MCL 2022 - SCOOTERS AND 125CC
The Step-thru Superstars
Welcome to the Honda stand at this year’s Motorcycle Live which showcases the most talked-about sector in the world of two wheels; the scooter section.
The world scooter market’s value stands at a staggering USD67.21B. As a result, competition between manufacturers sees today’s scooters packed full of sophisticated hi-tech refinements.
Honda knows a thing or two about scooters. The 1958 Honda Super Cub was our first step(thru) into the market. To date, it stands as the best-selling motorcycle of all time.
This year, we’ll be focusing on our fabulous Forzas. The Forza scooter range is a family of sleek GT-styled scooters. In addition, we are releasing news of our model updates for 2023 to the Forza 125 and Forza 350. So, pop into Honda’s stand and check out the scooters responsible for taking the city by storm.
You can also catch up with the new colour schemes for the 2023 MSX125. The fun-packed pocket rocket enjoys worldwide cult status as the Grom.
The big news for 2023 is the launch of Honda’s first stride into the e-bike marketplace. The EM1 e: takes the convenience of an electric scooter to new levels. You can see it here, in the UK, at this year’s Motorcycle Live show.
Be sure not to miss it; it’s electrifying!
The Forza 125 has Got the Lot
Europeans are serious about scooters. So, when entering such a vast market, Honda made sure the launch of its new scooter range ticked all the boxes.
Honda created the Forza 125 for their discerning European customers. The scooter oozed sophistication and its distinctive sporty stance made it an instant hit. As of August 2022, sales of the Forza 125 are fast approaching the 100K mark.
If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it is a wise philosophy. This ethos didn’t deter Honda from subjecting the Forza 125 to a steep development curve, culminating in 2018 with a complete sporty face-lift.
By 2021, the Forza 125 set the bar high. It was the epitome of style, sophistication and sporty elegance. One look at the spec sheet tells you why.
At the heart of the Forza is Honda’s enhanced Smart Power (eSP) four-valve, water-cooled SOHC engine. This delivers 10.7kW @ 8,750rpm with peak torque of 12.3Nm @ 6,500rpm. These figures translate to rapid acceleration from the get-go.
The sharp mid-range boost is ideal for responsive roll-on performance and a respectable cruising speed of 90km/h. All this makes it a perfect fit for city life, whether cutting through the jams or blasting along the by-pass.
Fabulous and Frugal
Scooters and fuel frugality go hand in hand. It is here that the Forza 125 excels. Apart from its outstanding efficient power plant, the Forza employs an ‘idling stop’ function.
This feature prevents the engine from running after three seconds at idle when the scooter is stationary and the rider applies the brakes. Re-starts are instantaneous the first twist of the throttle. This function is just one of the advancements that see the 125 Forza attain an impressive 500km between refills.
It isn’t just the engine that benefits from these elevated levels of sophistication. The elegant, sculpted bodywork and distinctive headlights take their influence from the flagship Forza 750.
Electronic updates are present on the surface and below the aerodynamic body panels.
A redesigned instruments panel offers an analogue speedometer and rev-counter while a digital display nestles in between. The display is switchable to show several functions. These include the remaining mpg or battery state and an alert for torque control deployment.
Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) kicks in automatically if a change in traction is detected in wet conditions. The system effectively reduces wheelspin and the rider has the option to turn this system off entirely.
A tubular steel chassis, 33mm telescopic forks, twin rear shocks and an aluminium single-sided swingarm provide agile and surefooted handling. The Forza’s all-up weight of 164kg and 15” front and 14” rear tyres ensure manoeuvrability.
The spacious sculpted dual seat offers all-day comfort and beneath is storage space for two full-face helmets. The front left inner fairing with a lockable compartment provides extra storage space. Here, you will also find a USB Type-C socket.
It’s One Smart Scooter
The Forza 125’s smart key controls the ignition and locks the bike’s compartments. It can also operate the optional extra ‘smart’ top box. The entire scooter locks automatically when the rider walks away from the vehicle.
The feisty new Forza 125 takes the daily commute in its stride. Moreover, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling fabulous.
Scoot on by to the Honda stand. It’s time to see first-hand the scooter with next-level sophistication.
Stylish and Practical: Honda’s Mid-Size Forza
The mid-size Forza remains as much a part of Honda’s impressive scooter lineup as it was at its launch in 2000.
Upgrades to the middleweight began in 2004 with electronically controlled continuous Variable Transmission. The following years saw increased under-seat storage, ABS brakes and a luxury audio package with built-in speakers.
