– 2018 Honda Forza 300 Scooter = HUGE Changes! Buyer’s Guide / Overview –
We’ve got a surprise new model announcement to the 2018 Scooter model lineup from Honda! Say hello to the newly redesigned 2018 Honda Forza 300… On this page we’ll be breaking down all of the nitty-gritty details that you need to know about the 2018 Forza 300 scooter from Honda. If there’s a piece of info you don’t see below or a question you have, make sure to post up in the comment section below as I’m always keeping an eye out for what you guys post and trying to help out in any way I can.
| 2018 Forza 300 Video |
2018 Forza 300 Review Categories / Index:
- 1.Forza Introduction / Overview
- 2. Forza Key Features
- 2.1 Equipment & Styling
- 2.2 Chassis / Suspension
- 2.3 Engine
- 3. Forza Accessories
- 4. Forza Pictures / Photo Gallery
- 5. Opinions / Thoughts?
- 6. Technical Forza Specifications
1. Forza Introduction / Overview
The Forza name has long been a powerful force in Honda’s two-wheeled line-up. Its history as a premium mid-size scooter goes back to the year 2000: the first model set the template, delivering a lively ride, plenty of storage room and an innovative combined braking system. It was well received throughout Europe, where owners found its multi-role capability useful in every aspect of daily life.
While retaining its trademark mix of sporty and GT character, the Forza 300 has constantly evolved. In 2004 it gained Honda’s S MATIC electronically controlled CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), a theft-deterring Smart key, highly efficient PGM-FI fuel injection for the engine and space for two full-face helmets under the seat.
2005 saw the addition of ABS brakes and in 2008, luxurious touches like an audio package and speakers plus upgraded S MATIC (with phased auto shift mode) and Combined ABS brakes were added. In 2014 it was introduced to us here in the USA for the first time. In 2016 it moved on again, as the Forza 300 with a new ‘sit-in’ design large enough to carry two people in total comfort, even at highways speeds.
2018 marks the unveiling of a radically revised Forza 300. It’s following in the hugely successful wheel tracks of its little brother, the Forza 125 (of which 30,000 have been sold in Europe in the 3 years since its launch) and, while retaining the best attributes of its ‘GT’ nature it’s now lighter, smaller, smarter and sportier. The Forza 125 was never sold here in the USA but we did have its sibling for a little while, the PCX125 before it turned into what we know today as the PCX150.
Now, to the big question that I’d say a lot of you probably have on your mind… Is this new and changed-up 2018 Forza 300 releasing in the USA? I can’t speak on that topic at this very moment and tell you yes or no. I’m sorry, I know that’s a terrible answer haha. However, if you want to see this model released in the USA then you need to contact your local Honda dealer and let them know you want to see this updated model on our side of the pond. Use social media and comment on Honda’s Facebook and Twitter pages to let them know that there is indeed a market for this scooter here in the states. They listen to feedback from consumers more than you know…
The 2018 Forza 300 has a crisp, sporting new look and much tighter, sharper dimensions than the previous design. Its wheelbase and length are reduced, while it’s also narrower, but with a higher seat height for improved visibility. Even with a new larger diameter rear wheel, it is 26.45 lbs (12kg) lighter thanks to a revised chassis and redesigned frame, which boosts acceleration, top speed and fuel efficiency.
Smoothly adjustable, the new electric screen provides maximum wind protection at speed or ultimate freedom around town. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has been added and can be switched on and off from the left handlebar.
Revised instruments serve up extra information digitally, in support of the analogue dials and all lighting is LED. The Smart Key offers control of the optional 45-liter top box.
