2-stroke engine development
During this period, Sachs was the world's leading licensee and component supplier for built-in engines in off-road sports.
- 1960s (5-speed era): Introduction of the 50/5 and 100/5 series of fan- and air-cooled engines. These engines formed the technical basis for the early expansion of manufacturers such as KTM (Penton) and Monark in off-road sports.
- 1970 (The 1251/6B): Market launch of the 125 cm³ engine with 6-speed claw shift. This engine was the first large-series design specifically conceived for competition (GS/MC) with an output of approx. 18–22 hp (depending on the configuration).
- 1976/77 (7-speed transmission): Introduction of the 1252/7 (125 cm³) and 250/7 (250 cm³) engine series. The expansion to seven gears was a response to the narrow power bands of the competition cylinders in order to optimize gear changes in off-road conditions.
- 1980s (water cooling): Series production of liquid-cooled competition engines (e.g., in the Hercules MC 250 W model) to increase thermal stability under racing conditions.
Chassis components (shock absorbers & forks)
Sachs developed specialized damping systems for tough off-road use that went beyond the pure spring function.
- Sachs Hydro-Cross (1976): Market launch of a suspension system without mechanical steel springs. Suspension and damping were achieved exclusively via an air-oil cushion. This system was used both as a rear wheel shock absorber and, in modified form, in telescopic forks.
- Sachs Hydro Fork: Use of air-assisted telescopic forks in the Hercules/Sachs model range (e.g., GS 250) to achieve a progressive characteristic curve during hard landings.