In 2016, a new sit-in design gave the middleweight machine a comfortable two-up carrying capacity.
To give the original 300cc a cohesive, harmonious vibe to match the existing Forza lineup, Honda used the fabulous top-of-the-range Forza 750 as a template.
With the styling side of the 300’s revamp well received, Honda turned its attention to the engine, first giving it a boost in cubic capacity.
Today’s new liquid-cooled 330cc, SOHC four-valve unit pushes out 21.5kW at 7,500rpm with maximum torque of 31.5Nm at 5,250rpm.
With extra power generating more heat, Honda borrowed cutting-edge oil jet technology from the championship-winning CRF450R motocross bike. The system sprays oil to the back of the piston to enhance cooling.
Wet Weather Grip
The Forza 350 also comes with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The tried and tested system detects differences between the front and rear wheel speeds. Moreover, it reduces engine torque to the back wheel. HSTC is perfect for managing tyre grip in wet conditions. As you can imagine, this feature is helpful for British riders.
When the system is auto-engaged, a flickering T icon appears on the dash panel and riders can turn the system off via a switch on the left handlebar cluster.
Using the same chassis architecture as the rest of the Forza family, a tubular steel frame is joined by a single-sided aluminium swingarm. Supple 33mm telescopic forks, coupled with twin five-stage pre-load adjustable rear shocks, take care of suspension duties.
A seat height of 780mm gives a natural upright riding position. All-round visibility is excellent. Plus, under the seat, you’ll find space for two full-face helmets.
A Forza to be Reckoned With
Honda paid particular attention to the Forza’s dimensions and its compact size makes slipping through rush hour traffic a walk in the park.
The Forza 350’s electronics package is practical and extensive. An electrically adjustable screen offers 180mm of travel to maximise wind protection. You will also find a USB Type-C socket in the left side glovebox. The bike’s smart key automatically locks everything when out of range to provide extra security.
The redesigned information consul has an analogue speedometer and rev-counter with a digital display located between. The LCD screen offers valuable information ranging from fuel range to ambient temperature. It also provides a link to the Forza 350’s Smartphone app.
The system uses the Honda Smartphone Voice Control (HSVC) system for Bluetooth connectivity. The 23YM system is compatible with IOS as well as Android devices.
The scooter also features an auto-cancelling Emergency Stop Signal (ESS). This safety feature detects sudden braking, causing the rear indicators to flash at high speed to warn vehicles travelling behind.
The Forza 350 enjoys spirited acceleration, a top speed of 137km/h and a cruising speed more than capable of mixing it on the motorway.
With more people heading for the ’burbs, the daily commute is getting longer. Never fear, though; the fabulous Forza 350 can take it all in its stride.
Meet the Forza on the Honda stand at this year’s Motorcycle Live.
Leading the Charge; Honda’s new EM1 E: Electric Scooter
With global sales of electric scooters reaching almost USD20B, it’s safe to say that e-bikes are here to stay. It makes sense; after all, scooters are the epitome of hop-on, hop-off convenience.
As metropolitan areas become gridlocked and polluted, the electric scooter may soon have an easy ride to achieve world domination. However, all of this poses the question; when will the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer jump on the e-scooter express?
The answer is right now! Visitors to the Honda stand at this year’s Motorcycle Live show will be able to see the first-ever Honda e-scooter heading to Europe.
Revealed at the EICMA show earlier in the year, this is the first time the small step-thru graced British soil. So, it is sure to generate a buzz with EV fans.
At face value, the EM1 e: looks purposeful. The wide-stepped seat is roomy enough for two. Plus, there’s a solid-looking carrier mounted to the subframe.
Despite the rounded front and angular rear bodywork, the overall design is cohesive and easy on the eye. The headlight is flush mounted in the fairing and the flat deck is roomy. It’s big enough for the usual rucksack of textbooks or grocery bag that often occupy this space.
The ethos of the step-thru scooter is to keep things fuss-free and simple in the city and its design achieves that. Being battery-powered, the EM1 e: also brings a host of environmental and cost-effective bonuses.
EM1 e: Plus Points
Wave goodbye to the spanners: The EM1 e: is ultra-low maintenance. It has a fraction of the moving parts associated with internal combustion engines, so there is very little to maintain.
Breathe easy: The EM1 e: emits zero emissions and with governments worldwide committing to reducing Co2 emissions, it's just a matter of time before EVs become compulsory.
