Ktm duke 250 vs honda cb300f: the head-to-head showdown of aggressive naked motorcycles
What To Know
- While the CB300F has a slight edge in horsepower and torque, the Duke 250’s liquid-cooling system gives it an advantage in power delivery and overall smoothness.
- The KTM Duke 250 and Honda CB300F both offer excellent fuel efficiency, with the Duke 250 slightly edging out the CB300F in this aspect.
- The Honda CB300F has a slight edge in horsepower and torque, with 31 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque compared to the Duke 250’s 30 horsepower and 24 Nm of torque.
The KTM Duke 250 and Honda CB300F are two of the most popular entry-level motorcycles in the market today. Both motorcycles offer a great balance of power, handling, and affordability, making them ideal for both new and experienced riders. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the KTM Duke 250 against the Honda CB300F to determine which one reigns supreme.
Engine Performance
The KTM Duke 250 boasts a potent 248.8cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that churns out 30 horsepower and 24 Nm of torque. The Honda CB300F, on the other hand, features a 286cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 31 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque. While the CB300F has a slight edge in horsepower and torque, the Duke 250’s liquid-cooling system gives it an advantage in power delivery and overall smoothness.
Handling and Suspension
The KTM Duke 250 is renowned for its agile handling and sharp cornering abilities. It features a trellis frame and upside-down forks at the front, providing excellent stability and feedback. The Honda CB300F, while not as sporty as the Duke 250, offers a comfortable and well-balanced ride. It comes equipped with a diamond frame and conventional forks, which provide a more plush ride quality.
Braking and Safety
Both the KTM Duke 250 and Honda CB300F come equipped with disc brakes at both ends. The Duke 250 features ByBre calipers, while the CB300F uses Nissin calipers. Both motorcycles offer adequate stopping power, but the Duke 250’s sharper brakes give it a slight advantage in this department. In terms of safety, both motorcycles come with ABS as standard, providing peace of mind and added control in various riding conditions.
Features and Technology
The KTM Duke 250 comes loaded with a range of features, including a digital instrument cluster, ride-by-wire throttle, and slipper clutch. The Honda CB300F, while not as feature-rich, offers a simple and user-friendly instrument panel and a well-designed switchgear layout.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The KTM Duke 250 and Honda CB300F both offer excellent fuel efficiency, with the Duke 250 slightly edging out the CB300F in this aspect. The Duke 250 has a fuel tank capacity of 13.4 liters, while the CB300F has a slightly larger tank with a capacity of 14.1 liters.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The KTM Duke 250’s aggressive riding position may not be suitable for all riders, especially those who prefer a more upright and comfortable stance. The Honda CB300F, on the other hand, offers a more upright and relaxed riding position, making it a better choice for longer rides.
Price and Value
The KTM Duke 250 and Honda CB300F are priced similarly, with the Duke 250 being slightly more expensive in some markets. However, the Duke 250 offers a more comprehensive package of features, performance, and handling, making it a better value proposition for those who value performance and agility.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Verdict
The KTM Duke 250 and Honda CB300F are both excellent entry-level motorcycles that offer a great blend of performance, handling, and affordability. However, the KTM Duke 250 emerges as the clear winner in this comparison. Its superior engine performance, sharper handling, and advanced features make it a more thrilling and engaging ride. While the Honda CB300F offers a comfortable and fuel-efficient option, it falls short in terms of performance and overall excitement. Ultimately, the best choice between the KTM Duke 250 and Honda CB300F depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which motorcycle is more powerful, the KTM Duke 250 or Honda CB300F?
A: The Honda CB300F has a slight edge in horsepower and torque, with 31 horsepower and 27 Nm of torque compared to the Duke 250’s 30 horsepower and 24 Nm of torque.
Q: Which motorcycle has better handling, the KTM Duke 250 or Honda CB300F?
A: The KTM Duke 250 has superior handling and agility thanks to its trellis frame and upside-down forks.
Q: Which motorcycle is more fuel-efficient, the KTM Duke 250 or Honda CB300F?
A: The KTM Duke 250 is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Honda CB300F.
Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long rides, the KTM Duke 250 or Honda CB300F?
A: The Honda CB300F offers a more upright and relaxed riding position, making it more comfortable for longer rides.
Q: Which motorcycle is a better value for money, the KTM Duke 250 or Honda CB300F?
A: The KTM Duke 250 offers a more comprehensive package of features, performance, and handling, making it a better value proposition for those who prioritize performance and agility.