2015 Honda CB300F Review and Specs

The 2015 Honda CB300F is a commuter in every sense of the word: lightweight, low-slung, fuel-efficient, powerful (enough)…you get the idea. But what makes this particular bike so commendable in terms of its model category, is the confidence it inspires in fledgling riders. Honda motorcycles have a strong cult following in the riding community, and CB300F enthusiasts can attest.

A close cousin of the 250- and 300R models, the CB300F is an excellent bike for beginners, and even for those who have experience but would like to continue finessing their riding skills. It also happens to be an exceedingly economical choice whether you decide to go the new or used route (the MSRP for a new CB300F was just over $4,000 in 2015, and you can be sure you’ll get an even better deal if you opt for a preowned model).

Nevertheless, I contend this cheeky little Honda bike has been overlooked in recent years and ,perhaps, more credit is owed to Honda for designing a motorcycle that’s as novice-friendly and budget-minded as the 2015 CB300F.

2015 CB300F Pros and Cons

If you’re a first-timer, the CB300F is full of pros, but seasoned riders might have a few bones to pick with this Honda starter bike. So, let’s get into it.

Pros

From the get-go, the CB300F is one of the most easy-going and approachable motorcycles that Honda has to offer. With an upright riding position and controls set close to the rider, comfort is one of the highlights of this commuter. Additionally, those who are still fine-tuning their riding skills don’t have to worry about being manhandled by their machine if they open the throttle too wide because power off idle is conservative; in fact, third gear is when the bike turns the most reactive.

Finally, the bike’s lean physique makes lane-splitting a breeze, and a low seat height ensures that even the shortest of riders will be able to touch both feet to the ground with ease and grace.  

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Video Source: Wickedshrapnel YouTube

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Cons

While motorcycle companies engage in rigorous testing to avoid missing the mark on an up-and-coming model, flaws are an inherent part of the business, and the CB300F comes with a few noticeable ones. For one, reaching highway speeds can be a bit tedious for new riders because the gear change is so short. Sure, a 6-speed transmission is all fine and dandy, but when using a clutch isn’t yet second nature, the thrill factor will be lost. Also, with no preload adjustability at the front end, the ride will be anything but smooth sailing if road conditions aren’t just so.

I would also venture to say that the CB300F’s diminutive size and curb weight might not be all that appealing to larger individuals such as myself, but hey, that’s just a personal preference.

Honda CB300F Specs

• Engine Type: 286cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke
• Bore x Stroke: 76mm x 63mm
• Fuel System: PGM-Fi, 38mm throttle body
• Ignition: Computer-controlled digital transistorized with electronic advance
• Compression Ratio: 10.7:1
• Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder
• Final Drive: O-ring-sealed chain
• Transmission: Six-speed
• Front Suspension: 37mm fork; 4.65 inches travel
• Rear Suspension: Pro-Link® single shock with five positions of spring preload adjustability
• 4.07 inches travel
• Front Brake: Twin-piston caliper with single 296mm disc
• Rear Brake: Single-caliper 220mm disc
• Front Tire: 110/70-17 radial
• Rear Tire: 140/70-17 radial
  
  
• Wheelbase: 54.3 inches
• Seat Height: 30.7 inches
• Wet Weight: 348 lbs
• Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gallons

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Video Source: Brenden Young YouTube

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We’ve reached the end of my review, and I gotta tell ya, folks, the 2015 Honda CB300F is a prudent investment regardless of experience level. Sure, beginners will eventually grow out of it, and seasoned riders might turn the other way for a bike with more highway appeal, but it's a sprightly amateur ride nonetheless, and Honda deserves more than a golf clap for making it so.  

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