The Piaggio X10 500 is a premium maxi-scooter that blends motorcycle-level performance with the convenience of a scooter. First launched in 2012 as Piaggio’s top touring model, the X10 500 was seen as a high-tech breakthrough in its class. It came with advanced features like ABS brakes, traction control, and smartphone connectivity, well before these became common in scooters.
With a strong 500cc engine, luxury-level comfort, and a touring-friendly design, the X10 was created for riders who wanted both performance and practicality. This review covers the scooter’s engine, design, performance, comfort, fuel economy, safety features, its availability in India for 2025, and how it compares to other scooters in the market.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the Piaggio X10 500 is a 493cc single-cylinder engine that uses electronic fuel injection and a four-valve single overhead camshaft setup. It delivers around 41 horsepower at 7,250 rpm and 46 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm. These numbers put it near the top of its category for scooters. Power is delivered through a CVT automatic transmission with a centrifugal clutch, which is standard in most scooters.
Thanks to a dual-spark ignition system and modern engine tuning, the scooter offers strong and smooth acceleration. Riders say the throttle response is quick and the scooter takes off quickly at stoplights. It has lively acceleration up to 80 mph, even when going uphill. Its top speed is around 90 mph, making it more than capable of highway travel.
Despite its weight of about 198 kg (dry), the scooter feels stable thanks to its low center of gravity. The long wheelbase and a 15-inch front wheel with a 13-inch rear wheel give it a planted feel on the road. At the same time, it handles tight turns and U-turns fairly well. Straight-line performance is strong and the engine stays smooth at cruising speeds. Owners say the engine vibrations smooth out once it goes above 4,000 rpm, which makes highway riding more comfortable.
Design and Key Features
The design of the X10 500 clearly shows that it was built as a luxury scooter. The body has a smooth, flowing look with elegant curves and a chrome accent line along the sides. The front features three headlights: two reflector units for low beams and a center lamp for high beam, along with a bright LED daytime running light. This LED strip forms a unique eyebrow shape that boosts visibility and adds to the scooter’s style. At the back, slim LED taillights span the rear and offer excellent visibility at night.
The dashboard feels like something out of a high-end car. It features two large, chrome-ringed analog dials (for speed and RPM) with blue backlighting, plus a central LCD screen that shows detailed information like fuel economy, trip meters, temperature, and more. The handlebar switches are also backlit, making them easier to use in the dark.
One of the standout features is the Piaggio Multimedia Platform, which is available on the Executive model. Riders can mount a smartphone on the dash and use the Piaggio app to see live engine data, get navigation help, or even find nearby fuel stations when running low. The system can also remember where you parked, check tire pressure, and help with service reminders. These features made the X10 ahead of its time in terms of connectivity.
Under the seat, there’s a large 52-liter storage space that fits two helmets easily. It includes an anti-impact mat and a courtesy light. The seat stays open on its own thanks to a gas strut, so loading is easy. The front leg shield includes three glove compartments. The center one has a 12V outlet and is big enough for phones and wallets. One side compartment also includes a USB port. A retractable bag hook is built in as well. For safety, the scooter uses an electronic key immobilizer system to deter theft.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is where the Piaggio X10 500 really stands out. It was designed to be a two-wheeled tourer, offering top-level comfort and spacious ergonomics. The seat is wide, well-padded, and finished with high-quality materials and double-stitched seams. At a seat height of about 30 inches (760 mm), most riders can easily put both feet on the ground at stops, which adds confidence in traffic.
One of the seat’s best features is the adjustable lumbar support for the rider. It can slide forward or back to match the rider’s height or to give more room to the passenger. The passenger seat is only slightly higher than the rider’s, so the pillion doesn’t get hit by wind and stays close for added comfort. Large grab handles at the back also help the passenger feel more secure.
The riding position is flexible. Thanks to the long footboard (over a meter in length), riders can sit upright for city riding or stretch their legs out in a cruiser-style posture for longer rides. The rubber-coated footboard gives even tall riders enough room to shift around and stay relaxed. However, one tall rider (6’2”) noted that the windscreen is not height adjustable and wished it were a bit taller. For average-height riders, the stock screen works well and provides good wind protection.
The windscreen design includes side deflectors and a central vent to reduce turbulence. Riders report minimal buffeting even at high speeds, which makes long trips more comfortable.
Suspension is another highlight. The X10 uses a 41 mm hydraulic fork in the front and a single rear shock with progressive linkage. The 500 model has electronically adjustable preload at the rear. Riders can soften or stiffen the suspension with a button near the ignition. This feature is rare in scooters and lets riders adjust for solo or two-up riding. On rough roads or city bumps, the scooter glides smoothly. On highways, it feels like a magic carpet ride, soaking up imperfections and offering a relaxing travel experience.
Fuel Economy and Range
Even with its 500cc engine, the X10 500 has good fuel efficiency. Thanks to twin-spark ignition and efficient fuel mapping, it balances power with fuel economy. While numbers can vary, many owners report real-world mileage of 25 to 30 km per liter (about 70 to 85 miles per gallon) during steady cruising. In city traffic, this can drop a bit.
The fuel tank holds 15.5 liters, including a 2-liter reserve, which is much more than most scooters. This means the X10 can easily go over 300 kilometers on a full tank and sometimes reach 350 kilometers under ideal conditions. That’s great for long trips, where fewer fuel stops matter. The trip computer also shows how far you can go with the remaining fuel. If you are running low, the Piaggio app can even guide you to the nearest fuel station.
For city commutes, the fuel economy is reasonable, and for highway rides, it gets even better. While it won’t match the mileage of a 125cc scooter, the X10 offers better performance and still keeps fuel costs under control.
