This is, by FAR, the best description of the 250l / 250 Rally that I've seen. THANK YOU for helping me make the decision to seek a used / good condition 250 Rally! You and dorkintheroad give a thorough, understandable and REAL WORLD view of these bikes (250L, 300l Rally and your 250 Rally). THANK YOU!
2019 Rally, motoz adv tires but otherwise stock. Great all around bike. Upgraded from a Harley 35th anniversary dyno (fxd35) and a bigdog ridgeback chopper...
I've had one for 3 years or so it's a great bike. I put a full Yoshi system on it and moded the airbox. I can get upto 90mph on a flat road. Stock rear suspension can bottom out on jumps, it's quite soft. it's just a solid bike and feels great to ride on and off-road. it's not KTM EXC level off road by any means but i've done plenty of off roading in it. it's a great bike to ride on the roads upto the green lanes and then have fun on the lanes.
Got a completely stock 250 rally doing a tour on the tet from uk through Spain and then around Morocco back on the tet through Italy, Switzerland and France. Bought at 6000 miles and currently at 11000 running well no issues at all 👍🏻
One of the best CRF review ever made! So honest, I seen this before I bought CRF and after 1 year with CRF I still think he nailed it!!! Love this channel for honestly. Keep it up guys🥰
@@lightweightadv Thanks man. Yup, I've had many bikes, 50cc to 1200cc (1157 actually lol)... and two CRFs...the M and the Rally. Oil and filter change every 3,000km (remember, hot here) and regular air filter changes (10k). Keep the chain lubed and grease around the head stock (preserves head race life).... Pop a new spark plug in about 30k and have the valves / shims looked at at around 50k and yer golden. Superb machines. I've had the Cbr 250 as well. Same brill wee motor. Oh... And adding an EJK DOES help... even with standard pipe. I've got the ideal settings. That, and the 13/40 or 14/43 gearing makes her plenty peppy for a 'two-fiddy'. 👍
awesome vid mate :-) bought mine new in 2019 had no dramas with it at all , im 62 and going to ride mine around OZ at the end of year, if all borders are open :-) and mines stock
Great summary! I agree with the versatility of this bike. I also have a 2018 rally with the same mods as yourself. Although I spent the cash and had the suspension resprung and re-valved front and rear and it's a completely different bike from stock. There is a lot less fork dive under braking on the road and I can carry luggage for a 2-3 day trip and still hit the whoops off-road without bottoming out. I reverted back to stock gearing as it seemed less strained on the commute to work. I love the low maintenance costs associated with this bike and the Honda reliability, it's a great balance of comfort for on-road and good ability for off road. Just as long as you don't plan on racing, it really does do everything well. I think the 300 Rally will be spot on!
Hell yeah dude that sounds like your bike is set up perfect!! I wish I had money to do that shit congratulations 🎉 I really enjoy my bike just that suspension kind of sucks diving like she does. Oh well I still love the 🏍️💨 I like the rally over the regular 250L... The rally seems more like a mini Africa twin lol, lil more up scale & them headlights are amazingly bright 🌞
You are right about the high center of gravity. I raced moto cross way back in the 60's and never had any trouble picking up any bikes. My crf 250l once it leans past a few degrees wil throw itself on the ground and you have to lift what feels like more than half the bikes weight to get it upright. It did this some weeks ago and trapped my foot under it cracking my tibia resulting in 4 weeks on crutches. With time to spare I set about curing the problem. There are several winches for sale around £200. You will smile at this I cut my NHS crutches up, bought a ratchet and webbing and fashioned a bike lifter. It's 17" long and rolls up into a nice compact parcel. Job done!
