Ordered by monkey yesterday thanks to your review and others but your first review got me to pick the phone up and order one . Let Honda UK know . Thank you great channel I'm got bikes from a x Max scooter to a KTM 690 enduro r but I'm looking forward to the monkey
I have heard that no new orders are being taken due to unavailability due to supply chain issues ...prior to that it is a long wait ..4-6 months ....I am lucky as I found a virtually new used one 👍
That is so helpful to know, and I can't Thankyou enough for letting me know. I will pass it on. The Monkey , is pure fun, Stay in contact, And thanks again : )
A mate of mine is a very experienced rider,he's ridden everything from ZXR600s to Triumph Thunderbirds with all kinds of other stuff in between. He's had one of these for about 3 months now just for commuting and chilling out on Dartmoor and loves it. The size is quite deceptive,I'm 5'11 and weigh about 15 stone and find it a lot more comfortable to sit on than I'd ever have believed. I'd want more for 4 grand than that to be honest but it's a really nice bit of kit and not the "novelty bike" I first thought before looking at and sitting on mates. It's a "proper bike",and a very good one..
For sure mate, Yes 4k is a bitter pill, but to be fair I think its inline with other 125s at the moment, The Yamaha 125s etc go up to 4.7, but I know where your coming from. like you say though , they are great bikes. I'd have one tommorow!
Excellent review. Refreshing to watch reviews on bikes that are not obsessed by UK licence grades. I've had big bikes and small bikes. I get the ones that suit my need at the time.
Thanks for the videos your in depth detail and your channel has also given me more confidence in deciding to buy a monkey for reasons aside from its aesthetics. It’s my first bike & being delivered tomorrow.
It was junction to junction, and most importantly I stayed to the left lane and I was keeping up no problem. It seems a scary thought but really the 125s keep up quite well....It's not for everyone I know : )
I’ve got the 2022 monkey in blue, it’s on the back of my narrowboat right now, ( I hope ) I’ve spent the summer hooning round Snowdonia, Anglesey and the north Whales coastline. It is pure magic on wheels. I’ve thrashed the pants off it on 200 mile round trips and loved every minute. You can sit at 50 > 60 mph all day long and this glorious little Honda small bore just begs for more. It’ll probably be the last motorbike I own and I couldn’t be happier. Thank you for your vid. I know it takes a lot of time and effort to make. Regards warren 🇬🇧 I’ve subscribed.
Thanks Warren. It's nice to hear from Monkey owners that "get it". Around roads like snowdonia it must be magic. I don't Airways test bikes, I'd be happy to own. But if have a Monkey tommorow. Thanks for your sub. I appreciate your help 🙏👍
Brilliant video!! Your going to tempt me!! It looks so much fun and storage would be a doddle! Thanks for such a great review and that smile on your face says it all! Take care and ride safe mate 😁🖖🏼
Got to be one of the best reviews you've done What a stunning little bike Spot on with everything, for the money i would say very worth it You nailed this one and hung it on the wall for others to set a new standard of reviews
Don't worry mate, I'm here after the plug on Friday night 😉 Awesome review buddy, you're so right, it such an iconic bike It's just such a looker, definitely an eye catcher however it's so good to hear that it also has the performance to back it up. Definitely great for anyone living in a busy city Great video mate
Subscribed thank u for a practical review. This bike is my dream! I just passed mod 1 on a 125cc today and am one of the few peole to do it on a 125. I dream of buying a monkey after mod 2 ❤
Nice review, and great demo of good, safe filtering through Exe bridges. Looks a lot of fun and if I did more city riding (and wasn't 6'2 & 18stone), would definitely be one to consider.
Very good review on the monkey bike I am getting one next week in nebula red I’ve had big bikes before and now I’m retired I wanted one to nip around the village in Cornwall getting it delivered so I can get used to it although the last time I had a bike must be twenty years ago when I had a v1500 Kawasaki meanstreak looking forward to getting it all the best.
When you first said to me you thought a Monkey would suit me, I'll admit I was a bit sceptical but after seeing what they can do, I'm really excited about getting one. Now cooler weather is here I can hopefully complete my CBT 😊
Yes I know Lily, thats normal when its something not normally considered and a bike which was not the style you were after in the beginning....I have another one coming up soon for you ! Yes get the CBT booked then the world is your oyster. Thanks Lilly
Great bit of filtering that mate. When you film around Exeter brings back so many memories, some good some bad, if you get the time have a blast past Lympstone for me.😄
@@exeterrider bloody hell mate you’re up early. Yeah the RM training base, did my basic training there then went down to Bickleigh Barracks in South Hams.
A really well made and informative review there Exmouth ! I really would like a Monkey myself someday. Maybe I could replace my 50cc scooter with one, one of these days 🤔 It would be just as easy to get out of the garage and hop onto to do a bit of shopping or to just go for a quick blast to clear my head. A well made, great looking, fun and capable machine. What's not to like ? An excellent review and once again your enthusiasm for this bike really comes through ! You've made me really want one ! Cheers EB 😜 El Outro
Thanks E.R. I didnt know you had a 50 as well. I think you would be surprised how much you would go out on it if you had one....for your French roads it would be perfect . Hope your well, and if you get the chance to have a play on one ,I reckon you would enjoy it! El outro my friend
@@exeterrider Yes, it would be great on these French roads, just as it is awesome in Exmouth's rush hour traffic, as clearly seen in your video 😂 Cheers buddy, always a pleasure ! ER.
