Yamaha Tricity 3-wheel scooter to arrive in Europe this summer

Yamaha has officially announced the launch of its new three-wheeled scooter, the Tricity. Powered by a 125cc engine, the urban scooter will arrive first in Thailand and then in Europe, where pricing for the model will start at less than €4,000 (around $5,500).

The Tricity is Yamaha's answer to the famous Piaggio MP3, the three-wheeled scooter concept launched in 2006. Scheduled to roll into dealerships this summer, the new scooter stands out for its lightweight construction and its very competitive price. The manufacturer is also emphasizing its stylish design and its easy operation in the aim of attracting newcomers to the scooter market.

For optimal stability, the Tricity is equipped with a Unified Brake System (UBS) across all three wheels. The scooter is powered by a new 125cc four-stroke engine equipped with Yamaha's exclusive YMJET-FI fuel injection system, which improves efficiency and improves acceleration from low speeds.

The LCD instrument panel has a central digital speedometer surrounded by a clock, an outdoor temperature gauge and an odometer. The Tricity also has LED lamps in its dual front position lights, its taillight and its license plate light. Altogether, the scooter has a wet weight (including fuel and engine oil) of just 152kg.

The Tricity will arrive at Yamaha dealerships in Thailand and Europe from summer 2014. There is no word yet on whether the scooter will make its way to additional markets. The model will also be sold through the Yamaha-owned brand MBK under a different name: the Tryptik.