Affectionately called the “Monkey” in other markets, the Mini Trail (as branded in the US) started in 1961 as a ride at the Tama Tech amusement park, a former venture owned by a Honda subsidiary that was all about promoting the “joys of driving”.
The name came from the fact that riders looked like monkeys on the diminutive machines, but the bikes were so popular that Honda created a production version in 1964. Between the small wheels and the ultra-compact wheelbase, riders of any size could swing a leg over knowing that they’d be in for a good time. Japan and Europe got to play with it first, but American riders got their chance in 1968 with a model designated the Z50.
For the engine, Honda borrowed the same, proven 49cc four-stroke single as found in the C100 step-thru. Though it made a mere 4.5hp, the semi-automatic gearbox allowed the bike to be approachable to riders of all skill levels while giving it plenty of giddyup for its size.
Features include:
•49cc four stroke engine
•Headlights with high & low beam, tail light with brake light
•3-speed transmission with automatic clutch
•Adjustable height seat
•Twist lock folding handlebars
•Battery trickle charger plug
This example is VIN: Z50A201944, Engine # Z50AE-194964. The seller acquired it in 1992. “Photo of Mini Trail frame number is included when Z50A was dropped off for the 2017 restoration. When frame was powder coated, restorer did not preserve visible frame number.”
There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
“In 1992, I, and my 10 year old son, purchased this 1969 Honda Mini Trail (Z50A) from my co-worker friend. After getting it running, my son rode it for a year, before it sat in my garage for 24 years for needed mechanical repairs.”
Maintenance:
In 2017, this Honda MiniTrail had a complete restoration from VJ Moto in Lewisville, Texas. Some of the highlights on the restoration:
•Welded frame
•Flushed gas tank and lined with POR-15
•Powder coat frame, wheels; misc. pieces
•Gas tank painted to factory specs.
•Replaced engine case
•Swapped engine internals
Some major parts replacements included: Oil seal kit, complete gasket kit, fork boot & cap set, two new Bridgestone tires & tubes, OEM seat replacement, two foot peg replacements, steering bearing upgrade, two fork seals & two new fenders.
After being restored, the Honda MiniTrail was ridden very sparingly over the next year, before it sat again in my garage for 7 years until December 2025, where it was brought back to life by Babbitt’s Garage. Here are some of the highlights:
•Clean gas tank
•Install new carburetor & throttle cable
•New battery
•Replaced battery wiring harness
•Engine oil change
•Repaired light wiring & replaced bulb & fuses
•New tire tubes from mesquite thorns
•New front shock boots
Modifications:
Battery tender lead.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Trail Wing tires with date codes of 2916 and 3716.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“There are 2 small paint chips at the front top of the gas tank.”
Also, there is a small discoloration on the rear fender at the base, which is barely visible.
Currently located in Waco, Texas, this Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Z50 Mini Trail stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
