Forza 5 Motorcycles
The physics engine and game balance in Forza is built around cars. Adding motorcycles would be like throwing pigs into the mix.
Motorbikes simply don’t take the punishment that cars can and riders don’t benefit from any collision protection that a car does. Adding them to Motorsport or Horizon would cause players to regret ever using them.
Honda NSS300
The Forza is a neat little bike that’s well worth a look if you’re thinking of upgrading your moped. It’s easy to ride (it’s a touch light to start the engine), cheap to run and offers a great return on investment through PCP finance.
The 279cc SOHC four-valve motor delivers a relaxed and confident ride. It’s tuned to produce its peak power higher up in the rev range for relaxing motorway cruising while still having plenty of power left over for nifty overtaking manoeuvres.
Its quiet and refined delivery makes it perfectly suited for urban commuting where the Forza shines. It’s quick off the mark yet never feels rushed or nervous, even when accelerating past 60mph.
As you’d expect from Honda, the chassis is strong and durable. Its tubular steel underbone frame is built in two parts (rigid and flex) that have been optimised using CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) analysis for nimble handling in traffic and stability at speed.
Honda’s smart keyless ignition system works well and is very convenient. It controls everything from switching on the ignition and opening the seat to securing your Forza when you park it. It even has a ‘find my bike’ function that will alert you if the fob is within range.
The Forza’s compact dimensions and stubby handlebars make it nimble in town. It’s easy to slip in and out of traffic and the small flyscreen doesn’t obstruct your vision while riding. The stubby mirrors fold away when not in use and are cleverly positioned to avoid getting them caught in car wing mirrors. A comprehensive dash display includes a racy looking speedometer and tach set next to fuel and temperature gauges plus trip meters and a digital clock. A big cubby hole under the seat and a 12V power outlet round off the generous list of convenience features. Shorter riders might find the 716mm seat height a bit high but there’s room to move for taller framed riders.
Honda NSS125
Originally launched in 2015 the Forza is already one of the most distinctive learner friendly premium scooters on the market. Its mix of sporty and ‘GT’ elements and head-turning looks ensure it stands out from the crowd, but it also combines class-leading performance with impressive practicality.
Its powertrain is the same as that used in Honda’s PCX and SH 125 scoots, with the liquid-cooled four-stroke engine producing around 14bhp of peak power and 8.8lb/ft of torque. This is enough to give it excellent roll-on pace for a 125 and, provided you’re not aiming for motorway speeds or brisk uphill gradients, the Forza will comfortably cruise at 50mph.
However, its real strength lies in town where it feels more than capable of darting through traffic with ease. In fact, during my time with the Forza I’ve been approached several times by other two-wheelers who pull alongside to pay compliments on the look of my scooter.
The Forza’s smart features include Honda Selectable Torque Control (traction control to us normal folk) which helps to keep the rear wheel gripping if you start to lose traction in slippery conditions. This is easily switched off if you prefer to go for a more natural and relaxed ride. Inside the Forza’s stylish dash displays a full car-style analogue speedo and rev-counter flanking a crisp digital information screen.
The NSS125 is a class-leader when it comes to efficiency, with a claimed fuel consumption of over 123mpg and a healthy 274 mile range from a single tank. To further improve economy, there’s a handy Idling Stop function that, similar to that used in many modern cars, shuts down the engine after three seconds of inactivity and then restarts instantaneously when you twist the throttle. This is great for city driving where fuel savings and environmental concerns are a top priority. Other handy touches include a lockable dual seat big enough for two full-face helmets and an electrically adjustable windscreen you can operate with one hand.