Peugeot Kisbee perfect for around town

When we think of Peugeot, the first thing we think of is the extensive range of cars from the French manufacturer, but now Kiwis can add scooters to that train of thought.

While Peugeot has been in the scooter game for over 115 years, it has only recently brought two scooter models on offer, with base RS versions adding better brakes and different styling on the base. All come equipped with 50cc engines allowing anyone with a licence to hop aboard for the simplistic fun you can only get from a moped/scooter.

This model - the Kisbee - retails for $2,199 with three colours to choose from.

Powering the Kisbee is a 49.9cc single cylinder two-stroke engine with 3kW of power. While that might not seem like much, it is more than enough to get the Kisbee up steep hills without stalling and up to and beyond the legal urban speed limit.

With a seat height of just 760mm and the traditional scooter step-through frame mounting the Kisbee is easy for riders of varying heights. With fold out pegs and plenty of seat area carrying a passenger around the corner to the cafe isn’t out of the question either.

One thing I did notice after riding for a solid half hour around Auckland’s CBD however was the shape of the seat did cause a little discomfort due to the hump separating the rider and pillion sections. This however is a bit of a non issue as most riders will be hopping on for a short commute and won’t be riding for long durations.

Under the saddle is enough space to store a helmet or a bag, while up front there’s a bag hook to look after anything from a handbag to bag full of shopping.

Weighing in at only 87 kg the Kisbee isn’t hard to park up on its center stand, though I did feel during Driven’s time with the Kisbee that a side stand would make a welcome addition for those times when you want to jump off in a hurry.

Braking is of the same style as a push-bike with the left bar mounted lever controlling the rear brake while the right controls the front. This makes jumping on the Kisbee an easy transition for riders more used to powering themselves around town.

Noticeably the rear brake provides more stopping force than the front, making the rear the go to brake for emergencies.

Available at Peugeot dealerships around the country the Kisbee is a realistic option for city dwellers who want the badge without the expenses associated with a car.