2021 Honda CB300R ABS: LIGHT, NIMBLE, AND AWESOME.
Introducing the 2021 Honda CB300R ABS…
Some bikes just hit the sweet spot—light weight, plenty of power, precise handling—and a fun factor that’s off the charts. Plus, they just look right, too. That’s what the Honda CB300R is all about. Since it’s not a full-fairing sportbike, you get to see all its delicious engine and chassis hardware. We call the look Neo-Sports Café, but you’re just going to call it the perfect bike for the way you ride. And it even comes with anti-lock brakes for life’s unexpected situations. Add it all up, and you’ll see that the 2021 CB300R ABS is a genius choice.
Promising performance and lifestyle in equal parts, the CB300R ABS naked bike returns for 2021 featuring Honda’s Neo-Sports Café design in its most lightweight representation. Boasting good power and minimal unsprung weight, it delivers responsive, precise handling and excellent braking performance, thanks in part to standard two-channel ABS with an IMU. The minimalist style centralizes weight for optimum chassis feel, performance and balance, while attitude is expressed through exposed, blacked-out hardware and dramatic cutaway tail. The ultimate lightweight sport-naked machine, the CB300R ABS boasts many of the premium features found on its larger-capacity siblings.
2021 Honda CB300R ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
DESIGN
Styling is a deliberate reduction, putting the machine’s blacked-out hardware on display. It’s also brutally neat and brings a hard-edged attitude to the lightweight naked-bike scene. The cutaway tail unit is barely there, though it supports separate rider and passenger seats plus the nylon rear mudguard mount. Rider and passenger foot-peg hangers are aluminum.
A lightweight, full-function LCD instrument display is thin and provides simple readouts for speed, engine rpm, fuel level and shift light, with warning lights arrayed across the top. Full LED lighting—including turn indicators—adds a premium feel and contributes to optimum mass centralization. The headlight uses a dual-bar light signature—upper for low beam and lower for high beam—and the taillight is the thinnest ever mounted on a Honda motorcycle.
Family genes abound, as the fuel tank also shares the same basic motif as the CB1000R.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
The CB300R’s frame – which helps underpin its minimalist style and is drawn on the same Neo-Sports Café aesthetic as the CB1000R – is constructed from high-tensile steel tubing and pressed steel, with the steel pivot plate separated from the main frame. Through this design, the main frame between the head and seat rail is free from the stress applied to the rear wheel, which enabled each piece to be optimized in terms of strength and profile, primarily through the use of thin steel pipe and steel sheet. While offering optimized strength, the main frame is also light.
The swingarm offers similar rigidity and performance benefits, with increased thickness at the cross member but tapered wall thickness toward the hollow rear axle for ideal flexibility. Lightweight aluminum wheels share the same design as those in the rest of the CB lineup, aiding the bike’s nimble handling characteristics.
A 41 mm inverted fork with compliant damping and supple spring rate is pared to a single shock offering seven-step spring-preload adjustment. A 49.6/50.4 front/rear weight bias provides a positive feel for front-end grip and easy steering, which is also helped by the low, 317 pound wet weight and compact 53.3 inch wheelbase. Seat height is 31.5 inches.
Stopping power comes courtesy of a 296 mm floating front brake rotor paired with a radial-mount Nissin four-piston caliper, and 220 mm rear disc matched to a single-piston caliper. Both brakes are modulated by two-channel ABS that works through an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to give precise front-to-rear distribution of ABS operation, depending on vehicle behavior. Dunlop radial tires – a 150/60R-17 at the rear and a 110/70R-17 at the front – are standard.
To help achieve nimble handling, parts near the vehicle’s periphery have been designed to be lightweight, while many of the heavier components (including the engine, muffler, rear shock, battery and ABS modules) are laid out to provide an ideal center of gravity.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
The CB300R’s compact 286cc DOHC four-valve, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine (shared with the CBR300R) is a diminutive jewel that has won many fans for its free-revving, responsive nature. And while that free-spinning character can get the adrenaline pumping as revs rise, the engine also works well in real-world road-riding conditions, both around town and out on the highway.
