Honda CB300R

The Honda CB300R is Honda’s neo-retro roadster in the 300cc segment. It's one of those bikes that manages to combine stylish looks with easy-going performance. The design is based on Honda’s Neo Sports Cafe style, and that alone makes it look different and classy. In the middleweight segment, especially with so many new bikes showing up, the CB300R still holds its own charm.

Over the years, the CB300R has stayed pretty much the same, with only a few updates. But now, with Honda manufacturing it locally, the bike is slightly more affordable and also gets small but meaningful updates. So, if you’re planning to buy a bike that’s stylish, fun, and easy to handle, here’s a full expert review to help you decide.

• When we saw it in person, the design instantly reminded us of the big CB1000R, and we really liked how classy and premium it looked.
• The bold tank design stands out on the road, giving the bike a strong and aggressive street presence.
• The circular LED headlamp blends classic style with modern tech that adds charm while improving night visibility.

• When we looked at the front, the golden forks really stood out. They not only do their job well but also give the bike a sharp, high-end look we couldn’t ignore.
• The new exhaust caught our attention too, it looks chunkier, sounds deeper, and adds a sporty vibe we really enjoyed during the ride.
• The only downside during the test ride was the mirrors. Upgrading them could improve both style and rear visibility.
• We noticed the all-LED lighting immediately, it looks sharp, works well at night, and gives the bike a clean, modern look.

• The LCD screen is simple but easy to read; it gives you all the basics without feeling cluttered or confusing.
• The new gear position indicator is a welcome addition. This helped us keep track of gears easily, especially in city traffic.
• This small update impressed us, it’s a thoughtful safety touch that ensures you never ride off with the side stand down.
• No Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity, which rivals now offer.

• The engine felt refined and smooth during our ride. Honda’s BS6 tuning keeps it clean without compromising performance.

• We liked how it pulls strong at higher revs; the 31.1 hp is more than enough for everyday rides.
• The clutch action was light and smooth. This new slip-and-assist setup made quick shifts feel effortless and beginner-friendly. 
• The gearbox felt slick and responsive, and the light clutch made riding through city traffic much more enjoyable.
• We were impressed by how easily it handled slow-speed city traffic. The low-end torque really keeps things stress-free.
• On the highway, it felt stable and relaxed at 100–120 kmph. It is perfect for weekend getaways or short touring. Acceleration surprised us, 0 to 100 kmph came fast and smooth, quicker than most bikes in this price range.
• The exhaust note now has a deeper growl, which adds character and makes the ride feel sportier overall.
• We found the engine surprisingly fuel-efficient. It balances performance and economy well for daily riding needs. In city use, we got close to 28 kmpl, which is great for a bike that feels this lively.

• Even on the highway, mileage stayed close to 26 kmpl due to its smart and short gear ratios.

• The CB300R has a upright and relaxed riding posture, which makes everyday city commutes feel easy and stress-free.
• The footpeg position felt sporty but never cramped. Its just enough to enjoy a spirited ride without sacrificing comfort.
• We liked how the trellis frame gave the bike excellent agility, especially while weaving through urban traffic or taking fast turns.
• The 801mm seat height worked well for shorter riders. We could easily place both feet flat at stops.

• We also noticed taller riders had enough space. The seat’s length and layout felt roomy and well-thought-out.
• The wide flat handlebar felt natural in hand, no awkward stretching, which made city rides smooth and controlled.
• Even after long rides, the seat remained comfortable. The cushioning feels just right for extended saddle time.
• During the test rides, it soaked up rough roads and potholes better than expected for a sporty setup.

• We immediately noticed how light the bike felt at just 146 kg. This made our ride super easy to handle, especially in tight city spaces. It squeezed through gaps easily and made quick manoeuvres feel effortless.
• The short wheelbase also helped us make quick turns and directional changes without the bike ever feeling unstable.

• The MRF tyres performed well during our ride, which offers reliable grip on both dry city roads and curvy stretches. While cornering, the bike felt planted and predictable.

• The suspension felt slightly firm but handled bumps surprisingly well, giving a good mix of comfort and control.

• Although not from Showa, the India-specific Endurance suspension still impressed us with its quality and performance during our test ride.
• The braking experience was smooth and reliable overall, but we did feel the initial bite could be sharper for quicker stops. However, the IMU-based ABS setup gave us better balance and control while braking hard, especially on uneven or slippery roads.

• The Honda CB300R is a likeable bike with stylish looks, premium feel, and smooth ride quality.
• It’s lightweight, quick, and easy to handle, which is great for beginners or experienced riders wanting something simple yet fun.
• The bike misses out on modern features like Bluetooth, which many rivals now include as standard.
• Feels slightly overpriced for what it offers, especially in today’s competitive 300–400cc market.
• Still, Honda’s trusted reliability, refined engine, and solid build quality make it a dependable option.
• Right now, it’s a great pick if you’re okay with paying a premium for refinement and Honda’s brand trust.