The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel, launched in October 2024, marks a significant milestone in India’s two-wheeler industry as the country’s first 300cc motorcycle capable of running on an E85 fuel blend (85% ethanol and 15% petrol). Unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2024, this streetfighter combines Honda’s renowned reliability with a commitment to sustainability, aligning with India’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) program and the global push for greener mobility. Designed for environmentally conscious riders who refuse to compromise on performance, the CB300F Flex-Fuel offers a blend of sporty aesthetics, modern technology, and eco-friendly engineering. Priced competitively at Rs. 1.70 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), it targets young urban riders and enthusiasts seeking a versatile bike for city commutes and highway cruising. With its flex-fuel technology, the motorcycle not only reduces carbon emissions but also provides fuel flexibility, making it a future-proof choice in a rapidly evolving market. This in-depth exploration covers the bike’s technical specifications, variants, pricing, features, and how it stacks up against its competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is engineered to deliver a balance of power, efficiency, and sustainability. Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications in tabular format, compiled from trusted sources like BikeDekho and BikeWale for accuracy.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 293.52cc, oil-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder, PGM-FI, BS6 Phase 2 |
| Power Output | 24.8 PS @ 7,500 rpm (Flex-Fuel variant); 24.4 PS for standard CB300F |
| Torque | 25.9 Nm @ 5,500 rpm (Flex-Fuel); 25.6 Nm for standard CB300F |
| Transmission | 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch |
| Mileage | 35 kmpl (user-reported, varies by riding conditions) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.1 liters |
| Kerb Weight | 153 kg |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2,084 mm x 765 mm x 1,075 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,390 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 177 mm |
| Seat Height | 789 mm |
| Suspension (Front) | Golden USD forks |
| Suspension (Rear) | 5-step adjustable mono-shock |
| Brakes (Front) | 276 mm disc with dual-channel ABS |
| Brakes (Rear) | 220 mm disc with dual-channel ABS |
| Tyres (Front) | 110/70-17 (tubeless, radial) |
| Tyres (Rear) | 150/60-17 (tubeless, radial) |
| Top Speed | 155 kmph (claimed) |
Variants
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is available in a single variant, keeping the lineup simple and focused. Below are the details of the variant and its color options.
| Variant | Color Options |
|---|---|
| CB300F Flex-Fuel STD | Sports Red, Mat Axis Grey Metallic |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and other on-road costs. The table below lists the on-road prices in key cities, sourced from BikeWale for accuracy as of April 2025.
| City | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,95,149 |
| Mumbai | 2,04,614 |
| Bangalore | 2,14,133 |
| Chennai | 2,05,261 |
| Hyderabad | 2,06,065 |
| Pune | 2,11,826 |
Design and Exteriors
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel inherits the aggressive, muscular design of its petrol-powered sibling, the CB300F, with subtle tweaks to emphasize its eco-friendly credentials. Its sharp front profile, dominated by a sleek LED headlight, gives it a predatory stance, while the muscular fuel tank with extensions enhances its sporty appeal. The bike’s compact dimensions make it look agile, almost resembling a 150cc motorcycle at first glance, but its bold lines and creases reveal its 300cc pedigree. The golden USD forks at the front add a premium touch, contrasting beautifully with the two available color schemes: Sports Red and Mat Axis Grey Metallic. These colors lend the bike a modern, urban vibe, appealing to younger riders who value style as much as substance.
The side profile showcases a side-slung exhaust and a minimalist tail section, contributing to its streetfighter aesthetic. The split seat setup ensures rider comfort while maintaining a sporty posture, though some users note that the pillion seat lacks adequate cushioning for long rides. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in wide radial tyres (110-section front, 150-section rear), offering excellent grip and stability. Every element, from the all-LED lighting to the sculpted bodywork, is designed to balance form and function, making the CB300F Flex-Fuel a head-turner in city traffic and on open highways.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel excels in rider ergonomics and cockpit design. The seat height of 789 mm is accessible for riders of varying heights, making it ideal for India’s diverse rider base. The upright riding posture, facilitated by a well-positioned handlebar and slightly rear-set footpegs, strikes a balance between sporty aggression and commuter comfort. This makes the bike suitable for both city maneuvering and long-distance cruising, with users reporting minimal fatigue even after hours in the saddle.
The fully digital instrument cluster is a highlight, offering a wealth of information in a clear, customizable format. With five brightness levels, it remains legible in all lighting conditions, displaying essentials like speed, tachometer, fuel gauge, gear position, odometer, twin trip meters, and a clock. A unique feature is the Intelligent Ethanol Indicator, which alerts riders if the fuel’s ethanol content exceeds 85%, ensuring optimal engine performance. The switchgear is intuitive, with a hazard indicator and engine start/stop switch adding convenience. However, the absence of a USB-C charging port and Bluetooth connectivity in the Flex-Fuel variant (available in the standard CB300F) has drawn some criticism from tech-savvy riders.