Bore and stroke are set at 76 x 63 mm, with a compression ratio of 10.7:1. PGM-FI fuel injection with 38 mm throttle bore and a refined, straight-shot intake path delivers crisp throttle response across the rev range. The exhaust is underslung, and its dual-chamber muffler exits on the right side; reduced air resistance contributes to an ultra-linear throttle response.
The engine is also designed with the minimum number of moving parts. Details like low-friction piston rings, high-density core radiator and iridium spark plug help increase fuel efficiency. Thanks in part to the weight-saving measures and the new intake layout, initial acceleration is exciting for all riders.
A RETRO RENEGADE
There’s no concealing its raw temperament.
It’s an aggressive, bold new look that contrasts brushed alloy radiator shrouds with a blacked-out engine and an underslung, upswept exhaust. The all-new steel tubular frame and stout-looking, 41mm upside down front forks, provide agile handling as well as character. On the lighter side, headlight, taillight and indicators are all LED; this bike is made to be seen and stand out everywhere.
BARE ESSENTIALS
The CB300R is fun, economical, easy to ride and maintain.
It’s an ideal machine for young riders to step up to, or for those looking to increase their experience and confidence on two wheels. The tough looks are not a shallow impression; the emphasis – like the CB1000R – is on metal. It’s a hard little character that can take on the city backstreets, as well as stretch its legs out on the open roads. What more do you need?
2021 Honda CB300R ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
PERFORMANCE
COMPACT ENGINE
The CB300R’s compact 286cc DOHC four-valve, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine is a jewel with a free-revving, responsive nature. The engine also works extraordinarily well in real-world road-riding conditions, providing plenty of power both around town and out on the highway.
FINE-TUNED INTAKE AND EXHAUST
The CB300R’s engine uses an intake and exhaust designed to reduce air resistance, contributing to more linear throttle response.
HIGH-REVVING PERFORMANCE
Bore and stroke are set at 76 x 63mm, with a compression ratio of 10.7:1. PGM-FI fuel injection—with 38mm throttle bore and a refined, straight-shot intake path—delivers crisp throttle response across the rev range.
UNDERSLUNG EXHAUST
The CB300R underslung exhaust features a dual-chamber design with the outlet on the right side. The high-flow design contributes to an ultra-linear throttle response.
HANDLING
LIGHT, STRONG STEEL CHASSIS
The concept behind a Neo-Sports Café machine strives for a perfect combination of handling, power, and athletic comfort. Great handling starts with a superior chassis, which is why the CB300R uses special frame construction designed to be both light and strong.
INVERTED FRONT FORK
The CB300R’s 41mm inverted fork offers a smooth ride with compliant damping. The supple spring rate is just right for a bike this size.
LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM WHEELS
Unsprung weight—the tires, wheels, and brakes—are super-important in a sportbike. The CB300R’s lightweight aluminum wheels are a critical part of the bike’s responsive handling. Plus, they look great too.
LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION
Since it’s over 30 pounds lighter than our previous CB300F model, the 2021 CB300R’s user-friendly 317-pound curb weight means this bike handles well, and is easier to balance at stoplights or in parking lots.
PERFECT BALANCE
The CB300R features a balanced 49.6/50.4 front/rear weight bias. That means you’re set up for unmatched sport riding, combining rear-wheel traction, front-end grip, and balanced braking forces.
TUNED STEEL SWINGARM
In addition to the CB300R’s chassis, the steel swingarm is designed to provide high longitudinal rigidity and control torsion without being harsh or heavy. This means you get confidence-inspiring feel and feedback, especially while cornering.
STYLE
NEO-SPORTS CAFÉ STYLE
Taking its styling cues from our CB1000R, the CB300R offers a fresh, contemporary take on the modern streetbike. Plus, the light weight and upright seating make it a blast to ride.