Ah wow, firstly I hope you are all fixed now and back up and running? Secondly, what is this crutch winch thing ? I would love to see some pictures, just love the ingenuity of adventure riders 😎
@@lightweightadv ok, will take some pics but it's pretty simple really. By the way I am retired and past 80 so that's my excuse for not being able to lift the bike. Acquire a pair of NHS crutches, a ratchet with webbing with a loop sewn into one end. Cut the crutches into lengths of around 17" and bolt the rachet on the end of one tube. It's easy to adjust the spring pins to where you want them if needed. Important! Study the several videos on TH-cam, you will get the idea. The only problem I had is a small enough ratchet to pack tidy cannot reel in the at least 3' of webbing required to lift the bike. I have to use a second ratchet halfway up the webbing, not ideal but it works. Ratchets from Amazon and
Like they say way more fun to ride a smaller bike hard than a more powerful bike easy. Make sure to get the Seat Concepts custom seat for that bike -it is superb
@@lightweightadv Seat concept is super comfortable on your behind. Proprietary foam that maintains its shape just a world of difference. It’s a little bit wider in the back but still narrow in front for maneuvering. There’s a place called “CRFs Only”here in California or you can buy it Directly from Seat Concepts. Made here in the factory. It’s only about $200 ( they give you the choice to buy a complete seat or they’ll just send you the material to have your current pan redone”
Hey, good question. No I don't think it's a lot at all. Providing the engine has been serviced and cared for, 15,000 Miles is nothing for these little engines. There are examples of CRFs with over 50,000 miles on them with no issues. I hope that helps 👍🏻
Thank you for making your video. This bike keeps nagging me in the back of my mind. Currently owning a KTM 1190 R. Did a lot of riding with it. It has taken me all across Europe. Weeks in Sweden and Norway. It was a great time driving through the forest and in the evenings hanging my hammock between some trees. But the bike is so heavy. Been in some shitty circumstances with it and sometimes it was a wonder that i did not crash. While riding it i had sometimes to think back a 30 years ago when i had a Honda NX 250. I really loved that bike. I had it for 4 years next to some heavy racing machines. But 80 percent of the time i took the NX out. Later on this year i want to go to Turkey for a couple of weeks. Planning to drive to all sorts of interesting places.Maybe going even a but futher away. Don't get me wrong, i love my KTM. But it is a beast and it could take me really fast to Turkey. It also can take some gear. But driving faster then 150 kph with luggage the KTM will kill you. It starts wobling and then you crash. Game over. So i year ago i started to look at some secondhand sites for a NX250. Found a few but they needed such extreme work. And then i saw an article about a new CRF300L. I did not even know that their was a CRF250. Sometimes i live under a rock. To me this CRF300 looks as a ultimate machine for the riding i want to do. But at the same time the doubt keeps nagging at me for loosing a larger bike and the horsepower. Because i do not have infinite time and need to ride the motorways at least for a 3000 km'ters. In the meantime i learned that there also will be a CRF300 rally version with 6 gears. And that the 6 gear is adapted to ride better at i higher speed on a motorway. You own a 250 rally version. Is the comfort when riding at 120 kph so much better then with the L version ? Could you tell me a bit more about that ? It would be much appreciated. Because i have to make a choice and i am not a rich guy. And that choice effects my fun and comfort while i have my o so needed vacation. Expeccially after all this Covid19 mayhem. The trip to Turkey i also see as a trial out for a bigger trip in the future. Mongolia is also on my wishlist. But need a couple of years for that so i can take 4 months of without pay. Also one of my main concerns is that the 1190 R is so heavy. It costs me a lot of effort to get the bike up again. And when i am hurt after a crash i am sure that it is almost impossible for me to get it back up. Even without luggage.
@@lightweightadv Thx for your reply. I should think that the 300 cc version has a little bit more power then the 250. I do not think it is a lot of difference but i should be noticeble. But owning one now means buying a brand new bike. So maybe i should wait until next year. I don't think with this Sars-Cov-II we don't get the chance to ride the big adventure trip that we al want to ride. So not a lot of opportunity this year to make proper use of it to be realistic. And it saves a lot of cash to buy it slightly used. That money is better spend on the trip itself. And i could ride some dirt in my own country but compaired to Sweden it's like riding some green zones in an urban area with tall buildings at the sides. Still fun but not the thing that we all desire. Freedom in riding to for us an unknown place is what gives us the real kick. Not the road that we have traveled so many times. All we can do is hope that it will end quicly so we can saddle our horse again and whip it. Jippyayee ??🙈
I recently bought a new Crf 250Rally to complement my big sport tourer , and have started to enjoy the freedom of offroading . I would like to upgrade my Rally . Could you note a list of parts you bought and where I can order from , as in italy haven't had much luck in finding parts . Thanks 👍
great bike !!! BUT needs a bigger engine for those long tarmac stretches you need to do on a tour - 450cc ???? thats why its better to buy a DAKAR 650 gs . ps just my opinion .