- 2018 Forza Pricing & Release Date Schedule:
- 2018 Honda Forza 300 Release Date – TBA
- 2018 Honda Forza 300 Price / MSRP – TBA
2. Key Forza Features
2.1 Forza Equipment & Styling
- Adjustable electric windshield controlled from the left handlebar
- Revised dash offers a mix of analog and digital information
- Room for two full-face helmets under the seat
- Full LED lighting
- Sharp new lines create a sportier, ‘svelte’ new look
The Forza 300’s design lines flow back from a new electric windscreen, controlled by a switch on the left handlebar, which has 5.5 inches (140mm) of adjustability. It is designed to provide wind protection (with airflow directed around and over the rider’s head) and reduce wind noise. Stability and comfort at higher speeds – and for long distances – can be instantly exchanged for a greater sense of freedom with the screen in its lower position by simply pushing a switch on the left of the screen to move it to any point in the 140mm range.
The Forza 300’s Smart Key – as well as controlling the main ignition switch knob and compartment locking – also now manages the optional 45L removable top box, a first on a Honda scooter. With the Smart Key in the rider’s pocket, the box automatically locks when the rider walks away. It can also be locked from the key. The top box switch is on its bottom surface, and to maintain the internal volume of the box the actuator mechanism is located in the rear body of the machine.
Revised instruments present analog speedometer and rev-counter dials flanking a digital display that can switch between 3 modes (controlled by a switch on the left handlebar): odometer, range remaining and current mpg; trip meter, average mpg and timer; or ambient temperature thermometer and battery sensor.
Sculpted for both style and aerodynamic efficiency, the Forza 300’s look mirrors that of the popular Forza 125, with modern lines that create a real sense of sportiness and freedom. In a radical departure from the outgoing model, the completely new styling moves from a more curved, rounded feel to a sharper, more dynamic look, completely in keeping with the agility and performance offered by the more compact dimensions. Silver accents around the nose, front and side cowls lend a further touch of elegance in keeping with the overall premium feel.
The Forza 300 will be available in the following paint options:
- Crescent Blue Metallic
- Pearl Nightstar Black
- Matte Cynos Grey Metallic
- Matte Pearl Cool White
- * Colors pictured below:
2.2 Forza Chassis / Frame
- Completely new tubular steel frame, 26.45 lbs (12kg) lighter wet weight
- Shorter in wheelbase with sharper steering geometry
- Much more compact dimensions paired with raised seat height
- Both wheels cast aluminum, the rear now 14-inch diameter
The 2018 Forza 300 has a brand-new chassis, which carves 26.45 lbs (12kg) from the machine for a wet weight of 401 lbs (182kg). Its foundation is a tubular steel frame that also shortens the wheelbase 35mm to 1510mm. Rake is slightly steeper at 26.5° (from 27°) with trail of 89mm, and the radiator and battery are located between the fuel tank and underseat storage area, focusing mass to the center.
Compared to the previous model, it is 1 inch (25mm) shorter in overall length, at 84.25 inches (2140mm). Seat height has been raised 2.4 inches (62mm) to 30.7 inches (780mm) and the riding position is naturally upright, promoting excellent all-round visibility. Handlebar width is now 29.7 inches (755mm) (2mm narrower than the previous design) with front width of 22.8 inches (580mm) and mirror width of 33.8 inches (860mm) – compact dimensions to make slipping through traffic-heavy streets easy.
Sturdy 33mm telescopic forks are matched by twin rear shock absorbers – adjustable through 7-stage spring preload – working through a 1-piece aluminum swingarm.
The cast aluminum 15-inch front wheel is fitted with a 120/70-15 tire while the 14-inch rear (1-inch larger in diameter than the previous design) wears a 140/70-14 tire, offering maximum traction and ride comfort.
A 256mm single disc performs stopping duties up front, mated to a 240mm rear, with the benefit of 2-channel ABS for braking control on slippery surfaces.
2.3 Forza Engine
- Faster acceleration, higher top speed and improved fuel efficiency
- Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) standard equipment
- Can be turned ON-OFF from a switch on the left handlebar
The new Forza 300 shares its 279cc, liquid-cooled fuel-injected SOHC four-valve engine with the legendary SH300i, and has power characteristics tuned (via a gas flowed head, long reach spark plugs and altered valve timing) to deliver an entertaining ride at low, mid and high rpm – plus excellent fuel economy.
