One month after confirming the new CBR300R as a U.S. model, Honda has announced a naked version, the CB300F.
Available this Fall, the CB300F carries similar engine and chassis specifications with the CBR300R, but comes in at a claimed 9 pounds lighter and the price is lower at a U.S. MSRP of $3,999. This is $400 less than the $4,399 non-ABS CBR300R. It does not appear that there will be an ABS version of the CB300F available in the United States at launch. Follow this link to Honda’s web site for additional details and specifications. The bike will only be available in Red (shown). Here is a short summary of the new model from Honda:
CB300F – This light and nimble-handling naked bike offers plenty of fun for motorcyclists—experienced riders and those new to the sport. Featuring a 300-class engine, the new CB300F carries a dash of attitude along with its versatile creds. Whether you’re commuting, zipping around town or headed out for a weekend ride, its roomy ergonomics, great handling and broad powerband make every ride a blast. Thanks to its affordable price tag, adding on a few Honda accessories is easy—a simple way to give it that extra bit of flair and make it uniquely your own. For example, a lower and narrower seat can be selected to create an easier reach to the ground for those with a shorter inseam. Price: $3999; Availability: Fall
Nicely done, Honda. A little less plastic and it would be perfect.
Many have been brainwashed to believe this is only suitable as a beginner bike, but even with 40 years riding experience I could see myself commuting on this on a 46 mile round trip with 50% 65mph two lane and 50% 45mph in town. If this were all I had and I was presented with the opportunity (time) I’m sure it would be fine as a cross country mount as well.
I’d love to take this bike and drop a hopped up RZ350 engine in there. shrug..
Just keep it in the RZ.
almost….getting so close to a possible CRF300M.
Okay, I guess I butchered the models up a bit. Sorry. I meant the old VT250F would compare favorably to this new CBR. Except for the fuel injection the new model does not have much on the old. http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/Honda/honda_vt250f_87.htm You know what I mean? I’ve waited 25 years for this?
I guess I don’t understand why they just don’t import something like this to the U.S. ???http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/Honda/honda_vtr250%2011.htm
re: “I guess I don’t understand why they just don’t import something like this to the U.S. ???”
’cause ducati already did starting back in ’93.
A liquid cooled Ducati 250! Where can I get one?
On Fantasy Island.
wow Norm, you really know your bikes…a Ducati 250 v-twin Monster eh? smh.
I’d take one of those VTR 250s! Very nice. The Big Four seems to have a lot of unknown treasures reserved for the home market. 🙁
They won’t bring it in because we aren’t willing to pay what Honda can get for them in other countries.
I just would never buy a single cylinder bike for road purposes where you need a higher revving, higher horsepower engine. It seems to me that engine needs to be in a CRF300L, if not 350L, where the torque and kinda light weight is useful.
About the only bike I’d ever buy as a single for the road would be a Duke and even that wouldn’t be a first choice.
This would probably be a good pizza delivery vehicle though.
re: “I just would never buy a single cylinder bike for road purposes where you need a higher revving, higher horsepower engine.”
so what you’re saying is… you’ve never brought a knife to a gunfight, and you sure as hell ain’t about to start now.
It sounds better when you say it ;^)
My friend had an FT500 and I had a VT500 and it was a world of difference on the road. I think Kawasaki has it right with their 300cc twin.
Though a real supermoto version of the KTM Freeride….might be difficult to avoid.
re: “Freeride…”
…take it easy.
wait, that’s “Slowride”, sorry.
The Young’ins won’t even get that one
“… bike for road purposes where you need a higher revving, higher horsepower engine.”
Tell that to the Harley bunch! I’m not convinced of a “need”, maybe a want, but a need perhaps not? Cruising down the Hwy does not take more cylinders necessarily, but the right gearing and adequate torque helps bunches. Since multi-cylinder anythings usually produce torque up higher in the rev band they tend to then spin faster at a given road speed. But when you get down into this displacement class and lower almost any bike has to spin tight. Can’t squeeze blood from a turnip.
I’m sure this is a fine ride for some people but there’s just no advancement in specs or technology anymore.
Let’s compare this to my RD400 or FZR400. Why doesn’t Honda make a little bike that’s 320lbs and 50hp? I’ll tell you why, because Honda isn’t building anything for enthusiasts, they’re building for the Asian market almost exclusively.
How does a modern CBR250F compare to 1988 VTR250? It’s rather pathetic don’t you think?
