Honda CB300F vs Suzuki Gixxer 250 vs Bajaj Pulsar N250 vs KTM 200 Duke: Spec Comparo

Streetfighters like the new CB300F are expected to be a bit of a do-it-all bike, like a mid-range android phone. You pay more, hence you expect more. It must look premium, yet handle the daily grind, be functional, yet fun. And in the sub-300cc segment, bikes like the KTM 200 Duke, Bajaj Pulsar N250 and Suzuki Gixxer 250 tick all the right boxes. Hence, it begs the question, does the new and more expensive CB300F stack up against these pros?      


Engine

On paper, the Honda CB300F has a clear edge over its direct rivals in this department. As the saying goes, there’s no replacement for displacement, and thanks to its extra cubic centimetres , it posts the highest torque figure in this group. That said, both the Suzuki Gixxer and 200 Duke offer a bit more power, which is also where you’d expect the CB300F to shine but sadly doesn’t.        

Hardware

Granted, the new Honda CB300F sports fairly decent hardware for a streetfighter. However, spec for spec, the cheaper KTM 200 Duke offers superior hardware with better suspension and brakes. In fact, while ABS is standard across the spectrum, the Duke is the only one that allows a little play time with its SuperMoto ABS mode which disengages the ABS at the rear.      

Dimensions

Like I said, this segment of streetfighters are as much about daily practicality as they are about fun, and in that sense, the Honda starts to creep ahead. For instance, it’s the lightest motorcycle here, it has the tallest ground clearance and the largest fuel tank. All these indexes are important on daily commutes. Furthermore, its 789mm seat height is also more welcoming than any of the other options on this list, and that 1390mm wheelbase should make highway cruising a breeze.          

Features

It’s 2022 and having features like LED lighting, an LCD console, USB charging, are Bluetooth connectivity are now quickly becoming the norm. And thankfully, Honda offers all these on the new CB300F. Yes, its Bluetooth connectivity is a bit of a half measure because it's useless without a Bluetooth headset, but the other three options do feel a bit outdated in this regard. Moreover, the Honda is the only one to offer traction control at this price point. The closest you get to the Honda is the Bajaj Pulsar N250 ticking three out of five boxes but it does so at a cost that makes the Honda feel overpriced and underwhelming.     

Price 

So here’s the deal. Honda is retailing this motorcycle under the Big Wing umbrella, which makes this motorcycle a premium product. It’s charging accordingly too. But, when you compare the numbers, the motorcycle falls short at justifying that premium by a considerable margin. In fact, our first ride review of the CB300F is dropping soon, make sure you check it out to know how it feels on the road.    

Verdict
If value for money is what you seek, the Bajaj Pulsar N250 is the closest and dearest option in this list. However, if versatility, reliability and thrill is what you seek, look no further than the KTM 200 Duke. Moreover, with KTM-Bajaj’s extensive service network, you’re better off with a KTM than a Honda BigWing bike which is limited to just a few metro cities.