Great review, I have one as my TET bike too, sits alongside my 1200gs. I love it, have ridden it from the UK to Sicily, done the TET in 10 countries between both bikes, and love the CRF, particularly surprised by how well it sits at 70 on the motorway and still accelerates well to 80! I think the 300 may just be the perfect TET bike........ with a rear shock I assume 👍
@@lightweightadv I just don’t find the A road performance lacking on stock gearing to be honest. I think where the 300 will really shine is the first 5 gears being lower for off road, but top being higher for an easy 70mph cruise. I’ll PM you on Facebook with the details of the mods I mentioned on there as it really peps up the midrange, (17%) whilst still gaining 10% at the top end.
Just stumbled on your channel whilst doing a bit of research, as I'm thinking of getting a Rally. Excellent professional looking content, down to earth honest reviews. Looking forward to more of the same. If you fancy some laning in the peaks some time give my a shout.
Hi guys, first of all, nice job with the videos! i´m a 47 years old, 5.7, 150 pounds, newbie looking for my first (adventure) bike. CRF 250 rally caught my eyes but i have doubts about the seat high. I´m looking for a bike for commuting and trails adventures. I´d appreciate your insights. Cheers
To address the weight the bike really is a good middle ground-when you’re riding street on mountains sweepers and it’s a little windy you want a little bit of weight on the bike makes it stable
Good video mate! Grat info! Just ordered a CRF300Rally! Comes in february, hopefully :) What brand on the rear shock did you go for? Springs in the fork changed too? Any fiddeling with fuelling/air and full system? (Imo not worth the small gains, maybe?)
@@lightweightadv Great! Exactly my point of view too! If I wanted lots of power I would have looked at other bikes, like the Husky 701 or KTM 690 maybe. But I'm really liking the "tractor-factor" of the crf! Also money left for trips and adv gear.
Absolutely agree 100%, my next mod is that spring, thanks for the tip. I got one of the last 250s last autumn, it's the ideal platform for enjoying the countryside.
Like it says on the packet, agree with all you have said, the only difference is, I am 6’ tall although I have fitted bar risers I have had no problem with wind buffeting. I will probably keep my bike for a year and then get the 300
Hello, nice video and great information👍 I have CB500X which I am taking everywhere except very muddy situations so far. Waiting to test ride the new CRF300 Rally next month hopefully, then the only universe knows what happens with CB500X if I like the new CRF 😁153 kilos wet vs 197 👌 How is the service intervals on this bike I ride a lot 🤔
@@lightweightadv Sounds very promising. 8000 miles wow I expected lower mileage service 😍 As you said yourself in the video.. I do not lick bikes clean also I ride them, fck scratches and dirt on the bike 😁 Thank You 👍
Got a completely stock 250 rally doing a tour on the tet from uk through Spain, currently in Morocco going through the Sahara going toward and back along the coast to go back on the tet through Italy, Switzerland and France. Bought at 6000 miles and currently at 11000 running well no issues at all 👍🏻
Hey, thanks for the comment. Sorry we didn't reply sooner. That sounds like an absolutely amazing trip 😳, proof these bikes can do it all. What was a highlight from all of that?
Where did you get your front / side crash bars please? PS great tip about buying used. I hadn’t thought about that, but it could make the difference between getting a new 250L or a used Rally.
@@lightweightadv thanks. Trying to sell my cruiser XVS1300 Yamaha. Had a CRF250L a couple of years ago and have had a CRF1100 DCT. I’m 6’7” 120 kg so the first upgrade would be rear shock as I found the CRF250L shock too soft. Too much sag. Considering used low mileage 250Rally vs new 300L for similar money. I do occasional dual carriageway rides, but mainly back lanes. No actual off road experience yet!
