The Honda CBR250R was the first proper small capacity premium sportbike from the Japanese manufacturer, but ever since we haven’t seen anything. But the patience has finally paid off, as Honda launched the very cool CB300R today.
If you loved the big brother to this, the CB1000R, then you will instantly see the resemblance. It is what Honda calls the ‘Neo Sports Café’ design language and it gets our approval. It looks sharp, edgy and modern while still paying homage to café racers. And the modern appeal is more than just design. It features a fully-digital instrument cluster, all-LED lighting and a dual-channel ABS system based on an IMU.
As far as performance goes, it is powered by a 286cc single-cylinder that makes 30bhp at 8000 RPM and 2.8 kgm at 6500 RPM which is more than enough for this class. 41mm USD forks up front and a Pro-link mono-shock on the rear with preload adjustability do the suspension duties while a 286mm front disc and a 220mm rear bring you back to sane speeds. And all this on a bike that just weighs 147kgs, making it the lightest in its category. All of this places it perfectly in the territory of the KTM 390 Duke and the BMW G310R.
Honda has therefore priced the CB300R very competitively at Rs 2.41 Lakh (ex-showroom), and with this segment of motorcycles getting ever more popular, it is refreshing to see a new offering, especially one that looks as cool as this. Deliveries begin in the 3rd week of March and we can’t wait to get our hands on one and tell you what it feels like to ride, so keep watching this space. Till then, good job Honda.
