Honda Monkey 125
The Honda Monkey 125 has a top speed of 95 km/h, produces 9.4 hp and weighs 107 kg. Motoryk rates it 8/10.
The Honda Monkey originated in 1961 as a miniature fun bike for Honda's Tama Tech amusement park, entering public sale in 1964 as the Z100. It became a beloved icon across generations, and after a hiatus Honda revived the nameplate in 2018 with the modern Monkey 125, featuring a fuel-injected 125cc engine, USD forks, and ABS, blending retro styling with modern reliability. Its nostalgic design and accessible performance have made it a globally popular urban and novelty motorcycle.
9.4 hp
Power
11 Nm
Torque
107 kg
Weight
95 km/h
Top Speed
2.7 L/100km or approximately 37 km/L
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Proven Reliable Engine
The Monkey 125 uses Honda's fuel-injected 125cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, known for low maintenance needs and 10,000+ mile service intervals. It shares its platform with the Grom, meaning parts and mechanic familiarity are widely available.
Strong Resale Value
Due to its cult following and limited production numbers, the Monkey 125 retains resale value exceptionally well — often selling used for close to its original MSRP of around $4,000. High demand and a passionate owner community keep prices stable.
Watch for Overheating Mods
Some owners install aftermarket exhausts or air filters that can cause lean fuel conditions and premature engine wear — always check for unauthorized tuning when buying used. Also inspect the rear suspension, as the stock unit is basic and often the first thing owners replace.
Generations & Specs by Year
Initial modern 125cc revival; air-cooled SOHC engine, 12-inch wheels, round headlight, USD forks.
Added ABS option, new color schemes, minor refinements; mechanically largely unchanged from Gen 1.
Used Buyer Review
"The most fun you'll have for under four grand."
$2,800-$4,200 usedThe Monkey 125 is genuinely one of those bikes that makes you grin every single time you swing a leg over it. Honda built this thing properly — fuel injection, proper brakes, USD forks on the later models — it's not a toy, even if it looks like one. Used examples hold value stubbornly, so don't expect bargain basement prices. Check the subframe for cracks if it's been dropped (and they get dropped, because new riders love these), and inspect the exhaust headers for rust since they sit low and collect road grime. On the road it's genuinely fun below 45mph, decent around town, and utterly useless on anything resembling a highway. That's not a criticism, that's just physics. The 125cc single does what it does and nothing more. Fuel economy is sensational and running costs are almost embarrassingly cheap. Parts availability through Honda dealers is solid. Buy a 2019 or newer for the USD forks and ABS option. Avoid anything that's clearly been thrashed by a learner who thought they were Casey Stoner.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Honda Monkey 125 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
Listen for ticking noise on cold start
Look for oil residue below fork tubes
Check idle quality and throttle response
Inspect wiring harness for splices or damage
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Very reliable, minor issues easily managed
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Honda Monkey 125
Honda Grom 125
Kawasaki Ksr 110
Honda Dream 50
Honda Msx125 Grom
Honda C125 Super Cub
Compare Honda Monkey 125 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Honda Monkey 125 vs Honda Grom 125
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Monkey 125 vs Kawasaki Ksr 110
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Monkey 125 vs Honda Dream 50
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Monkey 125 vs Honda Msx125 Grom
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Honda Monkey 125 vs Honda C125 Super Cub
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Honda Monkey 125 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Honda Monkey 125? +
Cam chain tensioner rattle at startup: Listen for ticking noise on cold start (moderate) | Fork seal leaks on older units: Look for oil residue below fork tubes (moderate) | Carburetor clogging from ethanol fuel: Check idle quality and throttle response (minor)
Is the Honda Monkey 125 a good motorcycle? +
The most fun you'll have for under four grand. Rating: 8.0/10. Best for: Commuters, collectors, and city dwellers wanting fun. Avoid if: You need to cover serious daily distances.
What is the horsepower of the Honda Monkey 125? +
The Honda Monkey 125 produces 9.4 hp @ 7,000 rpm, with 11 Nm @ 5,000 rpm of torque. Top speed: 95 km/h.
Is the Honda Monkey 125 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Honda Monkey 125 is a reasonable choice for new riders (9.4 hp is manageable), weighing 107 kg. Commuters, collectors, and city dwellers wanting fun
Is the Honda Monkey 125 reliable? +
The Honda Monkey 125 has no widely-reported critical reliability issues. 4 minor issues are documented — see the Common Problems section above.
Is the Honda Monkey 125 good for daily use? +
Commuters, collectors, and city dwellers wanting fun Fuel: 2.7 L/100km or approximately 37 km/L.
How fast is the Honda Monkey 125? +
The Honda Monkey 125 reaches a top speed of 95 km/h, producing 9.4 hp at 107 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Honda Monkey 125? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Honda Monkey 125, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/honda/monkey-125/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
