As the largest model in Honda's trail bike family, the CRF300F blends approachable performance with proven durability, making it ideal for recreational trail riders and developing off-road enthusiasts alike. Its 294cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers smooth, tractable power through a versatile six-speed transmission, while features like fuel injection, electric start and compliant Showa suspension help ensure easy operation and confident handling on a wide range of terrain.
HISTORY
The largest model in Honda's trail-oriented family of CRF-F models was originally the CRF230F, first offered for the 2003 model year as a replacement for the venerable XR200R. Popular for its dependable, reliable performance, the model was relatively unchanged until 2019, when it was replaced by the CRF250F, which featured not only increased displacement, but four valves (up from two) and Keihin electronic fuel injection—vital for 50-state off-road-legal status. The chassis was updated as well, with centralized mass, upgraded Showa suspension and a perimeter steel frame for improved handling. For the 2026 model year, the model was replaced with the CRF300F, offering not only increased power, but also improved handling.
DESIGN / STYLING
Designed with modern aesthetics, the CRF300F features bodywork and graphics inspired by those of the CRF Performance line. Rubber boots protect the fork legs, the plastic skid plate protects the engine and oil line, and nylon guards protect the frame where the rider's boots make contact.
The steel handlebar has a crossbar, the half-waffle grips are comfortable and the front brake lever is adjustable to accommodate a variety of hand sizes. A handlebar-mounted multifunction switch includes the starter button, ignition indicator, fuel-injection system status and a low-fuel light that illuminates when only .3 gallons remain. The side stand is convenient for parking between rides or during trailside breaks.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
Honda's largest trail bike is powered by an air-cooled, single-cylinder, four-valve, overhead-cam, four-stroke engine with convenient push-button electric start. Bore and stroke are 77.0mm and 63.0mm, for a displacement of 294cc, resulting in impressive power and torque while retaining a sooth, linear delivery. The compression ratio is 9.3:1.
The model features a Keihin electronically controlled fuel-injection system that delivers smooth power and easy start-up, whether the bike has been sitting or is warm from riding. A six‑speed transmission provides a gear for every situation—from low‑speed, technical riding to dirt‑road cruising—while the clutch discs feature a heat‑resistant material to optimize durability. An oil cooler boosts reliability in hot conditions.
The routing of the exhaust header and muffler helps to centralize mass, for optimized handling. The exhaust note is quiet, and a spark arrestor is standard. The CRF300F meets EPA and CARB off-road emissions standards and is green-sticker legal in California, meaning that it can be operated year-round in off-road parks across the country.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
The CRF300F's vehicle-packaging approach follows the CRF Performance Line philosophy of mass centralization, and the model has a tough tubular-steel frame that delivers stability and nimble handling.
The wheels are full-size (21-inch and 18-inch front and rear, respectively), and ground clearance is 11.4 inches—plenty for clearing nasty trail obstacles. The wheelbase is 55.8 inches, and the curb weight (including all fluids and a full tank of fuel) is 271 pounds. Rake and trail are 25.7º and 100mm, respectively. The fuel tank holds 1.6 gallons.
The 41mm conventional telescopic fork has 9.5 inches of front-wheel travel and has good bottoming resistance. The upper and lower triple clamps are both aluminum, for optimum weight, strength and handling. The Pro-Link® single-shock rear-suspension system delivers 9.1 inches of wheel travel, and the link is aluminum for weight minimization and performance.
Smooth, reliable stopping power is provided by hydraulic brakes front and rear, with rotor sizes of 240mm rotor and 220mm, respectively; the rotors feature a petal design, for excellent heat dissipation.
# # #