【Same ¥495,000】What's the Difference Between the Monkey 125 and Dax 125? A Thorough Comparison of Licenses and Riding Feel

Honda's "Monkey 125" and "Dax 125" are popular for their retro and cute designs. Both have an engine displacement of 125cc and the same price of ¥495,000, but there are surprisingly significant differences in their riding feel, required licenses, and usability.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the differences in performance, tandem riding capability, cruising range, etc., for beginners who are undecided between these two models. We offer a comparative guide that will quickly help you determine which is best for you.

Styles Recreated by Honoring Legendary Bikes

Both models have different styles because they are based on different original motorcycles.

Both pay homage to legendary bikes from the Showa era, so if you're a long-time motorcycle fan, you'll know that the Monkey 125 originates from the "Monkey (Z50M)" released in 1967, and the Dax 125 from the "Dax Honda" born in 1969.

Both belonged to the genre of 50cc leisure bikes and were a global hit as leisure bikes that could be transported in cars due to their compact foldable design.

Honda Monkey 125

Honda Monkey Z50M (1967)

Honda Dax 125

Honda Dax Honda (1969)

Incidentally, the Monkey was originally a vehicle for children's amusement park attractions that was adapted for public roads. The Dax Honda, sold as the second leisure bike following the Monkey, was named after its long body and low center of gravity, resembling a dachshund. The name was later changed to Dax.

Both models share the commonality of reviving these legendary bikes with modern equipment while recreating their forms. Both have increased their displacement to 125cc and enlarged the body, making them no longer transportable in cars like their predecessors. However, they are both modern-day leisure bikes that inherit the retro and stylish atmosphere.

The body dimensions, seat height, and vehicle weight of both models are as follows:

【Monkey 125】
Overall Length 1710mm x Overall Width 755mm x Overall Height 1030mm
Seat Height 776mm
Vehicle Weight 104kg

【Dax 125】
Overall Length 1760mm x Overall Width 760mm x Overall Height 1020mm
Seat Height 775mm
Vehicle Weight 107kg

The Dax 125 is slightly longer, but the other dimensions are almost the same. Both models are also light in weight, suggesting easy maneuverability in parking lots and similar areas. The low seat height also provides good ground reach, making both bikes quite easy for beginners to handle.

Different Licenses Required to Ride

On the other hand, there is a difference in the licenses required to ride these models.

Monkey 125: Requires a "Small-Displacement Limited Regular Motorcycle License" or higher MT (Manual Transmission) vehicle license.
Dax 125: Can be ridden with an "AT Small-Displacement Limited Regular Motorcycle License" or higher AT-only license.

The Monkey 125 requires a small-displacement limited regular motorcycle license, which allows riding all motorcycles up to 125cc, or a higher motorcycle license that allows riding MT (Manual Transmission) vehicles. The Dax 125, on the other hand, can be ridden even with an AT small-displacement limited regular motorcycle license, which is limited to AT (Automatic Transmission) vehicles (also possible with an AT regular motorcycle license or AT large motorcycle license).

This is because, although the displacement is the same, the Monkey 125 is an MT vehicle (5-speed gear) that shifts gears using the clutch and shift operation, while the Dax 125 is equipped with an automatic centrifugal clutch that does not require clutch operation for shifting (4-speed gear).

The AT small-displacement limited regular motorcycle license requires less skill training during acquisition compared to the small-displacement limited regular motorcycle license that allows riding MT bikes. Therefore, it is a more accessible license as it reduces the time and cost of obtaining it. In other words, the Dax 125 has a lower barrier to entry in terms of the required license.

There is also a difference in the licenses required to ride the Monkey 125 and Dax 125.

Clutch Operation Affects Riding Feel

Both models are equipped with a 123cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine. The maximum output is 6.9kW (9.4PS) and the maximum torque is 11N・m (1.1kgf-m), with the same output specifications (only the RPM at which they occur differ).

However, there is a difference in the shifting operation while riding.

The Monkey 125, with its 5-speed MT, offers the joy of "controlling the motorcycle yourself" by skillfully using the accelerator, clutch lever, and shift pedal. However, if the operations are not performed smoothly and skillfully, the engine may suddenly stop, causing a stall. Especially when making a low-speed U-turn in narrow alleys, stalling can increase the risk of dropping the bike (although the light weight makes it easier to prevent a fall by bracing with your feet).

The Monkey 125 is equipped with a silver-colored engine.

