One word- comfort.
I'm not a scooter rider normally, had motorbikes for so long now developed that usual snobbery against scooters. I ride a Multistrada currently, but thanks to my job with North West Honda, I get to try the demo bikes regularly. It's been some 14 years since I've owned and ridden a scooter for more than a mile.
My opinion has been changed for the better
The Forza has got to have one of the comfiest ergonomics my rear has had the pleasure of sitting on. My first impressions of it was "Man that's big and low", however once I was sat in the riders seat and had placed my hands on the controls, a lot of the girth disappeared. As I said, Honda have nailed the ergo's on this one. Turning the ignition, the analogue clocks perform a smooth sweep and light up. The dash is very clear and well positioned, the choice to remain with analogue I feel is a wise one for rider visibility. The scooter is very light for one of it's size, the low centre of gravity helps to peddle it around at a stand still, and feet find the side stand easily.
Pulling the brake lever in and thumbing the starter, the Forza purrs into life. It's a relatively quiet scoot, with the noise of the engine hidden well by the bodywork. Pulling away the engine is very smooth, and gains speed in a very linear fashion. I've seen 70mph on it, but their doesn't feel like there is too much left, no doubt it will go a shade faster, but I've yet to need it. The roll on power for overtakes is plentiful- ride along at 40mph, coast is clear, roll on throttle and she glides onwards-50,60 mph- no drama. I wonder if the engine will loosen up when the miles pile on, or if there is a way to raise the rev celling during the 20-60 mph range, but it does feel a touch neutured.
Handling is fairly sprightly- the Forza tips into corners nicely, feeling stable and controlled. It's certainly a stable vehicle, and thanks to that large, sculpted fairing the wind barely touches the rider. The suspension however isn't as refined. Both myself and colleagues felt the Forza was rough over bumps and uneven road surfaces, crashing rather than gliding. If you were planning to head away from the city or major road networks I would look to change the suspension for a higher quality item.
Braking on the other hand is incredible! With the ABS variant I've been getting familiar with you could hammer them on from 60 and the Forza will come to a controlled yet abrupt stop. I've been trying my best to upset it and provoke a skid, but these brakes won't be fazed. Very impressed and in stop start heavy traffic a lifesaver.
There is ample storage under the seat. Popping it open via the seat button reveals a smooth latch to support it. Inside you'd be forgiven for thinking you were looking into a car boot- carpet was not what I expected.
The paintwork is typical high quality Honda, deep and consistent. The pearl white has a lovely shimmer, though I feel the Black suits the shape best.
Ok, long review, if you've made it this far, congrats! I've got to say I'm impressed with the Forza. A quick test ride may not have convinced me, but each time I head out on it, riding through heavy city traffic feeling unruffled and chilled, darting through cars and arriving in comfort- yeah I could own one of these as my daily ride.
Love to