Advanced Features
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is packed with features that enhance safety, performance, and rider engagement. At its core is the Flex Tech system, which allows the bike to run seamlessly on fuel blends ranging from E20 to E85. This not only reduces emissions but also offers fuel cost savings, as ethanol blends are often cheaper than pure petrol. The 293.52cc engine, equipped with PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection), delivers smooth power delivery across the rev range, with a slight edge in output (24.8 PS and 25.9 Nm) over the standard CB300F’s 24.4 PS and 25.6 Nm. The 6-speed gearbox, paired with an assist and slipper clutch, ensures effortless gear shifts and prevents rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifting, making it a joy to ride in spirited conditions.
Safety is a priority, with dual-channel ABS on both the 276 mm front and 220 mm rear disc brakes, providing confident stopping power. The Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), a form of traction control, enhances stability on slippery surfaces, though some riders argue it’s less critical given the bike’s moderate power output. The golden USD forks and 5-step adjustable mono-shock offer a plush ride, absorbing bumps with ease while maintaining composure during cornering. The all-LED lighting system, including headlight, taillight, and indicators, ensures excellent visibility and adds a premium feel. While the bike lacks the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS) found in the standard CB300F, its feature set remains robust for the price point.
Performance and Ride Quality
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is designed to deliver a versatile riding experience, blending city-friendly agility with highway competence. Its 293.52cc single-cylinder engine produces a healthy 24.8 PS at 7,500 rpm and 25.9 Nm at 5,500 rpm, making it peppy enough for quick overtakes and spirited rides. The oil-cooled engine maintains optimal temperatures even during extended rides, and the four-valve SOHC setup ensures linear power delivery. Riders praise the bike’s low and mid-range torque, which makes it effortless to navigate urban traffic or cruise at 100-120 kmph on highways. The claimed top speed of 155 kmph is respectable, though real-world figures may vary based on rider weight and conditions.
The bike’s 153 kg kerb weight and 177 mm ground clearance contribute to its nimble handling, allowing it to weave through traffic with ease. The suspension setup—golden USD forks and adjustable mono-shock—strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness, soaking up potholes while keeping the bike planted during cornering. User reviews highlight the bike’s fuel efficiency, with an average mileage of 35 kmpl in mixed conditions, though highway cruising at 70-80 kmph can yield up to 40-45 kmpl. The radial tyres provide ample grip, and the dual-channel ABS ensures safety without compromising brake feel. However, some riders note that the engine lacks the outright thrill of competitors like the KTM 250 Duke, and vibrations at higher revs can be noticeable.
Variants and Customization
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is offered in a single STD variant, which keeps the buying decision straightforward. The two color options—Sports Red and Mat Axis Grey Metallic—cater to different tastes, with the former appealing to those who prefer vibrant hues and the latter suiting riders who favor understated elegance. Unlike the standard CB300F, which previously offered Deluxe and Deluxe Pro variants with additional features like Bluetooth and a charging port, the Flex-Fuel model prioritizes simplicity and affordability. This decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some appreciating the lower price point and others missing the tech-heavy options.
Customization options are limited at the factory level, but Honda’s BigWing dealerships offer accessories like tank pads, crash guards, and windshields to personalize the bike. The Flex Tech branding on the fuel tank subtly distinguishes it from the standard model, and the Intelligent Ethanol Indicator adds a functional touch. Riders looking for aftermarket upgrades can explore exhausts, seats, and handlebar risers from third-party vendors, though Honda’s reliability and low maintenance costs remain key selling points for those who prefer a stock setup.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Priced at Rs. 1.70 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is competitively positioned in the 250-300cc segment. Its on-road prices in metro cities, ranging from Rs. 1.95 lakh in Delhi to Rs. 2.14 lakh in Bangalore, reflect reasonable add-ons for RTO and insurance. Compared to the standard CB300F, which was initially priced higher (Rs. 2.26-2.29 lakh before discounts), the Flex-Fuel variant offers better value by maintaining the same price despite the advanced E85 compatibility. The bike’s low maintenance costs, backed by Honda’s widespread service network, further enhance its appeal for budget-conscious buyers.
The EMI options start at around Rs. 5,626/month in Delhi (at 9.7% interest), making it accessible for young professionals and first-time buyers. User reviews consistently highlight the bike’s value for money, citing its combination of Honda reliability, fuel efficiency, and sustainable technology. However, the absence of premium features like connectivity and a charging port may deter some buyers who expect more at this price. Overall, the CB300F Flex-Fuel delivers a compelling package for riders prioritizing practicality and eco-consciousness over outright performance.
Close Competitors
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is unique as the only flex-fuel bike in the 250-300cc segment, but it faces stiff competition from other 300cc motorcycles and alternatives in the Rs. 1.5-2 lakh price range. Below is an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals:
Suzuki Gixxer 250
The Suzuki Gixxer 250, priced at around Rs. 1.83 lakh (ex-showroom), is a direct competitor with its 249cc oil-cooled engine producing 26.5 PS and 22.2 Nm. It offers sharper performance and a refined engine, making it a favorite for enthusiasts. However, it lacks the flex-fuel capability and has a smaller 12-liter fuel tank, limiting its range compared to the CB300F’s 14.1 liters. The Gixxer’s aggressive styling and lighter 156 kg kerb weight appeal to sporty riders, but its mileage of around 38 kmpl is slightly better than the Honda’s. The CB300F counters with HSTC, dual-channel ABS, and a more accessible seat height, making it a better all-rounder.