I bought a 2020 one just 2 weeks ago and I must say it's the best thing I've ever bought. Perfect for the country lanes around me, and it's become my go to bike for nipping to town etc. I can just pull it out of the shed, rather than struggling with my big bike and just ride it out of the back gate without having to faff about trying not to scuff my mirrors. The only thing I miss is a top box to carry my bits but I wear a rucksack for now and have ordered a rear rack so I can put a bag on it. One thing I'll say though is that you have to use a good chain if you're leaving it parked in town. It's not much heavier than my ebike to be honest. I've also noticed that whilst it's highly geared and it'll handle motorways and dual carriageways easily, you're easily buffeted by HGVs. But then this bike isn't meant for these type of roads, as it lives for the twisty country lanes. I really do think I'll keep it forever it's fantastic.
You make a good point there with security. That's something I did think about but I wasn't sure how to get it across on camera. I'm glad your enjoying it. In many ways it's one of the best bits I've ever ridden. I still hanker after one now. Enjoy it, 👍🍻
ER mate I think you like this one ,gotta say it's an eye opener to me actually, it looks to make running through heavy traffic fun it's one that you can say to your wife see ya in a couple hours going to play in the traffic 😄. Would I have one as a pop to the shops bike and a quick coffee well hell yeh I think I would cheers nice one 👌👍
Excellent review 👍 I was in the Honda dealer a few weeks ago and got to see this model up close and what struck me was the colour schemes and the fit and finish were great. It a lesson they need to bring to some of their other bikes such as NT1100 and NC750X (I have a NC) as they feel very, dare I say drab in comparison and that coming from me a Honda Fanboi 😛
Monkeys are great fun Phil, Proper old skool riding fun. Yes I'd like to try a Zontes but I dont have a dealer near me , and they dont have a press fleet so cant get on one : (
@@PhilipKerry yeap, they take no interest in me taking any of there bikes out. That's why if you come to Exeter, hardly anyone rides a KTM or a Zontes😑🤔👍
@@exeterrider one of my friends sent me a video of him doing it with a wood panel down his garden. Pretty much ch copied my gestures too. It wasn’t impressive but I did lol.
Love this bike would say for riding in Plymouth it would be the best, but think there is a large waiting list for these bikes these days colt following these days
@@exeterrider thanks at the moment I am waiting for my leg to be repaired so not sure if I will be able to ride again, within a month May know if my prosthetic is finished
There is a lot to be said for the ''lollipop'' mirrors. They were the first mod I did on my NC750X and cost me £12 on fleabay (made by Rydes + come in black or chrome).
I live in Thailand and bought a Honda Monkey 125cc for my Thai secretary to use for doing errands on. I use it sometimes because it is fun. In fact the Honda Monkey is so fun that I am buying the new Honda DAX 125cc to compliment it.
@@exeterrider The DAX is readily available in Thailand. The advantage over the Honda Monkey is that it has a longer seat, harder rear springs and pillion foot pegs.
In the US the tail light is rectangular, in Europe is rounded. I had a 1150 BMW and was a bit stressful to handle that killer trottle. The Monkey has low power and accelerating is not a concern at all, I just ride and enjoy it!
@@exeterrider so if i understand right, the 1-4 gearing is kind of the same on both bikes and the 5th gear become's like a overdrive? I can se the advantage in that 👍
I have 5 speed . Mate has 4 speed. Top is same. Just a closer ratio box. Not sure the tops are exactly same ratio but flat out on 25mile m6 stint both exactly same top speed. Certainly feel the same in top. Love mine. 6k on it now and I have 5 other bikes. 👍
@@avitarmageddon1721 yes I totally have the same predicament. The 2023 Honda Dax will be out later this year, that could be the answer. You can carry a pillion on that one too👍
I ride a Vespa GTS 300 and thinking about a Honda Monkey as a toy to play with. But, I’m 67 years old 5’8” and 16 stone. What’s your genuine thoughts? Perhaps I should also mention that although British, I live in Thailand where a brand new Honda Monkey is just less than £2,200. Also, I’ve never ridden a manual bike but it’s on my before death bucket list.
