The Honda Monkey is arguably one of the most impressive mini-bikes on sale today and its popularity is often the reason why custom bikemakers use it as a canvas for some stunning builds.

This custom Honda Monkey, though, is a bit different from the other builds and transforms the miniMoto into a proper off-roader, capable enough of even taking on the prestigious Dakar Rally. Intrigued? Well, let’s dive into it then!

Dakar Rally-inspired Honda Monkey 125 by Dart Freak

Inspired by the iconic Honda XL250R Paris-Dakar bike, the Honda Monkey has plenty of noteworthy upgrades. The most eye-catching bit here is the striking livery which wraps the Monkey in a glossy crimson red color topped by a tri-color fuel tank, all inspired by the XL250R. Meanwhile, intrinsic details like color-matched screws, rear carrier, and suspension, showcase its attention to detail.

Next, let’s come to the functional upgrades. Starting up top, the custom Monkey features a sturdy aluminum headlight guard, a tall and transparent windscreen, and a chunkier front fender. Similarly, the stock handlebar has made way for a taller custom handlebar laden with handguards.

Accompanying all this are loads of little aftermarket parts such as the toothed footpegs, adjustable foot levers, foldable mirrors, and a chrome clutch case. In addition, you also get a CNC-machined heel guard, chain guard, and prominent engine bash plate.

This brings us to the engine. The bikemakers have left the 124.9cc, single-cylinder engine mostly untouched, with the only exception being the stainless-steel, full-system exhaust. Thanks to this, this Monkey should make a little more juice than the stock output of 9 horsepower.

Like the engine, the underpinnings of the Monkey remain mostly as-is, still packing the same USD forks and dual shock absorbers as the stock bike. However, Dart Freak has swapped the stock rubber with knobbies to improve grip in loose terrain.

Can You Buy It?

While you can’t buy this custom Honda Monkey, there’s a silver lining here. Most of the parts you see here are bolt-on bits and are available separately. All you need to figure out then is how you’d import them from the land of the rising run.

Like what you see? Then, we suggest you also take a look at this epic Honda Grom with a dazzling body kit.}