5 Reasons to LOVE the Tiny Honda Monkey (in-depth review)

The Honda Monkey, Honda Grom, Honda Trail 125, Honda SuperCub 125, and Honda Navi are all part of the Honda MiniMoto family. The Monkey, with classic styling, offers a more quirky alternative to the others. Is it true you meet the nicest people on a Honda? Today we investigate 5 reasons to love the cute, tiny Honda Monkey 125. #honda #minimoto #hondamonkey #hondagrom #motorcycle
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00:00 Intro
01:46 History/Models
02:37 Ergonomics
03:56 Specs
05:02 Features
08:04 1-Fuel Economy
11:22 2-Style
12:09 3-LightWeight
16:05 MiniMoto Models
17:26 4-Slow Is Fun
21:09 Top Speed?
23:01 5-Customization
24:37 Final Thoughts

[@BigRockMoto]

Do you think modern e-bikes have made small motorcycle like this obsolete? Sound off below. 🏍TODAY’S GEAR: ⚡ Klim K Forty-3 Jeans: imp.i104546.net/756Wz3 ⚡ Arai Contour-X Helmet: imp.i104546.net/6e1WXN ⚡ Klim Marrakesh Jacket: imp.i104546.net/5gDAY2 ⚡ Sidi Adventure 2 Gore Tex Boot: imp.i104546.net/b3q5kx ⚡ Cardo Packtalk Edge:: cardosystems.rfrl.co/62nyq ⚡ DJI Osmo Action 4: amzn.to/48O1F2b ⚡ DJI Osmo Pocket 3: amzn.to/3Pcqeik ⚡ DJI Mini Pro 4 Drone: amzn.to/3WKU6a2 ⚡2024 Gear Guide Download: tinyurl.com/3jtkmdvz ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Denali Lighting: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@katjamieson1699]

I bought an ebike (ride1up revv 1 ht) as a way to learn the very basics of motorcycling, and I would much rather have a Monkey or Grom. My ebike is fine, it served that purpose well and it was a great value, but it doesn't have the personality, range, or power of a mini moto. I now own a full size motorcycle, a 2000 Kawasaki ZR-7, and I almost never use my ebike anymore. If I had used that money on a Monkey or Grom, I'd be riding it a lot, especially since my main bike is currently parked awaiting service.

[@ndrew19]

I don't think so...not yet anyway. You're still looking at $5K for a decent e-bike. The tech and range are advancing rapidly, I think it could be comparable in the near future, but for anyone looking to go any kind of distance, or take a multi-day trip, I think that a combustion engine and maybe an extra gallon of fuel is still a no-brainer.

[@AOHgoog22]

e-bike is wayy more dangerous than this monkey . i ride both... also ebikes are getting more attention by cops... impaired riders think they cant get a ticket lose their license ..lol good luck there... also ebikes in the news saying dangerous on sidewalks... not legal for street use turn signals...some trail sections have banned ebikes...plus they are really so different...like the goldwing DCT is just simply 'a different riding experience' i like both equally... if i had room i would keep both...IMO i po-po'd the DCT ...then i rode the east coast BDRs....ummm DCT is INSANE AWESOME honda A+ engineering masters...i tried to break the DCT and couldn't... BEAST africa twin DCT!

[@truthsRsung]

​@@AOHgoog22 ... How did your "Gamer" philosophy Infect your Life? This isn't GTA IV. Pedaling past to PoPo isn't hard, if you obey the Rules of the Road, while in eyesight, and Respect Other People's Space, while off road. Your examples all stem from people who's First Vehicle was IN Grand Theft Auto. I suggest you learn to be someone worth experiencing, instead of focusing on what your experience is.

[@truthsRsung]

Are you kidding me? A bicycle without power assist is better than this lil' billy goat. There is no reason to put signals and mirrors on a vehicle that you don't want near an Amazon Delivery Van. You can't see over the bed of a pickup, and you don't dare stand up to Correct your ignorance. You lack the power to pass someone Rolling Coal, so you might as well stick to the subdivision, resort, or farm. There are better two wheel contraptions for those purposes. Noone would think it fun to empty that fuel tank in one go, by themselves. Why is it over 200 lbs.??? Would you like Fries with that?

