The Scooter range – The Power to go further
The ADV 350: Adventure Spirit and Urban Style
When Honda launched the X-ADV in 2017, it broke the scooter rulebook. The X-ADV was fast enough to rule the streets but could kick up a rooster tail on the trail.
The concept of a dual-sport scooter was unique. It rapidly became the scooter no one knew they wanted but everyone had to have. By 2021, the X-ADV was Honda's best-selling bike.
Fast-forward a year, and with the dual-sport concept established, Honda released the smaller, more affordable ADV350. Rather than ride on the coattails of its bigger sibling, though, the ADV350 carved out a niche of its own.
An award-winner straight out of the box and still selling strongly, it's not surprising that the ADV350's spec remains the same for the 24YM. A robust, lightweight tubular steel frame forms the basis of the chassis, with beefed-up 37mm USD forks and remote reservoir rear shocks.
A 15" front and 14" rear tubeless tyre combo keeps handling nimble yet surefooted. At the same time, the 2-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) keeps the rear wheel in check. Discs brakes front and back feature 2-channel ABS for fast, controlled braking.
Should you brake hard, the ADV350's Emergency Stop Signal will light up both rear indicators to alert other road users.
The Devil's in the Details
This attention to detail is a recurring theme throughout the ADV350. Pop the seat, and there's enough room to swallow two full-face helmets. You will discover a USB C-type charging socket in the front left glove box.
The 'Smart Power' SOHC 4-valve engine is incredibly frugal, aided by friction-reducing technology borrowed from Honda's high-performance bikes.
Whether enjoying spirited acceleration around town or all-day cruising at motorway speeds, 80+mpg is the norm.
An automatic centrifugal clutch ensures the bike's twist-and-go feature remains smooth and fast. Meanwhile, the belt final drive keeps everything neat.
An accomplished player on the street, the ADV350's rugged chassis and adventure-inspired bodywork invite the rider to explore the urban jungle and beyond. The ADV350 proves the fun doesn't have to end at the city limits.
The Forza 125: Conquering Europe
With no pretensions to life beyond the tarmac, the Honda Forza 125 is the scooter of choice for the discerning rider. With smooth yet perky performance, this elegant, luxuriously equipped city hopper is a huge European hit.
Regardless of its popularity, Honda has always listened to owner feedback, leading to significant developments and upgrades. In 2018, the Forza got a sporty facelift plus a host of electronic upgrades.
The 21YM saw further cosmetic changes to aid aerodynamics and usability. An extra 40mm of travel was added to the electric screen, and a USB C-type socket was fitted.
Further improvements gave the sporty GT scooter a sleeker design in 2023. Meanwhile, the 24YM Forza 125 adds a Pearl Sienna Red paint scheme to the existing three options.
Form and Function
Despite its diminutive engine size, the technology behind the engine, chassis and ancillary components makes the 125 Forza unique.
Urban riders often experience stop-start traffic, so the scooter's Idling Stop (IS) feature is helpful and environmentally friendly. When the Forza is stationary and the brakes are applied, IS automatically stops the engine running after three seconds at idle. The engine re-starts instantly when the throttle grip is twisted.
The IS system and the Forza 125's Smart Power low-friction engine combine to offer incredible fuel consumption. Over 300 miles to the tank-full means fewer trips to the gas station.
If you are a fan of electronic enhancements, the 125 Forza is happy to oblige. The screen adjusts at the press of a button, and you can charge your Smartphone on the move via the USB type C socket. In addition, the Forza's Smart Key operates the ignition, seat, fuel cap and optional 45-litre top box.
Electronic technology extends to rider safety aids, including Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). This incredible feature reduces rear wheel spin, boosting rider confidence in poor conditions.
With its stylish GT looks, confident handling and spirited engine, it's easy to see why the Honda Forza 125 is one of the most accomplished scooters on the block.
The Forza 350: It's a Family Affair
Although the Forza 300 has been around for over two decades, it wasn't until 2021 that it took its rightful place in the middle of the three-strong Forza family.
This capacity jumped to 350cc, and gained the more angular, sporty front bodywork of 750cc big brother. Add to this Bluetooth connectivity, and the faster, more sophisticated maxi scooter became capable of carving through city traffic and mixing it on the motorway.
It's hard to find negative elements regarding the Forza 350. Moreover, weather protection is excellent, thanks to the stepped seat, aerodynamic fairing and generous screen.
Using a SOHC, liquid-cooled, four-valve engine, a peak power of 29bhp arrives at 7,500rpm, with a max torque of 24lb.ft at 5,250rpm.
In the cut and thrust of everyday riding, the engine accelerates fast enough to win the traffic light Grand Prix. With motorway speeds approximately 3000 rpm below the red line, there is still plenty of power for overtaking.
As gutsy a mover as the Forza 350 is, riders can still expect an average fuel consumption of 80mpg plus. Thanks to the LCD screen you can check your average consumption figure as well as the number of miles remaining.
For practicality, the seat is comfortable and generous for two-up trips and has sturdy grab rails. An underseat storage area has space to stow two full-face crash helmets, and there's a glove box in the front fairing with a USB C-type socket.
A Ride for All Seasons
If you need more luggage space, an optional colour-coded Honda top box adds another 45 litres. Meanwhile, the optional heated grip transforms the Forza into a four-season ride.
A lightweight steel chassis and motorcycle-style front and rear suspension complement the 15" front and 14" rear tyres. The result is predictable and steady handling in all weather.
In addition, with ABS on both wheels, silky smooth twist-and-go capability and HSTC maintaining rear wheel grip, the Forza 350 inspires confidence.
With two brand-new colour options and a new colour combination, the 24YM Forza 350 scooter is set for another year as Europe’s most desirable middleweight.