Honda Monkey: The Mini Monster is Back!

It’s been a few decades since the Honda Monkey last appeared on these American shores, but it has been welcomed back with open arms, and rightly so. Here’s why you should  actively consider getting one of these to strap to the back of your adventure-mobile.

Small But Mighty: Modern Monkey vs. The Classic

The new Monkey keeps its vintage charm but leaps ahead when it comes to performance and ride quality. Where the original was more of a fun-sized city hopper, the reboot packs a punch with a sprightly single-cylinder engine that’s eager to zip through traffic or country lanes. Thanks to modern fuel injection, it starts easily and runs smoothly—no more fiddling with a stubborn carburetor.

But perhaps the biggest change is how it handles the road. The updated Monkey gets a serious boost in control and comfort thanks to its upgraded suspension—think high-tech inverted front forks borrowed from much larger motorcycles. This translates to better stability over bumps and a surprising amount of front-end feedback, making every ride feel confident, even if you’re dodging potholes or bouncing down a gravel pull-off on your way to a hidden trailhead.

It’s these small-but-significant upgrades that make the new Monkey not just a nostalgic nod to the past, but a genuinely fun machine for today’s roads—whether you’re running errands or following your adventure-mobile somewhere new.

Riding in on the back of the Grom’s success, mini-bikes with big attitudes are all the rage right now. They are compact, inexpensive and incredibly fuel efficient. Being based off the Grom with some retro highlights like a steel tank and some other throwbacks pulled from the dusty cobweb infested factory floor, these pint size Japanese heroes are itching to have some knobby tires put on them and to tear up the campground, or be your runner into town to grab supplies or groceries so you do not have to break camp.

A Family of Fun-Sized Machines

But the Monkey isn’t alone in this mighty mini-moto movement. You’ll spot its siblings and rivals—each sporting their own brand of cheeky charm and practical prowess. Whether you’re eyeing something with a bit more off-road attitude like the Trail125 with its rugged backbone frame and cargo rack, the semi-automatic smoothness of the Dax 125, or the iconic step-through Super Cub C125 ABS, there’s a mini for every flavor of adventure.

Most of these machines share the same lively 124-125cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, modern fuel injection for easy starts, and low seat heights that make them approachable for nearly anyone. Suspension tech like inverted forks (borrowed from bigger bikes) and upgrades such as anti-lock brakes or customizable bodywork put these bikes squarely in the “serious fun” category—without losing their playful spirit.

From the campground to the city center, these bikes are as happy hauling a cooler to your lakeside spot as they are sneaking into a downtown parking space. It’s a throwback vibe, but with plenty of modern muscle and just enough quirk to make every ride an event.

Engine and Feature Rundown: Tiny Bikes, Big Persona

Now, let’s talk shop and see how our parade of pint-sized powerhouses line up under the hood (er, tank). While these mini-machines share a certain cheeky spirit, each brings its own flavor to the adventure—from more retro flash to utilitarian punch.

Engine Similarities and Subtle Differences

Across the board, most of these camp-ready contenders sport a 124cc air-cooled, single-cylinder setup—the same compact workhorse you’ll find coaxing smiles from everyone at the campground. Whether you’re popping down the trail or sneaking past traffic, these engines balance zippy acceleration with a wallet-friendly thirst for fuel. The outlier here is the Navi, which swaps in a slightly smaller 109cc heart, making it extra approachable for newcomers.

Fuel Delivery & Starting

Gone are the days of coaxing life out of a reluctant carb. Every model on this list (except the Navi, with its own twist) benefits from fuel injection, meaning crisp starts every time—even if you’ve let it hibernate all winter. The riding experience is as fuss-free as finding your favorite flannel.

Suspension and Stability

• Monkey & Grom: Both lines are perched on 31mm inverted front forks—borrowed straight from much bigger bikes—making for a surprisingly plush ride over campground roots, city cracks, or whatever lies between. The Monkey edges out a bit more travel, giving you a looser, more trail-friendly bounce.
• Trail125 & Dax 125: These two take a rugged, ready-for-anything approach with beefy backbones and suspension set for light adventure. The Trail125 winks at its utilitarian roots with extra cargo capacity and a centerstand for trailside tinkering.
• Super Cub: Classic step-through design and low seat for easy mounting, plus comfort-focused suspension that soaks up potholes on a bakery run.

Braking & Handling Confidence

Looking to stop on a dime? Some models (Monkey ABS, Dax 125, Super Cub C125 ABS) come with anti-lock brakes for added control, even if your route detours through a bit of morning dew or loose gravel. The Trail125 brings hydraulic discs up front, hauling you down from speed with authority.

Unique Twists by Model

• Monkey: All about the retro, with high-rise bars and throwback curves. The standout if you want your pit bike to look straight from a toy box—while riding like anything but a toy.
• Grom: Known for a lower seat and unique, swappable body panels—ideal for those who see bikes as blank canvases.
• Dax 125: Retro backbone styling meets simple, semi-automatic shifts—great for relaxed rides and pure fun.
• Super Cub: Keeps the classic mopeds’ step-through architecture, targeting quick hops in and out of the saddle.
• Trail125: The outlier for expeditions, packing utility with a rear rack, rugged steel frame, and adventure-ready hardware.
• Navi: Smallest displacement but sneaks in an integrated storage bay and low seat for easy handling; perfect if you’re packing light and traveling lighter.