[@jonathanrosenesq202]

Happy Fathers day to all u dads. This was the bike that started it all as a 12 year old in 1969. Mom was furious, how my Brother and I would be killed or worse. He slept on the couch for a few days after the purchase. As a WW 2 combat veteran he knew us boys would survive. He passed in 2022 and miss him daily but still ride and love bikes because of him. This review is priceless as he shows home much "FUN" a well made simple bike can be. It's a magic bike and stole my heart, thanks Dad in heaven.

[@Spetk]

I loved this story. I have a 69 mini in my garage. I love it so much.

[@ohwell2790]

I am 80 and bought the Monkey in 2023 installed the T-Rex racing center stand, T-Rex windshield and rear shocks from Man in the box the $120 ones and they have made a huge difference to have adjustable shocks on the rear and a K-N oil cleanable air filter. Have no plans for further upgrades. Get between 114-138 MPG in the 45-50 MPH range. Just right for me as I have been ridding for 65 years on many big bikes 1000cc machines. But now this is just as much fun for me now.

[@Jimo368]

I bought a Grom last year, super fun but not practical. That being said the Honda mini motos will be running 50 years from now and almost all e-bikes will be in the trash or obsolete in 5 to 10 years, or even less in some cases.

[@user-gq2vn1xj2r]

That's a great point I never considered. I also think that E-bikes are more dangerous. They go fast enough for serious injury, but still below the speed of traffic.

[@allistairneil8968]

I doubt a 4000 dollar ebike will end up in the trash quite so quickly. My crappy ebike is over ten years old already.

[@TheGraytOutdoors]

@@user-gq2vn1xj2r It’s strange to me how an e-bike with no signal or brake lights, running 30mph in a 25mph zone can come past my house but a stock gas powered Coleman mini bike that can only run 17 to 20mph is illegal 😂.. Tis the world we live in I guess.. 😄

[@dbx1233]

@@allistairneil8968 You should convert your ebike to a Honda Monkey.

[@1966johnnywayne]

@@TheGraytOutdoors They can run past your house doing 30mph...because they are BREAKING THE LAW. E-bikes are speed regulated, and 30mph is not legal.

[@vailmcc]

In 1969 my parents bought me a Mini Trail, blue in color and it had lights.. I've had a dozen bikes since then, but I had more fun on that little bike than all those other bikes combined. As they say.. it's much more fun to go fast on a slow bike, than it is to go slow on a fast bike! Thanks for the review, Ian! It reminded me of a far better time..

[@DaveZee01]

Your '69 Monkey was the one that this new Monkey was styled on. I guess Ian wasn't able to find a photo of it.

[@truthsRsung]

You lived in a different time and place. Parents get arrested these days for "endangering" their children the way your parents gave you Freedom. I feel Lucky that I got to ride everywhere growing up on my 20” bike.

[@MCTeck]

I was riding a friends Mini Trail. I rode a wheelie in first gear, then shifted to second, and pulled on the bars too much. I looped the bike and it landed on my chest! No Injury ! [I was 16 at the time]

[@fasteddylove-muffin6415]

@@MCTeck Good to hear because that is a lot of weight.

[@donblack541]

I would buy the Honda Monkey all day over the e-bike.

[@gzahnd]

or both, for different reasons. :)

[@truthsRsung]

​@@gzahnd ... You can ride Less places Legally on the Honda. Neither can hit the highway, but if you are willing to fake pedaling a bike with power assist, you may go Most places that you are allowed to walk. We ARE talking about machines designed to enhance our Freedom, right? The Honda requires that you MUST make a trip to the DMV and that you MUST make Payments to Insure it. Freedom much?

[@noseboop4354]

@@truthsRsung Where do you live that doesn't allow this on the highway? Where I live any motorcycle can use the highway as long as it has at least 125cc, which this does.

[@truthsRsung]

@@noseboop4354 ... I CAN use a screwdriver handle as a hammer, but I don't. I really don't care what some politicians have decided about riding motorcycles while sitting in three piece suits, in a large and over decorated room. Unless the bike + rider is over 600 lbs., every gust of wind, every bow wave from a Semi, and every puddle will send you off in a different direction. At thirty mph it is correctable, at sixty, the ditch, or oncoming traffic. Mini bikes were made for children, in controlled environments, like dude said in the Video. Front yards, back yards, to the local store, library, or friends house, not on Truck Routes, Tollways, or Autobahn. The wheel size is too small for speed bumps, and Railroad Crossings and the frame puts the 200 lbs of Rider over the Rear Wheel. I have to calculate Center of Gravity as a Pilot every time I think about Flying, and I don't want to think about the CG of this Mini on Roids.

