Honda Z50M Monkey Bike: Tiny Two-Wheeler Motoring Channel Staff - 20August/2007 |  Honda Z50M Monkey Bike
 49 cubic centimetres of grunt
|
Melbourne, Australia —
The original monkey has returned! Honda will release the Z50
Monkey bike in Australia in early September priced from less than
$4,000. Honda
says that the new bike celebrates 40 years on sale in world
markets, and after a long absence is returning to Oz. Pricing for the
new model is as follows:  Honda Z50M: $3,490
"When
Honda wanted to develop a bike in the early 1960's specifically to
introduce Japanese kids to motorcycling, they called on the same engine
used to power the highly successful Cub. The motor was considered to be
bullet proof and, importantly, could be fitted into a tiny chassis," reads the short history released by Honda. Honda Z50M Monkey Bike The
Z50M is powered by a 49cc air
cooled, 4 stroke OHC single cylinder engine that should be enough power
for most kids. The mini bike also features telescopic
forks, a convenient carry rack, a speedometer, an 'old school' swingarm
with visible springs, and a kick start. According to Honda, the
Monkey 40th Anniversary Special has been produced in a similar fashion
to the original Monkey Z50M and features the check-patterned
"tartan" seat made popular by the original model. This time stylish
studs have been added to give it an even more unique look. Even
though the Z50M won't be road registrable, it nevertheless will be
equipped with head and brake lamps, indicators and rear view mirrors.
Ostensibly a 'first' bike for budding young riders, the Monkey
bike has a 4.5 litre fuel tank and "offers a refined feel through
the use of graphite
black detailing" according to Honda. The tyres are semi
knobblies, while the frame and front and rear wheels are finished in
Monza Red for added visual impact. A commemorative 40th
Anniversary Logo also features on the top section of the fuel tank
explains Honda, and also on the
side cover and other key areas. Adding sparkle to
the special edition, there's plenty of polished metals, found on the
rear rack, head light case, exhaust pipe cover, the chain case
and other areas. Honda insists these shiny finishes "ensure that this
is truly a luxurious,
special edition model".
Honda expects the new Z50 will attract a whole fresh legion of followers,
"similar to those who came on board when it first appeared as a ride at
the 'Tama Tech' theme park in Hirano city, Tokyo all those years ago". The
Australian release of the Z50M will be available from Honda Dealers
nationally early September at a retail price of $3,490. Related articles:
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CBR1000RR (2004)
- Honda
CBR600RR
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