Originally from The States...... currently living in Siem Reap Cambodia teaching 2nd grade. Have been renting a "Zoomer" 125 don't know who makes it. Anyway I've just started my 125 search. Kinda sad as I also have a Shrek green Kawasaki ZX-3R in Chiang Mai Thailand. Even if Cambodia didn't have a 50% tax to register an out of country motorcycle....yes 50% of original selling price!!! Crazy I know. Cambodia isn't the place for a Ninja even if it's only a 300cc. So yea I've seen the occasional Honda Grom cruising around Siem Reap and was intrigued. Have read/watched a few reviews about the Grom, but will more likely purchase the Monkey as I LOVE the way it looks, it will def. be my bike for Cambodia. Most of my driving is city driving so this will be perfect. And at 62 years old I guess it's time to give up/sell the Ninja. But I do LOVE the way it looks! And I REALLY miss having a clutch. I started riding dirt bikes at 13, graduated high school and bought a Honda 750F. Drove for two years, sold, and never drove again.....until I had moved to Asia, 40+ years after high school. Then after about 3 months traveling through Philippines, South Vietnam, Cambodia and ending up in Chiang Mai, N. Thailand, and always getting an Uber/Bolt/bicycling or walking to get anywhere I was like screw this.....I'm gonna get a scooter. So I went out for a scooter......and ended up with said ZX-3R. I am DEF. NOT a Ninja type rider. But it was love at first bite when I saw "Zendaya". 2017, I was the first owner as Chiang Mai Kawasaki had used it as a demo. Less than 500 miles/900 kl. PERFECT condition! Yes it was truly love at first bite. Northern Thailand is truly the most perfect place, except for driving on the wrong side of the road, to ride. OMG 10 min. out of town you have Doi Suthep......anyway I think either the Honda Grom or Monkey....I prefer the Monkey but so far I haven't found a Honda dealership her that even knows what it is. Thanx!
The Monkey is the most fun out of all those bikes and infcat the most comfortable...The only thing to be mindful of is security with it being small and light....next would be the Grom which you can also pillion on.
I love the idea of these and they look like such a fun way to get around. However, they're C$5,300 here in Canada which just seems like a lot (a Grom is C$4,000). Also, I know 125 is a standard in many countries for regulations but a 150cc would make it so much better Canada and US since it's hard to get around without having to 90-100 km/h at times, making these just ever so slightly too slow to be all that practical. But they look like so much fun it's tempting to get one anyways...
I'm tempted too. Yes the price is ,at first , a bit of a shocker, but 4k over here is quite normal for a 125 these days. Great fun though once it's in the garage : )
I'm in Québec I wanted a 22 monkey could not find any in dealerships so I bought a 22 abs Grom ...I'm 6'2" 240 lbs and my top speed vary from 85-101 km/hr depending on wind and steepness of road, for short highway rides I use my Vespa GTS 300 my top speed 129km/hr
@@philipdumont2286 Here in the capital you pretty much need to take the freeway to get anywhere outside your area. Even many regular roads are 70-80 km/h where people go 90-100 km/h. So it just seems like the 125 would be a bit too slow around here. I still want one though as they look like so much fun.
@@philipdumont2286 That's awesome, I bet she will love it. I wish Honda offered the Trail 125 here as that would be a blast and easy for new riders as well.
Would you Consider testing a CFMoto 650MT. I am considering getting one from CMS and would love to hear your thoughts on them. Also its a not know Chinese brand but for the price and what you get is amazing.
I'll be honest mate, I gave CF Moto a chance of doing a full "proper" exeterrider exposure review much like this one, but sadly they didnt want to let me have the press bikes so I have lost faith in them a bit. As you say the price and product are good but will they gain traction!? I'm not so sure. I would have liked to have helped them but they need more than a 2-3 hour test ride out of me for it to really work. You should be safe buying one though I think. Not Honda quality but they are still good. Thanks for watching : )
@@exeterrider Thanks. Ya, I have notice they have not had much of a presence in UK as they do in china it seem. But looks like they starting to get into the UK market with UK HQ. CMS seem to be my local dealer for them. Hoping to book in a test ride on one with them if they have one available to try.
So I went to CMS the other day and did a test ride on a CFMoto 650MT. Love the bike. So I decided to order one. Will be collecting on the 9th September. Chirs seems to be a nice guy and welcome me. Looking for to riding one again when I own it. :)
I don't think they've just added a 5th gear!?, I imagine they have reworked all the gear ratios and so your 4th gear is not representative of the older 4th gear!? ...obviously you would know better than me if you owned an older Grom before, but I have heard other people state that this 5th gear is not much different in terms of top speed but more likely noise and engine longevity? Really don't know how you filtered soo well with the wide looking mirrors? 💁♂️
Yes, your right, I think the whole lot are slightly different ratios. I didn't get that across too well. Filtering is easy, but it looks tighter than it is on camera tbh. Thanks for watching 👍🎥📺
I'm about to do my CBT and considering a monkey as my first bike, primarily going to use it for commuting to work and some nice Sunday rides, possibly some longer rides to see my brother around 2 hours from myself. My question is, is this I'm 6ft 2, and around 90kg? Would I look and feel a total pillock on this bike, or do you think I'd be okay ? I love the look and style of it. I just don't want to look like a chimpanzee riding a tiny bicycle 🤣🤣🤣😅
If you think that now then you are more likely to think that when you get it.....fact is though the Monkey is a pure fun machine that also gives a huge amount of seat comfort. ......Buy it , try it and if you don't get on with it then they hardly depreciate at all so if you sell it you will still do ok.
