Tamiya 16031 - 1:6 Honda Gorilla Spring Collection

Honda Gorilla Spring Collection 1:6 scale plastic model kit

The Honda Gorilla Spring Collection is one of the most striking versions of Honda's cult mini-bike – a limited run from January 1999, built in just 3,500 examples, on which almost every component is chromed: the fuel tank, side cover, front fork tubes, chain guard, wheels, exhaust shield and even the frame and swingarm. Tamiya 16031 reproduces it in 1:6 scale, with the finished model measuring 226 × 104 × 183 mm.

Released in 2001, the kit uses new parts developed on 1980 tooling. The distinctive look of the original is captured through numerous chrome-plated parts matching the chromed components of the real machine. The air-cooled 49 cc SOHC engine is finely detailed, while wiring and hoses are made from vinyl tubing. Front and rear suspension, based on coil springs, remains movable after assembly. The decal sheet allows the model to be finished either as the standard version or as the limited Spring Collection.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues
• Numerous chrome-plated parts reproducing the chromed components of the original
• Finely detailed air-cooled 49 cc SOHC engine
• Wiring and hoses made from vinyl tubing
• Working front and rear suspension with coil springs
• Decals for two versions: standard and Spring Collection
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:6
• Catalogue number: 16031
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Model size: 226 × 104 × 183 mm
• Release: 2001 (new parts on 1980 tooling)
• Skill level: beginner

Note: The kit does not include cement, paints or modelling tools. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Assembly:

This is a very welcoming kit for anyone starting out with motorcycle models – compact, yet mechanically interesting, with large, easy-to-handle parts and the excellent fit typical of Tamiya. Because chrome dominates on the Spring Collection version, the amount of painting required is limited; paint codes for the remaining assemblies are given in the instructions. A wash on the engine and mechanical components is worth considering to bring out the fins and recesses, and the vinyl wiring rewards careful routing.

Chrome-plated parts can be left exactly as supplied – simply cut them carefully from the sprue and clean up the edges, bearing in mind that gate marks on chrome tend to show, so it pays to plan cuts in less visible places. Many experienced modellers instead strip the factory plating and airbrush the parts with chrome-like paints (e.g. Alclad, AK Xtreme Metal) for a deeper, more realistic effect. Both approaches are entirely valid. The drive chain is reproduced as a moulded part; a movable link-by-link chain set, Tamiya 12674, is available separately as an aftermarket addition.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling side cutters for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper for cleaning up sprue gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Precision modelling tweezers
• Brushes in various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• A wash to accentuate engine detail
• Optional: chrome-like paints for airbrushing

About the motorcycle – Honda Gorilla:

The Honda Gorilla was launched in August 1978 as the "big brother" of the popular Monkey. It kept the same miniature proportions and recreational character, but received a larger 9-litre fuel tank which, given the modest thirst of its single-cylinder engine, allowed a range of up to around 630 km on one fill.

Power came from an air-cooled 49 cc single-cylinder SOHC engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. Production was halted in 1992 and resumed in February 1998 following a facelift that brought a larger headlight, a chromed headlight housing and chromed mudguards.

The crowning glory of the line was the limited Gorilla Spring Collection of January 1999, built in 3,500 examples. Virtually everything that could be chromed was chromed – from the tank and side covers, through the wheels and chain guard, to the frame and swingarm – making it one of the most recognisable mini-bikes in Honda's history.

Original specifications (Honda Gorilla):

• Launch: August 1978
• Engine: air-cooled single-cylinder, SOHC
• Displacement: 49 cc
• Gearbox: 4-speed manual
• Fuel tank: 9 l (range up to approx. 630 km)
• Production: halted in 1992, resumed in February 1998
• Spring Collection version: January 1999, 3,500 examples

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, regarded as the heart of the Japanese model industry. The company originally traded in timber and produced wooden models, releasing its first plastic model kit in 1960. The brand is known for exceptionally precise injection moulds and outstanding parts fit, which is why its kits are chosen by beginners and experienced modellers alike. The large 1:6 motorcycle kits are among the most spectacular entries in the catalogue, combining detailed mechanicals, metal parts and working assemblies. Beyond plastic kits, Tamiya offers a full range of modelling supplies: paints, cements, tools and brushes. Today the company is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the hobby.