CT Gets New Motorcycle, Scooter Store In Motoplex Fairfield

FAIRFIELD, CT – Connecticut has a new motorcycle and scooter dealership with the opening this month of Motoplex Fairfield. It’s selling Aprilia and Moto Guzzi motorcycles and Vespa and Piaggio-branded scooters, all made in Italy and owned by parent company Piaggio.

The store’s arrival at 301 Commerce Drive came at the start of May and reversed a trend that has seen power sports businesses closing in the state. Brookfield Indian Motorcycle and Royal Enfield and Can-AM dealer Brookfield Powersports as well as KTM dealer Colonial Power & Sport in Milford closed at the end of February.

Motoplex Fairfield is owned by Ryan Ambrifi, a longtime Land Rover dealer located down the street in Fairfield. “He fell in love with Vespas way, way back. He is an absolute Vespa enthusiast,” said Scott Turian, general manager of Motorplex Fairfield, in explaining why a car guy would want to branch out into two-wheeled sales.

The store’s opening ended a long saga in starting the new business. Piaggio gave its nod to Motoplex Fairfield in December 2023 and a banner in front stated “Coming Summer 2024” for the longest time. “There were a lot of different circumstances that needed to play out,” said Turian, listing zoning and fire marshal issues among the hurdles.

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The final result is a dealership that is something of a showplace. Each brand’s models are nicely displayed, and the showroom has a modern yet comfortable feel. Turian said the last three-plus weeks since opening have been “intense. A lot of fun, a lot of learning, a lot of late nights.”

Turian’s background is also in the car realm, but he reported, “I’ve been a motorcycle enthusiast since I was 18.” He’s attended the California Superbike School and done track days.

Motoplex Fairfield has been engaging in a low-key introduction. “We’ve started doing some soft events,” Turian said. A demo day with all of Piaggio’s brands available for test riding is scheduled for July 16 and 17.

The store is the only location to buy Aprilia models in Connecticut. Moto Guzzi motorcycles may also be found at Hamlin Cycles in Bethel, CT, while Vespa and Piaggo Scooters can be found at New Haven Powersports in New Haven, CT and Connecticut Scooterpros in Vernon, CT.

(Photos by Bud Wilkinson.)