The j-series came after the m-series (1966–1969) but the very first Honda Monkey was the Z100 from 1961 made for the amusement park Tama Tech in Tokyo Japan.
The Z50J (J1) began production in 1973 and those were sold as 1974 models for the European and Japanese markets.
But in 1978, when Honda dropped the Z50A from its American motorcycle lineup, the European Z50 continued to evolve with a new drop-shaped tank and bicycle style seat, often referred to as the Z50J2.
Fewer Z50J2 were being produced each year and were finally sold only as limited editions.
1987-99 Finnish models used non-foldable "BMX" style handlebars; they did not come with indicators, had 6 volt lighting, and most were black and red in colour.