Honda FES 250 Foresight (1997-2006): The retirement of the scooters?

     The scooter under test was a 2000 model with 60000 km on the clock. The condition of the scooter was average considering the age and mileage. Because of wet weather especially during the period of the test, the pictures of the scooter might not be of the highest quality.

     Engine: The liquid-cooled 249.4 cc engine produces 18.9 bhp/7000rpm and 2.1 Kgm/5500 rpm torque, claimed values.
     Actually power delivery is smooth, performance provided is moderate. Acceleration is mild up to the 115 km / h top speed indication on the dash.
     The engine is fueled by a carburetor. At idle, some vibration may be felt on the handlebar.

Riding position: The seat height is low at 745 mm. Even short riders will step both feet firm on the ground.
The rear part at the rider’s place on the saddle, creates a step which serves as a stop for the rider. The width of the scooter is generally speaking narrow, except from the front part of the floor which is used by the rider to rest the feet on highway trips. The length of the scooter is relatively increased.

The weight of the Foresight is just a touch to the light side, nominally 158.9 kg dry. Center of gravity is low. As a result of the above, the Foresight is a convenient scooter for short or female riders also.
Riding position is neutral, rider is placed in the scooter.

On the road: The fork feels soft while the shock feels relatively soft. The dimension of the tyres is 110/90-12 at the front and 130/70-12 at the rear.

     Foresight is an agile, neutral, large scooter when used on urbanrides. It is still efficient for commuting, as long as rider doesn’t set any high riding standards.
     Some compromises will be asked by suspension. Specifically, any street imperfections are directly noticed by the rider, they are not absorbed well.
     Steering lock is very good, which will be very helpful for the rider maneuvering the scooter through city traffic. However the increased length of the scooter becomes a limitation to such use.

On B-roads the Foresight is very agile. Feedback to the rider is relatively good. Comfort to the rider is average over road imperfections.

Highway use is trouble free, as long as rider is not very ambitious. Cruising speed is between 100 and 110 km / h.

The brakes are powerful and …linked. A single 220 mm disc brake is used at the front, featuring a three piston caliper, a drum brake at the rear. Their feedback to the rider is moderate.

Reliability: Generally, it’s a reliable scooter, build quality is very good.

Comments: Under the seat, a space for 2-3 shopping bags is provided, or alternatively a helmet and one bag. The suspension of the scooter under test was in need of repair in order to improve road handling.

The Foresight can not be directly compared with current scooters of the category. However for those riders who are willing to compromise in terms of speed and comfort, the Foresight is a cheap, reliable solution, as well as a convincing proposal.

Price: -

+ Reliability

+ Price, used

+ User friendly

+ Spacey for both rider and pillion

- Performance

- Comfort

Thanks to the motorcycle shop Tsetselis, tel. +302105737379, Thivwn 103, Peristeri, Greece for the test ride.