Honda has been making top-class motorcycles for a very long time. The Honda monkey is Honda’s “mini-Moto”. This small motorcycle has been popular since its introduction in the 1960s. The Monkey has been famous because of its rich history and instantly touched the feelings of nostalgia for riders from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.
A single-cylinder engine with air cooled SOHC fuel-injected engine powers the Honda Monkey 125. It has a 5-speed gearbox coupled with a manual hydraulic clutch system.
It was only in 2018 that Honda Monkey got its 125cc engine and an upgrade in 2022. It also got the extra gear the same year. In 2023, the paint works have mostly stayed the same.
2023 Honda Monkey Overview
- Base MSRP: $4,249
- Top Features:
- 124cc fuel-injected engine
- Five-speed transmission
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Standard abs
- Twin rear shocks
- Colors: Pearl Nebula Red, Pearl Glittering Blue
- Engine: 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder 4-stroke
- Power: 9.3 hp @ 6,750 RPM
- Torque: 8.1 ft/lbs @ 5,500 RPM
- Top Speed: 56.5 mph (91 kmph)
- Fuel Efficiency: 169 mpg
- Curb Weight: 231 pounds
- Seat Height: 30.5 inches
- Honda Grom
- Kawasaki Z125 Pro
- SSR Motorsports Razkull 125
- Benelli TNT 135
2023 Honda Monkey Review
The new versions provide the old styling without compromising the modern comforts. In the world of motorcycles, this mini-motor is loved by many thanks to the small and light and has plenty of zip. This bike is a choice for many due to its high fuel efficiency. The new Honda Monkey is a must-go bike for people looking for a lightweight bike, extremely easy to handle, equally easy to park, and highly fuel-efficient.
This bike is fantastic for surface street commutes. The design of the New Monkey is inspired by the original Honda Z series, with a compact and retro-styled frame. This bike here has been putting smiles on people for the last 60 years. This iconic legendary motorcycle captures the spirit of fun, freedom, and individuality, making it a popular choice among riders worldwide. Despite its small size, the Monkey is designed to accommodate adult riders comfortably.
Performance and Handling
Honda Monkey is a bike meant for leisure and fun rides, not for high performance. It Prioritizes easy-to-use and maneuverability over raw power. The new Monkey is equipped with a similar engine to the 2023 Grom.
The motor delivers the smooth power required for city commuting and relaxed cruising. Sufficient power for navigating urban environments and fuel efficiency make this bike ideal for city driving. This conventional bike’s durability, control, and efficiency increase thanks to the five-speed transmission. The extra gear boosts the top speed. The top speed of the 2023 Honda Monkey is 56 mph, and an astounding 188 mpg (80 kmpl) in fuel efficiency.
Honda Monkey is top in handling due to its lightweight construction and compact dimensions. Small size and low seat height contribute to excellent maneuverability, allowing riders to navigate tight spaces and urban traffic easily. The Monkey has twin rear shocks. It is combined with chunky tires and a cozy seat. They smooth out the roughest pavement in the urban jungle. The Monkey’s nimble nature makes riding fun, particularly in urban and suburban environments. The engine produces power of 9.7hp and 7.7lb-ft of torque.
Technology and Features
With head-turning styling, Honda has added many technology and features. The most important one is the anti-lock braking system, or ABS, designed to help with controlled stops in less-than-ideal conditions. The Monkey is equipped with a digital instrument cluster, which looks cute and petite and provides essential information to the rider. It typically displays speed, fuel level, odometer, trip meter, and other relevant information.
The LED lights in the bike are crisp and clear. The new Monkey has fuel injection technology, which provides perfect fuel delivery for better fuel efficiency and throttle response. Depending on the model, the Monkey can be equipped with a manual transmission for riders who prefer shifting gears manually or an automatic transmission for simplified operation, especially for beginners.
Riding Experience of the New “Mini-Moto”
Honda Monkey is known for its unique and enjoyable riding experience characterized by its agile handling, accessible nature, and playful demeanor. Monkey’s compact size and lightweight construction make it incredibly agile and easy to steer. Tiny stature and tight turning radius enable riders to handle the bike confidently. Monkey’s low seat height ensures that riders of any size can comfortably reach the ground with their feet at a stop. The riding position allows for an upright posture, reducing strain on the rider’s wrists, back, and neck.
