When it comes to miniMOTO models, Honda is the undisputed leader, and there's no better example of that than the legendary Monkey, which gets a new, five-speed engine for 2022. A hit with both nostalgic riders seeking a trip down memory lane, and the new generation of enthusiasts, the model was originally produced in 1961 for a Honda-owned Japanese amusement park called Tama Tech. Its latest generation honors that history and tradition with looks and spirit that are faithful to the Monkey's earliest concept, but it touts modern features that help it perform well and run reliably—a combination that has proven to be extremely popular with customers.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
For the first time, the Monkey has a fifth gear for more comfortable cruising, thanks to a new, modern engine with a wider spread of gear ratios and a 37-tooth final-drive sprocket (previously 34). The changes not only provide peppy acceleration from low speeds, but increase top speed as well. The 124cc two-valve, overhead-cam, air-cooled engine has an undersquare design, with a narrower bore and longer stroke.
- True to its origins, the Monkey's horizontal SOHC 124cc single-cylinder engine is simple, robust, and tuned to deliver useful around-town performance.
- Air-cooled, with bore and stroke of 50.0 mm x 63.1 mm (previously 52.4 x 57.9 mm) and compression ratio of 10.0:1 (previously 9.3:1), fed by PGM-FI, it produces strong, enjoyable power all the way through the rev range.
- Simplifying maintenance, a replaceable oil filter is used for 2022, a practical upgrade from cleaning the previous model's oil spinner and screen.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
The Monkey's steel backbone frame has been tuned for a suitable balance between rigidity and supple feel—perfect for the wide variety of conditions the machine is sure to be ridden in. Oval in cross-section, the swingarm echoes the circular design theme that runs through the bike.
- Wheelbase is 45.0 in., while rake and trail are 25°/82 mm for confidence-inspiring handling.
- Wet weight is a mere 231 pounds, with a seat height of 30.5 inches.
- High-density urethane seat with 70 mm cushion contributes to comfortable ride and iconic looks.
- The inverted fork is matched by dual shocks for a compliant-yet-sporty ride.
- A single 220 mm front disc and a 190 mm rear provide secure stopping performance and can be managed by the available IMU-based ABS.
- Fat, 12-inch block-pattern tires make for a smooth ride and are sized 120/80-12 65J front and 130/80-12 69J rear.
- Head pipe, main frame, and engine hanger plate offer optimal strength for stable handling.
STYLING
Classic Monkey styling, including curved surfaces and a trapezoid silhouette highlighting the compact length, harken back to the loveable design of the original Monkey models, putting enthusiastic smiles on the faces of riders and bystanders alike.
- Glossy 1.5-gallon fuel tank, finished in the same paint color as the frame, swingarm, and shocks, crowns the machine, and proudly wears a historic 3-D Old Wing design Honda logo.
- Chrome steel high-mount front and rear fenders—plus the evocatively stamped exhaust shield, circular mirrors, and high-rise handlebar—all pay homage to the original.
- Modern technology is fully present within the reincarnation of the classic look: a digital full-LCD circular meter features speedometer, odometer with two trip meters, and six-segment fuel-level indicator.
- The “wave” pattern key wears the Old Wing motif.
- LED lighting adds modern touch, durability, and energy efficiency to a classic design.
Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a HondaCare Protection Plan
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