Speedy Little

The sub-400cc segment has been gradually gaining momentum, and the arrival of the Honda CB 300R has only made things even more exciting for enthusiasts.

- Jared Solomon

It’s an exciting time indeed for motorcycle enthusiasts. I still remember not too long ago we’d complain about the absence of enough entry-level ‘fun’ motorcycles for the masses in India. Well, today it’s safe to say that we’re spoilt for choice.

The sub-400cc segment is brimming with products from international manufacturers, such as KTM, Kawasaki, Honda, BMW, Benelli, Yamaha and Suzuki – plus, of course, all the Indian manufacturers. It’s bloody brilliant! And although more international brands arriving in India would certainly make things more exciting, things, nevertheless, are pretty exciting as they are.

Now, the KTM 390 Duke is without a doubt one of the best global products under 400cc, which has also tasted incredible success here in India. The BMW G 310 R isn’t bad either – it alone now accounts for a majority of BMW Motorrad’s bike sales across the planet. Let me also mention the fact that both these bikes are made right here in India. See, I told you – it’s bloody brilliant!

Adding flavour

Let’s get straight to the point. Honda has now launched their little roadster in India – the CB 300R – which has certainly added some flavour to the sub-400cc segment. The CB 300R was first showcased at EICMA 2017, along with the bigger CB 1000R. The little 300 looks almost identical to its big brother, as both bikes share what Honda calls the Neo Sports Café design. I’m not entirely sure what that means, but I can sure as hell say that the CB 300R is no café racer. In fact, the CB 300R looks more like an aggressively styled naked street-fighter.