The handlebars are typically positioned to become easy to reach, providing a comfortable and natural riding feel. Inverted Fork Suspension equipped in the bike absorbs bumps and imperfections on the road, providing a reasonably smooth and comfortable ride, particularly on urban streets.
Pros & Cons of 2023 Honda Monkey
Below are some of the top pros & cons of the 2023 Honda Monkey –
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Retro and iconic design | Limited top speed (56.5 mph) |
| Compact and lightweight | Small fuel tank capacity (1.5 gallons) |
| Easy to maneuver and park | Limited seating capacity |
| Fuel-efficient | Storage space |
| Low maintenance costs | Not for long-distance travel |
| Nimble & fun to ride | Power and acceleration |
| Best for urban commuting | Not suitable for tall riders |
| Good resale value | No wind protection |
2023 Honda Monkey Competitors
Below are some of the top competitors of Honda Monkey –
- Honda Grom:
- Power: 9.7 horsepower
- Torque: 8 lb-ft
- Top Speed: 59 mph
- Price: Starting at $3,599
- Kawasaki Z125 Pro:
- Power: 8.3 horsepower
- Torque: 7.1 lb-ft
- Top Speed: 64 mph
- Price: Starting at $3,399
- SSR Motorsports Razkull 125:
- Power: 8.3 horsepower
- Torque: 6.9 lb-ft
- Price: Starting at $1,999
- Benelli TNT 135:
- Power: 11.3 horsepower
- Torque: 7.4 lb-ft
- Top Speed: 70 mph
- Price: Starting at $2,999
2023 Honda Monkey Pictures
Honda Monkey Videos
2023 Honda Monkey ABS Specs
| ENGINE | |
| Engine Type | 124cc air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke |
| Bore And Stroke | 50.0mm x 63.1mm |
| Compression Ratio | 10:01 |
| Valve Train | SOHC; two valves per cylinder |
| Induction | PGM-FI; 24mm throttle body |
| Power | 9.3 hp @ 6,750 RPM |
| Torque | 8.1 ft/lbs @ 5,500 RPM |
| DRIVE TRAIN | |
| Transmission | Five-speed |
| Final Drive | #420 Chain; 14T/ 37T |
| CHASSIS SUSPENSION BRAKES | |
| Front Suspension | 31mm inverted fork; 3.9-inch travel |
| Rear Suspension | Twin shock; 4.0-inch travel |
| Front Brake | Single 220mm hydraulic disc; ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single 190mm hydraulic disc |
| Front Tire | 120/80-12 |
| Rear Tire | 130/80-12 |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| Rake (Caster Angle) | 25° |
| Trail | 3.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 45.0 inches |
| Seat Height | 30.5 inches |
| Fuel Capacity | 1.5 gallons (including 0.5-gallon reserve) |
| Curb Weight | 231 pounds (Includes all standard equipment, with a full tank of fuel) |
| Miles Per Gallon | 169 MPG |
| FACTORY WARRANTY INFORMATION | |
| One Year Included | Unlimited-mileage, limited warranty |
| Optional Extended | Extended coverage available with a HondaCare Protection Plan |
| OTHER | |
| Model ID | MONKEY125A |
| Emissions | Meets current EPA standards |
| Available Colors | Banana Yellow, Pearl Nebula Red |
Source: Honda Monkey Official Page
Honda Monkey FAQ
Is the Honda Monkey suitable for highway travel?
No, Honda Monkey is not ideal for long-distance highway travel. It is, however, capable of speeds adequate for urban commuting. The small engine size is designed for something other than the high speed required for highway driving.
How does the Honda Monkey handle off-road conditions?
The Honda Monkey is not designed to run as an off-road motorcycle. It can, however, handle light off-road conditions. It belongs to the mini trail bike category but is primarily made for on-road use.
Is the Honda Monkey good for beginners?
The Honda Monkey is the perfect bike for beginners due to its lightweight design, ease of handling, and manageable power. Its lower seat height is ideal for newer riders.
1 Comment
They say it’s not designed for off road use, ha! I had a Mini Trail 50 back in 1969, same design, smaller engine. I rode that in a gravel pit by my home in Alaska sun up to sun down. Went thru numerous sprockets, had the rear frame welded 6 times, no rear shocks at that time, and rode the hell out of that bike. The motor never quit. Went on to the Honda SL-70, 125 Yamaha and Harleys as I got older. That was the best and funnest bike I ever owned.