With the popularity of bikes and scooters soaring, Honda is now bringing the Australian market a scooter to blur the lines between the two. Well, slightly. You may have to squint to see it, but Honda describes its new SH300i as a sports bike in a commuter’s body.

The SH300i has the strongest acceleration in its class courtesy of a compact and fuel efficient 279cc motor. An advanced catalytic converter system helps to reduce emissions and a nine litre fuel tank extends the riding range.

Understanding the importance of the Euro-influence on the scooter market, Honda has designed and builds the SH300i in Italy. The SH300i achieves its ‘visual aggression’ (hmm, sounds like the marketing department at work) with modern styling accented by 16-inch alloy wheels running disc brakes front and rear.

A 35 litre storage box and seating for two help make the SH300i a comfortable and competent little package. Priced from $8,990 plus on road costs, the SH300i is available now from Honda Motorcycle dealers nationwide.