Great review! I have a 300 Rally on order for my first bike (used dual sports are non-existent in my area) and I couldn't be more excited to have such a versatile machine for starting on and trying a bit of everything. Really interesting to hear your thoughts regarding the height proportions... I'm only 5'11" but have a 36" inseam, so maybe the Rally will be a perfect fit for my long legs and short torso!
@@lightweightadv I found the DRZ fairly comfortable and on paper they're a similar height, but the nearest Rally I could find is unfortunately over 1000km away! If I end up finding it a little short though I'll likely just buy a tall seat for it, and then over time replace the suspension. The Rally fills such a unique niche that I'm willing to upgrade her as I go. :)
@@MWitt-wl7ob I am very interested in the CRF 300 Rally. I am thinking about buying the L or the Rally version. I have planned a vacation to Turkey. In Turkey i have estimated that the trip in that country will be atleast 4000 km. But i also have to get overthere and back. To win time i need to ride the motorways. Also a little bit more then 3000 km. Not all motorway but a big portion of it will be. So i am very interested in your experience with higher speeds and the comfort. Still have 3 months to decide between the L or the Rally version. But i also have to prepare it for some luggage. Normally i always take my hammock but for this trip i think it is better to take my tent. But it is a large tent so i hope that the bike is also capable of taking at least 40 kg of luggage. I have not seen the Rally with my own eyes. Only on video but it seems a very beautifull bike to me.
Am considering 'downgrading' to either one of these or a 300 Rally next year from my 2009 XT660Z Tenere. I really enjoy the Tenere 95% of the time; on road it has excellent road manners and is actually really fun on tight twisty country lanes, hard packed gravel and fairly flat dirt. It has a really punchy torquey 50hp single and sounds amazing. I've been pushed to my limit a few too many times trying to keep up with my TRF mates on smaller enduro bikes on some yorkshire byways when it gets very technical and rocky, the weight of the Tenere (north of 200kg with luggage) really works against me, whilst a capable machine i'm fairly new to trail riding, and want to build my confidence but on more than one occasion i've been swearing at my fat bike! How well would the 250 Rally do somewhere like Wales? with really technical trails? or around Cumbria? Part of my reasoning for buying my Tenere was doing the TET abroad - Scandinavia, Spain, and one day the Baltic states, but I don't fancy being pinned under 200kgs of Yamaha with bears and wolves roaming around!
I am undecided whether to buy one with 19,000 km in a nearby dealership. in Italy there are not many and it is necessary to take advantage of every opportunity. I already own a Honda Transalp but want something lighter. my doubt is: how many km can this engine do? maybe buying one with already 19,000 is not worth it?
Mine has 11t00 miles / 17000km on it and the engine feels like it has hardly worked. There are many examples out there with much more on. As long as it has been serviced and cared for, this is no problem
Yeah, definitely go and have a look. Make sure the clutch engages as it should, they're a week point (although very easily fixed). Also, check the rear shock, they blow easily but again, a very easy and regular upgrade. Other than that, just all the regular things (service history etc). Good. Luck, let us know how you get on 😎👍🏻
Hey, that’s great I think you will enjoy it, a really nice introduction into the dual sport world and gives the option of growing with the bike or moving on if that’s what you’re after 👍
All good points. I have ordered the 300 Rally. Was going to be a Feb delivery, then March, now April (maybe) - all my accessories have already arrived. First time I've ever read instructions on anything - I'm that bored as already sold my existing bike. Oh well. Be worth the wait, I'm sure.
I'm in exactly the same situation :) Small accessories will come from Thailand sooner then a got a bike from my local dealer. I put order on the beginning of December on bike produced in 2020. I hope it will arrive in mid March. Here in Poland weather is still not bike friendly (+2-5 C, windy & rainy), so it's easier to wait....
I have the 2020 model. I upgraded the rear Suspension with a YSS shock and the Race Tech front forks upgrade with the additional spring and better oil. World of difference -super smooth and absorbs all the bumps
@@lightweightadv I bought it with 900 miles on it. The first owner moded it with full FMF exhaust, a gear indicator and a lowering kit. I’m tall, it’s my first mc so when I got accustomed to it, I removed the lowering kit.
