The Monkey actually 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 called the CZ100, which was retailed in Europe. By the time the US got access to a “Monkey” bike it was 1968 with the Z50A model (it was officially sold here as the “Mini Trail.” Here’s a tribute to what started it all.
We say tribute because, as Honda notes, the original Z100 that was used in at Tama Tech was never officially sold to the public (the seller of this example believes that there are just 3 original examples left in the world): “It featured a 4-stroke, OHV, 50cc engine that was used in the Super Cub, an all-new frame, small-diameter 5 inch tires, front and rear brakes, and a 3-speed automatic centrifugal clutch for easy gear operations, allowing children to experience the joy of riding.”
Prosman Racing in Japan made a limited run of replicas (we do not know how many were built) by sourcing one of the originals and taking it apart so they could make copies of the original parts. They say that it’s “not a perfect copy (maybe about 95%). There are some differences in the installation methods for the muffler and seat, as well as the processing methods for the frame, plates, and other small parts..”
This example is VIN: P10010049. The seller acquired it five years ago from a collector in Japan.
During his ownership, the seller has not ridden it. The odometer shows 8,698 kilometers (5,404 miles).
The seller states calls this “the Holy Grail of the monkeybikes. This Japanese reproduction of the very first Honda Z100 is a must have for the real Monkey collector. The only and best chance to own a Honda Z100. Old limited and quality reproduction by Prosman Japan.”
Maintenance:
The seller has not performed any maintenance.
Modifications:
Per the seller, this bike is stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Inoue tires that have aged out.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Damme, Belgium, this Prosman Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Z100 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
