Description
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.
Manufactured December 1969, this example is VIN: Z50A266933. The seller purchased the bike from Hagerty five years ago but has decided to sell as he is downsizing his collection.
There is no odometer, true mileage unknown.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us clean and sync the carb, replace the battery, replace the rear tire tube, and replace the taillight bulb.
Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok
2T Oil Level: NA
Coolant Level: NA, Air Cooled
Coolant Quality: NA
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: NA, Drum
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: NA
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: NA, Drum
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: NA
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: NA
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: NA
Final Drive Condition: WORN
Headlight Low Beam: PASS
Passing Light: NA
Parking Light: NA
Turn Signals: NA
Tail Light: PASS
Brake Light (Front Switch): OK
Brake Light (Rear Switch): OK
Plate Light: VIA TAIL LIGHT
Horn: NA
Kill Switch: OK ONLY IGNITION
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: DRUM
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: DRUM
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: NA
Tire Date Code Front: PRE-2000
Tire Date Code Rear: PRE-2000
Tire % Remaining Front: 90%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90%
Tire Press. Front: 15 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 7 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 6.3
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 6.5
Running Condition: RUNS
Test Ride Completed: YES
Test Ride Distance: 1/2 MI
Modifications:
The bike appears to be stock.
Inside of the tank:
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, this Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Z50 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!