Honda has revealed the face-lifted Forza 125 scooter for the European market, first introduced in that market in 2015. The Forza 125 combines the comfort of a ‘GT’ (Grand Touring) scooter with a sports-oriented attitude and handling ability, while offering plenty of storage, a host of premium details plus Honda’s engineering innovation and high build quality. For 2018, it has been redrawn with fresh new lines and several significant rider-focused upgrades.

What remains unchanged is the 4-valve engine that combines class-leading performance with 490km-tank range fuel efficiency and Idling Stop; a lightweight chassis that balances high speed stability with around-town manoeuvrability; and a rich specification that includes LED lights, Smart Key, two helmet storage capacity, and riding comfort for two. The production facility is also unchanged – Honda’s ultramodern factory in Atessa, Italy.

But there are significant new additions: a new electric screen adjusts seamlessly and provides full wind protection or a stripped-down view ahead while revised instruments serve up extra information digitally, in support of the analogue dials. Both front and rear indicators are now LED, underseat storage space increases by 5.5 litres, while the Smart Key now also offers control of the optional 45-litre top box.

The Forza 125’s four-valve water-cooled SOHC powerplant delivers 11kW at 8500rpm, with peak torque of 12.5Nm at 8250rpm. Bore and stroke is set at 52.4 x 57.9mm; compression ratio is 11.5:1.

From a standing start the Forza 125 accelerates rapidly (0-200m is covered in just 13.4s) while sharp mid-range makes for responsive roll-on performance in the typical 40-60kph around-town speed range. It will cruise happily around 90kph and V-max is 108kph.

The engine is packed with Honda’s eSP low-friction technologies; clever packaging of items like the oil pump (which is built in to the crankcase) help maximise fuel efficiency. The Forza 125 has a claimed fuel efficiency of 42.7kpl with its 11.5-litre tank.  A compact combustion chamber and PGM-FI fuel injection – fed by a 4.7-litre airbox and 28mm diameter inlet duct – optimize combustion and cooling performance.