I agree these new small bore are not very advanced. And not really for the enthusiast. I think this is a reflection the horrible world economy together with the fact that buyers, particularly Americans, wont pay 600 SuperSport prices for a 250 or a 400.
A handful of enthusiasts (you and me included) will buy them … the unwashed masses wont.
Quality suspension and light weight cost money no matter what the displacement is.
I’m 51 and grew up riding Japanese bikes and still do. All my friends ride Euro or Harley. Many of them say they will never ride Japanese again, as if there is some kind of stigma associated with it like riding a moped. The buyers with money out there are older and want either technology or status. I always thought there would be a wave of new mfgs from developing India and China, but it looks like the existing players will just move the manufacturing there and move the product down market. My KLR was assembled in Taiwan. I’m not sure where it will end but it’s been years since I’ve visited a Japanese showroom just to drool at the product line. I get all my parts online so no need to go to the dealer. Oh yea, I still have my first street bike… an RD400F 🙂
re: “these new small bore are not very advanced. And not really for the enthusiast. I think this is a reflection (of) the horrible world economy together with the fact that buyers, particularly Americans, wont pay”
close. it’s a reflection that buyers, particularly Americans, no longer have easy access to credit. gotta understand, it may be 2014, but nobody was ever buying anything with REAL money back in 2004 than they are now…?
people are still enthusiastic for 600cc and up, problem is, there ain’t a DAMN THING they can do about it. this is why having a “valuing” mentality” is so important going forward. on this all depends. (Yoda voice)
Why build for a few, when you can build for many? As a business ” because you could” isn’t a bottom line reason.
Honda could build the best small displacement bike available..light weight, high horsepower, top notch suspension, exotic materials, but few would pay the admission price. Honda builds for the masses, not for the pure enthusiasts and they are the best in the world at what they do.
“How does a modern CBR250F compare to 1988 VTR250?”
The VTR 250 costs 50% more than the CBR. Yet it makes roughly the same power, weighs about the same and has carburetors for gods sake. I think the little CBR holds its own just fine. “Advanced” = expensive, and these guys are meant to be inexpensive.
“Why doesn’t Honda make a little bike that’s 320lbs and 50hp?”
Because 2-strokes are off-limits and most people would frown upon a $9,000 Japanese “small bike” which is surely what a modern FZR400 would cost if you put decent components on it? Not saying it wouldn’t be great, just saying that I don’t believe there is a large enough world market for such a creature.
I guess I meant the old VT250F (link below) that was sold in the states. Not the current VTR250 from other markets.
http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/Honda/honda_vt250f_87.htm
The old Vt250F was what brought me into road riding. Mine had 86,000kms on the clock, cracked and crudely repaired fairing, and weeped oil. It was a great little bike, once I learned to rev it. This was 1996, and it had seen better days (1983 model) Back in 1985 on the other hand, what a REALLY anted as an 18 year old was a SRX250.
Let’s not forget in this great land of Harley Davidson of ours either! As mentioned, a relative few are looking for the “enthusiast’s ride”. So many riders, and prospective riders, aren’t interested in sport bikes, nakeds, or trailies. They ride or want a cruiser, and specifically a Harley. You see, it’s all about being cool and in other people’s faces. The same reason the same sort want a Pit Bull and train them to be aggressive. It’s all about attitude and until America shakes that we’ve become a hard sell.
These newer, less expensive bikes are finding an audience and are selling well. I’m glad to see the industry getting back to its roots.
re: “These newer, less expensive bikes are finding an audience and are selling well…
…in the 3rd world.
re: “I’m glad to see the industry getting back to its roots.”
the only thing you’re seeing is an industry doing what it “can”, NOT what it “desires”.
why…?
’cause the only other option was to sit around with their thumbs up their butts.
@ MGNorge…. +1
I agree with MGNorge
They are finding an audience all over the world as people turn back to bikes for more than just posing or ego fulfilment. Transport, for one thing.
I don’t need one: my 750 Guzzi does all that I need doing, from an after work blat over the hills, to a 2 week tour in France, or a trip to northern Scotland, and commuting to work and back. But we are not all “enthusiasts”.
re: “They are finding an audience all over…”
(drumroll)
…SUMATRA.
Re: “because Honda isn’t building anything for enthusiasts, ”
Sure they are- CBR 600 & 1000, VFR, Goldwing, CRF MXer’s and all kinds of other stuff. Small displacement bikes are finally getting attention in the (tiny) US market so it’ll take some time before we can see if Americans really want more premium small bikes. A good sign of health will be if a robust aftermarket emerges around these little bikes as did around bikes like the sv650.
