1:6 Honda Gorilla Spring Collection 1999

Honda Gorilla Spring Collection 1999 (1:6, Tamiya)

This injection-molded plastic kit in the large 1:6 scale from Tamiya captures the Honda Gorilla in the Spring Collection anniversary version of 1999. This particular variant boasts chrome on practically every visible part — on the tank, the side covers, the front fork, the chain guard, the wheels, the frame and the swingarm. The model has working rear suspension, semi-pneumatic rubber tires, clear parts for the lights and a faithful replica of the small engine.

The real subject

The Honda Gorilla was a small monkey bike with a folding structure and a tiny engine, built in a range of forms from the end of the 1970s. The Spring Collection version of January 1999 was built in a limited series and was conceived as a decorative showpiece — the lavish chrome makes it a collector's item. The small single-cylinder engine and the compact dimensions are part of the inseparable charm of these machines.

Building and painting tips

The chrome version puts the emphasis on clean joints — remove the chrome from the chromed parts where they are to be glued so that the cement holds, and handle the chromed surface carefully so as not to scratch it. Assemble the frame and the engine and, if you wish, emphasize them with a wash before final assembly. Fit the rubber tires and the clear light covers last. Assemble the working rear suspension exactly as the instructions say so that it functions.

Who the model is for

• For fans of small Honda monkey bikes.
• For collectors of limited and anniversary versions.
• For modelers who will appreciate the large scale and the lavish chrome.
• For intermediate and experienced builders.

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.