@@exeterrider 150-400... a year? Would you believe that in Finland, most insurance companies ask 1000-1200 eur just for the mandatory "traffic insurance" of a Monkey 125. The cheapest I could find was 650 eur. I suspect it's due to the 125 cc engine, the insurance companies only look at the engine size and figure it has to be risky because young people have lots of accidents on 125 cc bikes.
I.m 6ft 4. Very comfy. Jumped off ducati scrambler of a friend's on thur and monkey was so much more comfy. Plusher riding too. I get 160mpg av. On the monkey! Not the ducati 😀
Umm maybe , but I think thye have it nicely set out in in proportion with the way it is now....No 150s over here mate , but yes that would be awesome if they did make a 150/180cc!!!!! I'd have one then for sure!
Ordered by monkey yesterday thanks to your review and others but your first review got me to pick the phone up and order one . Let Honda UK know . Thank you great channel I'm got bikes from a x Max scooter to a KTM 690 enduro r but I'm looking forward to the monkey
I have heard that no new orders are being taken due to unavailability due to supply chain issues ...prior to that it is a long wait ..4-6 months ....I am lucky as I found a virtually new used one 👍
Yes your right they are about brand New honda won't let them register then until 1st September a few a month each dealer
That is so helpful to know, and I can't Thankyou enough for letting me know. I will pass it on. The Monkey , is pure fun, Stay in contact, And thanks again : )
7 driftwood sadly all manufactures are the same at the moment...we have 3 in my local dealer though...Only 1 2022 model though I think.
Look at the bright side, 2023 MY will be out soon and every year they get better.
Or look for the Dax which will be out soon.
A mate of mine is a very experienced rider,he's ridden everything from ZXR600s to Triumph Thunderbirds with all kinds of other stuff in between. He's had one of these for about 3 months now just for commuting and chilling out on Dartmoor and loves it. The size is quite deceptive,I'm 5'11 and weigh about 15 stone and find it a lot more comfortable to sit on than I'd ever have believed. I'd want more for 4 grand than that to be honest but it's a really nice bit of kit and not the "novelty bike" I first thought before looking at and sitting on mates. It's a "proper bike",and a very good one..
For sure mate, Yes 4k is a bitter pill, but to be fair I think its inline with other 125s at the moment, The Yamaha 125s etc go up to 4.7, but I know where your coming from. like you say though , they are great bikes. I'd have one tommorow!
Excellent review. Refreshing to watch reviews on bikes that are not obsessed by UK licence grades. I've had big bikes and small bikes. I get the ones that suit my need at the time.
100% the way to do it Alex, Thanks
I watched this with my family and everyone said they wanted one. That just goes to show you how likable that bike is!!
Great review Exeter!!
So much fun Kode, perhaps not suited for your commute, but for bombing around Exeter and a bit beyond....Awesome : )
Thanks for the videos your in depth detail and your channel has also given me more confidence in deciding to buy a monkey for reasons aside from its aesthetics. It’s my first bike & being delivered tomorrow.
That's awesome, how exciting. I still think about my time with the monkey a lot. I still want one.
You’re a brave man taking that on that M5 junction. Traffic crossing each other left right and centre to get onto the off slip.
It was junction to junction, and most importantly I stayed to the left lane and I was keeping up no problem. It seems a scary thought but really the 125s keep up quite well....It's not for everyone I know : )
I’ve got the 2022 monkey in blue, it’s on the back of my narrowboat right now, ( I hope )
I’ve spent the summer hooning round Snowdonia, Anglesey and the north Whales coastline.
It is pure magic on wheels. I’ve thrashed the pants off it on 200 mile round trips and loved every minute.
You can sit at 50 > 60 mph all day long and this glorious little Honda small bore just begs for more.
It’ll probably be the last motorbike I own and I couldn’t be happier.
Thank you for your vid. I know it takes a lot of time and effort to make.
Regards warren 🇬🇧
I’ve subscribed.
Thanks Warren. It's nice to hear from Monkey owners that "get it". Around roads like snowdonia it must be magic.
I don't Airways test bikes, I'd be happy to own. But if have a Monkey tommorow. Thanks for your sub. I appreciate your help 🙏👍
Thanks for the review ER,looks amazing excellent build quality.
It is James, very well built and finished : )
Brilliant video!! Your going to tempt me!! It looks so much fun and storage would be a doddle! Thanks for such a great review and that smile on your face says it all! Take care and ride safe mate 😁🖖🏼
Thanks so much! 😊 It's a great fun bike, I miss it !
Got to be one of the best reviews you've done
What a stunning little bike
Spot on with everything, for the money i would say very worth it
You nailed this one and hung it on the wall for others to set a new standard of reviews
Wow, thanks Rev Bomb, coming from a fellow bike reviewer, that means a lot. Thank you 👍🍻
Brilliant video as ever! That car park with the cones looks familiar :)
I wondered if you would notice. The day I went to see if you were there but just missed you : )
Cracking little bike for tearing up the city. Great review ER 👍🏼
It really is! So much fun, in comfort too!
Don't worry mate, I'm here after the plug on Friday night 😉
Awesome review buddy, you're so right, it such an iconic bike
It's just such a looker, definitely an eye catcher however it's so good to hear that it also has the performance to back it up.
