[Kohei Ichimoto: Webike News Editor]
On June 21, 2021, Honda announced the 2022 model of the Monkey 125 in Europe. The Monkey made headlines in 2018 when it was reborn as a 125cc model instead of the previous 50cc model, but it's already getting a completely new engine. Not only does it meet Euro 5-level emissions regulations, but the transmission has been expanded from a four-speed to a five-speed, so we can expect an evolution in terms of driving performance as well. It is expected to be launched in Japan around September 2021.
Maximum output is unchanged from the previous model, and exhaust sound tuning is expected
The new Monkey 125 is based on the new Grom engine, which was redesigned for the 2021 model year, with a longer stroke and higher compression ratio. The maximum power output has been reduced from 9.38 hp (6.9 kW) at 7000 rpm in the European specification to 9.38 hp (6.9 kW) at 6750 rpm. It is expected that the new model will also be launched in Japan with the same power output (9.4PS) as the previous model, while meeting the 2020 emission standards equivalent to Euro 5.
The engine's torque characteristics were improved by changing the shape of the airbox and optimizing the connective tube and intake airflow. For the exhaust system, the pipe length was changed to match the improved intake, and the silencer was reduced from three expansion chambers to one to produce a more pronounced exhaust note. At the same time, the catalyzer was also improved to comply with emission regulations.
The trapezoidal shape that embodies the character of the Monkey remains unchanged on the new Monkey 125. The graphics have been updated while retaining the color variations.
The engine has been redesigned to be all-new, in the same family as the new Grom. The number of gears has been increased to provide more room for driving.
The new five-speed gearbox, which replaces the conventional four-speed, has even wider gear ratios to improve cruising performance. With a top speed of 91 km/h and the same gear ratios as the new Grom, the 5th gear should be positioned more like an overdrive with longer ratios than the conventional four.
It also uses low-friction technology such as offset cylinders and roller rocker arms around the valves to achieve a fuel consumption of 66km/L (WMTC mode). The 2018 domestic specification is 67.1km/L in WMTC mode, so the new Monkey 125 is expected to have a similar level of fuel consumption This is expected to be the case.
Advertising design in Europe. 'Playful Spirit' is a concept proposed for the Monkey 125 when it was launched in 2018.
The rear suspension features two-stage springs and the key has an answer-back function.
Changes to the motorcycle body include the use of double-rate springs in the rear suspension. This is expected to improve the ride quality and provide a more sturdy ride. Other changes include a 3 kg reduction in weight from 107 kg to 104 kg for the European specifications. The wheelbase has been revised from 1155mm to 1145mm, and the minimum ground clearance has been increased from 160mm to 175mm.
The IMU-controlled front-only ABS is standard equipment in Europe, and the non-ABS version will probably be discontinued in Japan due to regulations.
Color variations are available in Europe in the new blue (pearl glitter blue), banana yellow and pearl nebula red. All of them have new graphic patterns, and the conventional black color has been eliminated.
The monocular digital meter remains unchanged. We hope that the key with the answer-back function will also be used in the Japanese version.
The ABS is IMU-controlled to ensure reliable operation even with a short wheelbase.
The rear suspension has been upgraded with double rate springs. The originally comfortable Monkey 125 is about to get even "fluffier"!
The graphic pattern that was previously painted in a straight line at the top and bottom has been changed to an inverted figure. The blue, yellow, and red variations are the same as before.
Pearl Glitter Blue
Banana Yellow
Pearl Nebula Red
See HONDA Moto Index Page
See Accessories for HONDA Monkey 125