I have only done about 1100ks but I really like my rally. Every thing you said I second. $5200 A$ with 2000k and in great order. Brilliant on the beach and confidence inspiring on dirt. I look at 790’s and think why?
@@lightweightadv its a road bike pal...with the old cbr250 engine....green lane'r at best.......maybe some nice open single trails but we dont have that in the uk... and its never going to see a rally........like i said old mans bike.....#450life
@@work750 I did'nt miss any point....i just made a coment that it wouldnt pull the skin off a rice pudding....i think its you's who's missing my point ..the 250l's/ rally's ars shit...there you go i spelt it out for ya....all the best to you too..#bikelife
@@work750 WHAAhahaha....is that the best you can come back with....give your head a wobble....old men on here puttin the world to rights with a spellcheck... 😂🤣#bikelife...
This is, by FAR, the best description of the 250l / 250 Rally that I've seen. THANK YOU for helping me make the decision to seek a used / good condition 250 Rally! You and dorkintheroad give a thorough, understandable and REAL WORLD view of these bikes (250L, 300l Rally and your 250 Rally). THANK YOU!
Hey, that's awesome, thank you 👊🏻😎. These bikes are amazing, provided you know what you're buying 👌🏻
I'm in no rush to change. 2017 model with almost 30,000km and does everything I want...even in stock format..Cheers👍
Love my 2017.. not stock though
2019 Rally, motoz adv tires but otherwise stock. Great all around bike. Upgraded from a Harley 35th anniversary dyno (fxd35) and a bigdog ridgeback chopper...
I've had one for 3 years or so it's a great bike. I put a full Yoshi system on it and moded the airbox. I can get upto 90mph on a flat road. Stock rear suspension can bottom out on jumps, it's quite soft. it's just a solid bike and feels great to ride on and off-road. it's not KTM EXC level off road by any means but i've done plenty of off roading in it. it's a great bike to ride on the roads upto the green lanes and then have fun on the lanes.
Got a completely stock 250 rally doing a tour on the tet from uk through Spain and then around Morocco back on the tet through Italy, Switzerland and France. Bought at 6000 miles and currently at 11000 running well no issues at all 👍🏻
Hey Jacob, good on you mate! We just finished a similar tour. The bikes are solid, my rally is now on 11k and running sweet 👌🏻
@@lightweightadv nice one ☝️, yep they are brilliant bikes no doubt
One of the best CRF review ever made! So honest, I seen this before I bought CRF and after 1 year with CRF I still think he nailed it!!! Love this channel for honestly. Keep it up guys🥰
This is such a cool comment, thanks 👊🏻😎
Made me want to buy one 😄
Do it! 😎
Try 80,000 km in less than 3 years in Asia. The Rally rocks... Still rides like new.
@@lightweightadv Thanks man. Yup, I've had many bikes, 50cc to 1200cc (1157 actually lol)... and two CRFs...the M and the Rally. Oil and filter change every 3,000km (remember, hot here) and regular air filter changes (10k). Keep the chain lubed and grease around the head stock (preserves head race life).... Pop a new spark plug in about 30k and have the valves / shims looked at at around 50k and yer golden. Superb machines. I've had the Cbr 250 as well. Same brill wee motor. Oh... And adding an EJK DOES help... even with standard pipe. I've got the ideal settings. That, and the 13/40 or 14/43 gearing makes her plenty peppy for a 'two-fiddy'. 👍
awesome vid mate :-) bought mine new in 2019 had no dramas with it at all , im 62 and going to ride mine around OZ at the end of year, if all borders are open :-) and mines stock
I own this moschine.. i f***n love it!! Paths, forestroads its just brilliant! Light and nimble.
@@tenholepakko5522 exactly 😎👌🏻
Do you think someone at 6ft 6 could get comfy on the bike? Possible to add drop pegs as well?