Definitely great for anyone living in a busy city
Great video mate
Thanks mate, If you ever get chance ....Have a go!
A great review on what has got to be the ultimate city bike, ER. Being a Honda it also has a quality finish. It seems to fit you just right.
I'd have one tomorrow Jim, They fit tall people as well believe it or not. I miss having it in the garage tbh. hope your well mate.
Don't go in-between the car asking for trouble.good video be safe 👍
Great video,lovely bike.I also enjoyed the final bit of the video with the relaxing music.
Monkey or Supercub?Don't know which one would I buy mmm...
Tough isn't it! For me its Monkey but no wrong answer, sit on both and see how they feel : )
Subscribed thank u for a practical review. This bike is my dream! I just passed mod 1 on a 125cc today and am one of the few peole to do it on a 125. I dream of buying a monkey after mod 2 ❤
It's a whole lot of fun!
Nice review, and great demo of good, safe filtering through Exe bridges. Looks a lot of fun and if I did more city riding (and wasn't 6'2 & 18stone), would definitely be one to consider.
Its a great bike...I miss it already,thanks for your time watching the video : )
Your weight isn't an issue. Upgrade the shocks and your good. I'm not far off you and I'm lokking to get one.
Digdilem, same height as you ,sat on one today and my knees were nowhere near the bars , ordering one soon 😊
Very good review on the monkey bike I am getting one next week in nebula red I’ve had big bikes before and now I’m retired I wanted one to nip around the village in Cornwall getting it delivered so I can get used to it although the last time I had a bike must be twenty years ago when I had a v1500 Kawasaki meanstreak looking forward to getting it all the best.
Thanks Wayne, I really enjoyed the monkey and you have some lovely roads down Cornwall so you will have a hoot.
Simple light fun biking🍻👍
Very cool review on this one and it was cool to have your views on it. is it for me ....NOP but I can see guys going of it.
Thanks Roland, much appreciated your time watching
When you first said to me you thought a Monkey would suit me, I'll admit I was a bit sceptical but after seeing what they can do, I'm really excited about getting one. Now cooler weather is here I can hopefully complete my CBT 😊
Yes I know Lily, thats normal when its something not normally considered and a bike which was not the style you were after in the beginning....I have another one coming up soon for you ! Yes get the CBT booked then the world is your oyster. Thanks Lilly
🍻 Looking forward to it.
Great bit of filtering that mate. When you film around Exeter brings back so many memories, some good some bad, if you get the time have a blast past Lympstone for me.😄
Any particular road or place in Lympstone Carl? We're you here for long?
@@exeterrider bloody hell mate you’re up early. Yeah the RM training base, did my basic training there then went down to Bickleigh Barracks in South Hams.
@@RhegedRideOuts Yes, woke up and couldn't sleep so I'm up editing now, I'll feel it later! OK I'll do a ride by someone 👍
A really well made and informative review there Exmouth !
I really would like a Monkey myself someday. Maybe I could replace my 50cc scooter with one, one of these days 🤔 It would be just as easy to get out of the garage and hop onto to do a bit of shopping or to just go for a quick blast to clear my head.
A well made, great looking, fun and capable machine. What's not to like ?
An excellent review and once again your enthusiasm for this bike really comes through ! You've made me really want one !
Cheers EB 😜
El Outro
Thanks E.R. I didnt know you had a 50 as well. I think you would be surprised how much you would go out on it if you had one....for your French roads it would be perfect .
Hope your well, and if you get the chance to have a play on one ,I reckon you would enjoy it!
El outro my friend
@@exeterrider Yes, it would be great on these French roads, just as it is awesome in Exmouth's rush hour traffic, as clearly seen in your video 😂
Cheers buddy, always a pleasure !
ER.
I bought a 2020 one just 2 weeks ago and I must say it's the best thing I've ever bought. Perfect for the country lanes around me, and it's become my go to bike for nipping to town etc. I can just pull it out of the shed, rather than struggling with my big bike and just ride it out of the back gate without having to faff about trying not to scuff my mirrors. The only thing I miss is a top box to carry my bits but I wear a rucksack for now and have ordered a rear rack so I can put a bag on it.
One thing I'll say though is that you have to use a good chain if you're leaving it parked in town. It's not much heavier than my ebike to be honest.
I've also noticed that whilst it's highly geared and it'll handle motorways and dual carriageways easily, you're easily buffeted by HGVs. But then this bike isn't meant for these type of roads, as it lives for the twisty country lanes. I really do think I'll keep it forever it's fantastic.
You make a good point there with security. That's something I did think about but I wasn't sure how to get it across on camera.
I'm glad your enjoying it. In many ways it's one of the best bits I've ever ridden. I still hanker after one now.
