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. Japan and Europe got to play with it first, but American riders got their chance in 1968 with a model designated the Z50.
Eventually, demand for mini dirt bikes grew such that Honda introduced the Z50R in 1979. With its sloped tank, BMX-style handlebars, and number plates, the R made for a much more race-specific design than its casual, leisure-oriented predecessors.
The 1980 model was available in Tahitian Red and it had “Z” branding on the side of each seat.
This particular Z50R example (VIN: AB025111137) came to us from a collection in Japan.
Because there is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us detail the bike. Angel did the work, he notes that the brakes are at 95% front/rear, the tires have aged out, and the oil level is OK but it is dark.
Daniel notes that the bike appears quite original – there are no witness marks, the hardware is all matching, and the screws (which are all JIS) do not look like they’ve been tinkered with.
Modifications:
The OEM Honda logo decals on the tank have been replaced with RSC (Racing Service Center Corporation, the predecessor of HRC) decals.
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 aged-out IRC Tractor tires.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Z50R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
Continental US: Haul Bikes will ship anything sold through Iconic for a starting rate of $750 in the Continental US (prices may increase in rural markets), and Iconic will handle the paperwork on your behalf. You do not need to crate your bike or drain the gas/disconnect the battery if you go with Haul Bikes. We are glad to work with the shipper of your choice as well, but you will have to arrange it.
Please note:
spares/extras will have to be shipped separately via FedEx or similar.
the fee includes $15,000 of insurance with a $500 deductible. Additional insurance can be purchased at a cost of $50 per additional $5,000 of value.
$5,000 for US to Europe/Asia is a VERY ROUGH ballpark which includes transport as well as customs fees and duties. Please contact Shippio for an exact quote.
