[Fanatic]

Hello all,

Pardon the title, just wanted to throw something different out there, haha.

So I'm in north Texas, and I'm kind of diving in with my sudden motorcycle interest. Actually, I had a deposit placed on a Toyobaru (FR-S / BRZ) but I'm in the midst of canceling it and going for the motorcycle instead due to keeping my life a little more simple and less in debt. Car was more of a want, and I already have access to a car or two in my household (although boring choices, lol). So the motorcycle will be my go-to transport (and enjoyment).

I'm in a crunch where I want to react on a purchase sooner than later, especially since I'm starting a new part-time / full-time job. I've successfully completed and passed a Motorcycle Safety Course and I recently received my permanent ID in the mail from the DMV.

I visited a local dealer yesterday and took a new CBR300R for a 30 minute spin and really liked it. I was considering the Kawasaki Ninja 300 of course, but I feel the Honda may be better suited to me after researching and also for the Honda branding and quality. Yamaha R3 may be coming out soon but no telling how it'll turn out even though the specs may be great... Plus the CBR300R is an updated / newer version of the 250R which has been in the market for a while now.

I know going for a used bike is a better decision but I'll go ahead and take the risk on a new beginner sport bike. My primary focus for the first few weeks and months will be to practice, practice, and practice to become much more comfortable and skilled on the bike (preferable out of traffic and on lower speeds, 20-35 mph). And then the plan is to keep this bike for at least a year or two... Or maybe longer if I enjoy it so much. I'm not a big power freak, and prefer more nimble and low-power vehicles, so I honestly feel the CBR300R will satisfy... Especially since I will mostly be on city streets where the speeds are lower.

Almost forgot... I'm very OCD... Is there anything I need to prepare for with my purchase? For example, I usually ask the dealer to not wash or wipe down the bike to prevent swirls and would have them remove the dealer plate bracket in back which advertises the dealer name. I read a thread somewhere on here that dealers may put too little motor oil, so I guess I need to double check that.

Heard that Honda is offering financing at 3.99 for the bike, and may go for that. Current price from my dealer for a solid red one (non-ABS) without any negotiation is $5,500 including all fees. I noticed that a fellow member on here bought his new CBR300R for about $4,800 OTD and another member for maybe even less. Will try to negotiate to the best of my abilities.

Also, I'll get a good quality helmet (hear you can get a BELL for $100 or less), and will get the jacket, gloves, etc from Burlington or somewhere affordable.

Any useful stickies or helpful threads that I need to be pointed towards? Would be greatly appreciated...

Thank you so much in advance... I'll be keeping an eye on this thread religiously for any input, advice, and opinions. :nerd:

 

[Fanatic]

Shook hands at $4,800 OTD and got approved for 3.99% APR from Honda. Shopped 3 local dealers in person and each refused my $4,500 offer. So I decided to buy from the salesperson who spent more time and effort with me initially. Visited two Kawasaki dealers to give the Ninja 300 a shot, however they would not allow test rides to me. Sat in one a few times and it felt more bulkier than the CBR. Overall fit, finish, and quality was a bit better on the Honda as well. The lower price was just icing on the cake.

Should be taking delivery sometime next week. Made the decision in the spur of moment, although I've been sleeping on the idea and researching for a couple of months or so, and finally decided to opt for the bike over the car. I had enjoyed the bike on the test ride, so I'm sure I'll enjoy it as an everyday means of transportation. I look forward to racking up tons of miles on daily usage.

 

[jmerod58]

Welcome! Im new as well to the world of 2 wheeled transportation and excitement, but I can tell you my 350+ miles ive put on my 2015 300r have been nothing short of heaven for me. Like you I was considering a new car, but since I already had one, I told myself I finally deserved a bike after all these years!

I have read a few places that the Ninja was chosen over the CBR, which could possibly be legit data and the Ninja does have a rich history, but I personally couldn't tell you. I think just about all of us on here considered the same choices at some point. Although, ill admit, that Yamaha YZF-R3 looks sexy and id like to ride it haha. Similarly priced too...

I myself am very particular and neat about my things. I go thru my pre ride check every time. My oil & fluids were fine when the bike was delivered and I had no issues visually with the bike. I also keep it garaged and will take all the necessary precautions to keep the bike out of the rain.

Be checking Motorcycle Superstore, Cycle Gear, RevZilla, Riders Discount, and even a local shop for deals. Tons of end of season deals going on. And if you can, don't skimp on the gear, man. Read reviews and ask the stupid questions that will possibly save your life. I made sure I got my first helmet in store so that I knew what size I was (at least in HJC). And check this helpful forum as well. The guys (and gals?) on here are good help. And remember, stay visible out there!

 

[AJ Nin]

If you want a helmet, when you are at the dealer pick one out, then when you are negotiating price and get near the end and the dealer gives you what he says is his best price, you say, "OK I'll do it if you throw in the helmet and two oil filters." Something like that. I always do that.


All 3 of the bikes you mentioned should work well. The CB300F is my choice, but I like a naked bike and the slightly lighter weight. The Ninja 300 and R3 will be smoother than the CBR300R since they have 2 cylinders instead of one. They will also be faster, especially the R3, I think. The fit and finish is not as good on the Kawasaki usually...fairing gaps have been an issue. Honda is known for their excellent fit and finish. I have had excellent luck with all 4 Japanese manufacturers. You can't go wrong. Again the biggest issue is going to be a thumper vs. the inline 2 cylinders. The 2-cylinder bikes rev higher (12,500 rpms vs. 10,500), have more displacement, power, acceleration, and top speed, and will run smoother. For this reason, if I were getting a race bike, my first choice would be R3, 2nd choice would be the Ninja 300, and third choice would be the CBR300R, but I would base that choice on performance and the smoothness of the inline twin.