Easy rider: Technological breakthroughs such as Dual Clutch Transmission make bikes easier to ride. The EM1 e: is a turn-on, twist-and-go ride, could it get any easier?
Seen but not heard: The Vehicle Noise Standard defines the sound levels of vehicles on UK roads. For owners, this is not a concern as the EM1 e: is entirely silent.
The elephant in the room restricting EV use is the re-charging issue. Once again, Honda’s answer is both innovative and simple.
The Honda Mobile Power Pack is responsible for powering the EM1 e:. The power supply is a highly durable, long-lasting, removable battery developed in-house by Honda.
This fantastic high-tech kit raises the bar for EV convenience. Its swappable power pack is easy to remove. This feature means it's possible to charge the EM1 e:'s battery at home, work, university or wherever there is access to a domestic power supply.
When the rectangular LED information screen advises low battery level, all you have to do is pop the seat, flip the catch and lift out the battery module. It is that simple.
The EM1 e:'s fuss-free removable cartridge-like battery pack will win many fans. No longer will electric vehicle commuters have to resort to off-street parking and charging stations. Its battery range of around 40km may not be a staggering distance but it is perfect for inner-city use.
Honda’s intention to introduce “10 or more” electric motorcycle models by 2025 may seem like a tall order. Yet, the EM1 e: is an essential first step.
Call into the Honda stand and see how the world’s biggest motorcycle manufacturer is adding an innovative spark to a new generation of electric vehicles.
The Grom Phenomenon
Motopia was a section of the vast Tama Tech Park in the suburbs of Tokyo.
Operated by Honda, it was a Disneyland for auto fans. The idea was to introduce new models and concepts to the public and fire up the next generation of car and motorcycle owners.
In 1961, Honda introduced a ride featuring tiny motorbikes with high bars and fat seats. The mini motorcycle, over time, became known as the Monkey Bike and was the subject of cult-like adoration the world over.
Such a phenomenon usually happens once in a company’s history. Unless you happen to be Honda Motorcycles. In which case, the whole thing happens all over again with the release of the Grom.
Honda launched the Grom, or MSX125, to give its full title in 2013. The minibike was supposed to introduce youngsters to two wheels. The tiny bike offered so much fun that the kids didn’t stand a chance.
Small bike with a big presence
With its 125cc fuel-injected 4-stroke engine and 5-speed box, the diminutive Grom packed more than enough punch to mix it up with traffic around town. Its steel backbone frame, 31mm USD forks and monoshock rear provided decent handling too.
The Grom’s compact size and real-world usability make it a decent commuter. The bike is also inexpensive to buy and run. Moreover, there are so many custom goodies that it’s not hard to see why owners are fanatical.
With Grom Clubs stretching from San Francisco to Sydney, the global phenomenon shows no sign of abating. A situation spurred on by Honda’s recent upgrade. The upgrade saw the Grom receive ABS, redesigned bodywork and an LCD dash complete with a gear indicator. All making the Grom even more desirable.
For 2023, the MSX125 is available in two new paint schemes. These are Matt Dim Gray Metallic with unique gold wheels, ‘Big Logo’ graphics and Splendid Blue.
If you can trust yourself not to fall head over heels in love, call into the Honda stand. Be warned, though; Groms are addictive.
Time to Share your Motorcycle Live 2022 Honda Highlights
On November 27th, 2023, the sun finally sets on this year’s Motorcycle Live event at the UK’s largest show venue, the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.
You met up with your mates and we caught up with our valued customers. Best of all, though, is the overwhelming response to our model updates. You've loved them all, from off-roaders and mile-munching tourers to electric two-wheelers.
You've experienced first-hand the fast and smooth Dual Clutch Transmission on our rolling road and seen some familiar famous faces, including three time world motocross champion Dave Thorpe.
Hopefully, we’ve tempted you to join one of our Honda Adventure Road tours. Or whetted your appetite to take to the dirt at the Honda Off-Road Centre in the beautiful Somerset countryside.
We got naked with the Grom and fully dressed with the Honda Gold Wing 1800. We've also brought news of Andrew Irwin's and Tom Neave's return to our 2023 Bennetts British Superbike Championship lineup.
It’s time to pack up our metal and return home with the all-new Transalp, the 30th Anniversary CB1000RR-R SP, the ultimate touring machine, the NT1100 and the electrifying EM1 e:.
All that remains to say is thank you to all the fans who took the time to visit the Honda stand.
Stay Social
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See you next year.
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