The Honda CB300F is a dynamic addition to the Indian two-wheeler market, blending sporty aesthetics with practical performance tailored for urban riders and enthusiasts alike. Launched by Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI), this naked streetfighter has garnered attention for its lightweight design, agile handling, and modern features, making it a compelling choice in the sub-300cc segment. Introduced in August 2022, the CB300F stands out with its aggressive styling inspired by the larger Honda CB500F, offering a balance of power, efficiency, and affordability. In 2024, Honda further elevated its appeal by introducing a flex-fuel variant, marking it as India’s first 300cc motorcycle capable of running on E85 fuel (up to 85% ethanol blend), aligning with the country’s push toward sustainable mobility. This motorcycle caters to riders seeking a versatile bike for city commutes and occasional highway rides, competing fiercely with models like the Suzuki Gixxer 250, Yamaha FZ25, and Bajaj Dominar 250. This detailed exploration covers the CB300F’s technical specifications, variants, pricing, features, and its standing among competitors, providing a comprehensive guide for potential buyers.
Technical Specifications
The Honda CB300F is engineered to deliver a refined riding experience, with specifications that emphasize performance, comfort, and safety. Below is a detailed tabular breakdown of its technical attributes, verified from sources like BikeDekho, BikeWale, and ZigWheels.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4-stroke, SI, oil-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Displacement | 293.52 cc |
| Max Power | 24.54 bhp @ 7,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 25.9 Nm @ 5,500 rpm |
| Cooling System | Oil-cooled |
| Fuel Supply | PGM-Fi (Programmed Fuel Injection) |
| Transmission | 6-speed with assist and slipper clutch |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 30 kmpl |
| User-Reported Mileage | 30–35 kmpl |
| Length | 2,084 mm |
| Width | 765 mm |
| Height | 1,075 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,390 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 177 mm |
| Seat Height | 789 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 153 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 14.1 liters |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 1.8 liters |
| Frame | Diamond-type steel frame |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic USD forks (golden-colored) |
| Rear Suspension | 5-step adjustable mono-shock |
| Front Brake | 276 mm disc with Nissin calipers |
| Rear Brake | 220 mm disc |
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless |
| Front Tyre Size | 110/70-17 |
| Rear Tyre Size | 150/60-17 |
| Wheels | Alloy wheels |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2, OBD2-compliant |
| Top Speed | Approx. 160 kmph |
Variants
The Honda CB300F is offered in two primary variants, with differences primarily in fuel compatibility and minor feature distinctions. The following table outlines the variants available in India.
| Variant | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Flex-Fuel Standard | E85 fuel-compliant (up to 85% ethanol), dual-channel ABS, HSTC, digital cluster |
| DLX Pro | Standard petrol model, Bluetooth connectivity (in select models), USB charger |
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Honda CB300F varies across metro cities due to differences in taxes, RTO charges, and insurance costs. The table below provides the approximate ex-showroom and on-road prices as of April 2025, sourced from BikeDekho, ZigWheels, and Maxabout.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 1,70,006 | 1,91,000–1,95,000 |
| Mumbai | 1,70,006 | 1,89,000–2,01,000 |
| Bangalore | 1,70,006 | 1,98,000–2,00,000 |
| Chennai | 1,70,006 | 1,97,000–2,00,000 |
| Kolkata | 1,70,006 | 1,84,000–1,99,000 |
Note: On-road prices are approximate and include RTO, insurance, and other charges. Prices may vary based on dealership offers and additional accessories.
