Honda Forza 300 and Forza 125 2018: the first all new, the second updated, both GT business class [ROAD TEST VIDEO]

In recent days we have had the opportunity to tell you in detail about the new Honda Forza 300 (here is our complete article) and the Forza 125 (here we tell you our impressions after the first preview test). Now we want to summarize the main news and our opinions in this video.

It is a scooter that Honda wanted to redesign from scratch, with a cut compared to the previous model and a step up in level. To summarize it in a few concepts, it becomes more compact and lighter, with a more sporty feel, but above all with top-of-the-class technological equipment. Traction control makes its debut on a Honda scooter, accompanied by grand touring accessories, such as the electrically adjustable windshield, the smart key which also acts on the closure of the optional top case and a 53,5 liter underseat compartment, which can easily accommodate 2 full-face helmets and more.
The news doesn't stop here, for an increasingly important model for Honda, with 18 years of success behind it. The instrumentation features highly detailed finishes and has an increasingly automotive style, with analogue dials for the speedometer and rev counter, with a large LCD display in the centre. From an aesthetic point of view it takes inspiration from its brother 125, which since its debut 3 years ago has seen important sales results with over 30.000 examples in Europe.

Even under the dress the new Forza 300 evolves quite a bit. He lost 12 kg, with a weight that is now 182 kg, with a full tank of petrol. The wheelbase then drops to 1.510 mm (-36), while 1 inch larger wheels are adopted, with the front measuring 15 and the rear measuring 14. The excellent premium Pirelli Diablo Scooter tires are fitted as original equipment. The chassis is completed by a fork with 33 mm stanchions, while at the rear, where we find an aluminum swingarm and double shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload to 7 positions.
The Forza 300 features the same engine as the best-selling SH300, 279 cc injection, capable of 25,2 HP at 7.000 rpm, 4 valves, liquid cooled. However, Honda wanted to make some changes. To optimize the supply, some interventions were implemented on the ducts, ignition and distribution side.

On this occasion, its younger brother, the Forza 125, also gets a makeover, dedicated above all to those who only have a B driving licence, but don't want to give up traveling in first class, in the city, but also outside. It now adopts most of the innovations seen on the 300, including the electric windscreen and the electronic key also for the optional 45-litre top case.

But let's go back to the Forza 300, getting on the saddle and covering a few kilometers of healthy and busy city streets of the Côte d'Azur, towards Monte Carlo. It certainly has a great engine, then it is balanced and unexpectedly easy to handle, it can be driven easily and proves to be powerful enough, as well as capable of keeping a surprising pace on mixed terrain. On the mountain roads that take us towards Monaco, we can enjoy the route almost as if it were a motorbike. The Forza 300 picks up well from 3.000 rpm and is sweet and progressive. The low saddle allows everyone to rest their feet well when stationary and, thanks to its low weight, it is easy to manoeuvre. The blocks are there at your fingertips, while the very nice instrumentation is clear, easily readable and offers all the information necessary for the journey, there is even the ambient temperature. These qualities make him appreciated even on extra-urban trips, where he was able to convince and even surprise us, as he never found himself in difficulty. On mountain hairpin bends, between bends and counter bends, it shows off disarming handling. The low center of gravity helps to descend quickly and without any worries for the rider. The suspensions, soft enough, filter even the most damaged roads well, while the ABS brakes guarantee safety in all conditions. Its action is modulable and progressive, while if there is a need for a more vigorous response you need to tighten the levers with a bit of decision.

Very positive opinion also for the electrically adjustable windshield during your journey, without any discomfort and without taking your hands off the handlebars, guaranteeing total protection for the driver when he is in a raised position. The underseat is also convenient, as it can accommodate two full-face helmets and, via an internal bulkhead, the space can be divided up to store different objects.

Finally, a note on consumption, which is very low. Honda guarantees mileages of 32,7 km/l in the average cycle, with a range of approximately 370 km. In practice we even managed to do something better on our mainly extra-urban route, where the 11.5 liter tank guarantees grand touring autonomy, but everything about the new Forza 300 makes you want to travel and not just use it to go on a journey. office during the week.

Tester clothing:
Jacket: Alpinestars Wake Air
Pants: Alpinestars Crank Denim Pants
Gloves: Alpinestars Atom
Shoes: Alpinestars Stadium
Helmet: LS2 Twister