2015
HONDA FORZA 125
~ morebikes.co.uk
Honda
has just released details of a brand-new high-performance 125cc scooter for
2015. The Forza 125 is said to offer more than any other scooter in its class:
more all-round, class-leading performance; more visual appeal; and more
practicality.
The
scooter is designed for the highway ability and comfort of larger capacity maxi
scooters, with the traffic-beating, sporty acceleration and easy-to-park
utility of smaller, lighter machines.
Brand
new from front to back, the Forza 125’s slim exterior is claimed to offer a
perfect fit for both rider and pillion, while the windshield is height
adjustable to suit highway and city riding. There’s 48 litres of storage room
(enough for two full-face helmets) beneath the seat, plus a 12V power socket in
the glove box and LED head and tail lights.
The
Forza 125’s new four-valve SOHC powerplant delivers 14 bhp @ 8,750rpm, with
peak torque of 12Nm @ 8,250rpm. Bore and stroke is set at 52.4 x 57.9mm;
compression ratio is 11.5:1. From a standing start it accelerates rapidly,
while sharper mid-range makes for reactive roll-on performance in the typical
25-40 mph around-town speed range. At speeds over 55 mph its top-end strength
delivers class-leading acceleration. The engine is packed with Honda’s eSP
low-friction technologies; clever packaging of items like the fuel pump (which
is built in to the crankcase) help to further ensure efficiency.
One
of the aims of the development team working on the Forza 125 is that the trip
to the fuel station should happen just once a week for the average user;
achieved thanks to the engine’s fuel efficiency of approximately 123 mpg (WMTC
mode) and 11.5 litre tank.
To
manage city streets and cruise open highways, the steel frame carries 33 mm
telescopic forks and twin rear shock absorbers. The cast aluminium 15-inch
front wheel is fitted with a 120/70-15 tyre while the 14-inch rear uses a
140/70-14, offering maximum traction and ride comfort. A large 256 mm single
disc performs stopping duties up front, mated to a 240 mm rear – both have the
benefit of ABS as standard for extra braking control on slippery surfaces.
Easy
mobility underpins the Forza 125’s look and functionality – it’s a contemporary
design enabling life in and out of the city. The exterior design highlights the
original ‘forward mass balance and performance strength’ concept of the styling
team, and give the rider protection from wind while presenting a light and
sporty appearance.
The
sit-in riding position cups the rider securely and the screen easily adjusts
through six positions and a total of 120 mm for use at higher speeds and city
traffic, to suit all types of riders. There is plenty of room for two adults on
the carefully profiled seat, which opens to reveal storage space to match: two
full-face helmets fit beneath it. The glove box up front contains a 12V socket
for charging electrical accessories on the go and also easily holds a plastic
water bottle. Seat height is a comfortable 780 mm.
Premium
LED technology has been adopted; underscoring the dual LED headlights are LED
position lights that lend a crisp edge and unique identity to the Forza 125 ‘s
frontal signature. Indicators are mounted high in the mirror bodies and
stereoscopic LED taillights are matched by LED number plate illumination.
The
stereoscopic theme extends to the instruments. Mounted high for ease of viewing
and lit with a reverse LCD display and deep colour tone, the speedo and
rev-counter are defined by elegantly flowing curves. A central LCD block
features a clock (with large display), fuel gauge, average fuel economy meter,
section fuel economy meter, A & B trip meters, odometer and coolant temperature.
The
Forza 125 will be available in three colour options:
Matt
Pearl Cool White with Matt Pacific Blue; Pearl Nightstar Black with Castagna
Brown; Moondust Silver with Matt Cynos Grey
The
steel frame that’s the focus of the Forza 125’s chassis provides the necessary
rigidity and strength for the mix of riding conditions it will face.
The
light weight of 162 kg (with ABS) not only aids performance but also makes the
Forza 125 easy to manage at walking speeds, and easy to park. The dynamics of
the chassis ensure composure on the highway and agility in traffic. A wheelbase
of 1,490 mm provides stability; the steering geometry – 26.5° rake and 89 mm
trail – delivers nimble steering.