Honda Forza 350

From a press release issued by Honda:

While retaining its trademark mix of sporty and GT character the Forza 300 constantly evolved, aiming to exceed owners’ expectations with every upgrade. In 04YM it gained Honda’s S MATIC electronically controlled CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), a theft deterring Smart key, highly efficient PGM­FI fuel injection for the engine and space for two full­face helmets under the seat.

05YM saw the addition of ABS brakes and, in 08YM, luxurious touches like an audio package and speakers plus upgraded S MATIC (with phased auto shift mode) and Combined ABS brakes were added. In 16YM 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.

18YM marked the unveiling of a radically revised Forza 300 – lighter, smaller, sharper and sportier – following in the hugely successful wheel tracks of its little sibling, the Forza 125, while retaining all the best attributes of its ‘GT’ nature. In 21YM it was time for another advance: the Forza 350. Faster, even more useful with fresh technology it set a stylishly desirable new benchmark.

25YM welcomes a new Forza 350, with practical updates aimed at increasing owner satisfaction in daily life, plus some fresh new paint options and a stunning Special Edition that introduces a unique colour combination.

Model Overview
Sleek, stylish and aerodynamically efficient with its electric screen, the 25YM Forza 350 exudes premium appeal through its layered upper fairing, lighting unit and surround. The lithe front end features chiseled lines and defined creases to create a sporty, purposeful look. A sturdy chassis – comprising tubular steel frame, 33mm telescopic forks, twin rear shock absorbers and 15/14-inch front/rear wheel combination – provides surefooted handling confidence and traffic-busting agility.
A new five-inch TFT screen offers intuitive control, clarity in bright light and easy Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity through simplified L/H switchgear. A USB Type­C socket provides convenient charging, with room for two full­face helmets in the under-seat (now internally lit) storage compartment.

Developing 21.5kW and 31.5Nm, the Forza 350’s 330cc engine is strong all the way through its rev­range, delivering crisp acceleration and a top speed of 137km/h. It also has new ECU settings, catalyser, muffler internals and SO2 sensor for Euro 5+ compliance.

The 25YM Forza 350 will be available in the following colour options:
- Carnelian Red Metallic - NEW
- Pearl Falcon Gray
- Pearl Nightstar Black
- Mat Pearl Cool White

The 25YM Forza 350 Special Edition is available in the following colour option:
- Mat Cynos Gray Metallic with Red graphics and stitching

Key Features
Styling & Equipment
- Full height electric screen adjusts through 180mm
- New five-inch TFT screen with Honda RoadSync smartphone connectivity
- Smart Key operation of ignition and (optional) 45­litre top box
- Emergency Stop Signal function (ESS) warns other road users of sudden braking

The Forza 350’s lines flow back from its electric screen (controlled by a switch on the left handlebar) which adjusts through 180mm. It’s 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 long distances – can be instantly exchanged for a greater sense of freedom around town, by lowering the screen.

For comfort at higher speeds a large front air duct manages negative pressure in front of the rider, reducing the natural effect of the wind pushing the rider back.

Sculpted for both style and aerodynamic efficiency, the Forza 350’s sharp design lines give a clean, smooth modernity, creating an impression of energetic sportiness and premium desirability.

Two full-face helmets can be stored under the seat, and it’s also possible to partition the storage area to house a helmet and/or rain gear and A4 sized bags – there is also now a handy internal light. The front left inner fairing pocket is lockable, and its internal space can be arranged for the rider’s convenience to hold a phone and water bottle, for instance. It also houses a USB-C socket. All lighting is premium LED.

The new five-inch full colour TFT screen (with redesigned exterior decoration) uses optical bonding to improve visibility in bright sunlight. By sealing the gap between the cover glass and TFT screen with resin, glare is reduced, and backlight transmittance improved. IOS/Android smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync is also an upgrade.

This feature – alongside a simplified, easy-to-use, backlit four-way toggle-switch on the left handlebar – allows straightforward, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation as well as the option (via a Bluetooth helmet headset) for the rider to make calls or listen to music. All an owner has to do is download the Honda RoadSync app from either the Play Store or the App Store, connect to the Forza 350, and go.