I like this …
I would rather have this one than the sport version.
But what would really interest me would be a street legal supermotard style bike with this motor. Pick up where the DRZ400SM left off with light weight and better suspension.
re: “why only 400 less then cbr300r?”
exactly, when are the manufacturers going to get off their bums and give us the coveted “$0 Dollars” MSRP…?
Can a CRF300L be far behind?
This assumes Honda being logical. Of course, it should be. And, actually, if you simply made the engine square, it would be a 350cc.
Can’t believe the photographer forgot to remove all the black plastic crating material from the front of the tank and underbelly! After that it could look just a bit like a CB-1, one of the best looking naked sport bikes ever built IMHO.
Looks great but at 350 pounds and probably 25 HP it’s hard to get excited about it. Anyone heard any news on the little KTM?
Watch more photos and videos … https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5VhTE71SX2A
Is that the headlight from Erik’s new naked Sportbike?
http://canadamotoguide.com/2014/07/10/breaking-honda-confirms-cb300f-for-canada/
I have a number of friends who have ridden motorcycles for decades who are now buying scooters for local travel. This bike should be lighter, faster, cheaper & more fuel efficient than many scooters, plus you still have something between your legs. Two of them. So, maybe the demographics are under 30 and over 60.
I’ve been smitten with riding scooters for the last 20 years. I have a small adventure bike I use for my cross country jaunts but nothing is better (for me) than a scooter in a urban environment. The ease of use is amazing and the comfort, handling and convenience is perfect. My scooter is a pack mule and I use it as such. I’m sure this naked 300 is equally alluring but practicality of everyday use isn’t in the league of scooters. I do fit into your demographics of being over 60 and that’s a good thing because I don’t care what people think I look like, or should look like. I laugh and scratch when I see some urban pirate in their cookie cutter clown suits, I’m almost embarrassed for them. Yep, I checked between my legs and I’ve got two of them. Another good thing with a scooter is I can lay them two things on the floorboard between my legs.
Ha! 🙂
I’ve owned two scooters that I enjoyed, and I currently have a blast around town on my Honda Grom. I do understand the advantages of a scooter, but I also think some of the small displacement motorcycles are a good alternative for guys who are older and really don’t get the scooter thing. BTW, you may want to see a doctor. I think you have elephantiasis! Happy trails…
I think the Hot Dog might be on to something here. What can be more manly than a scoot with accommodations for the twins!?
Q: “What can be more manly than a scoot with accommodations for the twins!?
A: a banana hammock…? dunno.
Guess I’m the odd man out when it comes to the styling of this bike. To me it looks somewhat like a mash-up of a Suzuki SV650 and a Yamaha FZ-09, which isn’t a good thing in my view. Then again, maybe the age group that Honda is targeting will dig it.
If you’re a 70’s kid then yes, some of today’s styling licks take some getting used to. Envision the side profile of this bike with a nice 7″ round headlight shell and un-fared radiator and it would seem to drop it back a few decades. What can you do? Hmm?
No inverted forks which you can get on the Hyosung Gt250r ..Also built in China..Why not dual disc brakes like the Hyosung..??Only a 1 yr warranty..Only 2 cams ..Hyosung has 4..The engine has a higher center of gravity than the Hyosung..Doesnt sound like Honda did anything but cut corners
Are you serious? I hope you’re joking. If not… well I can’t help you…
1) Why does it need inverted forks?
2) Why would you rather it be built in China?
3) Why does it need dual disc brakes?
4) Hyosung is a DOHC V-twin, hence it has 4 camshafts. How would you design 4 camshafts into the Honda’s single-cylinder engine? Does it even need two camshafts? Better would be a single camshaft for lighter-weight and simplicity. With your understanding of engines (more camshafts = superior), then you must agree that Harley-Davidson’s Sportster engine is equivalent to let’s say… a Ducati or KTM V-twin… they all have four cams.
5) How does the engine have a higher center of gravity?
“4) Hyosung is a DOHC V-twin, hence it has 4 camshafts. How would you design 4 camshafts into the Honda’s single-cylinder engine? Does it even need two camshafts? Better would be a single camshaft for lighter-weight and simplicity. With your understanding of engines (more camshafts = superior), then you must agree that Harley-Davidson’s Sportster engine is equivalent to let’s say… a Ducati or KTM V-twin… they all have four cams…”
I see the smart Honda rider countering by placing some extra camshafts under the seat, thus one-upping the Hyosung rider. Would that be stealth mode? 🙂
Seriously, it’s how any bike goes about its business and what it offers the rider for what they paid. Isn’t that the way it is with any consumer item?
