Back in 2015, Honda showcased the CBR 250RR at the Tokyo Motorshow as a “Lightweight Supersports Concept”. In July 2016, the CBR 250RR was unveiled in Jakarta, Indonesia and since 2017, has been available in Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Japan.
Last February, Honda launched the CB 300R in India, with very futuristic styling, like Honda's Neo Sport Cafe motorcycles. This begs the question: will Honda produce a CBR 300RR?
It seems inevitable, and if the rumors circulating around the internet are true, it could be revealed in early 2020 for Asian markets. It could also serve as an upgrade to the current twin-cylinder CBR 250RR.
Since the CBR 300RR is said to be based on the 250RR, it will have the same body, chassis and even the engine, just bored up to 300cc. If it goes into production at Astra Honda Motor's Karawang manufacturing facility in Indonesia that has an annual capacity of 1.1 million motorcycles, the CBR 300RR could also be equipped with a ride-by-wire system, racing-inspired shifter, slipper clutch, ABS, Showa suspension and three ride modes to suit different riding conditions on road or on the race track.
Clearly, Honda has its sights set on Yamaha's R3 and Kawasaki's Ninja 400. A model in this segment could also help Honda gain a foothold on the small sport bike market which MV Agusta, in partnership with Loncin, will try to conquer in 2021.
As to the question “will Honda Philippines bring it here?” Well, let us just put it this way: Honda Philippines has been a bit conservative when it comes to bringing in new motorcycle models here in the country, especially for larger discplacements. Remember that, out of the “Big 4” Japanese motorcycle manufacturers, Honda was the last to officially bring in their big bikes. Honda has also not officially confirmed the existence of a CBR 300RR... yet.
Exciting times ahead for motorcycle enthusiasts.