The Forza 350’s Smart Key – as well as controlling the main ignition switch knob and compartment locking – also manages the optional 45L Smart top box. With the Smart Key in the rider’s pocket the box is unlocked, and automatically locks when the rider walks away. It can also be locked from the key. To maintain the internal volume of the box the actuator mechanism is in the rear body of the machine.
The rear indicators of the Forza 350 have auto­cancelling Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) technology. Once the ABS modulator detects sudden braking, the rear indicators flash at high speed to warn other vehicles.

Engine
- 330cc engine puts out 21.5Kw peak power with 31.5Nm torque
enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+) technology ensures fuel economy of 30km/l (WMTC mode)
- New ECU settings, catalyser, muffler internals and SO2 sensor

The Forza 350’s eSP+ engine achieves both high environmental performance and strong output characteristic through comprehensive adoption of technologies for friction reduction.

Liquid-cooled the 330cc, fuel injected SOHC four­valve unit produces peak power of 21.5kW @ 7,500rpm, with maximum torque of 31.5Nm @ 5,250rpm. Top speed is 137km/h and, from a standing start, the Forza 350 will cover 200m in 10.4s.

Bore is set at 77mm with stroke of 70.7mm; compression ratio is set at 10.5:1. Roller­type rocker arm, plain journal crank bearings and sealed crankcases deliver long-term reliability together with strong performance. To enhance piston cooling, an oil jet, as used on the CRF450R, sprays oil right to the back of the piston, advancing ignition timing and improving combustion performance. Oil capacity is 1.8 litres.

Air is supplied via a 5.5 litre airbox which feeds a 36mm throttle body. The intake port draws air efficiently, utilising a ‘tumble’ flow within the cylinder for more consistent fuel combustion. Exhaust gases are expelled via a straight exhaust port and, to reduce exhaust gas resistance, the muffler consists of two distinct chambers.

Internal friction is reduced through a 5mm offset cylinder, a hydraulic cam chain adjuster and the use of a scavenger pump. Used on high performance machines, the pump lowers the internal pressure within the engine, reduces oil agitation and decreases pumping losses and internal rotational friction. A balancer shaft further reduces vibration and contributes to a smooth enjoyable ride.

An automatic centrifugal clutch works a V­Matic transmission (with ratios set for fast low speed reaction and smart acceleration) and belt final drive.

The Forza 350’s engine is equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The system 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.

Alongside updated ECU settings the muffler’s internal structure has been revised, the catalyser upgraded and an SO2 sensor added to ensure Euro 5+ compliance. Fuel economy is a frugal 30km/l (WMTC mode); the 11.7L tank capacity gives a potential 340km+ range.

Chassis
- Short wheelbase with sharp steering geometry
- Compact body dimensions paired with practical seat height
- Both wheels cast aluminium; 14-inch diameter rear and 15­inch front

A sturdy, yet lightweight, tubular steel frame is at the heart of the Forza 350’s reassuring feel on the road. Wheelbase is set at 1510mm, with rake at 26.5° and trail 89mm. The radiator is in front of the fuel tank for better cooling performance, and the battery is found between the fuel tank and the under-seat storage area, focusing mass to the centre. Wet weight is 186kg.

Seat height is 780mm and the riding position naturally upright, promoting excellent all­ round visibility. Handlebar width is 754mm, with front width of 580mm and mirror width of 860mm; compact dimensions that make slipping through traffic heavy streets easy.

Rigid 33mm telescopic forks are matched by twin rear shock absorbers – adjustable through seven­stage spring preload – working through one­piece aluminium swingarm.

The cast aluminium 15-inch front wheel is fitted with a 120/70­15 tyre while the 14-inch rear wears a 140/70­14, offering maximum traction and ride comfort. A 256mm single disc performs stopping duties up front, mated to a 240mm rear, with the benefit of two­channel ABS for braking control on slippery surfaces.

Accessories
A range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the Forza 350 either individually or in customer focused packs for added convenience:
- The Style Pack is a stylish collection of parts designed to enhance the sporty yet luxurious appearance of the Forza, while adding comfort to both pillion and rider:
- Floor Panel
- Comfort Seat
- Passenger Backrest

The Urban Pack increases daily commuting practicality and peace of mind by adding:
- Heated Grips
- Security Buzzer

Also available:
- 45L Smart Top Box
- 35L Top Box
- Top Box Inner Bag
- Rear Carrier