Peugeot TKR 50 [2002-2022]: A Two-Stroke Icon for Urban Warriors

Introduction

For two decades, the Peugeot TKR 50 has carved its niche as a scrappy underdog in the 50cc scooter segment. With its unapologetically analog two-stroke engine, rugged chassis, and no-nonsense design, this French-built workhorse has become a cult favorite among riders who value simplicity and character over gadgetry. Whether navigating cobblestone alleys or buzzing through suburban sprawl, the TKR 50 feels like a mechanical extension of the rider’s instincts – raw, responsive, and refreshingly alive. Let’s dissect why this plucky scooter remains relevant even as competitors chase electrification.

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Design & Ergonomics: Function Over Flair

Peugeot’s design language for the TKR 50 follows a "zero pretense" philosophy. The steel tube frame sits exposed beneath minimalist body panels, showcasing industrial aesthetics that wouldn’t look out of place in a cyberpunk dystopia. Over its 20-year run, special editions like the TKR Furious and RCup added racing stripes, angular decals, and matte black finishes, but the core silhouette remains unchanged – a testament to functional design.

The riding position is textbook scooter:
- 31.5-inch seat height (800mm) accommodates riders from 5’2" to 6’0"
- Flat footboard provides space for grocery bags or a small pet carrier
- Single-piece saddle with just enough padding for 45-minute commutes
- Analog gauges (speedometer, fuel level) visible beneath the handlebar risers

While lacking underseat storage, the TKR’s tubular frame accepts aftermarket racks and top cases – a blank canvas for personalization. The exposed engine also makes maintenance tasks surprisingly accessible compared to fully enclosed scooters.

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Performance: Two-Stroke Thunder in a 50cc Package

Don’t let the 49.1cc displacement fool you – the air-cooled two-stroke single packs a punchy personality. With 4.2 HP on tap (3.1 kW), acceleration feels urgent off the line, easily keeping pace with urban traffic. The engine’s powerband is narrow but explosive, rewarding riders who master the art of "ring-ding" throttle modulation.

Key notes from the saddle:
- 0-30 mph (0-48 km/h) in 6.5 seconds – sprightly for a 50cc
- Top speed of 38 mph (61 km/h) on flats (derestricted models)
- Carbureted fuel system demands choke activation on cold mornings
- Shaft final drive eliminates chain maintenance but saps 5% power vs chain rivals

The CDI ignition ensures reliable starts, though the kickstarter backup is a welcome failsafe. Fuel economy averages 94 mpg (2.5 L/100km), yielding a 150-mile (241 km) range from its 1.6-gallon (6L) tank. Pro tip: Use synthetic two-stroke oil to minimize exhaust smoke.

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Handling & Ride Quality: Urban Assassin

Peugeot’s chassis engineers clearly prioritized agility over comfort. The 49.2-inch wheelbase (1250mm) and 10-inch wheels enable razor-sharp direction changes, while the inverted front fork (on post-2008 models) resists dive under braking.

At speed:
- Stable up to 35 mph (56 km/h), then handlebars develop a faint shimmy
- Drum rear brake requires deliberate lever pressure – upgrade to sintered pads
- 130/90-10 rear tire provides surprising lean angle for a commuter scooter

Suspension travel is limited (3.1" front/2.8" rear), punishing potholes but excelling on smooth asphalt. The TKR Furious’ adjustable rear shocks add preload settings for heavier riders or cargo loads.

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Competition: How the TKR 50 Stacks Up

The 50cc scooter segment splits into two camps: four-stroke pragmatists (Honda Vision, Yamaha Aerox) and two-stroke enthusiasts (Aprilia SR50, Derbi Senda). Here’s where the Peugeot shines:

| Model | Engine | Power | Weight | Key Advantage |
|--------------------|----------------|-------|---------|-----------------------------|
| Peugeot TKR 50 | 2-stroke | 4.2HP | 178 lbs | Raw power, modding potential|
| Honda Vision 50 | 4-stroke | 3.8HP | 187 lbs | Fuel injection, storage |
| Aprilia SR50 | 2-stroke liquid| 6.3HP | 198 lbs | 45 mph top speed |
| Yamaha Aerox | 4-stroke | 4.0HP | 205 lbs | Sporty styling, ABS option |

While the Aprilia SR50 outguns it in power, the TKR counters with:
- 18% lighter curb weight enhancing flickability
- Shaft drive reliability vs Aprilia’s temperamental automatic transmission
- Lower parts costs – a replacement piston kit costs €45 vs €110 for the SR50

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Maintenance: Keeping the Two-Stroke Alive

The TKR 50 thrives on neglect but rewards diligent care. Focus on these key areas:

1. Carburetor TLC
- Clean jets every 1,500 miles (2,400 km) – ethanol-blended fuel gums up quickly
- MOTOPARTS.store recommendation: Dell’Orto PHBN Rebuild Kit (€22.50)

2. Two-Stroke Oil
- Use synthetic JASO-FD oil at a 50:1 mix ratio
- Avoid supermarket oils to prevent ring sticking

3. Shaft Drive Service
- Replace gear oil every 3,700 miles (6,000 km) with 80W-90 GL-5

4. Suspension Refresh
- Worn shock absorbers cause wallowing – upgrade to YSS Adjustable Shocks (€149/pair)

5. Brake Upgrades
- Swap factory pads for EBC Sintered Front Pads (€29) – 40% better bite

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Conclusion: The Last of the Analog Scooters

In an era where even 50cc scooters get ride modes and smartphone connectivity, the Peugeot TKR 50 remains gloriously primitive. Its two-stroke heartbeat and mechanical purity evoke motorcycling’s golden age, while the bulletproof chassis laughs at potholes that would cripple trendier rivals. For new riders, it’s a crash course in mechanical empathy. For veterans, it’s a blank slate for customization – toss on knobby tires for fire roads or a big-bore kit for illicit speed.

Yes, the seat gets hard after an hour. Yes, the exhaust note could wake neighbors. But in a world of sanitized transportation, the TKR 50 is a rebel yell on two wheels – and MOTOPARTS.store has everything to keep yours roaring through another decade.

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Specifications sheet

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