A Scooter With More Power Than A Harley-Davidson Iron? Yes, That’s The Piper Moto J-Series

Summary

• The Piper Moto J-Series scooter comes from ex-F1 engineer John Piper.
• High-quality underpinnings, including a custom-made chassis, top-notch suspension, and superbike-sized wheels, come standard here.
• It also boasts a unique and attractive design that pays homage to classic scooters while adding its own special touches.

What happens when an ex-Formula One engineer comes up with a scooter? The short answer is something spectacular. But you’re here for the long answer, so allow us to introduce you to the Piper Moto J-series. It’s unlike any other scooter out there, boasting a mind-bending blend of quality componentry, a KTM engine, and a gorgeous design. All of it is done by hand in Piper Moto’s workshop, owned by John Piper. In case you’re unaware, John’s portfolio includes F1, Le Mans, and World Rally Championship cars, along with the transmission design of the iconic Foggy Petronas FP1 WSBK race bike.

The Piper Moto J-Series Scooter Has A 690cc, Single-Cylinder Engine

Conventionally, scooters are all about commuting duties, crazy fuel efficiency numbers, and simple twist-and-go riding. But the J-series is nothing of that sort. It replaces these focus areas with horsepower, fast 0-60mph times, and a tricked-out transmission. The crown jewel here is a 690cc, single-cylinder engine, LC4 engine, sourced from a KTM 690 Duke. It’s good for 67 horsepower, all of which reaches the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission. This isn’t your usual transmission with a clutch and a foot gear lever, though. Instead, it’s an electronic system with a GCU software, so you shift by pressing a hand-operated paddle switch to go up or down the transmission.

Similarly, two other highlights here are the cooling system and exhaust. The former comprises two aluminum core radiators with electric thermostatically controlled fans. Whereas, the latter boasts a rectangular end pipe with neatly hidden headers right above it. This is all tucked behind a svelte exhaust cover. All of it combined helps the scooter sprint to 60 miles per hour in just four seconds, while you can manage a top speed of 120 miles per hour if you keep it pinned. That’s a whole lot faster than the usual lot of scooters we’re treated to, such as the Yamaha X-Max, BMW C 400 GT, or the Suzuki Burgman 400.

High-Quality Underpinnings Elevate The Riding Experience Of The Piper Moto J-Series

With such a powerful powerhouse, the scooter would certainly need quality underpinnings. And that’s precisely the case here. Piper Moto has whipped up a bespoke chrome molybdenum, TIG welded trellis chassis, along with a CNC machined billet swingarm. This is topped by 43 mm WP Apex USD forks up top and an ExeTC remote reservoir shock outback. The latter, in particular, is a work of art, thanks to its push rod and rocker operation. Another impressive element here is the set of 17-inch spoke wheels. These are not only larger than conventional scooters, but come ripe with superbike-sized Bridgestone Battlax rubber and a Brembo braking system. The latter comprises single disc brakes–enough to slow down this 350-pound beast.

The Piper Moto J-Series Looks Unique, Premium, And Gorgeous

It’s safe to say the J-series is a beast under the skin. But none of that comes at the cost of aesthetics. That’s because the shop’s craftsmen have given the scooter a bespoke yet conventional design. It looks like an ordinary scooter from a distance, courtesy of the curvy bodywork, round headlight, and chunky footboards. Whereas, a closer look reveals special touches like sleek split seats and uber-muscular grills (for the radiators). Overall, it’s a scooter that feels reminiscent of the Vespas and Lambrettas we’ve all loved, albeit with its own unique character.

There’s no compromise on practicality and features, either. You get:

• Two, lockable storage compartments near the floorboard
• Flippable rear section for access to the engine
• Chrome mirrors
• Twin-pod digi-analog instrument cluster with gear position indicator
• Foot-pedal rear brake (just like old-school scooters)
• LED headlight and tail lamp

You Can Buy The Piper Moto J-Series For Yourself

More often than not, such exquisite creations are one-offs. But Piper Moto wants everyone to enjoy its creation. Accordingly, the shop is accepting pre-orders for the J-series. Each example will come with an individual chassis number, and you can also include your own specific touches. There’s been no public announcement of the price, so we suggest you reach out to John Piper directly via email or phone. The details are available on the official website linked below. Don’t forget to discuss freight, as Piper operates across the pond in Britain.

On a scale of 1-10, how much do you want to ride this beastly scooter? Tell us in the comments.

Source – Piper Moto