Honda introduced the Honda Z50M in 1967 as the original Monkey bike.
The tiny motorcycle evolved from a child-friendly amusement-park ride called the Z100, displayed at Honda's Tama Tech facility in Japan. Its compact proportions, low seat and small wheels made it easy to transport and approachable for beginners.
The Z50M used a small four-stroke single-cylinder engine and a rigid frame. Later Monkey models gained folding handlebars, suspension changes and larger engines, but the name remained associated with Honda's miniature recreational motorcycles.
The Monkey is sometimes confused with the Honda Dax, another small Honda model. The Dax used a distinctive pressed-steel T-shaped frame, while the Monkey's identity centered on its especially compact proportions and detachable or folding features on early versions.