1972 Z-50AK3 Mini Trail

The Mini Trail got it's biggest redesign in 1972. The overhaul included a completely new frame with rear suspension that lasted until 1978. Aside from the wheels and basic engine, most of the major components were changed for 1972. The engine got a new larger carburetor, a quieter exhaust and an adjustable chain tensioner. In the front, the wheels, tires, braking and susension, remain unchanged, but the headlight is larger, handlebars have a different bend (still foldable) and get thicker, larger hand grips. The seat height is still adjutable (barely) and the rear suspension is a welcome addition to anyone who spent time off road on the early models. For all of the improvements, the Mini Trail lost its roadworthyness in 72. Though it retains the front and rear light, the headlight has an on/off switch rather than a high/low switch, and the tail light no longer has a brake light function. The liscense plate bracket was deleted for the rest of the Mini Trail run.

The 1972 differs from the later 73-78 Z50A models in a few areas. The side cover on the 72 model has a small warning sticker instead of the Z-50 script that was retained until 1978. The foot pegs for 72 only are rubber and round (1973 models through number 1019611 also have these footpegs) and 1972 is the only year that uses the new style chain guard in chrome. The big decal that takes nearly the entire side of the tank is the easiest to spot identifier for the 1972 model. It is black in background and the "MiNi Trail" script is orange. 1972 was the last time that "MiNi Trail" appeared on a Z-50 tank though the model was called the Mini Trail until 1978. The 1972 model came in either Candy Gold or Light Ruby Red. These pictures show several different bikes in both Ruby Red and and Candy Gold. They were shamelessly stolen from e-bay auctions.

Big changes for 72 inlclude the new frame with rear suspension. Unique to 72 from the 73-78 models is the chrome chain guard, and blank side cover. It's hard to see in these pictures, but the decal on the side cover has white lettering on the red model and black lettering on the gold one.
Also unique to 72 are round rubber foot pegs that were used on the Mini Trail's foreign alter ego, the Honda Monkey.
The new seat has "HONDA" stenciled on the back. Later models would have the "HONDA" lettering molded into the seat material.
1972 was the last year for the Mini Trail logo on the tank

1972 Z50AK3 Mini Trail Specs
Sell Date: 1972
Rel Date: 01/01/72
Product Code: 120

Serial Numbers
Frame: Z50A-1000001~
Engine: Z50AE-1000001~

Colors
Candy Gold / Black
Light Ruby Red / Black

New for this model
All new frame with rear suspension
New style, larger carburetor
New Exhaust
Larger Headlight
On/Off switch for headlight instead of Hi/Low
Tail light but no brake light
New round rubber footpegs fold but are spring loaded
Larger Hand Grips
No hand lever for rear brake
New Plastic Side Cover
New Seat, Fenders, tank forks handlebars etc
Running Changes
Unique to this model
Large, black MiNi TRAIL decal on fuel tank
Left Side cover is blank
Round Rubber Foot pegs (some early K4 models have these)
Chain guard is chrome

This cool ad sizes the Z50AK3 up against
a QA50K0 and a CT70K1.

This pic is from the "So your son wants a
Minibike" ad. Dad's bike looks to be a
CL350 or CL200.

This collector card reads:
"Honda has a little, The Mini Trail 50
Honda's Mini Trail 50 is the little excitement that's sweeping the country. Perfect for everyone in the family. A fully automatic clutch makes it a cinch to ride. The single-cylinder 4-stroke OHC engine packs a lot of power in a small package. Going camping? Take the Mini Trail along. Only weighs 117.0 lbs. Handlebars fold down. Foot pegs fold up. Fits easily in the trunk of your car. And the gas vent can be closed for safety in transport. There are more built-in safety features too. A USDA-approved spark arestor/muffler to help keep the wilderness just the way you found it. A wrap-around heat shield completely encloses the exhaust system and protects you from leg burns. And a leakproof gas cap. The little seat is very soft and can be adjusted to suit any family member. Hand levers are made of light, durable aluminum and are easy to grip. The knobby tires can handle almost any kind of terrain. The new extended rear fender gives you splash protection in the mud. The new foot brake makes stopping quick...and sure. And Mini Trail riders are as bright and fun as the bike itself."

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Created with Notepad, all pictures taken from public online autions unless otherwise noted.