Enjoy it, 👍🍻
@@exeterrider Thanks for the excellent review...as usual. You and tmf are the only ones I watch now. 👍
@@paulyflyer8154 I appreciate having you here Paul, thankyou 👍
Glad I waited for the 2023 we could only get black here last year but the red with the quilted seat arrived in the US soon
Sounds great although it could be quite a wait I think. Supply will still be a big issue next year as well👍🍻
ER mate I think you like this one ,gotta say it's an eye opener to me actually, it looks to make running through heavy traffic fun it's one that you can say to your wife see ya in a couple hours going to play in the traffic 😄. Would I have one as a pop to the shops bike and a quick coffee well hell yeh I think I would cheers nice one 👌👍
Yes , I can tell you see the benefit of this bike....for all the reasons you mentioned. Its just so much FUN : )
Excellent review 👍 I was in the Honda dealer a few weeks ago and got to see this model up close and what struck me was the colour schemes and the fit and finish were great. It a lesson they need to bring to some of their other bikes such as NT1100 and NC750X (I have a NC) as they feel very, dare I say drab in comparison and that coming from me a Honda Fanboi 😛
Yes the Monkey ozzes charisma!
Great review mate of a bike suited to your stature 😆Have you seen the Zontes 350GK ? please review it if possible ty .
Monkeys are great fun Phil, Proper old skool riding fun. Yes I'd like to try a Zontes but I dont have a dealer near me , and they dont have a press fleet so cant get on one : (
@@exeterrider Wrong mate " SP Motorcycles Exeter " are a Zontes dealer , GOOGLE is your friend 😀
@@PhilipKerry yeap, they take no interest in me taking any of there bikes out. That's why if you come to Exeter, hardly anyone rides a KTM or a Zontes😑🤔👍
Great review of a brilliant bike. But dammit, no stoppies 😂
I was going to do the walk round garage test like you did, but I dont think it would be as impressive as your one on the monkey😉😬
@@exeterrider one of my friends sent me a video of him doing it with a wood panel down his garden. Pretty much ch copied my gestures too. It wasn’t impressive but I did lol.
Love this bike would say for riding in Plymouth it would be the best, but think there is a large waiting list for these bikes these days colt following these days
Yes lead times are a issue these days, but my local dealer has 3 if interested : )
@@exeterrider thanks at the moment I am waiting for my leg to be repaired so not sure if I will be able to ride again, within a month May know if my prosthetic is finished
Great review ER
Thanks Dave, alot of work in this one for sure! Thanks for your time again watching : )
I want one . If they done a 250 cc one I'd get it tomorrow.
Yeap, honestly mate, they are good fun for city riding!
Nice little bike, but £4k is a little pricey. I can think of a lot of used bikes I would rather buy than this . Good vid as usual.
Thanks Billy, sadly 4K is the norm for 125s now. Thanks for your support, and watching : )
There is a lot to be said for the ''lollipop'' mirrors. They were the first mod I did on my NC750X and cost me £12 on fleabay (made by Rydes + come in black or chrome).
Ideal!, I dont really like my mirrors on the NC, but they fold up which is really handy!
I live in Thailand and bought a Honda Monkey 125cc for my Thai secretary to use for doing errands on.
I use it sometimes because it is fun.
In fact the Honda Monkey is so fun that I am buying the new Honda DAX 125cc to compliment it.
I'm looking forward to the DAX : ) it looks great!
@@exeterrider The DAX is readily available in Thailand. The advantage over the Honda Monkey is that it has a longer seat, harder rear springs and pillion foot pegs.
Yes carrying a pillion is a big bonus
@@exeterrider good deals on dax s at the moment £3550, now .
@johnbellamy6449 really! I don't think it's selling too well tbh👍🍻
wait until the new Dax comes out too, that will fly out of showrooms too, i have a copy of the original dax, had a few and love them.
Yes , I am really excited about the new DAX too!
In the US the tail light is rectangular, in Europe is rounded. I had a 1150 BMW and was a bit stressful to handle that killer trottle. The Monkey has low power and accelerating is not a concern at all, I just ride and enjoy it!
100%, its a joy to ride 👍
Thanks for a great video 👍
So what is the rpm difference at motorwayspeed 5 speed compared to 4 speed?
Sheers from Sweden
Hi!!
Rpm difference is massive although they dont have a rev counter , but it is a massive improvement having 5 gears : )
@@exeterrider so if i understand right, the 1-4 gearing is kind of the same on both bikes and the 5th gear become's like a overdrive?
I can se the advantage in that 👍
@@hva19003006 exactly, it makes a huge difference, even cruising at 40mph it's really nice
I have 5 speed . Mate has 4 speed. Top is same. Just a closer ratio box. Not sure the tops are exactly same ratio but flat out on 25mile m6 stint both exactly same top speed. Certainly feel the same in top. Love mine. 6k on it now and I have 5 other bikes. 👍
If you watch taym you will see all my bikes on there 😁including new bsa.
Never ridden one!
Be slightly concerned it would disappear up my backside!
🤣
Ha, they are not as small as you may think. Simple fun biking Tom : )
1.5 litres every 62 miles, did I hear that correctly? That's 180 miles per gallon. Bloody hell. 👍
I get 162mpg. 6ft 4 and 17stone. I do ride economically though. Although inevitably gets its neck wrung regularly. Lovely comfy ride all round
I used to get 130ish from my 2013 Grom, It almost feels like its free to ride. A lot to be said for that!
