By the 2012 model year, the Genuine Scooter Co Buddy Little International (Buddy Little Intl.) – the less powerful version of the Buddy International – had gone through a bit of a trimming phase. Its manufacturer, United States-based Genuine Scooter Company (Genuine Scooters), had halted production on the Saint Tropez 50 model, leaving the black-colored Italia 50 and red-colored Pamplona 50. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the 2012 Buddy Little International is $2,199.
Each 2012 Genuine Scooter Co Buddy Little International is powered by a two-stroke air-cooled single-cylinder engine, which displaces at 50 cubic centimeters (thus the two-digit suffix). It uses a reed intake valve configuration and relies on a carburetor for fueling. It is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which can choose between an infinite number of effective gear ratios to improve engine operation and fuel efficiency. Each 2012 Buddy Little Intl. provides a fuel economy of 100 miles per gallon.
For braking, the 2012 Genuine Scooter Co Buddy Little International relies on a front-hydraulic-disc-brake rear-drum-brake layout. In order to ensure a smooth and controlled ride, the scooter has a telescopic fork located at the front and a single-sided swing arm with a shock absorber located at the back. For movement, the 2012 Buddy Little Intl. rides on ten-inch steel wheels wrapped in tubed tires.
Genuine Scooters used a steel frame to manufacture the 2012 Buddy Little International. It is covered with front and rear fenders and side covers. A one-piece vinyl seat provides space for up to two people. The scooter’s standard digital instrumentation consists of a trip odometer, speedometer, and fuel level warning gauge. For storage, the 2012 Buddy Little Intl. provides dash, under-seat and lockable compartments, in addition to an area for hanging a helmet. A power outlet below the dashboard enables the driver or passenger to charge a mobile phone, and a halogen headlight and pair of side mirrors provides heightened visibility.
The 2012 Genuine Scooter Co Buddy Little International is virtually unchanged from previous years, so anyone expecting new or updated features will be disappointed. The nameplate has been whittled down to two versions, limiting the number of options for potential customers. However, with its long driving range, solid build, adequate braking and handling, and reasonable pricing, the 2012 Buddy Intl. is worth checking out. It is also a more fuel efficient choice than its more powerful siblings, such as the Buddy International and most Buddy models.