This rare Golden Honda Z50 Monkey Bike recently sold on eBay is one of very few in the US today.
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An International Hit
Honda introduced the Monkey Bike in the early 1960s as a child’s ride at an amusement park. It became an international hit when it went into full production. Honda sold some 50,000 in the first year alone. Derivatives are still made to this day and sold in almost every country on earth.
Honda built 5,000 Golden Monkey Bikes for the Japanese market in 1984. This dazzling example was one of the few that found their way to the US.
402 Miles From New
This tiny, spectacular-looking machine was for sale in Warner Robins, Ga. The photos reflect the apparent modest mileage. The previous owner shipped the Golden Monkey over from Japan, and clearly, it had been used sparingly, if at all.
The seller carefully pointed out the few blemishes and marks. Despite these, this Golden Monkey presents as if it's almost new. The original seat cover is intact. The Limited Edition decals on either side of the tank and the left-side oval battery cover are still in place and look fresh.
Save for those few minor marks, and a little oxidizing on some of the engine parts, this Monkey Bike is almost museum-ready. Even the footpeg grips are bound in cling film.
Why Monkey Bike?
Honda introduced the Z50M (as it was initially named) in 1961. It soon became known as the Monkey Bike because riders resembled monkeys on the little machines. In the US, Honda marketed it as the Mini Trail - opens in new window or tab., but over time, the name Monkey Bike endured.
Although Honda conceived the Monkey Bike for kids, people of all ages, shapes, and sizes can ride one comfortably. It’s powered by Honda’s ubiquitous 50-cc engine, made famous in the Honda Super Cub - opens in new window or tab.. The Monkey Bike is so light that the 4.5-horsepower engine is enough to get you about unless you have a long journey in mind.
Bulletproof
The 50-cc Honda four-stroke - opens in new window or tab. is one of the most popular engines ever made. Honda engineered it for use in parts of the world with poor-quality fuel and where maintenance isn’t a priority. As a result, one could survive anything short of a nuclear explosion. It could easily do a coast-to-coast run–and back again. But with this Golden Monkey's top speed shy of 40 mph, that might take a while.
Some selected technical points:
- Engine: air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
- Displacement: 49 cc
- Carburetion: 13mm Keihin - opens in new window or tab.
- Transmission: four-speed, automatic clutch
- Brakes: single leading drum front and rear
- Wheelbase: 895 mm (35 in.)
- Weight: 58 kgs (128 lbs.)
- Fuel capacity: 4.5 liters (1.2 gal.)
Cult Machine
This Z50 is a true cult motorcycle - opens in new window or tab., which is astonishing given its acute lack of performance. This Golden Monkey was a special version of a very special bike. The selection of Monkey Bike parts - opens in new window or tab., tuning parts, and accessories on eBay is enormous.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.