Description
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.
This example is VIN: Z50J2304645. The seller purchased the bike through an Iconic auction approximately a year and a half ago and states, “This example is a rare Japanese market only 1996 Honda Gorilla. The bike have some quality Japanse “tuning” parts such as the aluminium swingarm, and most important the ultra rare Kijima (small Japanse factory) Monkey-Davidson kit.”
The odometer shows 734 KM which is 456 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller reports no recent maintenance.
Modifications:
Kijima Mon-Davi kit. “Only 50 Monkey-Davidson kits have been produced pre-2000, they are ultra rare and collectable nowadays.”
Aftermarket fish-tail mufflers.
Aftermarket foot pegs.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko 46J tires with date codes of 1221 and 1221.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Seattle, Washington, 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!