[@56Spookdog]

@@truthsRsungI never go to DMV if can’t be handled things online a my insurance handles it, as far as the reason someone buys a Monkey or other small motorcycle is for what ever reason they want I would go out out on a limb and say it’s not for freedom it’s for fun. Electric bikes are cool I consider buying one before I bought my Yamaha.

[@TheGraytOutdoors]

So glad to see you talking business on the Honda Monkey.. I have 2, that’s right 2. Both 2020s, one with ABS and one without.. No they’re not powerful, they won’t break any land speed records, and the rear suspension bottoms out easily BUT if you’re buying this bike expecting those particular things to be better, well, you’re buying it for the wrong reason.. however, all those things can be upgraded. It’s a two wheeled Time Machine that makes you feel like a kid sitting at the end of his driveway, looking both ways before he takes off down the street like a little rebel. I haven’t changed anything more than the rear shocks on both mine and honestly, it’s all I feel is necessary to have a great time on this bike.. I would suggest a tire upgrade if you intend to go off road much with it.. the tires that it comes with are great on pavement but will washout badly on gravel,dirt, and sand.. I’ve set mine up for fishing and camping and it’s done both on many occasions (yes I have a YT channel as well😉) Also, I have heard that the older 4speeds can go faster and hold speed better than the newer 5speed.. I can run 55mph steady loaded down and have hit 70mph on the downhill, but with those 12” wheels, that can be a bit sketchy.. great episode my friend!!

[@human1513]

"..I can run 55mph steady loaded down and have hit 70mph on the downhill, but with those 12” wheels, that can be a bit sketchy.. ..." 🤣😍

[@TheGraytOutdoors]

@@human1513 I rode to Nags Head NC last Father’s Day from my house in Va. took almost 3 hours. All back roads of course, but man, what a blast.. On the way back, I got in behind a man pulling a big camper and drafted him for about 30 miles at 65-67mph.. knees against the tank and head tucked between the mirrors.. but to take a journey like that, on something so small and cool, yet still comfortable, man, all I can say is, unless you try it, there’s hardly a way to explain it.. a lifetime experience..

[@bdydrppup]

I bought my monkey in 2020 as a first step getting back into motorcycles from an 8 year absence. It is just the most fun you can have on a bike. Great campground bike, backroads, we cruised the Florida keys on it, rode the "going to the sun road" in Glacier national park. I put a rack and milk crate on the back and can haul firewood with it. I call it the smile bike. I smile the whole time riding it. I'm 6' 210lbs and look ridiculous on it. Everyone around me smiles watching me look silly on it. My wife has the trail 125 and it is also a hoot to ride. I've had 4 other bikes over the past 4 years, but the monkey remains a constant. Highly recommend.

[@kevinc8744]

Fun as heck, they are. I had a Grom and did several 500 mile trips up into Northern Quebec from my driveway in Vermont, all done on back roads. Had tons of fun, this bikes performance surprised me, FYI I am a smaller frame guy and not very heavy..

[@perfectlynormal5729]

Over half a century ago, my little brother had a 50cc Honda Mini Trail. I loved that bike. I rode it about as much as I rode my Hodaka Ace 100.

[@ridgetop8161]

Just for a few hundred dollars more you can make some very good upgrades to the monkey. I just put on a different handlebar to straighten out the hand position a little. Then I did the rear shocks for under $200. Huge change. And then the rear rack. The bike has been perfect since then. Also, every single person that tries riding it ends up laughing the whole time in loving it. It’s crazy how fun it is.

[@1JEEPNICK1]

I love my 2024 monkey. Always a smile on my face. I grew up riding my uncles mini trail. Had to have one for nostalgia.

[@wpkambiancesounds]

Me as well, love my 2024 Monkey.

[@MrAleph0000]

Funny, same for me 😂.

[@wpkambiancesounds]

I have one as my first bike. So fun on the trails here in New Mexico. I was so scared of getting a bike but after riding this, i started loving them and understand why so many people ride.

[@Nobluffbuff]

The first bike I ever learned to ride was my dad's (mid-70's model) Honda Trail 70. I just discovered this new Monkey model and it's giving me major nostalgia...I might have to buy one!!

[@ramoneortiz]

My wife and I own two Monkeys. We love them. For longer rides we jump on our BMWs.