On the other hand, the Dax 125 is equipped with an automatic centrifugal clutch that eliminates the need for clutch operation with the left hand, and a 4-speed transmission that does not require frequent gear changes. Since clutch lever operation or releasing the accelerator is not required for shifting, there is no risk of stalling. This is the same as the "Super Cub" series of business models.

The Dax 125's engine adopts a black color.

However, controlling the vehicle at very low speeds can be difficult. For example, when crawling at speeds below 10 km/h in traffic jams, the Monkey 125, by using the half-clutch, allows for fine speed adjustments and smoother riding.

In contrast, the Dax 125, without clutch operation, adjusts speed solely through throttle and brake work, which can lead to jerky movements at very low speeds (although this can vary depending on the rider's experience and individual differences).

Regardless, the Monkey 125's appeal lies in the sense of freedom and sporty riding that can be enjoyed once you get used to the MT riding style. The Dax 125, unlike scooters where speed increases just by twisting the throttle, still requires using the 4-speed gears. However, unlike MT bikes, the absence of clutch operation makes it easy for anyone to ride and can be said to be a bike that is less tiring even on long rides.

Monkey 125 is Actually Not for Tandem Riding. What About the Dax 125?

A major difference between the two models is that the Dax 125 allows for two-person riding, while the Monkey 125 does not.

Both belong to the 125cc class, which is legally permitted for two-person riding under the Road Traffic Act (unlike the 50cc class). However, the Monkey 125 was originally designed for "single-person riding," so its legal passenger capacity is one person. Therefore, it does not have tandem steps for the rear passenger's feet, and the seat is designed for single-person use.

The seat area of the Monkey 125. There are no tandem riding features such as tandem steps.

On the other hand, the Dax 125, which allows for two-person riding, has a longer seat designed for two passengers. It is equipped with tandem steps and grab bars for the rear passenger to hold onto, similar to a typical 125cc motorcycle.

The Dax 125 is equipped with a seat designed for two passengers, tandem steps, and grab bars for tandem riding.

Incidentally, riding two people on the Monkey 125, which is designed for single riders, even though it's a 125cc class, constitutes a "violation of passenger capacity." If caught, the following penalties will be imposed:

【Penalties for Violation of Passenger Capacity (Motorcycles)】
Fine: ¥6,000 for motorcycles, ¥5,000 for mopeds
Penalty points: 1 point

Also, to ride a 125cc motorcycle and carry a passenger on public roads, you must have held your license for at least one year. Violating this may result in the following penalties, so be aware:

【Penalties for Violation of Large Motorcycle Passenger Law (Motorcycles)】
Fine: ¥12,000 for motorcycles
Penalty points: 2 points

Difference in Distance Traveled on a Single Full Tank

Since both models are 125cc class, they cannot be ridden on expressways, but many riders enjoy touring on general roads. When enjoying motorcycle trips, fuel efficiency and the distance that can be traveled on a single full tank are important factors. The fuel efficiency, fuel tank capacity, and cruising range of both models are as follows:

【Monkey 125】
・Fuel Consumption Rate (WMTC mode value): 68.7 km/L
・Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.6L
・Distance Traveled on a Single Full Tank: 384.72 km

The Monkey 125's meter is also equipped with a fuel gauge.

【Dax 125】
・Fuel Consumption Rate (WMTC mode value): 65.7 km/L
・Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.8L
・Distance Traveled on a Single Full Tank: 249.66 km

The Dax 125's meter also has a fuel gauge.

The "Distance Traveled on a Single Full Tank" above is calculated by multiplying "Fuel Consumption Rate x Fuel Tank Capacity" for both models. This is a calculated catalog value, and actual travel distance will vary depending on weather and riding style. However, generally speaking, the Monkey 125, with its good fuel efficiency and larger fuel tank, tends to have a longer cruising range on a single full tank.

Monkey 125 for the Thrill of Control, Dax 125 for Peace of Mind

Although both models have the same specifications and price, you can see from the details that they each have completely different charms and unique personalities.

If you want to enjoy the "thrill of control" like a motorcycle and long solo touring, the Monkey 125 is for you. If you prioritize the ease of obtaining a license, the "peace of mind" of not stalling, and the convenience of tandem riding, then the Dax 125 is the choice.

For ease of obtaining a license and peace of mind without stalling, the Dax 125 is recommended.

Of course, choosing logically based on specifications and intended use is part of the fun of selecting a motorcycle, but it's also perfectly fine to choose your hobby partner based on "love at first sight" with its appearance. Whichever you choose, it's sure to make your motorcycle life incredibly happy!