Honda to end 50-year history of Monkey motorcycle

March 25, 2017

Tokyo- Honda Motor Co. said Friday that it will cease the production of the Monkey, a 50cc motorcycle, at the end of August, putting an end to its 50-year history.

The Japanese company made the decision, as the domestic market for small motorcycles, mainly scooters, has been shrinking and it is difficult for the Monkey to meet increasingly tighter emissions regulations.

The Monkey was originally made for a ride at the Tama Tech amusement park in Hino, Tokyo, which opened in 1961. The first Monkey model that can travel on public roads was developed later and released in 1967. Tama Tech was closed in 2009.

Late last month, Honda launched a 50th anniversary model of the Monkey. Jiji Press