[@nicolanaj]

learnt to ride on a Monkey when i was 7 back in 1978. for me at the time, in summer, at my uncle's house it was just so amazing to ride it ! such gooood memories

[@bagr4ever]

Thumbs up for the metric conversions. Really helpful.

[@truthsRsung]

60 mph is 100 kph. Why do people need help with Math? Too busy picking your nose as a ten year old to learn your lessons? Do you consider yourself a grown adult? You can't even check what you typed before pressing send. You need an editor for your publications that are less than ten words long.

[@bagr4ever]

@@truthsRsung Go get some help, you live in a sad world.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@robertyoung8289]

Wow. What a fantastic review. 45yrs of riding experience 47 bikes owned. My Monkey is the most enjoyable bike I've ever owned.

[@lenneavy]

My SO was interested in learning how to ride a bike but 125ccm I had back then was too tall. She tried bunch of bikes at Honda dealer and when we got to the Monkey, I knew we will have a banana yellow bike in our garage. Perfect bike for a total, especially smaller, beginner - you are always in control with the Monkey. Low power doesn't surprise, yet it still can deliver sufficient dynamic from the traffic lights start to city speed limits. On a highway you are pretty much stuck behind the first truck or campervan you will reach but it is typical for every 125 ccm bike. Also fun fact, Monkey was used to beat the record of the longest distance driven without refueling - 4,183.8 kilometers (2,599.7 miles). It was of course heavily modified to pull this off, starting from ~110 l tank.

[@MotoCocoTV]

Ian, I had bought a Honda Ruckus used a decade ago. I put 2500 miles on it in 2 years. I loved that lil Honda, and it is legal in the bike lanes..even though it's not a Monkey, but similar. I met more fun people, asking questio s and it was not a typical so cal scooter. I put my golf clubs on it, a huge bag of soccer balls, to go coach, and the most fun was a trip to old 84 lumber with a bucket of supplies between my feet and 3 long 2x4s with the red rag... everyone was taking pics... funny that in other countries people use these small cc's daily like I did... I highly recommend a lil cc that does not look like a Vespa copy, and ALWAYS ENJOY THE RIDE!

[@thomassterns7120]

Great review! I won't be the dozens of folks retelling 70's adventures on small Hondas, but I'd be tempted to get a Monkey just to see its happy presence in the garage when I get in the truck to battle the next day.

[@GPz84]

My wife's Honda SH150I scooter gets between 70-75 mpg. 150 mpg is crazy efficient. Perfect commuter this bike would be.

[@jimramsey8020]

It leans more towards eye candy than value along with the other mini motos. Also see the honda cb300r to be so much more value at $850 more and still having fun on a small machine. Also the 30hp allows you to be able ride safer in traffic situations. I own a cb300r and also had a ct125 which I sold and purchased an ebike. The ebike does the same riding as I did with ct125 but for me more fun with some exercise. And of course the $3000 in savings towards my two wheeled purchase. Not wanting to debate, just my experience

[@christhai2508]

I've got my red Monkey 125, 4 speed, since 2019, it puts a smile on my face. I'll never sell it.

[@JoshuaOne_Nine]

Bought my wife a grom to learn on and that thing is so much fun! I wish I had something like this when I was a kid.

[@smallfact0ry921]

This is a mini-moto, but don’t forget, this is still a high quality motorcycle. Comparing this to an e-bike, you’d have to compare it to a high quality e-bike, which usually are around the same price as this ($4k range). E-bikes are great, and are mostly free after purchase, but most motorcyclist would have this Honda i would presume (myself included).

[@petescarperi3711]

Absolutely a great job you did making this video. It was great to see you laugh and enjoy yourself on the monkey! I have a ‘22 monkey, so I can relate. Have bigger bikes, but monkey gives me the most pleasure on slow back roads .

[@andrewthompson1313]

Brings back fond memories of the Honda CT 70 that I rode when I was 12 years old. My friends had similar bikes and we explored desert trails adjacent to our neighborhood. A wonderful time in our lives. Perhaps some e-bikes provide similar off pavement capabilities. The ability to explore is more important to me than the power source.

[@advredbikes]

Ian watching you ride that monkey like when I have my first bikes, there’s so much fun, thank you for bringing back. The memories I used to have on my small minibikes.

