Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Affectionately called the “Monkey” in other markets, the Mini Trail (as branded in the US) started life 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 proved 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 four-speed gearbox allowed the bike to have plenty of giddyup for its size. In fact, Monkeys are perfectly streetable in many parts of the world — they can even be plated should you choose.
Over the course of the Z50’s production life, Honda has released several limited edition — and thus highly collectible — variants. In 1984, Japan got just 5,000 Gold Edition models finished in gold chrome paint and specced with lights and signals. Some two years later, the Monkey was treated to an eye-catching “Christmas Special” colorway (officially known as the Z50RD), outfitted with even more chrome and complemented by some red, white, and blue accents.
Come 1996, Honda revived the Gold Edition for a second run. As before, a mere 5,000 units left the factory, each one destined for the Japanese market.
This example is VIN: Z50J2300150. The seller is a partner of Iconic who sources motorcycles from Japan for export.
The odometer shows 7,152 kilometers (4,444 miles).
Modifications:
Aftermarket exhaust.
Aftermarket seat cover.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on its original Dunlop Roadmaster TT100 tires.
The sale includes four keys.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California, this Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Monkey Gold Edition stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
