Introduction

The Aprilia Amico 50 (1990–1993, HD) is a scooter produced by the Italian manufacturer Aprilia. It was developed in the late 1980s and is considered the brand’s first scooter model. Production began in 1990, and the version covered here was available from 1990 to 1993. This scooter was designed as an affordable and practical vehicle for urban use, targeting primarily young riders and beginners. The Amico 50 quickly became a bestseller and laid the foundation for Aprilia’s later success in the scooter segment, which was further expanded with models such as the Scarabeo and SR 50.

Model History

In terms of model history, the Aprilia Amico 50 marks the company’s entry into the scooter market. Aprilia, originally founded in 1945 by Alberto Beggio as a bicycle manufacturer, began focusing on motorcycles in the 1960s under the leadership of Ivano Beggio. In the 1980s, a collaboration with Italian engine manufacturer Minarelli paved the way for scooter production. The Amico 50 was the first model in this new segment and went into production in 1990, with 1991 and 1992 representing the core years of the first generation. It stands at the beginning of a development path that led Aprilia from a motorcycle to a versatile two-wheeler manufacturer, ultimately resulting in a wide range of scooters over the following decades.

Technical Details

Technically, the Aprilia Amico 50 (1990–1993, HD) is equipped with an air-cooled 49 cc two-stroke engine that delivers approximately 2.7 hp (around 2 kW). The engine was developed in collaboration with Minarelli and is supplied with fuel via a carburetor. Power is transmitted through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) using a V-belt, which ensures ease of use. The top speed was limited to around 45 km/h to comply with moped regulations in many countries. The frame consists of a sturdy tubular steel construction, with suspension provided by a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm with a single shock absorber at the rear. The braking system includes drum brakes at both the front and rear, which was typical for this vehicle class and time period. With a dry weight of approximately 75 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 4.5 liters, the Amico 50 was lightweight and well-suited for city traffic.

Color Variants and Accessories

The Aprilia Amico 50 (1990–1993, HD) was available in several colors, including red, black, white, and blue, although availability could vary depending on the market. This color variety was intended to make the scooter appealing and allow for individual customization. No official special editions are documented for this early version, but later models in the Amico series, such as the Amico Sport or Amico GL, featured visual or technical modifications. For the 1991–1992 period, Aprilia focused on the standard version, with optional accessories like windshields or luggage racks available to adapt the scooter to rider needs.