Piaggio X9 500 Review

“I've got one of the early X9500, although not one of...”

Written on: 28/06/2005 by Warren00 (1 review written)

Good Points
Comfort, storage.

Bad Points
Reliability, Reliability, Reliability.

General Comments
I've got one of the early X9500, although not one of the very first ones that were recalled.

All I can say is that it is the worst buy and the biggest waste of money ever.

I've had it 3 yrs from new now and thank god I took out the extended warranty. It has had no less than two seperate engine rebuilds in about 15,000 miles. Both were 'known problems' according to the dealer, although Piaggio UK didn't want to discuss them direct with me. In fact Piaggio were downright unhelpful and it was only when I threatened them with legal action and bad publicity they decided to pay-up. The first time was due to a basic design fault, a screw on the centre stand can be forced up into the bottom of the engine/oil filter if the bike is grounded. The dealer had been warned of this by Piaggio but Piaggio wouldn't admit this to me! The second, more recent rebuild was agreed immediately as a warranty claim, again, a known problem.

I don't think I have had trouble free/worry free riding for one single week since I bought it. Petrol leaks, broken dashboard twice(oh yes, don't even think of riding it if it's raining!) broken centre stand twice horrendous service costs (service every couple of months if commuting to London from Crawley) battery problems (try getting to the battery if you've got the optional top-box - it's a hoot) seat catches break, top box catches break... the list is endless.

If anyone ever asks me I would beg and plead with them - DON'T BUY IT.

If this review sounds more than normally bitter and twisted, well sorry. But my exhaust has just fallen off on the way to the station this morning......for the second time in 50 odd miles!!!!