KTM 250 Duke
The KTM 250 Duke, priced at approximately Rs. 2.04 lakh (ex-showroom), is a performance-oriented rival with a 248.8cc liquid-cooled engine delivering 30 PS and 25 Nm. Its razor-sharp handling, TFT display, and quickshifter (optional) make it a thrill-seeker’s choice. However, its 13.4-liter fuel tank and 30 kmpl mileage trail the CB300F, and its 800 mm seat height may intimidate shorter riders. The KTM’s higher maintenance costs and lack of flex-fuel tech give the Honda an edge for eco-conscious buyers seeking reliability over outright power.
Honda CB300R
Honda’s own CB300R, priced at Rs. 2.40 lakh (ex-showroom), is a premium alternative with a 286cc liquid-cooled engine producing 31.1 PS and 27.5 Nm. Its neo-retro design, 146 kg kerb weight, and ABS make it agile and stylish, but the higher price and 9.7-liter fuel tank limit its practicality. The CB300F Flex-Fuel offers better value and E85 compatibility, making it more versatile for daily use despite the CB300R’s superior performance.
Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z
The Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, priced at around Rs. 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), is a larger-displacement rival with a 373.3cc engine churning out 40 PS and 35 Nm. Its aggressive styling, TFT console, and quickshifter appeal to performance enthusiasts, but its 174 kg kerb weight and 30 kmpl mileage make it less nimble and efficient than the CB300F. The Honda’s flex-fuel advantage and lower running costs position it as a more sustainable choice.
Yamaha MT-15 V2
The Yamaha MT-15 V2, priced between Rs. 1.69-1.74 lakh (ex-showroom), is a smaller-capacity rival with a 155cc liquid-cooled engine producing 18.4 PS and 14.1 Nm. Its lightweight 141 kg frame, quickshifter, and 41 kmpl mileage make it a city-friendly option, but it lacks the CB300F’s 300cc power and flex-fuel tech. The Honda offers a more commanding presence and better highway performance, though the Yamaha’s lower price attracts budget buyers.
Market Positioning and Rider Appeal
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel occupies a unique niche in the Indian market, blending sustainability with sporty performance. Its E85 compatibility aligns with India’s goal of achieving 20% ethanol blending by 2025, making it a forward-thinking choice for riders who value environmental responsibility. The bike appeals to young urban professionals, college students, and first-time 300cc buyers who want a versatile motorcycle that excels in city traffic, weekend getaways, and occasional highway runs. Its affordable pricing, low maintenance, and Honda’s trusted badge make it a safe bet for those upgrading from 150-200cc bikes.
However, the CB300F Flex-Fuel isn’t without flaws. The lack of Bluetooth connectivity, a USB-C port, and a more refined engine may disappoint riders accustomed to feature-rich competitors like the KTM 250 Duke or Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z. Additionally, its pillion comfort is average, limiting its appeal for long-distance touring with a passenger. Despite these drawbacks, the bike’s fuel flexibility, reliability, and balanced ride quality make it a compelling option in a segment dominated by performance-focused machines.
Ownership Experience
Owning a Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is a hassle-free experience, thanks to Honda’s extensive BigWing dealership network and reputation for durability. Routine maintenance costs are reasonable, with users reporting service expenses around Rs. 5,700 for the fourth service. Spare parts availability, while generally good, can occasionally be delayed due to the bike’s niche positioning, but Honda’s service centers are well-equipped to handle most issues. The 35 kmpl mileage keeps running costs low, and the 14.1-liter fuel tank ensures fewer fuel stops on long rides.
Rider feedback highlights the bike’s reliability and ease of handling, with many appreciating its ability to tackle both city congestion and open roads. The Flex Tech system has been praised for its seamless operation, with no noticeable performance drop when switching between fuel blends. However, some owners lament the absence of premium features and note that the braking could be sharper compared to rivals like the KTM 250 Duke. Overall, the CB300F Flex-Fuel offers a practical, eco-friendly ownership experience backed by Honda’s legacy of quality.
Future Prospects and Conclusion
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel sets a new benchmark in the 250-300cc segment by introducing flex-fuel technology to a performance-oriented motorcycle. As India pushes toward carbon neutrality and greater ethanol adoption, the bike’s E85 compatibility positions it as a trailblazer in sustainable mobility. Its affordable price, versatile performance, and modern features make it an attractive choice for riders seeking a balance of style, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. While it may not match the raw power of competitors like the KTM 250 Duke or Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, its reliability, fuel flexibility, and low running costs give it a distinct edge.
Looking ahead, Honda could enhance the CB300F Flex-Fuel by reintroducing features like Bluetooth connectivity and a charging port, addressing rider demands for tech integration. Expanding the variant lineup or offering more color options could further broaden its appeal. For now, the bike stands as a testament to Honda’s commitment to innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of two-wheeler mobility in India. Whether you’re a city commuter, a weekend rider, or an eco-conscious enthusiast, the Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel delivers a compelling package that’s hard to overlook.
