Forza comparison to PCX150 and other small 'maxi scooters'

[Amaranthus]

For kicks and giggles, I did a bit of research to compare some of the key specs of the NSS300 Forza with my PCX150, and a range of other currently available small maxis. I thought you folks might enjoy this, and also perhaps offer some feedback.

Here is the table:


First up, note that I'm an Australian, so units are metric, and speed distance is in km, and $ are AUD ($US=0.93c right now, so close to parity). I can post a miles/gallon/inches etc. version if you wish Also note that the PCX150 is at the bottom of the table only because it's there as a 'default' - since that is the scooter I currently own (a great unit!).

A few definitions.
Rating = my qualitative 'overall feel' for relative preference. It's the only subjective thing in this table, and is really an integration of the numbers and gut instinct.
CC = engine displacement
kW = peak power (typically at ~6000-8000 rpm)
L/100km = Fuel economy the way we express it in Oz
Dry kg = dry weight
Seat H = seat height in mm
Tank = in litres
Tyres = front/rear, in inches - ever Aussies express these in imperial units
ABS = if an option, I gave it a Y
Drive = all CVT, although I was looking at some larger maxis at some point which had Dual-Clutch or the Manual option in the Burgman 650 (for instance)
Cyl = all 1 cylinder, again, some larger maxis not listed here have 2
Max sp = top speed, in kph
Range = calculated from tank capacity and fuel efficiency, in km
Oz DA = drive away prices in Australia, as quoted by various dealers

Comments?

[SmellyTofu]

Sensational info. Thx!

I look at the Maj and want it more of my heart. The Forza is more the head but fuel consumption is so much more than the PCX125. Storage is my big point so I feel the Maj wins there.

[Amaranthus]

Agreed, storage space (and shape!) is another important feature -- but something that's surprisingly difficult to get measurements for (not typically reported). In the Forza for instance, the underseat storage looks ample, but the base is relatively flat and shallow at the centrepoint, which can be problematic depending on what you're trying to put in there. My economy estimates come from a mix of manufacturer quotes and average Fuelly estimates -- they obviously vary in RL from unit to unit.

I should also note that I'm 170 cm and 66 kg (approx. 5'7" and 145 lbs) so part of my rating was based on how well a given scoot suited my size! The above models cover basically all of the 200-400cc scooters currently (Nov 2014) that are available in Australia. International models might have missed the list.

Oh, and for those who wonder why I've rated the Aprilia SR Max 300 quite high, when its specs are only so-so? It just looks so damned cool... (but the seat might be too high for me).

[SmellyTofu]

But doesn't the Forza have a massive glovebox? It's like the PCX that isn't too bad and sorta does fit my Nolan n104 helmet but only if I force the seat shut making the seat bow out in the middle. Anyway, I have a topbox but I'd wish I didn't have one to fit my helmet.

[Amaranthus]

The Forza has 2 decent-sized glove boxes, but they are not what I'd call huge (although bigger than my dinky PCX's hidy hole!). Some good pics here:
http://myforza300.wordpress.com/2013/09 ... a-storage/

My HJC CS-R2 (size L) fits in my PCX underseat okay. If I buy a Forza, I'll probably also get a top box, because I'd then have more of an eye on touring requirements/supplies.

[Amaranthus]

FYI, I did another comparison, looking at the relative specs/choice of the PCX150, NSS300 Forza and Burgman AN650, here:
http://www.hondapcx.org/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=1955

[Mel46]

A Burgman 400 costs you $10,600 ??!!! I am glad that I don't shop where you do. Try $7,899.
http://www.suzukicycles.com/Product%20L ... N400A.aspx

[Amaranthus]

Australian prices... (also, that is 'ride away', incl taxes, 1 year registration, compulsory 3rd party insurance, etc.)

[Honda4me]

I can't fathom out why a modern day scoot would weigh in at over 200kgs.

If Aprilia can make a 300 at 160kg why can't the rest?

Heavy weight bikes are just unnecessary these days. Jeez.. my old Ducati Monster weighed in at less than a Forza. And a ten year old jap bike weighs far less than a burgervan.

[gn2]

Its an often asked question and the answers are many.
Years ago weight played no part in licensing, only in marketing.
That has changed.
Previously weights were quoted dry, often manufacturers simply lied about them.
How many times did you have your Monster on a weighbridge...?

Nowadays weights must be quoted wet and ready for the road.
These are checked for licence purposes.
There's no hiding from the truth now.

Does the average scooter buyer really care a monkeys what the weight is?
If its fast enough and economical what does the weight matter?

Lighter materials generally cost more.
Would I pay 20% more for a 20% lighter scooter?
Would I <bleep>.

[~Cheap_Ride~]

Its an often asked question and the answers are many.
Years ago weight played no part in licensing, only in marketing.
That has changed.
Previously weights were quoted dry, often manufacturers simply lied about them.
How many times did you have your Monster on a weighbridge...?

Nowadays weights must be quoted wet and ready for the road.
These are checked for licence purposes.
There's no hiding from the truth now.

Does the average scooter buyer really care a monkeys what the weight is?
If its fast enough and economical what does the weight matter?
Lighter materials generally cost more.
Would I pay 20% more for a 20% lighter scooter?
Would I <bleep>.

I think you would be surprised, but hey, you know it all right?

[gn2]

Go on, surprise me.

[~Cheap_Ride~]

The surprise is how much you know of what other people think or believe. I need to get me one of them there crystal balls that you have.

[gn2]

No crystal ball required, just the sales figures.
The Forza is heavier than a Downtown.
Which one sells the most?

[you you]

No crystal ball required, just the sales figures.
The Forza is heavier than a Downtown.
Which one sells the most?

BMW gs1200. Heavier than both together

Stop pharting on

[Amaranthus]

Heavy is okay if CoG is low -- I think people care about this most when considering manoeuvrability for city riding etc. Horses for courses. I like the low weight of the Aprillia 300 for instance, but not the high seat (I'm only 170 cm). I think gn2's main point is that people consider a whole range of factors when deciding, and what can be a negative for one buyer will be a positive for another.

Overall, in people's mind, more +ves = higher chance of purchase, but some factors can be overriding (e.g. is it too expensive for my budget?). Weight is unlikely to be an overriding factor, either way.

[you you]

Heavy is okay if CoG is low -- I think people care about this most when considering manoeuvrability for city riding etc. Horses for courses. I like the low weight of the Aprillia 300 for instance, but not the high seat (I'm only 170 cm). I think gn2's main point is that people consider a whole range of factors when deciding, and what can be a negative for one buyer will be a positive for another.

Overall, in people's mind, more +ves = higher chance of purchase, but some factors can be overriding (e.g. is it too expensive for my budget?). Weight is unlikely to be an overriding factor, either way.

Not sure about that. A bike that is too heavy, especially if it feels like that even after standstill is awful