2015 Honda CBR 300 R Motorcycle Review

From a distance, you may think that the new CBR 300R is just a punched out CBR 250 but upon closer inspection you’ll be pleasantly surprise to discover that this CBR more closely resembles its bigger brother, the CBR500R. I mean, sure, the three hundred uses the same chassis as the 250 but notice how the new redesigned bodywork now includes a dual headlight just like the new CBR 500R. Then, underneath that bodywork, a new crankshaft, connecting rod, and piston have yielded thirty-seven CCs more displacement. Bumping up the liquid cooled fuel injected dual overhead cam four-valve single by seventeen percent in the horsepower department. It also definitely feels stronger in the torque area. But this extremely nimble light shifting six speed with its optional ABS assisted single disc brake up front doesn’t just look a little bigger, it also feels a little more grown-up. Pretty amazing when you consider it’s low seat height and comfortable riding position. Dave Hatch caught up with Colin Fraser, editor of Inside Motorcycles, to see what he had to say after a day of flogging the little three hundred out on a racetrack.

The 300R reveals Honda’s intention to re-establish the small-displacement sport bike as a distinct division of its line-up. Or, in the words of Colin Fraser, turn the CBRs into a “destination” riding experience.

Overall, this Honda packs a lot of value and plenty of punchy style onto the CBR 300R’s small frame and spunky little engine.

There’s something to be said for a smaller machine; it’s more attainable in more ways the one. First, with the introduction of the 125CC, then the 250, and now with the 300, the CBR is designed to appeal to a younger, more cost-conscious crowd. Cost also makes it accessible to those dabbling in the hobby and, as Fraser speculates, just beginning to engage with the sport. It also appeals to those who are scaling down which, after nearly ten years of recession, is a practical necessity for some.  Additionally the CBR 300R is also going to be a more comfortable for shorter riders or riders who find larger, heavier bikes cumbersome.

Then there’s the nostalgia factor for folks who, like Colin, associate the small displacement sport bike with youthful exuberance. It hearkens back to his early days as a rider, before manufacturers were aggressively designing larger and larger displacement motorcycles. And with 300CCs, Honda has packed the most fun yet into the modern CBR design. According the Fraser, the fun-factor is most apparent on the track. The amped up displacement combined with standard ABS break system make the 300R fast and responsive on the track – good for veterans and rookies alike.

Overall, this Honda packs a lot of value and plenty of punchy style onto the CBR 300R’s small frame and spunky little engine.