Get ready for a wild ride! The beloved Honda Monkey, a quirky yet iconic motorcycle, has received an update that's sure to turn heads and spark joy. With a history spanning over six decades, this little bike is getting a fresh look that's long overdue.
The Honda Monkey's Evolution
Back in 1961, Honda introduced the Z100 prototype, which started as a kids' ride at a Japanese amusement park. This tiny bike, with its 50cc engine and low seat height, quickly captured hearts and became a mass-produced phenomenon. By 1964, it had reached Europe, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Z50, as it was later known, became so popular that Honda only discontinued it in 2017 due to emission regulations. But fear not, because the following year, Honda introduced a 124cc bike inspired by the adorable Grom, and the Honda Monkey 125 was born.
A Charming Update
The latest edition of the Honda Monkey retains its charming appeal while adding some exciting new paint schemes. There's a color for every taste: Matte Gun Powder Metallic for a badass vibe, Millennium Red for a bold statement, and the aptly named Banana Yellow, which turns this little bike into a fruity delight.
Under the new paint, the Monkey still packs a punch with its air-cooled 124cc engine, producing 9.25 horsepower and a peak torque of 7.9 ft-lbs. It's got a five-speed gearbox and a seat height that's been raised to 30.6 inches, making it even more approachable for riders of all sizes. With a curb weight of just 231 pounds and IMU-controlled ABS, it's one of the most rider-friendly manual transmission motos out there.
And don't let its low price tag fool you - the Honda Monkey boasts full LED lighting, four inches of suspension travel front and rear, and beefy tires on 12-inch spoked wheels. This little bike can handle just about any terrain you throw its way.
Availability and Pricing
The 2026 Honda Monkey is available now in the UK for £4,199 (approximately $5,699 USD). Based on Honda's typical release schedule, we can expect to see it hit US shores later this year. With the 2025 model priced at $4,349, we can anticipate a starting price just under $4,500 for the new model.
So, are you ready to join the Monkey's gang? This super-affordable moto is a blast to ride and a real head-turner. It's time to jump on this barrel of fun and see where the road takes you!
And here's a thought-provoking question for our readers: Do you think the Honda Monkey's unique style and affordability make it a timeless classic, or is it just a fun novelty? Let us know in the comments!