Bore and stroke are 72mm x 68.5mm, with a compression ratio of 10.5:1. It produces peak horsepower of 25 HP @ 7,000 RPM (18.5kW), with 20 ft/lb TQ torque @ 5,750 RPM (27.2Nm). The new models 26 lbs (12kg) weight loss helps performance: 0-200m is covered in 11.1s, with V-max of 80 MPH (129km/h), 0.3s and 1.2 MPH (2km/h) faster than the previous model. Fuel economy is also improved, up to 72.9 MPG (31km/l) from 72.4 MPG (30.8km/l) (WMTC mode). The fuel tank holds 3.03 gal (11.5-liters), giving a potential 215+ mile range (370km+).
A significant new feature for the 2018 Forza 300 is Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) – the first time the system has been fitted to a Honda scooter. HSTC detects any difference between the front and rear wheel speeds, calculates the slip ratio and then controls engine torque via the fuel injection to regain rear wheel traction. HSTC can be switched ON-OFF via a switch on the left handlebar. A ‘T’ indicator in the digital display flickers when the system is working to manage grip.
The Forza 300’s engine is well-proven and engineered to last – a roller type rocker arm, plain journal crank bearings and sealed crankcases deliver long-term reliability; oil capacity is 1.79 qt (1.7-liters) and a 5mm offset cylinder reduces internal friction. An automatic centrifugal clutch works a V-Matic transmission (with ratios set for fast low speed reaction and smart acceleration) and belt final drive.
3. Forza Accessories
A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the Forza 300. They include:
- 45-liter Smart top box
- Rear carrier rack (direct fitment)
- Inner bags
- Heated grips
- Alarm
4. 2018 Forza Pictures / Photo Gallery
5. Opinions / Thoughts?
I’m going to start adding this section to all of my posts so I can post up my opinions and also here what you guys think below in the comment section instead of mixing my opinions etc into the post above with all of the other info.
Personally, I think the new 2018 Forza is a knock out of the park! The older Forza 300 that we got here in the states wasn’t exactly “ugly” but it wasn’t particularly attractive in my opinion – it’s not like it was beaten with an ugly stick though like a lot of scooters on the market. The new aesthetic tweaks to the design for 2018 though bring it to the 21st century in my opinion and just overall has some clean lines mixed in with a little sprinkling of flair to where it’s not a boring bike to look at. Looks are always very subject and opinionated though and what I find looks good, could be absolutely atrocious to you etc. Now, let’s talk about electronics. The old Forza had none. Basically. That’s finally changed and thanks to the addition of HSTC it really makes the bike future-proof. Add in all of the changes to the chassis from lightening it up and general modifications here and there and not only does the bike look better, go faster, more economic but it also undoubtedly handles better and that’s a huge thing to me as it doesn’t matter how well a bike goes and stops but if it doesn’t handle well then you can keep it – I’ll find something else to ride. Is all of this technology a double edged sword though? Are we cramming too much technology into these scooter and bikes for that matter where the price is going to get bumped out of the affordable range for many people?
The big kicker though with this bike is will Honda bring the Forza 300 to the USA for 2018 or 2019? That’s the million dollar question that I sadly can’t answer at this moment. Honda still has new leftover 2015 & 2016 Forza 300 scooters in their warehouse that haven’t sold yet which doesn’t bode well for us wanting this newly redesigned Forza to make its way across the pond to our shores here in the good ole’ US of A. Because of that, I don’t see Honda bringing it to the USA for 2018 but 2019 is a good possibility, I’d say a big deciding factor will be how quick Honda can get rid of those leftover Forzas’…
What do you guys think? What’s your opinion on the changes to the 2018 Forza? Do you want Honda to bring this new Forza to the USA in 2019?
