Honda CB300F production confirmed

After patent images of the upcoming naked version of the Honda CBR 300R were leaked on internet news has come in that the Honda CB300F is all set for production. According to leaked certification documents from the California Air Resources Board, the monikers CB300F, the CBR300R and CBR300RA (the ABS-equipped version) are mentioned in them. This implies that the above mentioned motorcycles have been approved by the controlling authority for emission regulations in the US market.

Talking about the Honda CB300F, the design of the new bike has been influenced from the CB500F street-fighter, especially the headlights and the tank extensions. Part sharing with the CBR300R is visible on the mudguards, seats, exhaust and tail section. The handlebar seems to be raised and with the rear-set footpegs it should provide a subtly sporty yet comfortable riding position, which is essential for a streetbike.

Powering the new CB300F will be the 286cc, single-cylinder mill producing 30.8PS @ 8,500rpm and a torque rating of 27Nm @ 7,250rpm. The powerplant is a bored out version of the 249cc engine as found on the 250R with the same basic engine construction and PGM-FI takes care of fuelling the bike. Power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission. It is expected that Honda will fiddle with the motor, to adapt to the streetbike characteristics of the CB300F. Braking duties are take care of by disc brakes at front and rear, while ABS doesn’t seem to be even an optional fitment.

On the Indian context, the CBR 300R is expected to be launched in our two-wheeler market by end of 2014 as a replacement to the Honda CBR 250R. So it is safe to say that the Honda CB300F will also eventually make its way to our shores by 2015. The Honda CB300F will be pitched against the Suzuki Inazuma and the upcoming Kawasaki Z250 but unlike its Japanese counterparts it will be powered by a single-cyclinder powerplant and should be cheaper than them.