Honda launches CBR300R
COMPETITIVE: MANAGEABLE PACKAGE FOR EVERYONE
Young and more experienced riders will enjoy this bike’s power and torque.
Atrue sporting lightweight offers much of the excitement of a bigger machine and more with access to every last scrap of performance for maximum enjoyment. For the less experienced rider, it offers a great platform from which to hone riding skills and is much more affordable in every respect.
Launched in 2011, the CBR250R has provided the perfect entry point into Honda’s CBR range. Its compact size, single-cylinder engine and CBR family look, underscored by typically strong Honda build quality, have earned it a key position in Honda’s Super Sport line-up.
For 2014 though, Honda’s engineers returned to the drawing board, giving us the all-new Honda CBR300R.
The motorcycle was conceived with two major objectives – to provide the rider access to more power and torque, as well as a much stronger CBR identity.
Visual echoes of its larger-capacity siblings give the CBR300R a more direct taste of the CBR brand.
Firstly, the liquid-cooled engine is now 286cc, achieved through a longer stroke. Increased capacity is only one part of the equation and the CBR300R has received a series of upgrades to take full advantage of this increased power and torque. Engineering work has centred on the engine’s throttle response and power delivery, while a new CBR500R-style exhaust provides both an aesthetic and functional upgrade.
The CBR1000RR served as the design inspiration for the CBR300R’s new look. Dual headlights closely mimic the bigger bike and aggressive styling for the fairing, fuel tank and seat are unmistakably CBR. Attention to detail remained important and the undercowl was also colour-matched to add a premium feel.
Compared to larger-capacity twin-cylinder machines, the CBR300R is a more compact, lighter and more manageable package for both new and experienced riders, with significantly lower purchase and running costs complementing its flexible and accessible performance.