[@AOHgoog22]

have the have monkey '21 now. it is so much fun crusing A1A beaches in south florida hotel camping. also ride Africa twin and honda goldwing and the monkey under-rated undiscussed and may possibly be my favorite..no stress no pressure riding 35mph roads perfect bouncing to cafes getting lunch and sightseeing love it love it love it ... pretty cool you did this review... you nailed it... kinda feels like being a kid again A+

[@shotsnaufahu2070]

Thank you this was informative yet FUN! To watch!! Nice work 🫡🤙🏽

[@mattb3283]

55 year ole kid here..and i got a blue and silver funky monkey 2020..couldn't get one back in the day but i have one now..i put.the rex engine guards on rex rack on the back with locking box and up graded front and rear suspension. And reduced front drive sprocket. What a blast to scoot around on .although i think my harley is pissed at me .

[@TheJimCramer]

I believe the brightness may be adjusted by holding the set / select buttons for a couple of seconds, which brings up a menu. You can then scroll through the menu until you reach the brightness level. I have the CB500F, and it's most likely the same setup. Cheers!

[@monkeytheo]

Have the 2022 model and this lets you adjust only the mph or kmh setting. No menu.

[@findingneutral]

Excellent Monkey tutorial. Thanks for showcasing this awesome little bike on your channel.

[@thatpointinlife]

Holy crap, that customized "Gorilla" is so friggin' cool! Great review, Ian. Making me think about getting back into riding.

[@keithdosik]

I was excited for this video

[@navstar52]

Just bought a trail 125 last month. I love it and a breeze to handle, nice switch from my 21 Africa Twin

[@armadilllo]

If you want a givi tank bag to share between the two the Africa twin and Monkey use the same quick disconnect tank ring.

[@RamosRev]

Great review. And some interesting insights. I loved the old Honda adds. You continue to surprise and delight.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you like them!

[@Theresistancebarbellclub]

Definitely the most I have heard you laugh in one of your videos LOL. Great job as usual. Now I want one.

[@armadilllo]

I love mine, it gets the most riding time of all my bikes, I will never sell it. Couldn't afford one when I was 12, had to wait 50 years. I usually get around 125 mpg, I quit keeping track. I got mine without abs. I'm keeping my stock pipe because it doesn't annoy anyone in campgrounds and don't see the point in making little bikes loud, they don't sound good at all. I've noticed that people do not care if you park on sidewalks in front of stores with it as opposed to bigger bikes, most people like to talk about it instead of chasing me away. I'm keeping mine all stock except for the rear rack which I have a soft rigid bag on and my tank bag. I've had a couple 100+ mile days on it, I check my mirrors often and will pull to the shoulder to let people by, it'll cruise at 55 but everyone does go faster than that. I'm in no hurry when I'm on it. I weigh 185 and live at 120' elevation.

[@cantfixasandwich4672]

I been watching you for quite a while, 2 months ago I pulled the trigger on my first bike. I went in to look at some cfmotos that where sitting on the lot for a while, then I saw a used 2020 Honda monkey sitting in the corner. Went and checked it out. It had 2000 miles on it and ohlins suspension. I had to have it. Got it home, put a r Rex rear rack on it and a top box on it. I’ve been commuting on it ever since! Absolutely best choice I ever made. Things also a blast to rip through the wooda

[@BigRockMoto]

Nice!

[@mofm1639]

I rolled the handlebars forward a couple of notches, really helped with the cockpit size and makes it feel less touchy

[@jeffroginielewicz1326]

Monkey all day every day over an e bike! Its more fun to ride a slow bike fast then a fast bike slow. I had a Grom and it was a blast.

[@msims1250]

The Monkey reminds me so much of the Z50 that was my very first bike. I don’t have one yet, but I’m thinking seriously about getting one.

[@JohnDoe-xr5is]

I live in a small town outside a larger city. I have a supercub. For zipping around my small town, the Supercub is great. No need to go get the 450+lb motorcycle in the shed. Everything's within 2 miles. Grocery, restaurants, hardware stores, banks, haircuts, everything downtown has to offer. The local Walmart is about 3 miles away, but I can get there on back roads that never get above 35mph.

[@BigRockMoto]

Very cool!

[@jameslee5428]

Watching this video, reminds me of yester year Hondas Z 50 mini trail bike. throw milk crate on it, picnic blanket, and picnic basket to boot Man, oh man, you can have a grand old time. as always great content, Wealth of knowledge. Always look forward to your content. Peace to you this day, enjoy the ride, and as they say enjoy life to the fullest.

