Piaggio Beverly 400 [2022 - 2022] Review: The Maxi-Scooter That Balances Urban Agility and Touring Potential

Introduction

The Piaggio Beverly 400 arrives as a refined iteration of the Italian brand's iconic maxi-scooter formula. Designed to straddle the line between urban practicality and open-road capability, this 2022 model generation combines Piaggio's signature Mediterranean flair with modern engineering. With its 399 cc engine, premium features, and Euro 5 compliance, the Beverly 400 aims to redefine expectations for what a maxi-scooter can deliver. Having spent time navigating city streets and winding backroads on this machine, it's clear Piaggio has crafted a compelling package – but does it live up to its ambitions? Let's dive in.

Design & Ergonomics: La Dolce Vita Meets Functional Design

At first glance, the Beverly 400 exudes understated sophistication. The clean lines and muscular proportions give it a planted stance, while the angular LED headlight cluster adds a contemporary edge. Our test bike in "Arancio Orange" turned heads effortlessly, though the more subdued silver and black options cater to minimalist tastes.

The 790 mm (31.1") seat height proves accessible for riders of various statures. Paired with the narrow midsection, even shorter riders can plant both feet firmly at stops. Piaggio's ergonomic mastery shines through – the floorboard offers ample legroom, while the sculpted seat provides surprising long-distance comfort. At 195 kg (430 lbs) wet weight, the Beverly feels substantial yet manageable, with a low center of gravity aiding low-speed maneuvers.

Practical touches abound: the 12-liter fuel tank (3.17 US gallons) sits flush beneath the seat, while the integrated passenger grab rail doubles as a sleek design element. The 35 mm telescopic fork and preload-adjustable rear shocks maintain composure over imperfect pavement, though hard-edged bumps can occasionally jolt through on cratered city streets.

Engine & Performance: Urban Zest Meets Highway Legs

Beating at the heart of this Italian is Piaggio's 399 cc single-cylinder HPE (High Performance Engine). The liquid-cooled, SOHC 4-valve mill produces 35 HP (26 kW) at 7,500 RPM and 38 Nm (28 lb-ft) of torque at 5,500 RPM – numbers that translate to real-world usability.

In city traffic, the Beverly 400 thrives. Throttle response from the fuel-injected engine is crisp but manageable, with the CVT transmission delivering seamless acceleration from standstill. The engine remains vibration-free up to 60 km/h (37 mph), making stoplight dashes and lane filtering a breeze. Where it truly surprises is on open roads: the Beverly maintains 110 km/h (68 mph) effortlessly, with enough in reserve for safe overtakes.

Fuel efficiency sits at a claimed 3.7 L/100 km (63.57 mpg), though real-world riding typically yields around 4.2 L/100 km (56 mpg) when pushing performance. The 240 mm front and rear discs with dual-channel ABS inspire confidence, delivering progressive stopping power whether navigating wet cobblestones or emergency highway braking.

Technology & Features: Modern Conveniences

Piaggio equips the Beverly 400 with tech that punches above its class. The keyless ignition system proves addictive in daily use – keep the fob in your pocket and twist the (beautifully damped) throttle to awaken the scooter. The 5.5-inch LCD dash provides crisp readouts for speed, fuel level, trip data, and even Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration.

Storage solutions are thoughtful if not class-leading. The under-seat compartment swallows a full-face helmet with room to spare, while the optional top case (a MOTOPARTS.store bestseller) adds crucial touring capacity. The LED lighting package deserves special mention – the adaptive headlight cuts through night rides with laser-like precision, while the distinctive daytime running lights enhance visibility.

Competition: How It Stacks Up

The maxi-scooter segment brims with worthy adversaries. Here's how the Beverly 400 fares:

Yamaha XMAX 300: Lighter at 179 kg (395 lbs) but down on power (28 HP). The XMAX counters with superior storage and slightly better fuel economy. The Beverly fights back with premium build quality and more engaging dynamics.

Honda Forza 350: Honda's offering matches the Beverly's tech suite while delivering smoother low-RPM performance. However, the Forza's styling leans conservative next to the Piaggio's Latin flair.

BMW C 400 X: The Bavarian challenger boasts superior cornering clearance and a TFT display. But at nearly 20% heavier (224 kg/494 lbs), it loses the Beverly's flickable urban agility.

Where the Piaggio shines is in balancing personality with practicality. While competitors optimize for specific niches, the Beverly 400 offers a compelling middle ground – stylish enough for Milanese avenues, rugged enough for coastal weekend escapes.

Maintenance: Keeping Your Beverly in Prime Condition

As MOTOPARTS.store's resident expert, here's what every Beverly 400 owner should know:

Belt Drive System: The maintenance-free Gates Carbon Drive belt requires inspection every 10,000 km (6,214 miles). Watch for cracking or fraying – our store stocks OEM-spec replacements for swift swaps.

Brake Fluid: Use only DOT 4 fluid, changed every 2 years or 20,000 km (12,427 miles). Consider upgrading to high-performance brake pads for enhanced feel.

Cooling System: The liquid-cooled engine demands annual coolant checks. We recommend MOTOPARTS.store's premium ethylene glycol mix for optimal heat dissipation.

Tires: The 120/70-16 front and 150/70-14 Pirelli Angel Scooter rubber offers superb wet grip. Maintain 2.3 bar (33 psi) front/2.5 bar (36 psi) rear pressures for ideal wear.

Air Filter: Replace every 12,000 km (7,456 miles). Our high-flow aftermarket filters can unlock subtle performance gains.

Pro Tip: The Beverly's underseat storage makes carrying essential tools easy. Our curated Urban Rider Toolkit includes tire repair kits, a compact compressor, and Beverly-specific hex keys.

Conclusion: A Scooter That Transcends Categories

The Piaggio Beverly 400 2022 iteration emerges as more than just a commuter tool – it's a lifestyle statement with genuine touring potential. While not without flaws (the suspension could be plusher, and wind protection limited at highway speeds), its blend of style, technology, and accessible performance creates an irresistible package.

For urban warriors craving Vespa charm with maxi-scooter muscle, or weekend adventurers seeking a stylish escape pod, the Beverly 400 delivers. And when maintenance time comes, remember – MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from OEM-spec belts to performance upgrades, ensuring your Italian companion stays in fighting form.

Ready to personalize your Beverly? Explore our curated selection of windscreens, premium seat covers, and luggage solutions designed specifically for this generation. La vita è bella – ride it in style.

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Specifications sheet

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