About the Honda CB300F
Design and Styling
The Honda CB300F exudes a bold, streetfighter persona, drawing inspiration from its larger sibling, the CB500F. Its aggressive design language features sharp creases, a muscular fuel tank, and a compact silhouette that appeals to younger riders. The single-pod LED headlight is sleek and functional, complemented by LED turn signals and a stylish LED tail light, ensuring excellent visibility and a modern aesthetic. The bike’s split-style seats and side-slung exhaust add to its sporty character, while the gold-colored USD forks lend a premium touch. Available in three vibrant color options—Sports Red, Mat Marvel Blue Metallic, and Mat Axis Grey Metallic—the CB300F stands out on the road. The flex-fuel variant introduces two exclusive colors, Sports Red and Mat Axis Grey Metallic, with subtle badging to highlight its eco-friendly credentials. Despite its compact dimensions, the bike’s ergonomic design, with a low seat height of 789 mm, ensures accessibility for riders of varying statures, making it ideal for navigating India’s bustling city streets.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Honda CB300F lies a 293.52cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine, delivering 24.54 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 25.9 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. This BS6 Phase 2 and OBD2-compliant powerplant is tuned for a balance of low-end grunt and mid-range performance, making it versatile for both urban commuting and spirited rides. The 6-speed gearbox, paired with an assist and slipper clutch, ensures smooth gear shifts and minimizes rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifting, enhancing rider confidence. The PGM-Fi fuel injection system optimizes fuel delivery, contributing to a claimed mileage of 30 kmpl, with user reports suggesting up to 35 kmpl in city conditions and 40 kmpl on highways under economical riding. The flex-fuel variant maintains identical performance, with the added capability to run on E85 fuel, supporting India’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) program. While the engine lacks the outright thrill of higher-displacement rivals, its refinement and tractability make it a practical choice for daily use.
Ride and Handling
The Honda CB300F is built on a diamond-type steel frame, offering a lightweight yet robust foundation for agile handling. Weighing just 153 kg, it ranks among the lightest in its class, allowing riders to weave through traffic with ease. The golden USD front forks and 5-step adjustable rear mono-shock provide a balanced suspension setup, soaking up road imperfections while maintaining stability during cornering. The bike’s 17-inch alloy wheels, fitted with tubeless tires (110/70 front and 150/60 rear), ensure confident grip on varied surfaces. Braking performance is handled by a 276 mm front disc and a 220 mm rear disc, both equipped with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety. Additionally, the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system detects rear-wheel slip and modulates torque, improving traction on slippery roads. With a ground clearance of 177 mm and a wheelbase of 1,390 mm, the CB300F strikes a fine balance between maneuverability and high-speed stability, making it suitable for both city rides and occasional highway cruises.
Advanced Features
The Honda CB300F is packed with modern features that elevate its appeal in the competitive 300cc segment. The fully digital instrument cluster is a standout, offering a wealth of information, including speed, RPM, fuel level, gear position, instantaneous and average mileage, distance-to-empty, and battery voltage. With 5-level brightness adjustment, the display remains legible in all lighting conditions. The DLX Pro variant adds Bluetooth connectivity via the Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS), enabling call alerts, music control, and voice navigation through a helmet-mounted intercom. Safety features include dual-channel ABS, HSTC, and a hazard indicator for improved visibility. The bike also incorporates a USB-C charging port for on-the-go device charging, though this feature is absent in the flex-fuel variant. The Intelligent Ethanol Indicator in the flex-fuel model alerts riders if ethanol levels exceed the E85 limit, ensuring optimal engine performance. Full LED lighting, including headlamps, turn signals, and tail lights, enhances both aesthetics and functionality, while the side-stand cut-off switch adds an extra layer of safety.