[@JeepsCafe]

I almost purchased a Monkey today. After watching your vid and all the fun your having, I just might go back for it.

[@ndrew19]

Cattles?😅 Don't let your cattles loose...or cattle? IDK..made me chuckle for some reason. Another great review! Looks like a blast. Always fun riding a slow bike fast

[@BigRockMoto]

😁

[@ClaytonBoyle]

Love you videos - these modern Honda's are quite nice. I've had a handful of the older 90s and 110s, and I'm always tinkering with them to get them to run correctly, and I don't 100% trust them to get me home from long rides. I think it's time for me to get a Monkey!

[@chrispiatt2235]

No frame sliders? In all seriousness, that was an immensely enjoyable video, Costanza.

[@DUNEATV]

Cool looking little bike!

[@Spetk]

I have a 69 Honda Mini Trail 50 in my garage. Being 6’5” and 275lbs I really only bring it out for comedic effect when people are over. Its cool to see they brought it back but made it somewhat larger people friendly.

[@Denis-gk8dj]

finally I waited so long for this review

[@inspectorclouseau3880]

I know a few guys here in the UK with these bikes they're super fun

[@Scout4x]

Good job, Ian!

[@human1513]

What is there not to like? Laughing along with you every minute. That seat cover does add character. I want one!! I got that kind of mileage as a kid on a 1972 Honda CT70. It had a gas tank under the seat that held 0.72 U.S. gallons. LOL

[@mediocreman2]

I would never buy an ebike over a Honda mini bike. The Trail 125 is a little bit more functional for offroad with the larger tires, but honestly it still isn't as capable as the original CT90 and CT110. It doesn't have a low range either like the old bikes did. The nice thing about the Monkey is that plush seat. Very comfy bikes. And you can mode them pretty easily and get up to 70MPH. Although it's not going to be happy there, but it's perfect when you're just hopping between smaller roads and need to get on the highway for a bit.

[@ianross225]

Ian, I love these little bikes. We had an ST70 many years ago. Great fun and smiles per cc were amazing. The real sadness is the mindless laws on “lane splitting” which in many US states negates the value of low emissions and small footprint (physical and carbon) that bikes and especially tiny bikes like these can achieve. Sadly the anti-bike puritans seem to have the power. Keep up the great work, Ian (lane splitting and saving the planet in the UK).

[@africanpenguin3282]

I loved our CT90 and now weve a RV200 (VanVan) and its a lot of fun. We all need downsides really just seem to pee for people understanding these aren't fast bikes and commuting especially in areas like Phoenix is not the best idea with them on mine. But if you're willing to bring them along they're the greatest things to have on dirt roads or out camping for the weekend. As for the e-bikes I think they're great for day use. Going out all day I'm coming home at night or just messing around in the neighborhood It's fantastic. The maintenance is lower and it all honestly most people don't get the chance to even ride that often. Most people don't want to have clean a car or make sure a tank is emptied frequently enough to not clog the injectors. But if you ride frequently or for a long weekend of gas bike is still the way to go just for being able to keep it fueled all weekend.

[@upcountryoffroad2906]

Everything about this Motorcycle reminds me of the first bike I had, a Honda 50 Trail bike. So Glad Honda continues to offer fun little bikes that are street legal!

[@BIBuildy]

It's adorable! Look at that seat!

[@magicsammy]

YES! Go buy one! I am hooked

[@1966johnnywayne]

'Mini Motos' have their place, but are not very practical for everyday use. I've recently switched to riding scooters after 40 yrs on motorcycles, and I absolutely love the simplicity and utility of riding a scooter in town and out on the highways. That said, I also love to ride my bicycles, and commuter and cargo e-bikes are really starting to make sense to me for running errands and commutes in and around town. The fact that decent e-bikes can travel 80-100kms on a charge, or more with a 'Dual Battery', at speeds well in excess of what I can pedal, and can travel on either roads or pathways, whichever is most convenient for the trip, all without the added cost of insurance and registration...it's getting harder to continue to be a holdout. Also, if I visit a big city, I can easily bring an e-bike along, park my truck on the outskirts and ride to my destinations or go sight seeing without having to worry about congestion and $ parking. Also, FB Marketplace is full of Groms and Navi's with low mileage on them...people simply don't ride them the way they do a regular motorcycle or a scooter.

