But what further impressed me is the sheer designing brilliance of Honda and a range of advanced features, complemented by powerful output and really comfortable riding experience.
Over the course of the next several years I went from a small scooter to a giant 1842cc Honda Goldwing, and now back to a scooter again.
And now we hear that Honda Thailand has revealed the all-new Forza 350 and some are speculating that in Malaysia it will be introduced as Forza 300 replacement.
This gives the rider the convenience of a fully automatic transmission that scooters enjoy, but with a six-speed gearbox that is also manually shiftable with an automatic clutch.
It also gets better fuel efficiency.
The combination results in reliable tracking, precise turning, exemplary straight-line stability and overall rideability, thanks in part to an 8-pound-lighter vehicle weight.