Flex-Fuel Technology
A significant highlight of the Honda CB300F is its flex-fuel variant, launched in October 2024 at the Bharat Mobility Expo. Priced identically to the standard model at ₹1.70 lakh (ex-showroom), this variant can run on a blend of up to 85% ethanol and 15% petrol, making it a pioneer in India’s two-wheeler market. The flex-fuel technology aligns with Honda’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 and supports the Indian government’s push for sustainable fuel alternatives. Mechanically identical to the standard CB300F, the flex-fuel model retains the same 293cc engine, dual-channel ABS, and HSTC, with minor updates to the digital cluster to display ethanol-related data. This eco-conscious option appeals to riders who prioritize environmental sustainability without compromising performance, setting a new benchmark in the segment.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Designed for urban riders, the Honda CB300F offers a relaxed riding posture that minimizes fatigue during long commutes. The 789 mm seat height is accessible for most riders, while the narrow fuel tank and flat handlebar enhance maneuverability in tight spaces. The split-style seats provide decent comfort for the rider, though pillion comfort has been noted as average due to the compact rear seat. The bike’s 14.1-liter fuel tank ensures a practical range of approximately 400–450 km, depending on riding conditions, reducing the need for frequent refueling. The upright ergonomics, combined with the lightweight 153 kg kerb weight, make the CB300F an excellent choice for navigating India’s congested city roads. However, some riders have pointed out the lack of wind protection at higher speeds, which may affect comfort during extended highway rides.
Variants and Customization
The Honda CB300F is available in two variants: the Flex-Fuel Standard and the DLX Pro. The Flex-Fuel Standard emphasizes sustainability with its E85 compatibility, catering to eco-conscious riders. The DLX Pro, on the other hand, appeals to tech-savvy users with features like Bluetooth connectivity and a USB charger, though these are absent in the flex-fuel model to maintain cost parity. Both variants share the same mechanical components, including the 293cc engine, 6-speed gearbox, and dual-channel ABS, ensuring consistent performance across the lineup. Honda offers three color options for the standard model—Sports Red, Mat Marvel Blue Metallic, and Mat Axis Grey Metallic—while the flex-fuel variant is available in Sports Red and Mat Axis Grey Metallic. Customization options are limited, but Honda’s BigWing dealerships provide accessories like tank pads, crash guards, and saddlebags for personalization.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Priced at ₹1.70 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for both variants, the Honda CB300F offers excellent value in the 300cc segment. A significant price cut of ₹56,000 in 2023 made it more competitive against rivals like the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Yamaha FZ25, which were previously priced lower. The on-road price in metro cities ranges from ₹1.84 lakh to ₹2.01 lakh, depending on local taxes and insurance costs. For budget-conscious buyers, Honda offers EMI options starting at approximately ₹4,897 per month (at 9.45% interest for 36 months in Delhi), making the CB300F accessible to a wider audience. The bike’s low maintenance costs, backed by Honda’s reliable service network, further enhance its appeal. Compared to its competitors, the CB300F delivers a robust feature set, including HSTC and dual-channel ABS, which are not always standard in this price range, positioning it as a value-for-money choice.
Close Competitors
The Honda CB300F operates in a highly competitive segment, facing off against several capable motorcycles that cater to similar rider preferences. Below is an in-depth comparison with its closest rivals, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses relative to the CB300F.
Suzuki Gixxer 250
The Suzuki Gixxer 250 is a direct competitor, priced at approximately ₹1.81 lakh (ex-showroom). Powered by a 249cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, it produces 26.1 bhp and 22.2 Nm, offering slightly better power output than the CB300F. Its muscular design, sharp handling, and refined engine make it a favorite among enthusiasts. However, it lacks advanced features like HSTC and has a less sophisticated suspension setup compared to the CB300F’s USD forks. The Gixxer 250’s mileage of 38 kmpl surpasses the CB300F’s 30 kmpl, making it more economical for daily commuting. Both bikes offer dual-channel ABS, but the CB300F’s flex-fuel option gives it an edge in sustainability.
Yamaha FZ25
Priced at around ₹1.50 lakh (ex-showroom), the Yamaha FZ25 is a more affordable alternative. Its 249cc, air-cooled engine delivers 20.5 bhp and 20.1 Nm, falling short of the CB300F in performance. The FZ25 excels in fuel efficiency, with a claimed mileage of 40 kmpl, and its rugged design appeals to riders seeking a no-frills commuter. However, it misses out on premium features like USD forks, HSTC, and Bluetooth connectivity, which the CB300F offers. The Yamaha’s simpler suspension and single-channel ABS make it less equipped for spirited riding compared to the CB300F’s agile dynamics and advanced safety systems.