So, whether you’re in it for the style points, offbeat practicality, or sheer urban agility, there’s a mini-moto for every flavor of adventure. Each one throws in a dash of modern reliability, a whisper of heritage, and just enough wildness to keep things fun.

Monkey vs. the Mini-Moto Crowd: What Sets It Apart?

Now, you might be wondering—how does the Monkey stack up against the other small but mighty legends out there? In the booming world of mini-motos, there are plenty of pint-sized options vying for your attention. But the Monkey still manages to carve out a totally distinct spot for itself.

What Makes the Monkey Stand Out?

• Retro Flair with Real Function:
  The Monkey throws it back with a true old-school look—think round headlights, a classic teardrop tank, and chrome fenders. Most of its competitors, like the more angular, mod-styled Grom or the adventure-leaning Trail125, skew modern or rugged in design. The Monkey? It’s got that blend of ‘70s nostalgia and contemporary upgrades you won’t find anywhere else.
• Suspension and Ride Comfort:
  Borrowing big-bike tech with those chunky inverted forks up front, the Monkey serves up impressive comfort—even over bumpy patches or campground shortcuts. While some other minis tend to feel their size on rough roads, the Monkey shrugs it off with stability and plushness beyond its scale.
• Transmission Choices:
  The Monkey keeps it traditional with a manual four-speed gearbox, so you can really wring out that 124cc engine on winding backroads. By contrast, some rivals offer semi-automatic or fully automatic options, which are great for pure convenience but don’t deliver the same old-school riding engagement.
• Customization and Character:
  While several mini-motos come with swappable plastics or graphics packages, the Monkey’s customization options lean into timeless style—add racks, swap seats, or deck it out for that perfect retro-camping vibe.
• Versatile Personality:
  The Monkey is perfectly at home both as a campground runabout and a city errand machine. Compared to others that lean heavily urban (think the Navi’s scooter soul) or off-road (like the rugged Trail), the Monkey threads the needle with a playful side that’s comfortable everywhere.
• Seating and Ergonomics:
  The Monkey’s plush, bench-style seat sits lower to the ground, making it approachable for newer riders or those who just like to tip-toe. Its upright bars and roomy footpeg layout mean even taller folks won’t cramp up after a quick grocery run or a spin around the lake.

In Short:
Think of the Monkey as the retro-cool camp counselor in a sea of mini-moto overachievers. Sure, it shares the 125cc heart and lightweight size with others in its class, but its unmistakable charm, surprising road manners, and everyday versatility make it a true standout—whether you’re chasing nostalgia or just want to stand out in a sea of lookalikes.

Mini But Mighty: Monkey Highlights

So, what’s packed into this little dynamo besides its wild retro charm? Let’s break down what makes the Monkey not just irresistibly cute, but genuinely capable whether you’re weaving through city traffic or bombing across a campground.

• Engine & Performance:
  Sitting at the heart of the Monkey is a lively 124cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. Paired with modern fuel injection, you get reliable starts, punchy torque for its size, and a dash of efficiency. Don’t let its friendly face fool you—it’s got enough pep to make your errands grin-worthy.
• Modern Safety Features:
  The Monkey comes standard with anti-lock brakes up front, so sudden rain or that surprise gravel patch won’t dampen your day. The inverted front fork offers upgraded suspension, soaking up bumps that might have rattled your teeth on older minis.
• Classic Meets Contemporary Design:
  Retro styling cues—think high-rise handlebars and that steel tank—blend seamlessly with new-school reliability. Chunky tires not only look the part, but also smooth out rough roads and grip through the twisties.
• Easy Handling, Effortless Fun:
  With a low 30.5-inch seat height and a featherweight build, maneuvering the Monkey is a cinch. Park it anywhere, ride it all day—whether you’re vertically gifted or modestly sized (no shame).
• Comfort & Convenience:
  Twin rear shocks and a plush seat mean you’re riding in style and comfort even when the pavement gets patchy. An LED taillight keeps things bright and safe, no matter when you’re headed back to base camp.

There you have it: all the essentials, wrapped up in a pint-sized package that’s equal parts nostalgia and practical fun.

Built for the Urban Jungle

What really makes the Monkey a winner for city dwellers is its uncanny ability to zip through tight spaces, snag parking in even the most crowded lots, and sneak past gridlocked traffic with a grin. Thanks to its featherweight frame and friendly 124cc engine, navigating busy boulevards or weaving down alleyways feels more like play than chore.

Retro charm is baked right in—from that iconic round headlight to the unmistakable silhouette—which means you’ll catch smiles at stoplights from scooter fans and classic car buffs alike. Low enough to handle with confidence, with just enough pep to leave delivery vans eating your dust, the Monkey transforms the daily slog into a quick detour for tacos, coffee, or whatever calls your name.