@@exeterrider My 6ft 2 mate gets around the same. I blame him for getting one. Would never have considered one until I rode his.
Do you find it slower than your previous Grom? I had a 2016 and it would happily sit at 63 all day.
I found it quicker tbh👍
Hi , are the tires tubeless ? Thank you
Yes they are
I'm looking for one of these to keep in the van, or a Grom - is there much to choose between aside from the looks?
Yes the seat and suspension is better on the Monkey for sure. it will be easier to load on board BUT the Monkey cant carry a pillion like the Grom.
@@exeterrider That's really helpful, many thanks. I'd prefer a Monkey but would like the pillion option! Cheers.
@@avitarmageddon1721 yes I totally have the same predicament. The 2023 Honda Dax will be out later this year, that could be the answer. You can carry a pillion on that one too👍
I ride a Vespa GTS 300 and thinking about a Honda Monkey as a toy to play with. But, I’m 67 years old 5’8” and 16 stone. What’s your genuine thoughts? Perhaps I should also mention that although British, I live in Thailand where a brand new Honda Monkey is just less than £2,200. Also, I’ve never ridden a manual bike but it’s on my before death bucket list.
Buy it now, it will be fine and you will enjoy it👍🍻
Originally from The States...... currently living in Siem Reap Cambodia teaching 2nd grade. Have been renting a "Zoomer" 125 don't know who makes it. Anyway I've just started my 125 search. Kinda sad as I also have a Shrek green Kawasaki ZX-3R in Chiang Mai Thailand. Even if Cambodia didn't have a 50% tax to register an out of country motorcycle....yes 50% of original selling price!!! Crazy I know. Cambodia isn't the place for a Ninja even if it's only a 300cc. So yea I've seen the occasional Honda Grom cruising around Siem Reap and was intrigued. Have read/watched a few reviews about the Grom, but will more likely purchase the Monkey as I LOVE the way it looks, it will def. be my bike for Cambodia. Most of my driving is city driving so this will be perfect. And at 62 years old I guess it's time to give up/sell the Ninja. But I do LOVE the way it looks! And I REALLY miss having a clutch. I started riding dirt bikes at 13, graduated high school and bought a Honda 750F. Drove for two years, sold, and never drove again.....until I had moved to Asia, 40+ years after high school. Then after about 3 months traveling through Philippines, South Vietnam, Cambodia and ending up in Chiang Mai, N. Thailand, and always getting an Uber/Bolt/bicycling or walking to get anywhere I was like screw this.....I'm gonna get a scooter. So I went out for a scooter......and ended up with said ZX-3R. I am DEF. NOT a Ninja type rider. But it was love at first bite when I saw "Zendaya". 2017, I was the first owner as Chiang Mai Kawasaki had used it as a demo. Less than 500 miles/900 kl. PERFECT condition! Yes it was truly love at first bite. Northern Thailand is truly the most perfect place, except for driving on the wrong side of the road, to ride. OMG 10 min. out of town you have Doi Suthep......anyway I think either the Honda Grom or Monkey....I prefer the Monkey but so far I haven't found a Honda dealership her that even knows what it is. Thanx!
The Monkey is the most fun out of all those bikes and infcat the most comfortable...The only thing to be mindful of is security with it being small and light....next would be the Grom which you can also pillion on.
I want one here in Texas but I'm a bit concerned it's more of a city bike.
It is really. It can get a little lost on wider open roads but still fun!
I love the idea of these and they look like such a fun way to get around. However, they're C$5,300 here in Canada which just seems like a lot (a Grom is C$4,000). Also, I know 125 is a standard in many countries for regulations but a 150cc would make it so much better Canada and US since it's hard to get around without having to 90-100 km/h at times, making these just ever so slightly too slow to be all that practical. But they look like so much fun it's tempting to get one anyways...
I'm tempted too. Yes the price is ,at first , a bit of a shocker, but 4k over here is quite normal for a 125 these days. Great fun though once it's in the garage : )
I'm in Québec I wanted a 22 monkey could not find any in dealerships so I bought a 22 abs Grom ...I'm 6'2" 240 lbs and my top speed vary from 85-101 km/hr depending on wind and steepness of road, for short highway rides I use my Vespa GTS 300 my top speed 129km/hr
@@philipdumont2286 Here in the capital you pretty much need to take the freeway to get anywhere outside your area. Even many regular roads are 70-80 km/h where people go 90-100 km/h. So it just seems like the 125 would be a bit too slow around here. I still want one though as they look like so much fun.
@@Thirsty_Fox those are fun bikes., So much I will buy my wife a monkey 2023 when they come out
@@philipdumont2286 That's awesome, I bet she will love it. I wish Honda offered the Trail 125 here as that would be a blast and easy for new riders as well.
Would you Consider testing a CFMoto 650MT. I am considering getting one from CMS and would love to hear your thoughts on them. Also its a not know Chinese brand but for the price and what you get is amazing.