 

[Fanatic]

Thanks for the fantastic input guys!
@jmerod58, definitely looking into the gear as we speak. Working on the helmet first thing. Visited a couple of shops locally but didn't find exactly my choice since I'm so picky. Bummer that most shops are closed due to being a Monday. In regards to the bike, I'm sure I'll learn a ton and it's a bit overwhelming in the beginning, but I'll try to catch up... Slowly but surely.
@AJ Nin, I completely forgot to add the helmet and oil filter to the negotiations... I was so caught up in making the decision purely on the bike and if I would be completely happy with it... Everything else slipped passed me. Although they are offering 10% off accessories at the time of purchase.

I'm definitely very big on build quality, and that was one of the determining factors in choosing the Honda. The R3 was the X factor although I may not find out until it arrives. I'm sure all three bikes have their own talents / specialties, and it looks like the Honda is the one for me at this time since it felt great upon taking a 30 minute test ride. Nice choice in the 300F... It had come into mind upon making a decision.

At the end, I don't think I can go wrong in the $4,800 spent... As long as I use it as intended while enjoying every chance to ride.

 

[Tooth Tiger]

Welcome to the forum. I think that you paid a good price for your CBR300. Living in North Texas you should get plenty of time to ride all year round. Now you just have to get yourself some gear. make sure to post up some pictures when you do so we can see what you are up to.

All the best!

 

[Fanatic]

Welcome to the forum. I think that you paid a good price for your CBR300. Living in North Texas you should get plenty of time to ride all year round. Now you just have to get yourself some gear. make sure to post up some pictures when you do so we can see what you are up to.

All the best!

Thank you for the welcome and also for the assurance on the pricing I received.

You're right, our weather here allows us the opportunity to ride very much throughout the year... I notice so many motorcyclists here (and even more now because I'm joining the club, haha).

Gear is definitely a priority... Will pick up the helmet, jacket, gloves, boots, etc without delay.

Would be very happy to post several pictures after taking delivery.

 

[Cropper]

Welcome to the show, as we're all wrapping our stuff up for the winter I really cannot express my envy for you guys in the south

 

[Fanatic]

Welcome to the show, as we're all wrapping our stuff up for the winter I really cannot express my envy for you guys in the south

Haha, I'm actually a little late to the season but the motivation and urge somehow kicked in, yo!

 

[Fanatic]

Picked up the bike yesterday with 1 mile on it, and now has close to 40. Also picked up a good portion of the gear today... One thing is for sure, everything (especially the bike) looks 100x better in person compared to pictures.

Fun fact: A new purchase is definitely not healthy for an individual who has big time OCD, lol. :crying:

Please feel free to request any additional pics or info, and I'd be happy to share.

 

[Ortega]

Picked up the bike yesterday with 1 mile on it, and now has close to 40. Also picked up a good portion of the gear today... One thing is for sure, everything (especially the bike) looks 100x better in person compared to pictures.

Fun fact: A new purchase is definitely not healthy for an individual who has big time OCD, lol. :crying:

Please feel free to request any additional pics or info, and I'd be happy to share.

Awesome!

It always helps to come across those OCD folks

Spent too much time in my days going to see bikes that weren't in a condition as great as those were.

 

[Fanatic]

Awesome!

It always helps to come across those OCD folks

Spent too much time in my days going to see bikes that weren't in a condition as great as those were.

Thank you, and I agree.

 

[jmerod58]

Nice, you got the same bucket as I do; the HJC FG-17... I like it. Do you notice any whistling at speeds 40 and above?

But check out my new cover that came today. Ill let you all know how I like it once I get to ride in it, but so far, I love it. Great graphics and paint, got the internal sun visor and its hi-viz! Anyone have one of these? Its the Scorpion EXO500 oil. Also have a pic in my garage too.
View attachment 1154

 

[Freezuch]

Picked up the bike yesterday with 1 mile on it, and now has close to 40. Also picked up a good portion of the gear today... One thing is for sure, everything (especially the bike) looks 100x better in person compared to pictures.

Fun fact: A new purchase is definitely not healthy for an individual who has big time OCD, lol. :crying:

Please feel free to request any additional pics or info, and I'd be happy to share.

Congrats! Red will be my choice of colour as well.

We should start the Gear Show Room thread! :devil:

 

[Fanatic]

@jmerod58: Haven't really ridden over 40 mph yet since I'm still getting used to the bike (****, 20 mph on a bike feels like 80 mph in a car, lol). Checked with a parts specialist and he said that a lot of helmets under the $200 mark may have the whistling sound... Don't know how true that is. As long as it's protecting my head, I won't complain too much, hehe.

@Freezuch: Red was my first choice. My wife liked the matte black with metallic yellow stripes, and my dad and 6 year old liked the red/white/blue. Was a tough choice and I just took the dive on the color I initially preferred. All of them truly look very good when seen in person, which I did.

+1 on the gear showroom thread... May be helpful, indeed.