The new 350 model of the well-known big scooter Forza has been unveiled overseas. The styling has been changed mainly, returning to the twin-lens headlight typical of the old Forza. It is likely that a Japanese version of the 250 will be released based on this model. I would like to explain the details of the new Forza, which is expected to be introduced by the end of this year.
Written: Best Car Editorial Department
This article was originally published in Best Car Web on October 21, 2022.
New Forza 350 model announced overseas; 250 version to appear soon in Japan
The 250cc big scooter enjoyed a huge boom in the 2000s, with many companies vying for the top spot.
However, in the latter half of the 2000s, the lineup of 250 scooters was drastically reduced due to tighter crackdowns on illegal parking and exhaust gas regulations.
Currently, there are only two 250 scooters in Japan, Honda's Forza and Yamaha's XMAX. The Forza is selling well, with estimated sales of 2,187 units last year, compared to 1,308 units for the XMAX. The sales data, which ranks 13th in sales in the 126-250cc class, which is a strong class, is based on a survey by Motorcyclist Newspaper.
The current Forza is a scaled-down 250cc version of the overseas model Forza 350, which is sold in Japan. Last October 4, its base model, the Forza, underwent a model change in Thailand, the country of production. As before, the 350 should be released in Japan as the 250cc Forza.
The main changes to the new 2023 Forza are regulatory compliance and changes to the lighting system. There appear to be no changes in vehicle dimensions such as seat height, vehicle weight (184 kg), and maximum output (23 hp). Nevertheless, there is a possibility that improvements have been made in some details, such as maintaining power while complying with 2020 emission regulations.
The magazine expects the new model to go on sale in Japan in mid-December. The price is expected to be (approx.) 4645 USD, up 225 USD from the previous model.
The new Forza 350 is available in a total of four colors, including the gray in the photo. The gray color is expected to be available for the new Forza in Japan.
350 in glossy black. The same color is expected to appear in the Japan version, but the wheels will be metallic brown, unlike the 350 pictured. The current white and gray colors will be discontinued.
The current Forza (250) is sold in Japan. It was introduced in 2018 and the engine and body were changed for the 2021 model year. It features an edgy and stylish front mask.
The 2004 Forza adopted the semi-automatic Hondamatic and a large-capacity trunk. It was a bestseller, dethroning the very popular Yamaha Majesty. The twin-lens design was retained until the 2013 Forza Si.
Cat's eye + smooth body is exactly our Forza.
Perhaps the most topical change in this model change is the headlight. The current model (MF13), which was introduced with an eye toward the European market from 2018 onward, has adopted an integrated three-lens type, but for Japanese riders, the Forza is a twin-lens with twin eyes. Since the first generation (MF06) of the 2000 model year, the twin-lens headlight has been its identity.
And the new model has changed to two independent left and right eyes. It is a return to the tradition of the Forza we know so well.
Furthermore, both sides of the front cowl have been changed from a Z-shaped design to a smooth figure. The shape is similar to that of the Forza 750 available overseas but is also reminiscent of the old Forza in Japan.
At the same time, the tail lamps were also redesigned, and the instrumentation was completely redesigned. The LCD screen between the two analog speed and tachometer gauges has been enlarged, and a new bar graph-type real-time fuel consumption gauge has been added. The cockpit now looks more like a car, with a more luxurious feel.
The meters also show the display of incoming calls when connected to a smartphone, but as with the current model, the new 2023 Forza 250 to be released in Japan is not expected to adopt the smartphone integration function.
The headlights of the new Forza are set with position lights that emit a line around the perimeter.
The brightness and design are reminiscent of a car's daytime running lights. The photo shows the Thai version.
Current model has three LED eyes and upper position lights similar to PCX
The tail of the new model is mountain-shaped. Blinkers located on the left and right are the same as before. The photo shows the Thai version.
Conventional Forza 250. It had an X-shaped tail lamp similar to that of the PCX.
The new meter is of higher quality with a luminous outer circumference of the analog speedometer and tachometer. The LCD panel has also been enlarged, increasing the display area. The photo shows the Thai version.
Conventional 250 meters. The indicator and scale are luminous, and the indicators are grouped under the LCD panel.
The basic configuration, including a comfortable engine and electric screen, has been retained.
The current Forza 250 liquid-cooled, 4-valve single-cylinder has been improved in comfort with big changes in the 2021 model year, including a longer stroke and the installation of a balancer. This heart should be carried over to the new Forza 250 in 2023. While complying with the latest 2021 motorcycle emission regulations, it is expected to deliver exactly the same 23 hp at 7750 rpm and 2.4 kg-m at 6250 rpm as the current Forza 250.
The electric screen, whose height can be adjusted at the touch of a button on the hand, is a proud feature of the Forza that is not found in the rival XMAX. It will continue to be employed in the same manner as the current model, but the operating range is likely to be changed from 180 mm to 150 mm.
The 15-inch front and 14-inch rear aluminum wheels, ABS suspension, and on/off traction control appear to be retained from the current model. Convenient features such as a USB socket in the left front pocket, a 48-liter space that can fit two full faces, and a smart key are still present.
New engine. Like the 2021 Forza 250, the eSP+ low-friction technology and balancer provide a low-vibration & smooth ride. The chassis will also continue to be designed for stability at high speeds. These will be the same for the domestic version.
The new Forza continues to use the same convenient electric screen as before. The operating range will be 150 mm, down from the current 180 mm. Photo: Thailand spec.
The new model's under-seat trunk has plenty of room for two full-face helmets. The capacity has not yet been announced, but as the vehicle dimensions have not changed, it is expected to be 48 liters, the same as the current model.
The new Forza is expected to bring back the versatile "Big Scooter" to power!
Compared to the 125cc and 160cc classes represented by the PCX, the 250cc scooter offers a powerful ride and stable cruising performance. The space under the seat is also more generous than the PCX's 30-liter capacity.
Of course, the 250cc scooter also offers a higher level of luxury and comfort.
Although there is a big difference in price between the PCX160 = (approx.) 2735 USD and the new Forza's expected price = (approx.) 4645 USD, the 250 class is still the best for all-around use, from commuting to touring. Taxes and insurance are higher than those of the 125 class, but there is no vehicle inspection.
If the appearance of the new Forza can be an opportunity to re-evaluate the 250 Big Scooter, the Japanese motorcycle market will become more vibrant, but will it be enough?
Incidentally, while Forza believes in a comfortable ride, its rival Yamaha XMAX boasts a sporty ride, as it inherits the name of its older brother TMAX. The XMAX will be remodeled for the 2021 model year, and although news of a new model has not arrived as of yet, we look forward to its evolution as well.
Rival Yamaha XMAX, the company's first 250 scooters, uses upper and lower clamp type F forks similar to those used on ordinary motorcycles. Weighing 7 kg less than the current Forza, it is also equipped with a TRACON.
(approx.) 4395 USD
Comparison of the current Forza and XMAX. The Forza stands out for its driving comfort and low seat height.
XMAX is characterized by sporty features such as a short-stroke engine with a long cruising range.
