the debut of an absolute newcomer, the Piaggio Beverly 300S, an unprecedented version of the best-selling mid-range high-wheeler, with a new black satin-finish trim, new-look wheel rims, mirrors, engine cover and fairing plastic, to give the new Beverly an even more rugged appeal. The Beverly S is also available in a 125 cc model. Together with the luxurious 946, Vespa presented the new Vespa Primavera to the Rome audience. A new body, new-size wheels, new front suspension, a new electronic injection system for record-low consumption and emissions, the Primavera is a cutting-edge Vespa, mobility combined with the elegance of an exclusive design, without sacrificing comfort.
In addition to its flagship California 1400 range, Moto Guzzipresented the eagerly awaited V7 MY 2014 line. All the models share a new technical feature: a new wet flywheel to replace the previous dry alternator, slightly modifying the front of the 90° V-twin, thanks to a sleeker, more compact new cover. The line confirms the three versions of the Moto Guzzi best seller: the V7 Stone: eclectic, essential, the entry model in the Moto Guzzi world; the V7 Special: a sought-after bike with a vintage look inspired by the legendary 750 SPORT S3 from 1974; the V7 Racer: with even more exclusive fittings, produced in a numbered limited edition.
In the Aprilia area, the spotlight was on the V4 one-litre range, the real power and technology standard-bearer of this brand. The 2014 version of the Tuono V4 R supernaked sports bike offers a host of new features: notably, the advanced three-level ABS racing system, which can be deactivated when necessary. The Tuono also delivers greater power (170 hp) and maximum torque, a further advance in the uniquely sophisticated APRC electronic control package and a larger fuel tank (18.5 litres) shaped to provide an improved riding feeling.
For bikers who love uncompromising track racing, all eyes were on the RSV4 R ABS and RSV4 Factory ABS, two versions of a bike that represents the best a rider can aspire to in the super sports segment. The Aprilia RSV4 is the model on which the WSBK 2013 Manufacturer world champion bike and five-times winner of the WSBK world championship in the last four seasons is based.
For 2014 the RSV4 has gained more power (184 hp) and maximum torque from its V4 engine (a unique creation in world production), an even more advanced APRC electronics package, a new and more effective braking system, a larger and more ergonomic fuel tank. New graphics were also presented for both versions: the RSV4 R ABS is available in two colours: Nero Opaco black or Rosso Formula red. The RSV4 Factory ABS, the more sophisticated and luxurious of the two models, is available in new Nero Assoluto black.

THE COMMENTS OF MARCO AND SYLVAIN
Marco Melandri: “There’s a great atmosphere here in Rome, you can feel people’s enthusiasm, and that’s a good sign for the world I work in. After EICMA, this is the second event where I’ve been at the Piaggio Group stand, and I have to say that the Vespa, both the exclusive 946 and the new Primavera, have an appeal that is truly unique.”

Sylvain Guintoli: “Meeting so many fans and bikers here today is really empowering, we need positive energy for the next race. I’ve also seen a lot of great bikes, the Tuono V4 is still my favourite: it has the same engine as the Superbike I race on and I’ve got one at home, which I love riding on Britain’s roads. It’s fast, easy and has a great sound. A true sporting thoroughbred.”.

Spectacular, thrilling, dramatic: the best photos presented for the Sony World Photography Award 2014 astonish and set you thinking. They were chosen from photos sent in from all round the world, by more than 70,000 emerging photographers. One of the winners is a surreal picture by Kylli Sparre from Estonia: a barefoot blonde riding a vintage Vespa painted orange to match her dress, transports a large glass bowl containing a coloured fish, placed on her flowing skirt. She rides along a country lane, through a dreamlike landscape, where branches of blossom hail the arrival of spring.
A world icon, the Vespa has always been a source of inspiration for artists, photographers and designers. It would be impossible to imagine this photo with any other scooter.
The winning photos will be on exhibition from 1 to 18 May at Somerset House in London. The gallery below shows the other winners.