[@followthewhiterabbit7504]

Other bikes may come and go, but my Honda Monkey is my 'forever-bike'. In Australia, they're now collectors' items, as our assinine design rules require dual-channel ABS on all road-registerable new motorcycles sold after 2022.

[@take5th]

It worked alright. Reminds me of the CT70 my fri3nd had in the 1970s. I had a Yamaha 60, a mini DT. We still ride today.

[@gzahnd]

I absolutely love my CT125, and stealing my wife’s Grom. They bring smiles everywhere you go, and are hands down the most fun. Sure, the Norden and pricey Husky dual sport are great, but the Honda minibikes are pound for pound the most fun.

[@johnsb1550]

I have 2 2021 monkeys. These are the 4 speed models. I have found that a 15T front and 38T rear sprocket setup works very well for me, and I weigh 300ish lbs. Changing the gearing on the monkeys will give you the biggest bang for the buck. You will need a speedometer calculator after doing it. Play with the gearing first before doing any modifications, it's a lot cheaper. The only way to brighten the speedo is to ride at night 🌙, or change it out for a different one, BTW, that stock speedo is kinda expensive, so don't break it.

[@breeno59]

I have a bunch of motorcycles - one of which is a Grom. Man, I love that thing! Super fun bike...

[@lucasmoka3529]

That’s a new low Jon Prosser 😂

[@johns7809]

14 mph looks fast on that Monkey

[@kevinpakravan2947]

Love the new haircut and facial hair, Ian! Thanks for more reviews without cheesy dialogue and inconclusive statements.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you like them!

[@lukefish7562]

My GF wants one more than I do. Any bike that puts a smile on your face and “makes me feel like a kid again” is worth having. I get the same joy out of riding my crf110F with its bigger bars. Thanks for the great video as always! And to Honda for all the different and amazing motorcycles. 🏍️💨

[@Porsche996driver]

Fun stuff - I remember riding these as a kid in the ‘70s! 😂 It was like a miniature motorcycle that fit me ha. But I don’t see these as commuters, but rather as pit bikes or around a large campus. In the old days these were mostly hitched in the back of RVs to cruise around camp. -In fact I saw a few last month at Leo Carrillo in Malibu! 🌲🛵 Some great roads and trails out there Ian - have you ever thought of running some 1-day rides around there?

[@brucewygal133]

I agree about the fun of a small bike. I had a Honda SL70 for my pit bike in the early 70's and I would hop on it between motos and just have a blast.

[@5150bwagner]

I love my Monkey. Such a fun bike, and I end up riding it a lot more than the other bikes I own. The only disappointing part has been the colorways over the past few years. IMO, the original yellow, red and blue were great. I'm glad they brought back the colored swingarms, but the plaid seats are not my cup of tea.

[@thewinddownwithpauldixon]

Thanks for the review. It's good to see full size adventure channels like your's appreciate small bikes. I've had full size 1200cc road bikes but I find these days I have far more fun on my KTM adv390 and Honda Navi! Electric will never take the place of these bikes in my opinion. An e bike just can't sustain a 2 up weekend trip on back roads like my Navi! The small Honda's are just amazing fun machines

[@Dave-sw2dm]

I chose the Van Van 200 over the Monkey. More useful for my needs.

[@davidholcomb9961]

Great video on a topic that needs to be explored more. If Honda would make these bikes more affordable more people would join the movement i'm sure.

[@ferkuzuel]

I did my first wheelie on a monkey when I was a kid If they had a 450 monkey, I would definitely buy one Great review!

[@damonoriente736]

So excellent! Great review. Even takes 10 years off the rider. So yes, it has a touch of magic, as you say. But the sort of bike that only the genuinely confident will ride. Bravo.

[@gerardungerman1442]

You nailed it! Slow is fun, small is fun, it wakes up childish joy in us. Macho peer pressure a la "Sportsters are for sissies" is cancer. It's a joy killer. Plus spending mini money on ga$, insurance, registration... is pretty darn cool if you ask me. Enjoy your Monkey till you can't take it anymore!

[@josevi5835]

Thanks for the video. I own a 2022 Monkey. Cute bike but serious and quality machine. Love the looks, how it handles, the low consumption and how sturdy and solid it feels. On the other hand, battery capacity is too small if you do not use the bike frecuently.

[@seethingsclearlyawaken3424]

Very interesting video. Thank you young man.

