The Ape inspires with its character, its simplicity and its huge tuning potential. Hardly any other vehicle exudes as much Italian charm as the Piaggio Ape – the rattling three-wheeler has long been more than just a donkey for narrow streets. Whether as a rolling espresso bar, stylish food truck or simply as a collector’s item.
The Ape becomes unique
The range of tuning parts for the Piaggio Ape is rather confusing. Does it make sense to tune an Ape at all? The price-performance ratio should also be right. We distinguish between main categories and their sub-categories for Ape tuning.
The most important processes are listed below:
Engine tuning
This includes:
- Racing exhaust systems, which can involve both a crisp sound and improved exhaust gas routing
- A better air flow can be achieved with a sports air filter
- a reinforced clutch can be helpful to achieve a higher transmission of power
- the fuel supply can be increased by installing a larger or more powerful carburetor
- to achieve better acceleration and a higher top speed, the transmission ratio should be adjusted
- The ignition system should also be addressed. Stronger ignition coils or a more powerful CDI unit (CDI=Capacitor Discharge Ignition) are recommended
- Increasing the displacement for more power and torque. Special cylinder kits are available for this purpose
- Combustion must be optimized, which can be achieved by replacing the cylinder heads
Chassis tuning
This includes:
- Brake systems, replace better brake pads, disc brakes are recommended for better braking performance, varying depending on the model
- Sporty shock absorbers can improve handling. It is best to install adjustable shock absorbers
Visual tuning
This includes:
- Paint finishes, depending on the target group: Achieve a fresh and – if desired – more modern look by playing with various color palettes; accent colors can highlight important elements and thus facilitate user guidance in the cockpit
- Identify control elements with uniform labeling
- Easy-to-read fonts and sizes
- Individual personalization of the Ape by adapting the appearance
Headlights, tail lights and interior
- Design headlights
- LED lighting
- Sports seats, color-matched to the bodywork, hard-wearing materials, increase seating comfort with additional seat upholstery
- Steering wheel, non-slip steering wheel cover, e.g. made of leather or another pleasant material, enhances the look and can improve the driving experience
- Floor mats that are easy to clean
- Non-slip pedal pads, increase safety
- Create additional storage space with additional pockets on the door panels
- Attach a net to the headliner as additional storage space
Important notes
Please ensure that the tuning parts to be fitted are actually compatible with the Ape model. It is best to contact a specialist for advice.
Furthermore, the legal regulations regarding road approval must be observed. The TÜV may have to give its approval.
Once the parts have been found and can be installed, it is important to remember that certain specialist knowledge is required. Improper handling can easily result in damage.