Monkey Stories
Next Generation Monkey with Bigger Tires and Better Car Stowage
Driven by the popularity of the Monkey Z50M released in 1967, the Monkey Z50A was launched two years later with enhanced performance, larger tires (increased from 5 to 8 inches) and a new front suspension.
Other improvements included a 6V battery and indicator lights as standard equipment, and a thicker seat to improve riding comfort. Brake operation was changed to handlebar levers. The Z50A was the only Monkey with this braking system.
Catalog (1969) shows how the handlebars could be folded down to stow the Z50A into the trunk of a Honda 1300 four-door sedan.
One year later, in 1970, the Monkey Z50Z was launched to replace the Z50A.
The Z50Z was designed to be more compact when loaded into a car trunk, with the front end detachable from the front suspension. A stand was newly added, to secure the bike when the front end was detached, in consideration of the user’s convenience.
The Z50Z’s braking system was reverted to handlebar lever and foot pedal operation, similar to sport bikes. Its styling was more aggressive, with an upswept muffler.
1970 Monkey Z50Z
Front end could be detached from the chassis by operating a lever on the top bridge.
Catalog (1971) depicts Monkey used as a pit lane bike.
Monkey Z50Z with front end detached. Honda N360 mini (kei) car in the background.
Sold in the U.S. as the “Mini Trail” (1969), a popular model for children to enjoy suburban leisure activities.