Peugeot Tweet 125 [2011-2022] Review: A Scooter That Charms With French Flair
Introduction
The Peugeot Tweet 125 has carved out a unique niche in the urban scooter segment since its debut in 2011. With its production spanning over a decade, this French-designed two-wheeler blends practicality with a dash of Parisian style. Designed for city commuters and casual riders alike, the Tweet 125 offers a compelling mix of lightweight agility, fuel efficiency, and unmistakable character. Let’s dive into what makes this scooter a standout choice for urban adventurers.
Design & Ergonomics: Urban Chic Meets Functionality
The Tweet 125’s design philosophy screams "urban mobility." Its compact dimensions—2,000 mm (78.7 inches) in length and a 1,330 mm (52.4-inch) wheelbase—make it ideal for weaving through traffic or squeezing into tight parking spots. The scooter’s aesthetic is minimalist yet distinctive, with later models (2021-2022) offering bold color options like Daring Red and Graphite Grey, while earlier iterations leaned into classic hues like Jet Black and Antarctica White.
The 770 mm (30.3-inch) seat height remains consistent across generations, catering to shorter riders without sacrificing comfort for taller ones. Peugeot’s attention to practicality shines in details like the under-seat storage (capable of fitting a helmet in some models) and optional rear luggage racks. The 2022 Active variant even adds a glovebox, a rarity in this segment.
While the build quality feels robust, the plastic panels can seem utilitarian compared to premium rivals. Still, the Tweet’s quirky charm—like the Snakebite exhaust on early RS models—gives it personality in a sea of bland commuter scooters.
Engine & Performance: Zippy Enough for the Concrete Jungle
At the heart of the Tweet 125 lies a 124.6 cc single-cylinder engine that evolved significantly over its production run. Early carbureted models (2011-2016) delivered modest outputs of 10–10.2 HP, but the shift to fuel injection in later years (2021-2022) bumped power to 11.3 HP while improving fuel efficiency to a staggering 2.4 L/100 km (98 MPG).
On the road, the engine feels peppy but not revolutionary. The 10.3 Nm torque (7.6 ft.lbs) in the 2022 model provides enough grunt for quick takeoffs at traffic lights, though the top speed of 99 km/h (61.5 mph) means highway rides require patience. The air-cooled engine stays surprisingly quiet, with a smooth belt-driven transmission (or shaft drive in earlier models) eliminating the jerkiness of cheaper CVT systems.
Where the Tweet truly excels is efficiency. Even the thirstiest carbureted versions sip fuel at 2.8 L/100 km (84 MPG), making this scooter a wallet-friendly choice for daily commutes. Euro 4 and Euro 5 compliance in later models also future-proofs it against urban emissions regulations.
Riding Experience: Nimble, But Leave the Curves to Sportier Siblings
Swing a leg over the Tweet 125, and its 109–114 kg (240–251 lb) dry weight becomes immediately apparent. This is a scooter that feels light and manageable, even for novice riders. The upright riding position and wide handlebars offer excellent visibility in traffic, while the 16-inch wheels (110/70 front and rear) provide stability over potholes that would unsettle smaller-wheeled rivals.
The suspension setup varies by year. Earlier models used basic hydraulic forks and twin rear shocks, while post-2016 versions upgraded to adjustable rear shocks and 30 mm front forks. The result? A ride quality that’s firm yet compliant—perfect for smooth city streets but less forgiving on rougher roads.
Braking is adequate, with single discs front and rear offering predictable stopping power. ABS is conspicuously absent, but the lightweight chassis ensures controlled stops in dry conditions. Wet-weather performance benefits from the grippy 16-inch tires, though upgrading to premium rubber (a MOTOPARTS.store specialty!) could enhance confidence further.
Competition: How Does the Tweet Stack Up?
The 125cc scooter market is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Peugeot fares against key rivals:
- Honda SH125
- Pros: Legendary reliability, liquid-cooled engine, superior 130 km/h top speed
- Cons: Higher price, blander styling
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Verdict: The Honda is the "safe choice," but lacks the Tweet’s flair.