Bajaj Dominar 250
The Bajaj Dominar 250, priced at ₹1.84 lakh (ex-showroom), targets riders looking for a touring-oriented motorcycle. Its 248.8cc, liquid-cooled engine produces 26.6 bhp and 23.5 Nm, outperforming the CB300F in raw power. The Dominar 250’s muscular build, dual-barrel exhaust, and comfortable ergonomics make it ideal for long rides. It features dual-channel ABS but lacks HSTC and flex-fuel capability. With a mileage of 33 kmpl, it sits between the CB300F and FZ25 in efficiency. The Dominar’s heavier 180 kg kerb weight hampers its agility compared to the CB300F’s nimble 153 kg frame, making the Honda better suited for city use.
KTM 250 Duke
The KTM 250 Duke, priced at ₹2.45 lakh (ex-showroom), is a premium competitor with a 248.8cc, liquid-cooled engine delivering 29.6 bhp and 25 Nm. Its aggressive styling, TFT display, and superior performance make it a thrill-seeker’s choice. The 250 Duke features dual-channel ABS and WP suspension, but it misses HSTC and flex-fuel options. Its mileage of 30 kmpl matches the CB300F, but its higher price and maintenance costs make it less accessible. The CB300F offers better value for riders prioritizing affordability and practicality over outright performance.
Honda CB300R
Honda’s own CB300R, priced at ₹2.40 lakh (ex-showroom), is a neo-retro alternative. Its 286cc, liquid-cooled engine produces 31.1 bhp and 27.5 Nm, outpacing the CB300F. The CB300R’s lightweight 146 kg frame and premium features like an IMU-based ABS appeal to enthusiasts. However, its higher price and lack of flex-fuel capability make the CB300F a more budget-friendly and eco-conscious option. The CB300F’s HSTC and lower seat height also enhance its accessibility for newer riders.
Market Positioning and Rider Appeal
The Honda CB300F is strategically positioned as a versatile, entry-level premium motorcycle, bridging the gap between 200cc commuters and 400cc performance bikes. Its lightweight chassis, accessible ergonomics, and advanced features make it ideal for young riders upgrading from smaller bikes like the Honda Hornet 2.0 or TVS Apache RTR 160. The flex-fuel variant adds a unique selling proposition, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and aligning with India’s sustainability goals. While it may not match the outright performance of the KTM 250 Duke or Honda CB300R, its competitive pricing, Honda reliability, and low maintenance costs make it a practical choice for daily commuting and weekend rides. The bike’s sporty design and modern technology also resonate with urban millennials seeking a blend of style and functionality.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight at 153 kg, enhancing agility
- Flex-fuel capability promotes sustainability
- Dual-channel ABS and HSTC for enhanced safety
- Affordable pricing post-2023 price cut
- Refined engine suited for city and moderate highway use
- Low maintenance costs backed by Honda’s service network
Cons
- Engine performance lacks excitement for enthusiasts
- Pillion comfort limited due to compact rear seat
- No wind protection affects highway cruising
- Bluetooth connectivity absent in flex-fuel variant
- Braking feedback could be sharper, as per some reviews
Final Thoughts!
The Honda CB300F is a well-rounded motorcycle that excels as a stylish, practical, and eco-friendly option in India’s 300cc segment. Its 293cc engine, lightweight design, and advanced features like HSTC, dual-channel ABS, and flex-fuel compatibility make it a standout choice for urban riders and those seeking sustainable mobility. Priced competitively at ₹1.70 lakh, it undercuts many rivals while offering Honda’s renowned reliability and low ownership costs. While it faces stiff competition from the Suzuki Gixxer 250, Yamaha FZ25, Bajaj Dominar 250, and KTM 250 Duke, the CB300F carves a niche with its balanced performance, modern technology, and environmental credentials. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced rider looking for a versatile commuter, the Honda CB300F delivers a compelling package that’s hard to overlook.
