Honda CB300R

The engine comes the same with its reliable 286cc, 4-valve liquid-cooled engine, and the version of this bike now comes with BS6 compliance, elevating its environmental credentials. If you are keen for Power then the good thing is that it has a slight bump in horsepower, now delivering a total of 31.1 horsepower, albeit at a slightly higher RPM of 9,000.

Although peak torque remains consistent, the introduction of a slip-assist clutch for the 6-speed gearbox enhances the overall riding experience. Noteworthy is the audible difference in the bike's sound, emitting a deeper, more resonant note from its sizeable exhaust.

Within city limits, the agile CB stands out with its snappy acceleration and controlled clutch, providing an exciting ride. However, it also has a calm demeanour, allowing for leisurely cruising at lower speeds due to its short gearing. Fuel efficiency remains commendable, with city and highway usage figures closely aligned, most likely due to its unusual gear ratios.

When you get out on the open road, the CB truly shows off its abilities. The power spike between 6,000 and 9,000 rpm is unexpectedly energetic, well beyond expectations for a bike in this class. While its top speed hovers around 150kph, the quick acceleration steals the show. In our tests, the CB easily ran from 0 to 100 in under 6.6 seconds, setting a new benchmark in its class.

In essence, the revamped CB delivers a thrilling ride coupled with practical enhancements, making it a force to be reckoned with in the realm of sporty commuters.
 

The latest iteration of the CB comes with a fresh coat of paint that catches the eye right off the bat. However, there's more than meets the eye upon closer inspection. The subtle tweaks to the exhaust muffler design and the addition of a golden USD fork add a touch of sophistication to its aesthetic appeal.

While the LCD display may seem unchanged at first glance, it now shows a gear position indicator, a feature that proves invaluable given the bike's short gearing. Negotiating city traffic becomes a breeze when you can effortlessly navigate through the top gears.

Honda's decision to relocate the horn switch may raise a few eyebrows, but the inclusion of a side stand down engine kill feature more than compensates for this minor inconvenience. It's a practical enhancement that addresses a notable oversight from the previous model.

In summary, the updated CB combines style with functionality, making it a worthy contender in the ever-evolving world of motorcycles.

Examining the Honda's most recent generation shows an intriguing key to its exciting performance and agile handling: weight. This model weighs at 146kg, down one kilogram from its predecessor, and is neck and neck with the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. This gap is even more pronounced when considering the KTM 250 Duke's massive 160kg chassis without gasoline, which makes the Honda approximately 30 kilograms lighter—a remarkable effort.

Despite its modest appearance, Honda has expertly designed the rider experience with ergonomic precision. The 801mm seat height accommodates shorter riders, but the amply designed seat and smartly placed foot pegs offer comfort without sacrificing sportiness, even with taller users.

While the international variation features a new Showa Separate Function Big Piston upside-down fork, the Indian model uses an Endurance fork. Despite the absence of flashy names, this bike's suspension strikes an ideal balance between athleticism and comfort. The overall setup perfectly compliments the bike's intended purpose while remaining firm and capable of handling tough terrain. At worst, the switch from Michelin Pilot Streets to MRF tires proved to be a lateral move, with some riders even claiming that the former was superior.

The bike's handling is distinguished by smooth agility and neutral reactivity. Confidence-inspiring cornering combines with remarkable stability at greater speeds, resulting in a predictable yet thrilling ride. While the Nissin brakes are similar to those on the BS4 model, some enthusiasts may prefer greater initial bite. Nonetheless, the dual-channel ABS system, which includes an inertial measurement unit, provides precise and effective performance, demonstrating Honda's commitment to safety and innovation.