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Yamaha NMAX 125
- Pros: Stronger 15 HP engine, ABS option, underseat storage
- Cons: Heavier at 127 kg, higher fuel consumption
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Verdict: Better for highway use, but less nimble in traffic.
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Vespa Primavera 125
- Pros: Iconic design, steel unibody, premium build
- Cons: Smaller wheels, 2x the price
- Verdict: A fashion statement vs. the Tweet’s practicality.
The Peugeot’s sweet spot? Balancing affordability with Euro-chic design. It won’t outrun or out-tech the Japanese offerings, but for riders prioritizing efficiency and personality, it’s a compelling alternative.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Tweet Chirpy
Ownership costs are where the Tweet 125 truly shines. The air-cooled engine (liquid-cooled in 2016 Evo models) is mechanically simple, making DIY maintenance straightforward. Key considerations:
- Belt Drives (2021+ Models): Replace every 12,000–15,000 km. MOTOPARTS.store stocks OEM-spec and high-performance options.
- Air Filters: Annual changes for carbureted models; every 2 years for fuel-injected variants.
- Oil Changes: Every 5,000 km using 10W-40 semi-synthetic.
- Tires: The 16-inch wheels accommodate sport-touring tires for improved wet grip.
Common upgrades include:
- Windshields: Reduce fatigue on longer rides.
- Comfort Seats: Ideal for riders logging daily miles.
- LED Lighting: Enhance visibility without taxing the electrical system.
Final Thoughts
The Peugeot Tweet 125 isn’t about raw power or cutting-edge tech. It’s a scooter that wins you over with lightweight agility, Parisian panache, and miserly fuel consumption. Whether you’re navigating narrow European alleys or cruising coastal roads, this Peugeot delivers a riding experience that’s as practical as it is charming.
For owners looking to personalize or maintain their Tweet, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance belts to stylish accessories—ensuring your French steed stays as vibrant as the day you rode it home.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 8 kW | 11.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 10 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Injection (later models) / Carburettor (earlier models) |
| Max power @: | 8500 rpm |
| Displacement: | 125 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 6500 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 52.4 x 57.8 mm (2.1 x 2.3 in) |
| Configuration: | Single |
| Cooling system: | Air (most models) / Liquid (2016 Evo) |
| Emission details: | Euro 4/Euro 5 (varies by year) |
| Compression ratio: | 10.2:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 1 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1330 mm (52.4 in) |
| Dry weight: | 109 |
| Wet weight: | 120 |
| Seat height: | 770 mm (30.3 in) |
| Overall width: | 690 mm (27.2 in) |
| Overall height: | 1125 mm (44.3 in) |
| Overall length: | 2000 mm (78.7 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 5.7 L (1.51 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | Belt (later models) / Shaft drive (earlier models) |
| Transmission: | Automatic |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 10W-40 (estimated) |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR7HSA (estimated) |
| Rear tire pressure: | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Engine oil capacity: | 1.2 |
| Front tire pressure: | 2.25 bar (33 psi) |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000 km or annually |
| Valve clearance check interval: | 12,000 km / 7,500 mi |
| Additional Features | |
|---|---|
| Starter: | Electric (all models) + Kick (2012 models) |
| Storage: | Under-seat compartment + luggage rack |
| Instruments: | Digital/Analogue (varies by year) |
| Color options: | Jet Black, Antarctica White, Daring Red, Graphite Grey |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame: | Steel underbone (scooter type) |
| Rear tire: | 110/70-16 (most models) / 130/60-16 (2012 -s) |
| Front tire: | 110/70-16 (most models) / 120/60-16 (2012 -s) |
| Rear brakes: | Single 226 mm disc |
| Front brakes: | Single 226 mm disc |
| Rear suspension: | Hydraulic shock absorber, adjustable (varies by model) |
| Front suspension: | Hydraulic telescopic fork, Ø30 mm (varies by model) |
