The Honda Forza 350 and Yamaha XMAX 300 are some of the coolest mid-size scooters around. Attractive aesthetics, large storage space and pleasant performance with low fuel consumption are among the main qualities, as well as a very attractive selling price. And that’s why they are the choice of many motorcyclists around the world!
We have said it many times and we say it again. The medium displacement maxi-scooters – between 300 and 400 cc – are very balanced and are among our favourites. For many reasons, but mostly because they are not overly expensive (slightly more expensive than the 125s which don’t require a license but are “restricted” on the motorway), because they are incredibly versatile and have a huge amount of space under the seat, which usually allows to store two full-face helmets. They are very easy to ride, economical and, basically, it is unanimous that they are the right two-wheeled vehicles for everyday use in the city, with some extra-urban travel in between.
There are several proposals in this segment, but these two Japanese are among the most recognized in our country and around the world. Let’s find out the differences between these high-end automatics!
FOR ALL TASTES
Some brands focus a lot on equipment and technology, such as the Zontes 350E that we tested in the February issue. Others manage to be very exciting in terms of engine, such as the BMW C 400 X. Others have remained practically unchanged for years, because you can’t change a winning team; but above all, there are models suitable for all price ranges and all tastes. And we have also seen in this segment that scooters are increasing in displacement, with many going from 300 to 350cc, as was the case with this Honda. The recently renovated XMAX maintains its 300 cubic centimeters.
DIFFERENCES
These models have single-cylinder engines, but when it comes to numbers, the Honda offers more power and torque, even if they are minimal differences of just over 1 HP and 2.5 Nm, with the advantage going to the Golden Wing brand. Even when it comes to weight, it’s pretty much a tie, with 184kg for the Honda and 183 for the Yamaha, both in running order. As for the seat height, it is slightly higher on the XMAX, although on scooters – as you know – you can always push a little further forward when stopping to make it easier to put your feet on the ground. The fuel tank is a little bigger on the Yamaha, but either way you can go several hundred kilometers without having to refuel, which is great! Also of note is the fact that both models use the traditional rim size for this segment, 14 inches at the rear and 15 at the front, as well as completely similar sized tires.
The Forza 350 had its last major redesign three years ago, in 2021, but it’s still perfectly up to date and features an interesting new feature that’s impossible not to love: the electric windshield that many high-end touring bikes don’t have, even at ‘interior of the same brand! The Honda’s instrument cluster features two large analog dials, with various digital information associated with them, and there’s a sizable storage compartment up front. The Yamaha, redesigned in 2023, now has fully digital instrumentation (even more complete in the Tech Max version), two storage compartments and under the seat there is space for two full-face helmets, which is the case on both models. In this area of cargo space, we prefer the Yamaha’s dual storage compartment over the Honda’s single, which is so deep that it’s difficult to reach some of the items you put in it. Both have keyless ignition and smartphone connectivity, something that is increasingly essential these days
the. Still on the topic of the Three Forks automatic brake, in the previous generation the brakes were the subject of a lot of criticism and Yamaha has improved this aspect, with the levers offering a better feel.
LOTS OF EQUIPMENT
In this segment of sporty or premium scooters, or even GT scooters as Honda calls them, this Forza 350 is in the middle of the range between the 125 and the Forza 750, the latter very different from the others as it has a DCT gearbox with transmission double clutch. As for the XMAX 300, it also sits halfway between the XMAX 125 and the popular TMAX, a high-end motorcycle that’s actually more of an automatic sportbike than a scooter. While this XMAX isn’t the most well-equipped version, you can still connect your smartphone to the scooter via the MyRide app, with the LCD screen notifying you of calls, messages and battery level, as well as providing you with a host of other information. On the Forza, the dashboard integrates the Honda Roadsync system, which allows you to make calls, send and receive messages, listen to music and navigate through the device. Both scooters also have traction control and a wide range of accessories to choose from, so don’t overlook this part.
DIN MICA
On the move, we always feel like this Forza is a little smaller and easier to maneuver than the XMAX. The ride is always very pleasant, whether in the city, on the road or on the motorway, and the dynamics are good, with good suspension and very grippy dry tyres. The XMAX also stands out for its seat, which is very soft, very comfortable, and also for some premium aspects, even though it is the base XMAX. The Yamaha engine is slightly smoother at low speed and always seems to have a little less engine braking. Perhaps that’s why you can get slightly lower fuel consumption with the 300, although the differences are minimal and still below 4 liters per 100km in both models.
In terms of performance, we noticed that the Honda had a slight advantage in terms of acceleration, while there was also a small difference in top speed. In a straight line, the Honda reaches 155 km/h while the Yamaha struggles to reach 150 km/h. It doesn’t seem to “breathe” as well in this latest generation, due as usual to the environmental regulations that have affected all manufacturers. In terms of braking, despite the improvements made by Yamaha, which are evident, the Honda system is still a few notches above in terms of the feel of the levers and the ability to stop quickly. In terms of suspension, here are the biggest differences, with the Honda standing out on the positive side (even if it’s not perfect on the rear axle) and the Yamaha struggling to handle rough terrain with the rear shocks and even in a sportier driving.
I RESUME
All in all, these are two quality offerings with a more than sufficient track record. The Yamaha has a slight edge when it comes to premium finishes and seat comfort, while on the Honda we really liked the electric windshield and better chassis in terms of brakes and suspension. Regarding performance, carrying capacity and price, we would give these two proposals a tie and, in the end, any user can be very satisfied with both of these models. Oh, by the way, those who choose the Honda can choose between five different decorations, while the Yamaha is only available in two colors (with two more Tech Max decorations).
Don’t forget that both brands offer different options but with the same engine. In the case of Honda we find the ADV 350 version, more oriented and inspired by off-roading, while on the Yamaha side we have the Tech Max version, which is even more premium than this basic version, with some luxuries such as dual instruments. This was our feedback after riding a few hundred kilometers on these models in the city, on the highway and on the street, in both dry and rainy conditions, but if you are thinking of buying one of these automatic scooters, there is no nothing better than taking a test drive and clarifying any doubts!
