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The X8 400 ie essentially completes Piaggio's sporty X8 range, and expands on the X8 series' performance envelope with an all-new, high-tech engine.
The Italian bikemaker proudly claims that the X8 400 ie, is the most agile vehicle in the super-scooter category, and that the 400 ie allies that agility with extreme practicality and record cargo capacity.
Design
Piaggio hasn't tampered with the familiar, basic styling that characterises the X8 range, but with the 400 ie, technical considerations prompted certain updates to the scooter's looks. The most important change has been to visually reconcile the styling with the 400 ie's longer wheelbase, the increase having been due to the fact of accommodating the larger, 400cc engine.
The rear is also wider, and the new boot lid, coupled with the elimination of chrome detailing contribute to a cleaner look overall. The longer wheelbase has also afforded the rear three-quarters profile a 'GT' look.
The nose incorporates the updated Piaggio logo, as well as all the changes made when the X8 range was last facelifted. Instead of expansive black surfaces, the same now comes in colour, there's also a totally redesigned splashguard, and the painted surfaces in the rider area boast new colours introduced for the 2006 model year. The new engine design also contributes to the 400 ie's classy, upmarket image, as well as what Piaggio terms, the look of a "two-wheel station wagon".
The Italian bikemaker proudly claims that the X8 400 ie, is the most agile vehicle in the super-scooter category, and that the 400 ie allies that agility with extreme practicality and record cargo capacity.
Design
Piaggio hasn't tampered with the familiar, basic styling that characterises the X8 range, but with the 400 ie, technical considerations prompted certain updates to the scooter's looks. The most important change has been to visually reconcile the styling with the 400 ie's longer wheelbase, the increase having been due to the fact of accommodating the larger, 400cc engine. The rear is also wider, and the new boot lid, coupled with the elimination of chrome detailing contribute to a cleaner look overall. The longer wheelbase has also afforded the rear three-quarters profile a 'GT' look.
The nose incorporates the updated Piaggio logo, as well as all the changes made when the X8 range was last facelifted. Instead of expansive black surfaces, the same now comes in colour, there's also a totally redesigned splashguard, and the painted surfaces in the rider area boast new colours introduced for the 2006 model year. The new engine design also contributes to the 400 ie's classy, upmarket image, as well as what Piaggio terms, the look of a "two-wheel station wagon".
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Powerplant
Piaggio's continuous work into the improvement of its MASTER (Multi-valve Advanced Super Torque Engine Range) series of engines has resulted in the advanced unit showcased in the 400 ie. The new 400cc MASTER unit boasts excellent fuel economy, as well as the highest maximum speed of any equivalent 400cc motor. Some of the 400cc engine's technical highlights include electronic ignition, liquid cooling, a four-valve SOHC geartrain, as well as a counter-rotating balancer shaft that drastically reduces vibration, ensuring a smooth ride. The engine has also been tuned to deliver both robust high-speed performance as well as the punchy, low-end responsiveness that town riding demands.
The X8 400 ie's powerplant develops 34bhp at 7,500rpm, and 38Nm of torque at a relatively low 5,500rpm. This powerful engine allows the scooter to attain a maximum speed of 155km/h.
A sophisticated electronic engine management system and catalytic converter also ensure that the 400 ie meets stringent upcoming Euro III emissions regulations. And as an aid to lowering running costs, the standard servicing interval for the X8 400 ie is 10,000km.
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Construction
The 400 ie's frame utilises the best computer-aided design technology available, as well as computerised finite element modelling for achieving optimal frame resistance whilst maintaining the lowest weight possible. The frame follows a twin cradle format, and is constructed of steel tubes. A telescopic hydraulic front fork is used, equipped with 35mm shafts. The engine and crankcase assembly works as a single arm, and incorporates twin dual-effect hydraulic shock absorbers with a coil spring and four-position preload.
Braking duties at the front are performed by two 240mm steel discs equipped with twin-piston floating callipers, while those for the rear are taken care of by a single 240mm steel disc. The front tyre measures a sizeable 120/70 14, to better ensure stability and grip, while the rear is an even larger 140/70 14. The latter allows more capacity for the load area, lowers seat height and also contributes to enhanced road handling.
The 400 ie is available in a variety of metallic colours: Midnight Blue, Excalibur Grey, Smoky Grey, Graphite Black and Ruby Red. In addition, a range of stylish and practical accessories are also available, including an electronic alarm, top case kit, as well as three attractively designed helmets.
Local importer, Piaggio Asia Pacific has indicated that the X8 400 ie is scheduled for a launch by the end of this year but declined to reveal any pricing details.
PIAGGIO X8 400 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Price TBAEngine 399cc single-cylinder, 4 stroke 4-valve,
MASTER with electronic injection; catalysed
Power 34bhp at 7,500rpm
Torque 37.6Nm at 5,500rpm
Transmission Continuously Variable Transmission
Front tyre Tubeless 120/70-14"
Rear tyre Tubeless 140/70-14"
Length 2,184mm
Width 760mm
Wheelbase 1,540mm
Seat height 790mm
Dry weight 198kg
Fuel tank 12 litres (including 1.8-litres reserve)
Speed 155km/h
Contact Piaggio Asia Pacific, 6547-4266