I think you would be fine, but you would have to adjust the bars and pegs like you say 👌🏻
Great summary! I agree with the versatility of this bike. I also have a 2018 rally with the same mods as yourself. Although I spent the cash and had the suspension resprung and re-valved front and rear and it's a completely different bike from stock. There is a lot less fork dive under braking on the road and I can carry luggage for a 2-3 day trip and still hit the whoops off-road without bottoming out. I reverted back to stock gearing as it seemed less strained on the commute to work. I love the low maintenance costs associated with this bike and the Honda reliability, it's a great balance of comfort for on-road and good ability for off road. Just as long as you don't plan on racing, it really does do everything well. I think the 300 Rally will be spot on!
Hell yeah dude that sounds like your bike is set up perfect!! I wish I had money to do that shit congratulations 🎉 I really enjoy my bike just that suspension kind of sucks diving like she does. Oh well I still love the 🏍️💨 I like the rally over the regular 250L... The rally seems more like a mini Africa twin lol, lil more up scale & them headlights are amazingly bright 🌞
Hit the nail on the head there, great bike, crap suspension! I did the spring only upgrade on the Rally, about £200 in total, made a big difference 😎
Because im convince...I bought one❤❤
Awesome! Hope you're having a great time with it 😎
Like your presenting style, not bad at all!
You are right about the high center of gravity. I raced moto cross way back in the 60's and never had any trouble picking up any bikes. My crf 250l once it leans past a few degrees wil throw itself on the ground and you have to lift what feels like more than half the bikes weight to get it upright.
It did this some weeks ago and trapped my foot under it cracking my tibia resulting in 4 weeks on crutches. With time to spare I set about curing the problem. There are several winches for sale around £200. You will smile at this I cut my NHS crutches up, bought a ratchet and webbing and fashioned a bike lifter. It's 17" long and rolls up into a nice compact parcel. Job done!
Ah wow, firstly I hope you are all fixed now and back up and running?
Secondly, what is this crutch winch thing ? I would love to see some pictures, just love the ingenuity of adventure riders 😎
@@lightweightadv ok, will take some pics but it's pretty simple really. By the way I am retired and past 80 so that's my excuse for not being able to lift the bike. Acquire a pair of NHS crutches, a ratchet with webbing with a loop sewn into one end.
Cut the crutches into lengths of around 17" and bolt the rachet on the end of one tube. It's easy to adjust the spring pins to where you want them if needed. Important! Study the several videos on TH-cam, you will get the idea. The only problem I had is a small enough ratchet to pack tidy cannot reel in the at least 3' of webbing required to lift the bike. I have to use a second ratchet halfway up the webbing, not ideal but it works. Ratchets from Amazon and
Hi bud regarding your bars . Did you drill out the pins for the switchgear or did you dremel the pins off and use tape , cheers
I drilled the bars. Simple enough to mark it correctly and stops anything from moving 😎
@lightweightadv cheers bud, just finished mine and waiting for new grips. Had to butcher my heated grips unfortunately
Ah shame. Once they're on, they're on!
@@lightweightadv yeah man
Lit review mate, nailed it!!
Subscribed😈
Totaly agree! Also subscribed! :D
Greetings
What brand of crash bar do you have on?
Thank you for assisting🇺🇸🎉🍾🇺🇸
The crash bars are the GP komposit / Inpreda bars. They go by both names. You can find them on ebay. Hope that helps 😎
Like they say way more fun to ride a smaller bike hard than a more powerful bike easy. Make sure to get the Seat Concepts custom seat for that bike -it is superb
@@lightweightadv Seat concept is super comfortable on your behind. Proprietary foam that maintains its shape just a world of difference. It’s a little bit wider in the back but still narrow in front for maneuvering. There’s a place called “CRFs Only”here in California or you can buy it Directly from Seat Concepts. Made here in the factory. It’s only about $200 ( they give you the choice to buy a complete seat or they’ll just send you the material to have your current pan redone”
Do you think 15000 miles on the clock it’s to much for a 2018 rally? I appreciate your opinion. Thanks
Hey, good question. No I don't think it's a lot at all. Providing the engine has been serviced and cared for, 15,000 Miles is nothing for these little engines. There are examples of CRFs with over 50,000 miles on them with no issues. I hope that helps 👍🏻
Thank you for making your video.
