The Swedish company Monark actually began in the early twentieth century building bicycles. The production of motorcycles didn’t start until the late 40’s and 50’s and the factories prow ness was ultimately achieved in 1959 when Sten Lundin won the 500cc World Motocross Championship.

In 1970, Monark introduced its first 125cc motocross model and imported the machines to the USA initially through Rockford Motors in Illinois and later thru Inter-Trends in Burbank, California. The Monark’s used the popular Sachs engine with state-of-the-art chrome moly frame and Ceriani suspension components. They instantly became the Ferrari of the 1/8 liter class!

In July of 1973 the first ever 125cc National motocross event in America was held in San Bernardino, California at the Arroyo Cycle Park – now called Glen Helen. Ray Lopez won this event and Marty Smith finished in second place riding the Monark MX models. Unfortunately for Monark, Honda would introduce the all new 125cc Elsinore later than year and that was the end!