On September 27, Honda unveiled the new 2023 Monkey 125 in Europe. It has a checkered seat that looks like an anniversary edition of a past model, and many riders will want one of these.
The Monkey 125 has a new engine with the same 5-speed transmission as the Grom in 2022, and the only change is the color scheme. I would love to see this color released in Japan.
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We have received information that the new Monkey 125 will be released in Japan around the same time as the new Grom, in July 2023. We will report on color variations, pricing, and other details as soon as they become available. (Added on December 25)
Reproduction of the livery of the first-generation 1967 Monkey Z50M
The red checkered seat and red front fork and frame color scheme are inspired by the Monkey Z50M, which was introduced in 1967 as a model that could be ridden on public roads. The Z50M is a special machine positioned as the first generation, and in recent years, similar coloring was used for the 30th anniversary in 1997 and the 50th anniversary model in 2017. However, 2023 is not a special commemorative year, so why is it being used in 2023? Although it is timing, it will be a happy coloring for fans.
Three color variations are available: red (Pearl Nebula Red), yellow (Banana Yellow), and black (Pearl Shining Black), and all colors have checkered seats. In Japan, the product will be announced at the end of May and will likely go on sale around July.
HONDA 2023 Monkey 125 European specs. The 2022 Pearl Nebula Red had a black frame and swingarm, but the 2023 model also has a red frame section, bringing it closer to the color of the original Z50M.
HONDA 2023 Monkey 125 European specs. Yellow was discontinued for the 2022 model year but is back for 2023. The tank is the reverse of the Pearl Nebula Red with white and silver.
HONDA 2023 Monkey 125 European specs. The 2022 Pearl Shining Black color has been retained, but the checkered seat and silver-and-white tank have been replaced with a different look and feel.
The Monkey Z50M was released in 1967. Although the Monkey existed before this, it is famous as the first model released in Japan. The handlebars and seat could be folded down for onboard use.
This is the Monkey 50th Anniversary, released in 2017. It is the last 50cc commemorative vehicle, and like the 2023 model, it reproduces the livery of the 1967 Monkey Z50M.
Main specifications of the 2022 Honda Monkey 125 Japan Model (reference)
Overall Length x Overall Width x Overall Height: 1710 x 755 x 1030 mm
Wheelbase:1145mm
Seat height: 776mm
Vehicle weight: 104 kg
Engine:Air-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder SOHC 2-valve 123cc
Maximum output: 9.4 PS at 6750 rpm
Max. torque:1.1 kg-m/5500 rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 5.6 liters
Transmission: 5-speed return
Brakes: F=disc, R=disc
Tires: F=120/80-12, R=130/80-12
Price:(approx.) 3325 USD