I'll be honest mate, I gave CF Moto a chance of doing a full "proper" exeterrider exposure review much like this one, but sadly they didnt want to let me have the press bikes so I have lost faith in them a bit. As you say the price and product are good but will they gain traction!? I'm not so sure. I would have liked to have helped them but they need more than a 2-3 hour test ride out of me for it to really work. You should be safe buying one though I think. Not Honda quality but they are still good. Thanks for watching : )
@@exeterrider Thanks. Ya, I have notice they have not had much of a presence in UK as they do in china it seem. But looks like they starting to get into the UK market with UK HQ. CMS seem to be my local dealer for them. Hoping to book in a test ride on one with them if they have one available to try.
CMS do have one mate. Give it a try before they sell it may be best. Say Hi to Chris for me, top bloke! : )
So I went to CMS the other day and did a test ride on a CFMoto 650MT. Love the bike. So I decided to order one. Will be collecting on the 9th September. Chirs seems to be a nice guy and welcome me. Looking for to riding one again when I own it. :)
Great news!, yes Chris is a top bloke. He will look after you. Let me know when you get it. Awesome mate 👍
Maksimum hızı ne kadar
Can I ask - how tall are you and build size? I’m 6ft and 15.5 stone. Is that too big for a bike like this?
I'm 5/8 and about 15 stone. The suspension is short but should be OK.The bike will look small on you though.
apk74 get one, I'm 6'2 and sat on one today, plenty of room honestly. Weird when you look over your shoulder and there's nothing behind you 😅
1 more sub for ya 😊
aWESOME tHANKS : )
I don't think they've just added a 5th gear!?, I imagine they have reworked all the gear ratios and so your 4th gear is not representative of the older 4th gear!? ...obviously you would know better than me if you owned an older Grom before, but I have heard other people state that this 5th gear is not much different in terms of top speed but more likely noise and engine longevity? Really don't know how you filtered soo well with the wide looking mirrors? 💁♂️
Yes, your right, I think the whole lot are slightly different ratios. I didn't get that across too well. Filtering is easy, but it looks tighter than it is on camera tbh. Thanks for watching 👍🎥📺
I'm about to do my CBT and considering a monkey as my first bike, primarily going to use it for commuting to work and some nice Sunday rides, possibly some longer rides to see my brother around 2 hours from myself.
My question is, is this I'm 6ft 2, and around 90kg? Would I look and feel a total pillock on this bike, or do you think I'd be okay ? I love the look and style of it. I just don't want to look like a chimpanzee riding a tiny bicycle 🤣🤣🤣😅
If you think that now then you are more likely to think that when you get it.....fact is though the Monkey is a pure fun machine that also gives a huge amount of seat comfort. ......Buy it , try it and if you don't get on with it then they hardly depreciate at all so if you sell it you will still do ok.
How much is insurance for the Monkey 125 in the UK?
For me in Devon about 150 but if I lived in London then 400ish....it pends on so many things 👍
@@exeterrider 150-400... a year? Would you believe that in Finland, most insurance companies ask 1000-1200 eur just for the mandatory "traffic insurance" of a Monkey 125. The cheapest I could find was 650 eur. I suspect it's due to the 125 cc engine, the insurance companies only look at the engine size and figure it has to be risky because young people have lots of accidents on 125 cc bikes.
@yzimsx wow that's crazy!
@@yzimsxW Polsce za obowiązkowe roczne ubezpieczenie mojego BMW R 1100 GS płacę 180 PLN/ 40 € .
I.m 6ft 4. Very comfy. Jumped off ducati scrambler of a friend's on thur and monkey was so much more comfy. Plusher riding too. I get 160mpg av. On the monkey! Not the ducati 😀
Oh wow! I'm glad its not just me that thinks this!! Infact ,I'll pin this post!
@@exeterrider officially 189mpg. Think you need to be in neutral being towed by wagon fillingham style to get that!
By the way the ducati mate loved it. Said he was smiling all the time. But he likes more speed. Also thought it was very comfy. (Ave height)
@@zedcharlie Yes I would say its more like 130 in practice...I'll take that though lol
@@zedcharlie I think it may be the most comfortable bike I've been on....
Looks great, but for this price I would probably get an electric bike.
Fair enough, thanks Ivan👍🍻
hi again ,got a d a x after watching you and your son test it . best wishes .
That is awesome!🙏👍🍻
Cute-looking but it needs 15'' wheels and a 150cc engine.
Umm maybe , but I think thye have it nicely set out in in proportion with the way it is now....No 150s over here mate , but yes that would be awesome if they did make a 150/180cc!!!!! I'd have one then for sure!
@@exeterrider Those 12'' wheels are dangerously small in my opinion.
No they’re not. I’ve got a 2022 monkey. It’s magic.
@@user-sw2lv3zp6o I found them fine, it's only when you get to 60 it starts to get a little twitchy. But it holds the line well I find 👍
Love My 2022 Banana Yellow Monkey 🐒 💟
I'm jealous!😂😉😎
Ja 1,5l/100km
👍
Like how many in the Uk see you in the mirror and make room meanwhile in the US they get road rage and run us off. Such childishness
Yes , no need is there, we get that here sometimes, but its rare.