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@JeffChessher-dj4tu]

Last year I was in Ely Nevada and I met a fellow that had ridden his monkey from Maryland and was heading toward Southern California. He was having a great time. Thought maybe I would meet you at the BMW MOA rally in Redmond last weekend.

[@westhovland4189]

My first bike in 68' was a Mini-Trail. Wife and I each have new Monkey's. Living in the country, our Monkeys are more useful than e-bikes.

[@TheHooligan-5]

I love mine! Went from a CRF450 to a monkey so I am not tempted to kill myself on a bike. Like you said, so much fun, lots of positive comments, and isn't trying to kill me with that throttle

[@krjoseph]

Love the Honda Mini Motos! I really wanted to get the Monkey for my wife, but she wanted the Super Cub instead. I love riding it aournd town. It's a ton of fun.

[@janharrysvendsen5716]

The Monkey is great. I actually drove one from Oslo, Norway, crossed the arctic circle to end the trip at the North Cape. About 2000 km (1250 miles) in six days. Great little charmer❤

[@BigRockMoto]

Very cool!

[@paullandreth-smith1546]

Riding a slow bike fast is more fun than riding a fast bike slow!

[@Joe-mz6dc]

The name monkey makes it cool already.

[@JSirois]

I have the 2020 version. It's a fantastic motorcycle. It's a bike that you get to have fun. If all you are looking at is the cost of the bike or the spec sheet you're going to be disappointed and just make arguments on what other options you could get for the same money, and you could, but they will never be as fun as this bike is.

[@jeffloucks2120]

Bought a 2019 Monkey with 512 miles on it this spring for $3k. This thing is going to be with me a looong time.

[@Robinsbro17]

We have both ebikes and Honda mini motos. Each has their place..Our go to's however for around town are the C125 and Z125's. Both are very popular icebreakers wherever we go.

[@johnoconnor5581]

I got my first Honda in 1968, a used 1967 Honda C110, similar to a 50cc Honda Cub but with more traditional motorcycle styling. Paid $100 for it. Have loved small Hondas ever since and today I’m having a ball restoring old Z50 and CT70 Honda mini trails. It is physically impossible to ride a small Honda and not be smiling.

[@CraigSmith568]

I had a Honda 50 minibike when I was 10 and my Grandpa had an old Trail 90 when I was even younger. This makes me want both a Trail 125 and the Monkey. If I ever get one I think the Trail might win out just because it is a little more useful and I can strap a milk crate on the huge rear rack.

[@respen43]

Great review. I've been wanting a mini moto, specifically a Trail 125 or Monkey, for several years now. But prices for these is just a bit too much imo and availability has been sparse. With the new Dax 125 being announced, I might end up getting one of those instead. Do hope you end up reviewing all the mini motos out there, even the Kawasaki and CFmoto options. Thanks!

[@sherrycook7043]

It's interesting to see reviews of the Monkey done by average-sized American men. Your take on the Monkey is much different than mine.... I'm tiny like the Monkey so it feels like a full sized bike to me. It's very comfortable and fits me close to perfect. I can only touch ground with the balls of my feet. I love my Monkey and the giggle factor is the best. As long as people buy and ride it for what it is and not expect more they can have fun with it. I ride mine off road and have fun with it. The suspension is lacking for off-road but my dedicated dirt bike a Honda '94 XR100 isn't much better (the joys of being short).

[@Liberty4Ever]

I had a 5 HP minibike when I was 12. I installed a Kawasaki motorcycle carburetor. It idled at 35 MPH and it'd go 55 MPH when I gave it the beans. That's squirrely as hell with 10" pneumatic tires on a gravel road. The centrifugal clutch was engaged at idle so it was always a pull-and-go takeoff. If I wanted to ride less than 35 MPH, I had to flip the kill switch on and off for a manual pulse width modulated speed controller.

[@addictedtobedrock5282]

About 45 years ago I learned how to ride a Honda Z50 and that little bike started it all for me.

[@truthsRsung]

That is the Right bike at this size. No presumption that you should be sharing the Road with 2 ton rolling caufins.

[@smudgemo]

I got the Super Cub for my family because centrifugal clutch and big wheels, but nobody uses it other than me. Quick and easy to roll down to get some groceries instead of using the GS, although the suspension is kinda harsh. And it goes forever on one tank of fuel. I think e-bikes are way more popular just because no license needed, but based on the stupid things I've seen, there probably should be some training required.