Agree with what zuki says!
Ummmm. the Harley Sportster has only two cams located just off the crank and pushrods actuating two valves per cylinder. Also, not all Ducatis are four valve(i.e. four cam v-twins). Man, people just throw around statements without actually knowing what they are talking, or in this case arguing, about.
Umm, the Sportster has four cams. Gear driven, no less.
I went out and checked my Ironhead motor and yup, 4 cams……;)
Four cam Sportsters since 1957.
re: “No inverted forks which you can get on the Hyosung Gt250r ..Also built in China..Why not dual disc brakes like the Hyosung..??Only a 1 yr warranty..Only 2 cams ..Hyosung has 4..The engine has a higher center of gravity than the Hyosung..Doesnt sound like Honda did anything but cut corners”
pfft, like it matters…? people aren’t tripping over themselves to buy either one of these heaps.
Ummmm… I believe the Hyosungs are built in Korea, not China. And since the Hyosung is more built to be a well equipped sport bike, it would have more features that would not be included on a model more built for economy in price.
I’ve still never seen a Hyosung dealer. I’ve seen a fair amount of Honda dealers. Your inverted forks, 2 cams, dual disc brakes and 2 year warranty won’t do you much good if the dealership is too far away for you to get service when you need it.
Connecticut has not one Hyosung dealer, but it does have 7 Honda dealers.
i contend, even if by some “magic” you could invert that ratio and make it 7 Hyosung dealers to 0 Honda dealers…? you still wouldn’t find anybody in CT caught dead riding a GT250…
Q: why…?
A: ’cause they don’t have to.
That Hyosung also gives you an extra 60 lbs. and, with 2500-mile valve intervals, 6 times as many valve checks (I guess effectively 12 times as many since you have to do it for each cylinder.)
Also, take into account what the Honda gives you: an extra gear, better fit an finish, more power, more torque, an aftermarket, a dealer network and a resale value. Keep the inverted pogo sticks and extra disc. They won’t make any difference in performance in this price bracket.
Or to some of us, in any bracket.
I have seen one Hyosung on the road, so not quite as rare as a Motus, Confederate or one of the new Indians
Hyosung’s bikes aren’t praised for their sophisticated suspension or superior braking. Neither of those two attributes (inverted forks, dual disks) has anything to do with their promise of performance.
If this seemingly neat little bike doesn’t have an option for ABS it will confirm my opinion that Honda NA’s marketing department consist of mostly of morons with a few idiots thrown in for balance.
I can’t picture a better beginner bike and Honda will refuse to give the newbie the option of learning the not simple task of operating a motorcycle’s brakes without the added safety of ABS? Even when the virtually identical CBR300R has that option? How dumb can you be? I’m surprised the bike’s colors are limited to flat black.
Goose
Oh get off the freekin’ ABS whine! Learn how to RIDE A DANG BIKE! What do you want next? Rear view camera? Curb alerts? Maybe parallel park assist? Air bags, 5 pt harnessa and roll cage?
It’s an inexpensive 300cc bike! Let it be a bike!
I agree. Next thing they’ll want air bags and shoulder harnesses!
Two more morons.
I’m betting Honda knows more about what’s important on the feature list at a given size/price than we are. I think ABS would be a nice option but they must know that it’s not important enough to burden this bike with the extra cost. The Ninja 300 sales split would be interesting to know, even if that’s a more expensive bike to begin with.
10% price difference is fairly significant. Why would you expect it to be much less?
Oops. Reply to rubber duck below.
Slap some USD forks on it and that’s a handsome bike.
Handsome little scoot, definitely priced right. Fit and finish look to be Usual Honda. With the upright riding position this should be much easier to handle than the more pitched-over 250-300cc offerings from Kawasaki, Yamaha and Honda, making this an ideal starter bike for those who find the entry-level KTM to be too pricey/aggressive/exclusive, or the new parallel-twin Yamaha to be too powerful and expensive. I’m guessing the fuel-mileage on this one will be stellar, as well.
All in all, it looks like a perfect beginner’s ride.
agree with VLJ… what a nice little bike for under $4k.
Wow I looked at the photo and scrolled down to respond without even reading other comments and chose your exact phrase – it is handsome! Nice job Honda.
i wouldn’t kick it out of bed, but why only 400 less then cbr300r?