6. Technical 2018 Honda Forza 300 Specifications
| ENGINE | |
| Type | 4 stroke, 4 valve liquid-cooled |
| Engine Displacement | 279cc |
| Bore and Stroke | 72mm x 68.5 |
| Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Max. Power Output | 25 HP @ 7,000 RPM (18.5 kW) |
| Max. Torque | 20 ft/lb TQ @ 5,750 RPM (27.2 Nm) |
| Oil Capacity | 1.79 qt (1.7 L) |
| FUEL SYSTEM | |
| Carburation | PGM-FI |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 3.03 gal (11.5 L) |
| Fuel consumption | 72.9 MPG (31km/l) |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | |
| Starter | Electric |
| Battery Capacity | 12V-8.6 AH |
| ACG Output | 340 W @ r/min |
| DRIVETRAIN | |
| Clutch Type | Automatic centrifugal clutch; dry type |
| Transmission Type | CVT |
| Final Drive | V-Belt |
| FRAME | |
| Type | Underbone type; steel |
| CHASSIS | |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 84.2 in x 29.7 x 57.8 in (2140mm x 755mm x 1470mm) |
| Wheelbase | 59.4 in (1510mm) |
| Caster Angle | 26.5° |
| Trail | 89mm |
| Seat Height | 30.7 in (780mm) |
| Ground Clearance | 5.3 in (135mm) |
| Kerb Weight | 401 lbs (182kg) |
| Turning radius | 7.8 ft (2.4m) |
| SUSPENSION | |
| Type Front | φ33 Telescopic |
| Type Rear | Twin Shock |
| WHEELS | |
| Rim Size Front | 15 inch |
| Rim Size Rear | 14 inch |
| Tires Front | 120/70R15 |
| Tires Rear | 140/70R14 |
| BRAKES | |
| ABS System Type | 2 Channel |
| Front | φ256mm, single disc |
| Rear | φ240mm, single disc |
I emailed Honda last week (I’m in the UK) and they said that the Forza had been discontinued, which we all know, but didn’t say anything about a replacement which I found rather odd so I sent them links to various articles about the scoot and am waiting to hear back. I’m keeping everything crossed that it will come to the UK this year (and to the ‘good ol’ US of A’) – I had the old version and loved it but stupidly sold it for the Burgie 650 – which I loved equally but it was so darned heavy and combersome!!!
Hmm… That’s odd. If you don’t mind, I would love to hear what their response is back to you on that. Haha yeah, I think we’ve all done that a time or two with selling something and then kicking ourselves in the butt shortly there after. This new Forza, priced well, should be a hit in many many different countries around the world so in my opinion they’d be crazy not to branch it out to as many places as possible. Most importantly for the UK and USA though haha.
They actually came back to me this morning with apologies and said it would be released and they sent me a brochure but they couldn’t tell me when or where it would be released, just to contact local Honda dealer so fingers and toes crossed….!
That’s good to hear bud! I was scratching my head at that the more I thought about haha.
Color options should be identical to what’s listed above. It’s going to be interesting to see how they price it with having some of the new tech thrown at it but they’ll shoot themselves in the foot if they end up pricing it out of the market over there.
I am assuming that the on the road price will be around the 5 – 6 K mark. I’m not sure that I can wait until August or September for two wheels again, I am getting withdrawal symptoms!
I hope this bike is introduced into the US in 2019. The new Forza is a state of the art scooter that will compete with the Yamaha XMAX 300. Supposedly, the Forza is 200 euros less than the XMAX 300. I wrote Honda Powersports and they stated that currently, it’s not on the radar. It’s funny how Honda can import the NM4, and goldwing, but not a state of the art scooter to the USA.
I’m with you 100%. I hope they end up bringing it over here but I can see if they are “gun shy” with the way the current Forza has sold here in the US. Scooters just aren’t a huge seller here in the states still which is why we don’t have half of the models available on this side of the pond that Honda makes for other parts of the country. The best selling scooter I’ve seen in the last 12 years I have been with Honda would have to be the PCX150, it has consistently killed all of the other models year after year in sales.
Oh yeah, it’s rather interesting how they decide which models go where etc.