Peugeot Speedfight 50 LC 2T (2014-2018) Review: The French Pocket Rocket That Still Delivers Thrills
Introduction
The Peugeot Speedfight 50 LC 2T isn’t just a scooter—it’s a statement. Produced between 2014 and 2018, this liquid-cooled two-stroke machine carved out a reputation as a feisty urban commuter with a rebellious streak. Designed for riders who want practicality without sacrificing fun, the Speedfight 50 LC 2T blends French flair with a punchy engine that defies its modest 49cc displacement. But how does it hold up today? Let’s dive into the details.
Design & Styling: Aggressive Lines Meet Practicality
The Speedfight 50 LC 2T looks like it’s ready to pick a fight with the pavement. Its angular bodywork, sharp LED headlights, and sporty decals give it an edgy, almost motorcycle-like presence. The stepped seat isn’t just for aesthetics—it locks the rider into a slightly forward-leaning position, hinting at its sporty intentions.
Despite its compact size (the wheelbase measures just 1,300 mm / 51.2 inches), Peugeot managed to include practical touches like a small under-seat storage compartment big enough for a helmet or groceries. The analog-digital dash is basic but legible, with a speedometer, fuel gauge, and temperature warning light. Paint quality is surprisingly robust for a budget scooter, though the glossy finishes on later models tend to show scratches more easily.
Performance: Two-Stroke Fury in a 50cc Package
The Heart of the Beast
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the 49.9cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine. Liquid-cooled and fuel-injected (in later models), this powerplant is a masterclass in small-displacement engineering. On paper, 4.5 kW (6 hp) doesn’t sound impressive, but the 2T’s power delivery feels anything but tame.
The engine thrives on revs. From 5,000 RPM onward, it screams to its 11,000 RPM redline with a satisfying rasp from the stock exhaust. Acceleration from 0-45 km/h (0-28 mph) is brisk, easily outpacing four-stroke rivals in stoplight sprints. Top speed hovers around 85 km/h (53 mph) on flat roads, though steep hills will have you downshifting mentally (if only it had gears!).
Fuel & Oil: The Two-Stroke Dance
Owners must premix oil with fuel—a ritual that adds character but requires discipline. Peugeot recommends a 2% oil-to-fuel ratio (50:1), which translates to 20 ml of two-stroke oil per liter of gasoline (0.7 oz per gallon). Skip this step, and you’ll be shopping for a new piston sooner than later.
Handling & Ride: Urban Ninja
Weighing just 90 kg (198 lbs) dry, the Speedfight feels like an extension of your body in city traffic. The 12-inch wheels glide over potholes better than smaller 10-inch setups, while the telescopic front fork and twin rear shocks handle urban bumps with surprising composure.
Where this scooter shines is cornering. The low center of gravity and sticky stock tires inspire confidence when leaning into bends. At higher speeds, the short wheelbase can make it feel twitchy, but that’s a fair trade-off for its lane-splitting agility.
Braking: Adequate but Demands Attention
The 190 mm front disc and 110 mm rear drum combo gets the job done, though aggressive riders might crave more bite. Brake fluid is standard DOT 4—easy to source but prone to moisture absorption. Annual fluid changes are a must.
Competition: How It Stacks Up
The 50cc sport scooter segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Speedfight 50 LC 2T measures against its rivals:
1. Yamaha Aerox 50 (4T)
- Pros: Legendary reliability, larger 14-inch wheels.
- Cons: Four-stroke engine lacks the Speedfight’s urgency.
- Verdict: Better for longevity, worse for thrills.
2. Aprilia SR50 R Factory
- Pros: Liquid-cooled two-stroke with 7.4 kW (10 hp), premium suspension.
- Cons: Higher maintenance costs, rare parts.
- Verdict: A Speedfight on steroids—if you can afford it.
3. Honda Vision 50
- Pros: Fuel efficiency, storage space.
- Cons: Dull to ride, utilitarian styling.
- Verdict: Appliance vs. adrenaline.
The Speedfight strikes a middle ground: cheaper to run than the Aprilia, more exciting than the Honda, and more stylish than both.
Maintenance: Keeping the 2T Spirit Alive
Two-strokes demand more love than their four-stroke cousins. Here’s what owners need to know:
1. Spark Plugs Matter
The stock NGK CR7EB plug works fine, but upgrading to the iridium CR7EIX (available at MOTOPARTS.store) improves cold starts and fuel efficiency. Replace annually or every 3,000 km (1,864 miles).
2. Cooling System Vigilance
The liquid-cooling system uses water-based coolant (“WASSER+” in manuals). Check levels monthly and flush every two years. Overheating warps cylinders faster than you can say “seizure.”
3. Oil Injection? Nope.
Unlike modern two-strokes, the Speedfight lacks an oil injector. Carry a small bottle of two-stroke oil for fuel stops.
4. Belt & Rollers
The CVT belt lasts ~10,000 km (6,214 miles), but harsh acceleration wears it faster. MOTOPARTS.store stocks OEM-spec replacement kits.
5. Winter Storage
Drain the fuel or add stabilizer. Two-stroke residue gums up carburetors notoriously.
Conclusion: A Cult Classic Worth Considering
The Peugeot Speedfight 50 LC 2T isn’t for everyone. It’s fussy, loud, and demands mechanical sympathy. But for riders who crave personality in a 50cc package, few scooters deliver this much grin-per-cc. Its blend of ’90s two-stroke charm and modern reliability makes it a compelling choice even today.
Ready to unleash your Speedfight’s full potential? MOTOPARTS.store has everything from high-performance spark plugs to CNC-machined brake levers. Because even legends deserve upgrades.
