Pricing announced on ‘comeback’ Monkey
The 50cc version was phased out in 2017, but now there’s a new, more powerful version on the way to AustraliaIn March 2017 we ran a valedictory news story about the curtain fallng on the iconic 50cc Honda Monkey, which first went on sale in Australia in 1968 as the road-registerable Z50A. Falling sales and the issues relating to updated emission laws were the main drivers behind that decision.
Well, the void didn’t last long, because a new 125cc version will go on sale in Australia in July 2018, priced at $5999 ride away. Colours will be Banana Yellow, Pearl Nebula Red, Pearl Glittering Blue and Pearl Shinning Black.
The machine, which made its public debut at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, uses the same engine found in the Grom: a 125ccm, fuel-injected single-cylinder air-cooled unit producing 9.3hp and 11Nm of torque. Ther engine has a four-speed transmission.
The historical 3D Old Wing design Honda logo, chromed steel high-level front and rear mudguards – plus the chrome exhaust shield, circular mirrors and high-rise handlebars – all pay homage to the original, and modern touches include the digital LCD clock, LED ligting, single-channel ABS and upside-dow forks.
The Z50A lasted until 1978 before being replaced by the Z50J (1978-1981) and then the Z50R (1982-1999). In 1991, the Monkey was updated with a semi-automatic gearbox.
In February 2017, Honda launched a 50th anniversary Monkey.
Tags
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