ENGINEERING
STANDARD ABS
Our Anti-Lock Braking System (standard on the 2021 CB300R) can be a big help in making controlled stops in less-than-ideal conditions, like on wet pavement or other compromised surfaces. It’s a great choice whether you’re using your new bike as a commuter or just riding it for fun, since it helps you stop with added confidence.
BLACKED-OUT HARDWARE
Check out the blacked-out hardware; subtle touches like these complement the CB300R’s traditional-meets-modern Neo-Sports Café styling.
EFFICIENT DESIGN
The CB300R’s engine is designed with a minimum number of moving parts. Details like low-friction piston rings, high-density core radiator and iridium spark plug help increase fuel efficiency. Thanks in part to the weight-saving measures and the intake layout, initial acceleration has been improved by 4%.
LCD INSTRUMENTS
The CB300R’s lightweight, full-function LCD display adds a premium feel. It’s 60-percent thinner than previous designs, and gives you readouts for engine rpm, speed, and fuel level.
LED LIGHTING PACKAGE
Another perfect example of classic styling with a modern touch, the CB300R features an all-LED lighting package, yet still sports a timeless round headlight lens. The LED taillight is the thinnest ever mounted on a Honda motorcycle!
POWERFUL BRAKES
The CB300R’s radial-mount four-piston Nissin front brake caliper clamps down onto a 296mm floating disc to provide optimum stopping power.
COMFORT
COMFORTABLE RIDING POSITION
The CB300R’s 31.5-inch seat height puts you in an engaged, athletic riding position. You can sit up and see what’s going on around you, and you’re ready to instantly respond to the road—just like your bike.
COUNTERBALANCE SHAFT
Because it features a counterbalancer, the CB300R engine is a smooth runner. You get the narrow overall width and power advantages of a single along with the smoothness of a multi-cylinder bike.
PASSENGER READY
A separate passenger seat, integrated grab rail and passenger footpegs mean you can take a friend along when you go riding—another example of the CB300R’s versatility.
TAPERED RUBBER-MOUNTED ALUMINUM HANDLEBAR
The CB300R uses a premium tapered handlebar. The center section where it clamps to the triplecrown measures 28.6mm, while it tapers to 22.2mm at the ends under the grips. The larger diameter of the clamped area gives you a direct connection to the bike and excellent steering feedback.
2021 Honda CB300R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: starting from $4949 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer for pricing in CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
ENGINE
Engine Type 286cc liquid-cooled 20º single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore And Stroke 76mm x 63mm
Induction Fuel injection w/ 38mm throttle body
Ignition Full transistorized
Compression Ratio 10.7:1
Valve Train DOHC; four valves per cylinder
DRIVE TRAIN
Transmission Six-speed manual
CHASSIS SUSPENSION BRAKES
Front Suspension 41mm telescopic fork; 5.1 inches of travel
Rear Suspension Pro-Link® single shock; 4.2 inches of travel
Front Brake Single 296mm disc; ABS
Rear Brake Single 220mm disc; ABS
Front Tire 110/70-17
Rear Tire 150/60-17
DIMENSIONS
Rake (Caster Angle) 24.70°
Trail 93mm (3.7 inches)
Seat Height 31.5 inches
Fuel Capacity 2.7 gallons
Wheelbase 53.3 inches
Curb Weight
317 pounds – Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of
fuel—ready to ride.
OTHER
Model ID CB300RA
Available Colors Matte Pearl Blue
Emissions Meets current EPA standards; Models sold in California meet current CARB
standards and may differ slightly due to emissions equipment.
FACTORY WARRANTY INFORMATION
One Year Included Transferable, unlimited-mileage limited warranty
Optional Extended Extended coverage available with a HondaCare Protection Plan®
2021 Honda CB300R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
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2021 Honda CB300R ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
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Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
