Specs: Honda Goes Bananas & Brings Back the Monkey for 2019

A sturdy, scaled-down motorcycle. Here's a look at this retro bike's key features and specs.

Originally published in January 2019; updated September 2023.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the 2019 Honda Monkey was actually from the 1960s at first glance. It’s not by accident. Continuing the trend of making everything new old again, the Monkey shares some architecture with the Grom but takes it in a new, err, old direction.

Metal fenders and fuel tanks, dual shocks, and a unique swingarm are just some of the changes, as well as a different exhaust, headlight, dash, engine cover, and banana seat. A fitting addition considering the bike’s name.

This Monkey hits a top speed of around 65 mph

2019 honda monkey rear profile
The 2019 Monkey sports four speeds, 12-inch wheels and weighs in at 232 lbs (236 with ABS). Photo: Honda

Rather than housing the 50cc powerplant in scoots of yore, this new breed features Honda’s 125cc engine, and electronic fuel injection and is available with ABS – for a price. Featuring four speeds, 12-inch wheels, and weighing in at 232 lbs (236 with ABS), the chain-driven Monkey looks like more fun than a barrel of, well…monkeys.

Performance specs:

Engine125cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine
HorsepowerApproximately 9.3 horsepower
TorqueApproximately 8.1 lb-ft of torque
Transmission4-speed manual transmission
Drive TypeChain drive

The small Honda bike’s suspension, wheels, and brakes

2019 honda monkey profiles
2019 Honda Monkey. Photo: Honda

The 2019 Honda Monkey features a simple yet capable suspension setup, comprising a 31mm telescopic fork at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, which can be adjusted for spring preload. This configuration provides a comfortable and compliant ride while maintaining the Monkey’s classic styling.

The Monkey rides on small-diameter wheels with 12-inch tires, featuring a 120/80-12 tire at the front and a 130/80-12 tire at the rear, which strike a balance between nimble handling and stability.

Braking duties are handled by a hydraulic disc brake with a single-piston caliper at the front, offering good stopping power, while the rear is equipped with a mechanical drum brake. These components, while basic, suit the Monkey’s lightweight design and are well-suited for urban and recreational riding, making it a fun and accessible motorcycle.

Suspension (Front)31mm telescopic fork
Suspension (Rear)Twin shock absorbers with spring preload adjustment
Brakes (Front)Hydraulic disc brake with single-piston caliper
Brakes (Rear)Mechanical drum brake
Tire Size (Front)120/80-12
Tire Size (Rear)130/80-12

Low ride height and manageable curb weight

2019 honda monkey engine
2019 Honda Monkey. Photo: Honda
Seat HeightApproximately 30.6 inches (775 mm)
Curb WeightApproximately 231 lbs (105 kg)
Fuel Capacity1.5 gallons (5.5 liters)

The 2019 Honda Monkey boasts a comfortable and accessible riding experience with its low seat height of approximately 30.6 inches (775 mm), making it suitable for a wide range of riders, including those with shorter inseams.

Despite its playful character, the Monkey maintains a manageable curb weight of around 231 pounds (105 kilograms), ensuring easy maneuverability and control in various riding conditions. With a fuel tank capacity of 1.5 gallons (5.5 liters), this small and lightweight motorcycle offers practicality for city commutes and recreational rides, striking a balance between fun and convenience, making it an appealing choice for urban adventures and nostalgic journeys alike.

Arguably, one of the coolest things about this small 125cc bike is all the accessories – a great way to customize it and make it more personalized. Here are some of the more popular add-ons.

Rear Luggage Rack: Provides additional storage space for small cargo or bags, enhancing the bike’s practicality.

Saddlebags: Soft or hard saddlebags offer extra storage for longer rides or daily commuting needs.

Windscreen: A windscreen can reduce wind buffeting and improve rider comfort, especially on highways.

Phone Mount: Allows riders to securely attach their smartphones for navigation or music while riding. Check out our story – 5 Best Motorcycle Phone Mounts to Hit the Road

Custom Seat: Upgrading the seat can enhance comfort and aesthetics.

Fender Eliminator Kit: Improves the bike’s appearance by removing the rear fender and relocating the license plate.

Handlebar Grips: Custom grips offer better comfort and grip for the rider.

LED Lighting: Upgraded LED headlights, turn signals, or brake lights can improve visibility and style.

Tank Pads: Protects the fuel tank from scratches and adds a touch of customization.

Engine Guards: Provide protection to the bike’s engine and other critical components in case of a fall or accident.

Frame Sliders: Similar to engine guards, these protect the bike’s frame and bodywork.

Exhaust System: Upgraded exhaust systems can enhance the bike’s sound and performance.

Tail Tidy Kit: Offers a cleaner look by relocating or streamlining the rear tail components.

2019 Honda Monkey price and availability

Starting at US$3,399, the Monkey offers the choice of two colours – Pearl Nebula Red or Banana Yellow; going on sale October 2018.

Whether you’re looking for a pint-sized pit bike or a short-haul urban commuter, the new Monkey is a sturdy, scaled-down motorcycle with basic controls featuring authentic retro styling and Honda’s legendary reliability.

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Author:
Dustin Woods
Dustin Woods
For the better part of a decade Dustin has been contributing automotive, motorcycle, travel and lifestyle content to the likes of The Toronto Star, Robb Report, Motorcycle Mojo, Sun Media, Motorcycle.com, Moto123.com, Inside Motorcycles, HOG magazine, BMW Motorcycle Magazine, Modified Luxury & Exotics and Performance Auto & Sound. His passion for adventure and love of speed has taken him on a journey not for the faint of heart.