When it comes to recreational trail riding, Honda has been king for decades. From backyards to single track, their CRF-F line-up has always nailed that sweet spot between reliability, value, and pure fun. The big dog in the family—the CRF250F—has held the crown in its class for years. Now, Honda has cranked things up a notch with the all-new 2026 CRF300F.
It’s got more power, a slicker chassis, and a bunch of smart updates. The best part? It’s still friendly enough for new riders, but now has the legs to keep veterans grinning.
What’s New for 2026
Honda didn’t just bore out the motor and call it a day. They went through the whole bike with a wrench and a wish list:
- Bigger motor – 44cc more displacement for a total of 294cc.
- Extra gear – Six speeds now instead of five.
- Better cooling – New oil cooler for hot summer rides.
- Tougher clutch – New heat-resistant discs for longer life.
- Freer breathing – Larger exhaust header and muffler.
- Lighter rear link – Aluminum instead of steel for sharper suspension response.
- Updated fork settings – More comfort and less bottoming out.
- Aluminum bottom triple clamp – Stronger, lighter, better handling.
- Smaller front-brake line – Saves weight.
- Tweaked engine hanger – Subtle frame change for better feel.
- Revised skid plate – Protects the new oil line.
- Fresh styling – New shrouds, secure side panels, and updated side stand angle.
Engine & Drivetrain – Smooth Power, More Gears
The CRF300F’s heart is a 294cc, air-cooled, four-stroke single with four valves and electric start. That extra displacement comes from a bigger bore (77mm vs. the 250F’s 71mm), while keeping the same 63mm stroke. The power comes on smooth, with plenty of torque to tractor up climbs without drama.
Fuel injection keeps things crisp whether you’re starting cold or restarting after a trailside break. The new six-speed gearbox makes it more versatile—low for the gnarly stuff, high for cruising fire roads. Plus, that oil cooler means it’ll keep its cool even when you’re not.
Chassis & Suspension – Light, Strong, and Trail-Ready
Mass centralization is still the name of the game. The CRF300F keeps its tubular-steel frame but gets that revised engine hanger for sharper handling. The 41mm conventional fork now has improved valving for comfort and control, while out back the Pro-Link shock benefits from a lighter aluminum linkage.
With 9.5 inches of travel up front and 9.1 out back, plus 11.4 inches of ground clearance, you’ll clear logs and rocks without breaking a sweat. Full-size 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels keep it planted, while petal rotors (240mm front, 220mm rear) deliver fade-free stopping.
Styling & Ergonomics – Looks Fast, Feels Right
The bodywork channels Honda’s CRF Performance line—sharp, modern, and ready for roost. The new radiator shrouds pop, side panels bolt on more securely, and the skid plate now shields the oil line.
Rubber fork boots, nylon frame guards, comfy grips, and an adjustable brake lever all make it more rider-friendly. The multifunction bar switch handles starting, ignition, EFI status, and even a low-fuel light—handy when you’re down to that last 0.3 gallons.
Bottom Line
The 2026 Honda CRF300F isn’t just a bigger 250—it’s a better bike all around. More power, more gears, better suspension, and the same Honda dependability that’s made these trail bikes legends. Whether you’re moving up from a youth bike or just getting into dirt riding as an adult, this thing’s built to make every ride a good one.
Expect to see them at your local dealerships by October 2025.
