1981 APE MP601 Yellow (BM416)
This APE was discovered by Bello Moto in the Lanciano Chieti area of Italy. A private party sale, it is in really nice overall condition. It has been completely restored in the recent past. The bodywork has been prepped and professionally repainted. The engine and drivetrain have been renewed as required by our mechanics in Italy. Major work done includes rebuilt brake systems, electrical system and new tires. It is truly excellent in all regards. Fully restored and ready to customize for your business.
This model has a 220cc motor and fully automatic lubrication system. Oil and gas have their own separate tanks, so there is no manual oil mixing. The bodywork is in great condition and refinished in the original color, shows very well. Mechanically fully inspected and refreshed as needed including all suspension items. An excellent value, ready to provide dependable service and a great presentation of your business.
The APE makes a perfect utility vehicle with a high promotional and fun factor for a number of situations - mini food truck, pop-up vendor, golf courses, gated communities, wineries, resorts, hospitality etc.order.
1983 APE MP601 Yellow (BM 416)
Offered at $18,750
Price: (before tax): $18,750
Make: Piaggio
Year: 1983
Displacement: 220 cc
Inventory number: BM416
License needed: Yes
PIAGGIO APE BACKGROUND :
Piaggio developed the APE ( pronounced "ah-pay" - Italian for "Honey Bee" ) in 1947 as a light duty, urban delivery vehicle and it became an instant success. The APE has been in continuous production since its inception and has been produced in a variety of different body styles in Italy and India. It has a proven reputation as a tough, practical and very economical transport for many commercial uses. The design is based on a very rugged chassis adaptable to multiple body styles/configurations and powered by a reliable and simple single cylinder engine with high specific torque and very low gearing that allows the APE to haul significant payloads at relaxed, but perfectly urban, velocities.
The APE enjoyed continued design evolution and by1965 was quite well developed and very dependable. In many ways it is similar to the latest version actually still in production in India - but way cuter!
The three-wheeled chassis allows the APE to be registered as a motorcycle which is an additional economy. Steering is via scooter style handlebars, and the cabin is roomy for a single driver, but can also accommodate a passenger (with a snug fit). There are doors on each side door, perfect for making deliveries to each side of the road. Parking ease and maneuverability are outstanding.
Performance is well suited to the job of light delivery, with good torque for hills but a modest top speed ( 35 mph ), which is adequate in the urban settings, gated communities or special circumstances for which it was designed. Handling is unique, but serviceable when the limitations of the tricycle layout are observed.
The APE is a very serious workhorse, which belies its cuteness with the ability to provide very useful service in many situations and applications. In Italy, India and other third-world locales thousands of APEs are in daily service and often the favored vehicle for light duty delivery.