CFMoto previews 300SR
CFMoto are set to expand their range of LAMS motorcycles with the imminent release of the 300SR, which the manufacturer says is their first fully-faired sports bike.
The 650GT offers a fairing, but that model’s a tourer, while the 300SR is being pitched as a proper sports bike; a model that’s said to offer the perfect temperament for riding around town during the week and hitting the racetrack on the weekends. However, CFMoto stresses this isn’t an out-and-out competition bike – it’s all about having fun.
Powered by a 292cc single-cylinder engine, the 300SR also features a 6-speed gearbox, 37mm USD fork front end, monoshock rear suspension, ABS, LED headlights and a full-colour instrument display.
Unveiled in March, the Australian release of the 300SR is expected in May, but with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the bike industry, both at a manufacturing and retail level, that date may be pushed back.
Engine and Transmission
The engine in the 300SR is the same 292.4cc capacity DOHC single used in CFMoto’s 300NK naked, but there’s different tuning in this application, with maximum power of 21.5kW at 8750rpm and maximum torque of 25.3Nm at 7250rpm, compared to 25kW at 7200rpm and 20.5Nm at 8800rpm for the 300NK.
Described as quick-revving, the liquid-cooled single is said to deliver strong torque for sporting performance, too, while a built-in balance shaft ensures smooth power delivery.
The design of the intake manifold and combustion chamber improve intake efficiency and thus reduce fuel consumption, complemented by a dual-coated piston. There’s also noise-reduction technology applied to the cylinder head to effectively reduce the vibration of the cam chain, resulting in less noise and improved engine efficiency.
Like the 300NK, the DOHC single is hooked up to a 6-speed transmission in the 300SR, with highway speeds achievable. Details on gearing have not been revealed but it will presumably be modified from the 300NK to suit the 300SR’s different power delivery and riding characteristics.
Frame, Suspension and Brakes
Details on the 300SR’s frame and suspension are yet to be announced, but preview images suggest these elements are broadly similar to the 300NK. That means a lightweight steel trellis frame, with a 37mm USD front fork and monoshock rear suspension. Given this model’s LAMS focus and price point, suspension adjustability is unlikely, especially on the front end.
Hubs are described as lightweight units, while the distinctive alloy wheels are shod with CST rubber (aka Cheng Shin - a Chinese brand), but these are said to be high-performance tyres.
Overall weight is yet to be revealed, but expect the 300SR to be close to the 151kg of the 300NK.
Braking consists of a single 292mm disc and four-piston caliper on the front wheel, with a 220mm disc and single-piston floating caliper on the rear. Continental ABS is standard and is, presumably, non-switchable.
With the 300NK offering selectable riding modes – Sport and Rain – expect these to carry over to the 300SR, too, but this is yet to be confirmed.
What is confirmed is a full-colour TFT instrument display and the aforementioned LED headlights. Based on the preview images, the indicators appear to be LED, too.
Styling and Ergonomics
The design of the 300SR is its key point of difference over the 300NK. The front end incorporates dual LED headlights into a fairing that has a multi-layered look that continues onto the fuel tank and tail. That effect is further enhanced by selective use of carbon fibre lookalike trim.
Overall, styling is quite angular and aggressive, but there are enough curves and twists in the plastics to soften the “industrial” look.
Wheels are another point of difference over the 300NK, with the split 5-spoke design accentuating the streamlined styling, while partial rim stickers in fluoro yellow are standard.
Two colour choices – Nebula Black and the Turquoise Blue – are available. The latter carries race-style stickers for the various component suppliers and shows more than a hint of Suzuki’s past GSX-RR MotoGP bikes in the colour and bold ‘CFMOTO’ identification that extends from the fairing to the side panels and fuel tank. By contrast, ‘300 SR’ model identification is quite subtle.
Track-based ergonomics include a lower handlebar as part of a more aggressive ‘rider-forward’ stance, but the ergos aren’t so aggressive that they make street riding uncomfortable. According to CFMoto, the riding position is comfortable enough for everyday use as a commuter
Arrival and Pricing
Due for Australian release in May, the 300SR will launch with a range of modification kits that will gradually be expanded.
The first kits will include a clutch and brake lever kit, lever guard kit, footpeg kit, fuel tank quick-lock and more.
Pricing for the 300SR is yet to be confirmed, but even with the small premium it’ll likely carry over the current $4,990 price (ride away) for the 300NK, the 300SR will maintain CFMoto’s tradition of offering price-competitive models for the LAMS market.
Further details and updates on the 300SR’s imminent arrival can be found at: cfmoto.com.au and CFMoto’s social media channels.