Coming in at a price that won’t make your wallet cry, but still loaded with personality, it’s the perfect companion for anyone looking to add a little mischief to their morning commute or weekend downtown explorations.

Confidence-Inspiring Design and Features

Now, let’s talk about why swinging a leg over the Monkey doesn’t just make you grin—it keeps you feeling in control wherever you take it.

First off, there’s a solid nod to modern safety with the front-wheel ABS, which might sound fancy for such a playful little machine, but it really shines when roads get sketchy or that unexpected summer shower hits. You get the confidence to squeeze the brakes a bit harder on gravel turnouts or slick blacktop, knowing the bike’s got your back.

Up front, the upside-down hydraulic fork is more than just a cool retro-meets-modern touch. It soaks up bumps and potholes that would make lesser mini-motos jittery, and delivers better road feedback—so on rough campground trails or patchy urban asphalt, you stay both planted and smiling.

All that classic styling comes wrapped around real, usable features that turn this “novelty” into a genuine daily runabout, no matter the weather or terrain.

Low and Light: Effortless Manoeuvrability

One of the Monkey’s most inviting quirks is its seat height. At just 30.5 inches off the ground, hopping on feels more like settling into your favorite camp chair than mounting a motorcycle. Add in its featherweight chassis—checking in at about 230 pounds wet—and pretty much anyone can flat-foot it or shuffle it around a crowded parking lot with zero drama. This low, light build transforms tight turns, last-minute parking jobs, and stoplights into a breeze, making the Monkey just as friendly for newcomers as it is fun for seasoned riders wanting a no-stress runabout.

Modern Suspension, Vintage Vibes

While the Monkey is loaded with retro charm, its rubber meets the road with some decidedly modern upgrades. Chief among them: an inverted hydraulic front fork that gives the pint-sized Monkey big-bike stability. This suspension setup doesn’t just look cool—it delivers noticeably better comfort and control over every pothole, gravel wash, and suburban speed bump you’ll ever point it at.

The improved fork, along with contemporary rear shocks, means the Monkey soaks up rough patches without flinching. Whether you’re meandering through city traffic or dodging stray pine cones around the campground, you’ll appreciate the added confidence and steady handling. Plus, the suspension keeps the grin on your face, instead of knocking your fillings loose—a definite plus if you’re taking the long way back with that carton of eggs.

Outfit Your Monkey: Accessorize for Fun and Function

Half the fun of owning a Honda Monkey is making it truly your own. Whether you’re planning to hit the trails behind your favorite KOA or zip into town on a coffee run, there’s a sprawling market of accessories to help you dial in both style and function.

Fancy swapping out the stock bits? Consider these crowd favorites:

• Luggage racks and basket kits: Perfect for tossing a camp stove or that all-important bag of charcoal.
• Crash bars and skid plates: Give your Monkey the armor it needs for the occasional tumble—or aggressive curb hopping.
• Upgraded seats: Because your backside deserves to be as happy as you are cruising backroads.
• LED lighting kits: Light up the night, and make sure you’re spotted by drivers distracted by your Monkey’s irresistible retro charm.
• Knobby tires: Transform the little bike into a burly campground crawler that laughs at mud puddles.
• Customization bling: From anodized handlebar ends to high-mount exhausts, there are bolt-ons galore to crank the personality dial up to 11.

And let’s not forget storage boxes, phone mounts, or a fresh set of mirrors with a little urban attitude from outfits like Chimera and Kitaco. The real limitation? Your imagination—and maybe your wallet.

100% street legal, featuring all the DOT requirements such as headlamp, turn signals, horn, and brake lights, and a 125cc engine with fuel injection means that with a stiff breeze to your back, you can get this thing going well into the 60mph range.

Braking and Suspension: Small Size, Serious Tech

When it comes to stopping power, the Monkey isn’t monkeying around. It comes equipped with a front-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), giving you extra confidence when cruising through a sudden downpour or navigating sketchy gravel patches at the edge of the campground. No more white-knuckle moments when the pavement gets slick—just smooth, controlled stops.

On the suspension front, the Monkey gets a modern twist with an inverted hydraulic front fork. This upgrade gives the bike noticeably better handling and feel compared to its vintage ancestors. You’ll notice improved road feedback, which makes winding through campground trails or darting through city streets equally enjoyable. Add in a durable set of twin rear shocks and chunky tires, and you’ve got a little beast that soaks up bumps and potholes like a much bigger bike. The low, plush seat rounds out the comfort, so even when the campground turns into a washboard, you’ll be grinning instead of grimacing.

Available in two colors, Banana peel Yellow and Nebula Red, and a starting MSRP of $3,999 – this little monster is sure to be seen everywhere now that they are back in the US for the 2019 model year.

For those ready to pull the trigger, the official starting price is $4,349,* plus a $300 destination charge, so you can budget your next adventure (and a few aftermarket goodies from Chimera or Kitaco) accordingly. Whether you’re eyeing that bold yellow or the classic red, you’re getting all the mini-moto fun without breaking the bank—or your smile.