Overview

Sachs Scooters are clearly focused on the budget end of the Australian scooter market. With a unique range of product that also includes models like the Madass, all Sachs have one thing in common, they focus on great value for money. Being a little different also helps.

Sachs introduced the Amici late in 2009 and its been a clear winner since the inception. The stylish classic was designed and targeted towards the European Market where the Amici changes its name to the Daelim Besbi and sells in bucketloads. From the first time you throw a leg over the low broad seat, you quickly feel the development that has gone into getting this little budget beauty right.



Features

You won't find a long list of upmarket features on the Amici. But it doesn't need them either.

The Amici's first feature is charm, and lots of it. What's charm you say, I've never heard of that feature before. Well the Amici looks good, looks every bit that classic scooter thanks to the grill that adorns the front end. The rear panels that slope towards the back of the scooter reveal a chrome LED taillight that any classic would be proud of. Chrome touches on the dash and suspension keep with the program.  

If you were born a classic scooter then your first hurdle is to look the part, full marks to the Sachs Amici here.

Storage is taken care of via the key operated seat. The room available isn't over abundant but add the flat floor and a bag hook and it becomes respectable.  A helmet hook under the seat is a welcome addition. Carrying a passenger is an option and the flip out footpegs make this a feasible one, nicely designed they tuck away when not in use.

Lighting is via a powerful single halogen headlight up front and this is complimented by a pretty good high beam when required.

The motor is a 4 stroke 125 which puts out 6.6 kw's of power, but more importantly a good load of torque also. Fuel capacity is average at 6 litres, filling up is via loose change. The fuel tank is down low and I am sure this is helping handling in a positive way.

Up front the Amici's suspension copies the classics of yesteryear with a cantilever type set up. What true classic can be without this arrangement. On the rear we have a single shock doing the work.

The centre stand teams up with a side stand. You can option the Amici with a top box if required.  



On the road

The Amici on paper might look basic but on the road its a different story. The engine/transmission combination is a gem and it seems to be a match made in heaven. Twist the throttle and the revs will immediately rise to a level that feels sweet. Small throttle adjustments change your speed and the smooth willing nature of the Amici will only reassure the harshest of critics.

If your new to scooters then power will be more then sufficient, if your an old hand then its still enough - Fun even.

With a passenger on board the Amici continued to hold its head high. One because the seat and suspension remain comfortable, the flip out footpegs are even in the right spot. Secondly the motor is willing enough to cope with two on-board.

The Suspension soaks up the bumps with a ride that remains compliant, coupled with the smaller wheels its sharp even. Its quick to respond to any rider inputs given through the bars and the package is just so manageable.

The Sachs Amici is low to the ground and those new to scooters will find it extremely easy to ride because of this. Being close to the ground will often result in a little less storage but if your closer to earth then so is your opportunity to touch it with both feet.

Brakes are good, not the best in class but clearly good enough for the power that's on hand. The disc on the front was called upon to do the majority of braking.

I mainly used the side stand on the Amici, yes you heard correctly. This still allows the scooter to sit flat on even surfaces and because its not one of those self retracting types, I felt completely comfortable using it. The Sachs Amici also has a centre stand if required.

Switchgear felt good, the quality is reassuring. An audible blinker warning indicator is always a welcome feature. The dash was easy and simple to read with the only negative being no clock.

Conclusion

Weather your new to scooters or a regular rider of two wheels its hard not to come away from the Sachs Amici 125 being anything but impressed. The feeling is only further enhanced when you remind yourself of the retail price, just over the two grand mark. You soon give up trying to find faults, no need to be greedy here.

On paper the Amici has the basics covered. In reality its so much more, looks great in the flesh and is surprisingly capable on the road.  

Chrome is used in all the right places and the angles and curves make for a scooter that's no pretend classic. That rear LED tail-light is just the icing on the cake.

The Amici is far better then it first leads us to believe. I had numerous comments on how it looked and everybody in the family suddenly wanted to ride a scooter again.

Amici, meaning Italian for friend or one that you show affection towards, you sure got that right.