Honda CB300F Facelift Launched Priced at ₹1.7 Lakh : Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has created quite a buzz in the Indian two-wheeler market with the launch of the Honda CB300F facelift. Priced at ₹1.7 lakh (ex-showroom), this new model introduces a number of exciting updates, including its ability to run on E85 flex-fuel, making it India’s first 300cc motorcycle capable of this. Additionally, the CB300F facelift boasts advanced safety features such as dual-channel ABS, offering riders enhanced control and safety. This article provides an in-depth look into the new Honda CB300F, covering its features, engine specifications, pricing, and everything else you need to know before making a purchase.
Key Highlights: Honda CB300F Facelift
- Price: ₹1.7 lakh (ex-showroom, India)
- Engine: 293.5cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled, BS6 Phase II-compliant
- Fuel Compatibility: E85 Flex-Fuel capable
- Maximum Power: 24 bhp @ 7,500 rpm
- Peak Torque: 25.6 Nm @ 5,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch
- Safety: Dual-channel ABS, traction control
- Weight: 153 kg (kerb weight)
- Colors: Available in sporty shades like Matte Black, Red, and Blue
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Table of Contents
Design and Styling: Aggressive Yet Sophisticated
The Honda CB300F facelift features a more refined design, offering a combination of sporty aesthetics and urban appeal. The bike’s muscular fuel tank, aggressive LED headlamp, and sharp body panels add to its streetfighter look, while maintaining the sophistication that Honda is known for.
Design Highlights:
- LED Lighting: The bike is equipped with an all-LED setup, including the headlamp, taillight, and turn indicators, providing excellent visibility and a premium appearance.
- Sculpted Fuel Tank: The redesigned fuel tank not only looks aggressive but also offers a comfortable knee grip for better rider control.
- Split Seats: The CB300F features a well-cushioned split seat setup, ensuring comfort for both rider and pillion, making it suitable for long rides.
- Fully Digital Instrument Cluster: The new digital instrument cluster displays essential ride information such as speed, fuel gauge, gear position, and more, making it user-friendly for riders.
E85 Flex-Fuel Capability: A Step Towards Sustainability
One of the most notable aspects of the Honda CB300F facelift is its E85 flex-fuel capability, making it the first 300cc bike in India to support this feature. This means the bike can run on ethanol-blended petrol with up to 85% ethanol content, reducing its carbon footprint and offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional petrol engines.
Benefits of E85 Flex-Fuel:
- Lower Emissions: Ethanol burns cleaner than petrol, resulting in lower emissions and reduced environmental impact.
- Cost-Effective Fuel: E85 is often cheaper than regular petrol, potentially reducing the running costs for the rider.
- Enhanced Engine Performance: Ethanol has a higher octane rating, which can improve combustion and engine performance.
Honda’s move towards integrating E85 flex-fuel technology aligns with India’s goal of promoting sustainable and renewable energy sources. This not only makes the CB300F a future-ready motorcycle but also contributes to reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
Engine and Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
Under the hood, the Honda CB300F facelift is powered by a 293.5cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled, BS6 Phase II-compliant engine. This engine delivers 24 bhp of power at 7,500 rpm and 25.6 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. The power output makes it an ideal choice for riders seeking a balance between city commuting and occasional long rides.
Key Performance Features:
- 6-Speed Gearbox: The bike is paired with a 6-speed transmission, offering smooth and precise gear shifts. The addition of an assist and slipper clutch ensures a lighter clutch lever feel, reducing rider fatigue during long journeys.
- Torque-Rich Engine: The engine’s torquey nature provides ample low-end and mid-range grunt, making it easy to navigate through city traffic and highways alike.
- Fuel Efficiency: Despite its powerful engine, the CB300F is designed to deliver decent fuel efficiency, making it practical for daily commuting.
How Does the E85 Fuel Affect Performance?
The use of E85 fuel can enhance the engine’s efficiency due to the higher octane levels, potentially providing a smoother power delivery. However, riders may experience a slight drop in fuel economy due to ethanol’s lower energy content compared to regular petrol. The overall impact varies based on riding conditions and fuel blends.
Safety and Advanced Features: Dual-Channel ABS and More
Safety has always been a priority for Honda, and the CB300F facelift is no exception. The bike comes equipped with dual-channel ABS, providing improved braking performance and reducing the chances of skidding during sudden stops or on slippery roads.
Safety and Riding Aids:
- Dual-Channel ABS: Ensures precise braking control by preventing wheel lock-up, especially during emergency braking.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Helps maintain stability on slippery or uneven surfaces, enhancing rider confidence in challenging conditions.
- Assist and Slipper Clutch: This feature prevents wheel hop during aggressive downshifts, allowing for smoother deceleration and cornering.
These safety features make the Honda CB300F a reliable choice for both new riders and seasoned motorcyclists, providing peace of mind on every ride.
Pricing and Variants: An Attractive Package
The Honda CB300F facelift is priced at ₹1.7 lakh (ex-showroom, India), which positions it competitively against other models in the 300cc segment. Its combination of cutting-edge technology, flex-fuel compatibility, and advanced safety features makes it a value-for-money proposition.
Is the Honda CB300F Worth the Price?
- With its E85 fuel capability, dual-channel ABS, and refined engine performance, the CB300F offers excellent value for riders looking for a powerful yet eco-friendly motorcycle.
- Its pricing makes it a viable competitor to other popular models in the segment, such as the KTM 390 Duke and the BMW G 310 R, offering similar performance at a lower price point.
Competitors: How the Honda CB300F Stacks Up
The Honda CB300F faces stiff competition in the Indian market from other 300cc models like the KTM 390 Duke, BMW G 310 R, and TVS Apache RR 310. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom) | Engine | Power | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CB300F | ₹1.7 lakh | 293.5cc | 24 bhp | E85 Flex-Fuel, Dual-Channel ABS |
| KTM 390 Duke | ₹3.10 lakh | 373cc | 43 bhp | TFT Display, Ride-by-Wire |
| BMW G 310 R | ₹2.85 lakh | 313cc | 34 bhp | Ride Modes, Premium Build |
| TVS Apache RR 310 | ₹2.72 lakh | 312cc | 34 bhp | Race Tuned Slipper Clutch, Aerodynamic Design |
While the Honda CB300F may not match the outright power of some of its competitors, its unique flex-fuel capability and lower price point make it a compelling choice for riders seeking a greener alternative without compromising on style and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the on-road price of the Honda CB300F in India?
The on-road price of the Honda CB300F varies across states but typically ranges between ₹1.85 lakh to ₹2.0 lakh, including RTO charges, insurance, and other taxes.
2. Can the Honda CB300F run on regular petrol?
Yes, the Honda CB300F is compatible with regular petrol as well as E85 flex-fuel, offering versatility to riders.
3. What is the mileage of the Honda CB300F?
The bike is expected to deliver a mileage of around 30-35 km/l when using regular petrol. The mileage may vary slightly when running on E85 fuel.
4. Does the Honda CB300F have ride modes?
No, the Honda CB300F does not feature multiple ride modes, but it comes with traction control and dual-channel ABS for enhanced riding safety.
5. What are the color options available for the Honda CB300F?
The Honda CB300F is available in vibrant color options such as **Matte Black, Red, and