Background photo by Holger Schmidtke

The Piaggio Porter ambulance is ready; 1,400 cc and the power of 38 horses raring to gallop off into the Orient, our Far East, an unknown land. Our team (“Team Barbera”) re-named the van “Ninonino”, to echo the sound of the siren on the roof. Summer 2010. Alberto Pagan, Emanuele De Bonis and I, Federico Mosso, registered for the 2010 edition of the “Mongol Rally”, a charity car rally organised by the British association “The Adventurist – make the world less boring”. First and foremost, our trip was for charity. When we reached the finishing line, we donated the ambulance to the Mongolian Ministry of Health. To be frank, we said goodbye to it with tears in our eyes, so fond had we become of that great little van. We also raised funds for a humanitarian project organised by the CESVI association in Tajikistan, a very backward country. Our donation has contributed to the construction of an irrigation system to improve agricultural conditions in a particularly deprived region. What’s more, we obtained the Piaggio Porter ambulance from the Perigeo association, a no-profit based in Milan. After making a donation of 1,000 euro we were given the vehicle “on loan”, with a promise to donate it if we managed to complete the trip. And that’s what happened. More than 450 vehicles left continental Europe headed for Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia, the land of the great conqueror Genghis Khan. The three of us left from Turin in July, and immediately put the “Ninonino” to the test, with the climb up through the Alps between Italy and Switzerland; but the hairpin bends on the roof of Europe were no trouble for the Porter.
We then sped off along the roads of Mitteleuropa towards medieval Klenová castle, in a splendid Bohemia like something out of an 18th-century painting. This was the location of the launch party and the real starting line for our swashbuckling invasion of Central Asia, day one of the cloud of dust roaring toward the East. The party at Klenová castle, set deep in the Bohemian countryside, was an extraordinary experience. Together with dozens of other vehicles and tents, we camped in the great meadow between the castle walls and the surrounding woods, mingling with an incredible multi-coloured army of madcaps, an international band of improvised and slightly scruffy adventurers.
Inside a hall, we rested bums and backs on carpets and cushions. There, in a heady atmosphere of hookah fumes, the smell of absinthe and the babel of a hundred different languages, I realised that the greatest journey of my life had begun. British, German, French, Italian, American and Australian, we were all part of the same wonderful adventure. In that castle, for that night, all borders disappeared.
Through July and August, we crunched thousands of kilometres; it’s amazing to think how far we dragged the formidable Porter Piaggio. We passed through European capitals and crossed state borders jammed by interminable queues of vehicles burning in the summer sun. As we approached the vastness of Russia, we seemed to be entering a majestic, infinite land. We headed south, crossing the line between the Old Continent and Asia when we reached the border with Kazakhstan. The ambulance flew down strange empty roads, between the blue sky, the grey tarmac and the yellow of the endless steppe.
Then we tackled the wild stretches of Siberia, a territory that gives the traveller the sense of something archaic, prehistoric, a different dimension to the West. Our “Ninonino” raced through the Altai region among the Siberian wolves. It travelled tirelessly over the cold uninhabited mountain ranges between Russia and Mongolia. It roared across mountain passes from another age, balanced precariously on high-altitude mule tracks, on steep paths overlooking voids into the centre of the earth and things, gambolled across the plains of nomadic horsemen.
The Piaggio Porter was no longer just a tiny ambulance: it turned into our time machine, taking us to times and places forgotten by the passing years and progress. Mongolia was surreal, extra-terrestrial, a country for Martians. The Porter defied the Gobi desert, and won. Sand, heat, stars: the elements of those wonderful days. Camels, horses, proud eagles: the inhabitants of those lands.
And yes, we reached our destination. The Piaggio Porter ambulance, our dear little “Ninonino”, crossed the finishing line after more than 12,000 kilometres of breath-taking adventures. They were the best days of my life.

DOWN WHERE THE CHILDREN OF THE GOLDEN LIGHT LIVE

I’ve written a book about our adventure, “Il Grande Khan” – The Great Khan – winner of the “2013 literary prize for travel culture” organised by the C.I.R.V.I., the Italian interuniversity centre for travel culture, in cooperation with the town council of Moncalieri (Turin). The book, written as a travel journal, recounts the experiences of our trio of cosmonauts drifting through the eastern galaxy, aboard their plucky little Piaggio ambulance.
“Il Grande Khan” is published by the C.I.R.V.I., in its Dimension du Voyage collection (it can be purchased by mail order, at the cover price, by writing to: ordini@cirvi.it and will be delivered at no extra cost. It can also be ordered from any bookshop or online).
( www.cirvi.eu).