Ref.: TAMI-16030
Honda Monkey 2000 Anniversary It was back in 1961 that a curious mini-motorcycle was seen putting around Honda's "Tama Tech" amusement park. One of the most popular rides in the park, it sported a red frame under a white gas tank, tiny 5 inch tires and a peppy 50cc engine. Riders were said to appear, of all things, simian, and henceforth the motorcycle came to be known as the Honda Monkey. Looking more like a toy than a motorcycle, the compactness and fresh appearance of the Monkey scored high with fans of all ages. Honda revamped the Z100 park version for use on public roads, and brought out the CZ100 model which began to be exported in 1963. The first model to be marketed in Japan was the improved Z50M Monkey, which featured folding handlebars and seat for easy stowing in a passenger car. In January 2000, Honda brought out the 2000 anniversary edition of the Monkey, which sported the image coloring of the 1971 Z50Z(2) model. The production of this special Monkey was limited to 3000 motorcycles. The continued appeal of the Monkey must be both its diminutive size and ease of customization. Each Monkey owner is free to interchange any number of components including the engine parts, carburetor, exhaust pipe and suspension. In fact, over 1500 custom parts are marketed for this playful mini-bike.