Safety and Braking
The Piaggio X10 500 comes with a full set of safety features. It includes ABS (anti-lock braking system) and ASR (acceleration slip reduction, or traction control) as standard. The brakes include two large front discs (280 mm) and one rear disc (240 mm), all with dual-piston calipers.
It also uses a combined braking system. This means when you pull the left brake lever, both front and rear brakes engage, giving smoother and safer stops. The ABS system prevents the wheels from locking during hard braking, which is very helpful in wet or slippery conditions. The ASR system reduces wheel spin when accelerating on slick roads. If needed, the ASR can be turned off temporarily.
The X10 also has a parking brake that is activated by the side stand. When the stand is down, the scooter is locked in place and won’t roll, even on slopes. The headlights and LED lights help the rider see better and be seen by others, both day and night. The backlit handlebar switches make night riding safer by helping you find controls quickly.
The scooter’s weight and long wheelbase make it stable and predictable. The low center of gravity helps avoid front-end dive when braking hard. The wide tires provide strong grip, and the mirrors and lighting give good visibility all around. Overall, the X10 500 delivers a very safe riding experience, combining traditional safety elements with modern tech.
Pros and Cons for Different Riders
For Daily Commuters
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort: The plush seat and suspension make city rides smooth, even on rough roads. The automatic transmission and relaxed riding position reduce fatigue in traffic.
- Storage convenience: With over 50 liters of space under the seat and multiple glove compartments, it can easily carry daily essentials like bags, groceries, or rain gear.
- Safety features: ABS, traction control, and strong lighting provide added safety in city traffic.
- Premium experience: The smooth engine, quiet ride, and backlit controls create a high-end feel during daily use.
Cons:
- Large size: The X10 is heavy and long, making it harder to maneuver in tight urban spaces compared to smaller scooters.
- Overpowered for short trips: For quick errands or short rides, the 500cc engine may feel excessive.
- Higher fuel usage: While efficient for its class, fuel consumption in heavy traffic is more than that of a 125cc scooter.
- High cost: Even used units are expensive. For basic commuting, it’s a luxury option.
For Long-Distance Touring Riders
Pros:
- Great comfort for long rides: The large seat, lumbar support, and adjustable suspension make it ideal for extended journeys.
- Highway-ready performance: The engine easily maintains speeds of 100 to 120 km/h and handles overtaking with ease.
- Extended range: The large fuel tank and good mileage provide over 300 km per tank.
- Plenty of storage: The underseat compartment can handle luggage for weekend trips, and optional top boxes are available.
- Passenger-friendly: Comfortable seating and adjustable support for the passenger make it perfect for two-up touring.
Cons:
- Limited to paved roads: The scooter is not designed for rough terrain or unpaved routes.
- Not as powerful as motorcycles: Touring motorcycles offer more power and speed, especially on mountain roads.
- Service availability: In India, finding parts or service for the X10 can be difficult in rural or remote areas.
- Heavy in traffic: During city stretches of a long tour, the size can be tiring to manage.
For Scooter Enthusiasts
Pros:
- High performance: The X10 delivers strong acceleration and top-end speed for a scooter.
- Tech-loaded: Features like smartphone connectivity, adjustable suspension, and detailed instruments appeal to tech fans.
- Premium design: High-quality materials, unique styling, and advanced features make it a standout.
- Fun ride: Stable handling and interactive controls give scooter lovers a chance to enjoy every ride.
Cons:
- Hard to find and expensive: It’s rare in India and available only through private imports.
- Complex systems: With many electronics, the X10 can be harder to maintain or repair without professional help.
- Not ideal for traditional scooter fun: It’s heavier and more comfort-focused than nimble city scooters.
- Limited customization: Fewer aftermarket parts are available for modifications or upgrades.
Availability and Piaggio x10 500 price in india (2025)
The Piaggio X10 500 was never officially launched in India and has been discontinued globally since 2016. Piaggio currently focuses on Vespa and Aprilia scooters in India. As of 2025, the X10 500 is only available through private imports. Some enthusiasts have brought used models into the country, with prices ranging from ₹2.5 to ₹3.5 lakh depending on condition and source.
There is no official support network, so owners must rely on independent workshops for maintenance. Replacement parts may need to be imported. If you’re considering buying one, be prepared for added costs and effort to keep it running.
Comparable Maxi-Scooters in India (2025)
While the X10 is unavailable officially, other options exist:
- BMW C 400 GT: A modern 350cc maxi-scooter with high-end features and a premium price tag of around ₹11.5 lakh. It’s the closest match in terms of comfort and luxury.
- Keeway Vieste 300 and Sixties 300i: Mid-range scooters priced around ₹3.5 lakh. They offer maxi-scooter styling but are lower in power and features.
- Honda Forza 350 (Expected): Though not launched yet, it’s a promising future option. If it arrives, it may fill the gap between the Keeway and BMW models with a blend of performance and value.
These alternatives offer different levels of comfort and power, but none match the X10 500’s full package of luxury, storage, and touring ability.
Conclusion
The Piaggio X10 500 is a one-of-a-kind scooter that blends motorcycle power with scooter comfort. With a 500cc engine, high-tech dashboard, advanced safety features, and generous storage, it set a new standard in the luxury scooter space. It’s ideal for daily commuters looking for comfort, long-distance riders needing touring capability, or enthusiasts who appreciate innovation.
Unfortunately, the X10 500 is no longer in production and was never officially sold in India. However, it remains a legendary model among scooter fans. For those who can find one and are willing to handle the challenges of ownership, it offers a premium riding experience that few scooters can match.
