Would you pay PhP480K for a Honda Monkey?

Importer selling 50th Anniversary Edition

The Honda Z50 'Monkey' may not be officially offered in the Philippines, but a few are still coming in through importers. And among Monkeys, there are a few collectible models.

Back in 2017, Honda released a special 50^th Anniversary Edition of the small but lovable Z50 'Monkey'. At the time, its SRP was JPY432,000 (roughly PhP 200,000).

While scrolling the internet, we came across this rare 50^th Anniversary Edition Monkey, which is being sold by a motorcycle importer based in Makati, 7Power Motors. The price: PhP 480,000, more than a brand new CBR500R (PhP 349,000). Bear in mind that this is a 50cc motorcycle that may not even be registered for road use.

So what makes this 50cc motorcycle so special?

For the past 50 plus years, the Honda Z50 Monkey has largely remained unchanged, save for a few engine upgrades to meet existing regulations. Since 2008, its fuel management has been governed by Honda’s patented Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI). The fuel-injected, air-cooled, OHC 49cc single-cylinder engine of the Monkey is mated to a 4-speed gearbox. The little engine makes 3.4 PS at 8,500 rpm and 3.4 Nm of torque at 5,000 rpm. The mini bike measures 1365 mm long, 600 mm wide, and 850 mm. It weighs 68 kg with a seat height of 660 mm.

Since its creation, the Monkey has gained cult status, attracting enthusiasts and collectors from all over the world. The bike, after all, is light, rugged, and fun to ride. It was likely many collectors' first introduction to dual sport bikes or motorcycles in general. Having grown up, many have sought to  preserve what is left of the remaining Monkeys.

In 2017, exactly 50 years from the day it was first introduced, Honda announced that they would end the production of the Z50 due to the new emissions regulations in Japan (at the time), making it difficult for small engines to meet. As a final farewell, they produced 50^th Anniversary Edition Z50, which combines design touches from the 1968’s Z50 A and 1972’s Z50 AK3. Most noticeable of all is the tartan plaid seat.

This special anniversary edition was only sold to the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). Only 500 units were made, sold to buyers who went through a lottery-type of draw for a chance to own one.

Costing more than double its original SRP, and limited to just 500 units, some collectors may consider this a steal. Would you pay this much for a collectible 50cc Honda?