Peugeot Vivacity 50 (1999–2013): A Timeless Urban Companion

For over a decade, the Peugeot Vivacity 50 carved its niche as a reliable, no-nonsense urban scooter. Designed for practicality and ease of use, this model generation became a staple for city commuters, delivery riders, and teenagers earning their first taste of freedom. With variants like the Sportline, Motorsport, and Sixties editions, the Vivacity 50 balanced functionality with flashes of personality. After a test ride through tight city streets and suburban sprawl, here’s why this scooter still resonates with riders today.

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Design & Ergonomics: Function Meets Flair

The Vivacity 50’s design is quintessentially European: clean lines, rounded bodywork, and a compact silhouette. At 1,910 mm (75.2 inches) long and 680 mm (26.8 inches) wide, it slips through traffic effortlessly. The 786 mm (30.9-inch) seat height accommodates riders of all sizes, and the flat footboard provides ample legroom.

Peugeot prioritized storage with a 13-liter front compartment (ideal for a helmet or groceries) and a 22-liter under-seat bin—enough for a small backpack. Later models added a 12V power socket for charging devices, a rare perk in this segment. Color options evolved over the years, ranging from vibrant orange and blue to sleek black and retro-inspired "Sixties" pastels. The digital speedometer (introduced in 2012) added a modern touch, though its simplicity contrasts with today’s LCD displays.

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Engine & Performance: The Two-Stroke Pulse

Most Vivacity 50 models relied on a 49.1cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine, producing between 3.1 HP (2.3 kW) and 5.6 HP (4.1 kW) depending on the variant. The Motorsport and Sportline editions pushed the upper end, thanks to tuned exhausts and CDI ignition systems. While not a speed demon, the Vivacity 50 hits a governed top speed of 45–50 km/h (28–31 mph), perfect for urban grids.

The engine’s character is unmistakably two-stroke: a raspy exhaust note and brisk acceleration off the line. The automatic centrifugal clutch and shaft drive eliminate gear shifts, making it ideal for stop-and-go traffic. Fuel economy averages 30–40 km/l (70–94 mpg), though this dips if you rev the lightweight 90 kg (198 lb) chassis aggressively.

Key nuances: - Carburettor tuning: The Gurtner PA carb requires periodic cleaning, especially if the scooter sits unused. - Cooling: Air-cooled simplicity means fewer parts to fail, but avoid prolonged high-speed runs on hot days. - Vibrations: The single-cylinder engine sends tingles through the handlebars at full throttle—a charming quirk for some, a nuisance for others.

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Ride & Handling: Agile, But Keep Expectations Grounded

The Vivacity 50’s chassis prioritizes maneuverability over sportiness. The 12-inch alloy wheels (120/70 front and rear) offer stability on uneven roads, while the 1,338 mm (52.7-inch) wheelbase strikes a balance between agility and straight-line composure. The telescopic front fork and hydraulic rear shocks handle potholes adequately, though sharper bumps reverberate through the frame.

Braking is a mixed bag: the front disc brake provides decent bite, but the rear drum lacks progression. Riders should plan stops early, especially in wet conditions. At 90 kg (198 lb), the Vivacity 50 feels flickable at low speeds, but crosswinds can unsettle it on open roads.

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Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The 50cc scooter segment is fiercely competitive. Here’s how the Vivacity 50 compares:

1. Honda Vision 50

• Pros: Honda’s legendary reliability, fuel injection on later models.
• Cons: Bland styling, less storage.
• Vivacity’s edge: Bolder design, lower maintenance costs.

2. Yamaha Aerox 50

• Pros: Sportier chassis, liquid-cooled engine.
• Cons: Higher price, aggressive ergonomics.
• Vivacity’s edge: Comfort, practicality, and ease of use.

3. Aprilia SR 50

• Pros: Performance-oriented, derestricted variants hit 80 km/h.
• Cons: Expensive, complex electronics.
• Vivacity’s edge: Budget-friendly simplicity.

The Vivacity 50 shines for riders valuing low-cost commuting over outright performance. Its storage options and upright riding position outclass many rivals.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Vivacity Alive

Owning a Vivacity 50 is affordable, but neglect will cost you. Here’s what to prioritize:

1. Two-Stroke Oil: Mix oil at a 1:50 ratio (2% oil-to-fuel). Use synthetic oils like Motul 710 for cleaner combustion.
2. Carburettor Cleaning: Clean the Gurtner PA carb every 3,000 km (1,864 miles) to prevent clogging.
3. Spark Plugs: Replace NGK BR7HS plugs every 5,000 km (3,107 miles). Check the 0.7 mm electrode gap.
4. Tire Pressure: Maintain 1.3 bar (19 psi) front and 1.6 bar (23 psi) rear for optimal grip and longevity.
5. Shaft Drive Lubrication: Change the SAE 80W-90 gear oil every 10,000 km (6,214 miles).

Pro Tip: Upgrade to a performance exhaust or high-flow air filter (available at MOTOPARTS.store) to unlock hidden pep in Motorsport variants.

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Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy It?

The Peugeot Vivacity 50 isn’t about thrills—it’s about getting you there. Its lightweight design, ample storage, and dead-simple mechanics make it ideal for:
- Urban commuters weaving through traffic.
- First-time riders learning the ropes.
- Delivery drivers needing a cheap, durable workhorse.

While modern scooters offer flashier tech, the Vivacity 50’s charm lies in its honesty. It’s a reminder that sometimes, all you need is two wheels, a buzzing two-stroke, and the open road ahead.

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Specifications sheet

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