This bike keeps nagging me in the back of my mind. Currently owning a KTM 1190 R. Did a lot of riding with it. It has taken me all across Europe. Weeks in Sweden and Norway. It was a great time driving through the forest and in the evenings hanging my hammock between some trees.
But the bike is so heavy. Been in some shitty circumstances with it and sometimes it was a wonder that i did not crash.
While riding it i had sometimes to think back a 30 years ago when i had a Honda NX 250. I really loved that bike. I had it for 4 years next to some heavy racing machines. But 80 percent of the time i took the NX out.
Later on this year i want to go to Turkey for a couple of weeks. Planning to drive to all sorts of interesting places.Maybe going even a but futher away.
Don't get me wrong, i love my KTM. But it is a beast and it could take me really fast to Turkey. It also can take some gear. But driving faster then 150 kph with luggage the KTM will kill you. It starts wobling and then you crash. Game over.
So i year ago i started to look at some secondhand sites for a NX250. Found a few but they needed such extreme work. And then i saw an article about a new CRF300L. I did not even know that their was a CRF250. Sometimes i live under a rock.
To me this CRF300 looks as a ultimate machine for the riding i want to do. But at the same time the doubt keeps nagging at me for loosing a larger bike and the horsepower. Because i do not have infinite time and need to ride the motorways at least for a 3000 km'ters.
In the meantime i learned that there also will be a CRF300 rally version with 6 gears. And that the 6 gear is adapted to ride better at i higher speed on a motorway.
You own a 250 rally version. Is the comfort when riding at 120 kph so much better then with the L version ? Could you tell me a bit more about that ? It would be much appreciated. Because i have to make a choice and i am not a rich guy. And that choice effects my fun and comfort while i have my o so needed vacation. Expeccially after all this Covid19 mayhem. The trip to Turkey i also see as a trial out for a bigger trip in the future. Mongolia is also on my wishlist. But need a couple of years for that so i can take 4 months of without pay.
Also one of my main concerns is that the 1190 R is so heavy. It costs me a lot of effort to get the bike up again. And when i am hurt after a crash i am sure that it is almost impossible for me to get it back up. Even without luggage.
@@lightweightadv Thx for your reply. I should think that the 300 cc version has a little bit more power then the 250.
I do not think it is a lot of difference but i should be noticeble. But owning one now means buying a brand new bike. So maybe i should wait until next year. I don't think with this Sars-Cov-II we don't get the chance to ride the big adventure trip that we al want to ride. So not a lot of opportunity this year to make proper use of it to be realistic. And it saves a lot of cash to buy it slightly used.
That money is better spend on the trip itself. And i could ride some dirt in my own country but compaired to Sweden it's like riding some green zones in an urban area with tall buildings at the sides. Still fun but not the thing that we all desire. Freedom in riding to for us an unknown place is what gives us the real kick. Not the road that we have traveled so many times. All we can do is hope that it will end quicly so we can saddle our horse again and whip it. Jippyayee ??🙈
Go honda you'll never look back
Hello mate.. I'm planning to own CRF250L is it Good..
@@lightweightadv I use both off road and on road. My plan is to learn stunts..
@@lightweightadv mainly I want to learn wheelie and jumps..
@@lightweightadv one more thing can you please help me in training wheelie ..
Would this be a good beginner bike?
Hi, yes these are a great beginner option, some really nice gentle power that can take you anywhere 👍
@@lightweightadv thank you so much!
Always 👊🏻😎
I own honda crf 150L here in the Philippines. Wish i could also own that 250L. Thanks for sharing this video. Ride safe sir.
I recently bought a new Crf 250Rally to complement my big sport tourer , and have started to enjoy the freedom of offroading .
I would like to upgrade my Rally .
Could you note a list of parts you bought and where I can order from , as in italy haven't had much luck in finding parts .
Thanks 👍
great bike !!! BUT needs a bigger engine for those long tarmac stretches you need to do on a tour - 450cc ???? thats why its better to buy a DAKAR 650 gs . ps just my opinion .
Great review, I have one as my TET bike too, sits alongside my 1200gs. I love it, have ridden it from the UK to Sicily, done the TET in 10 countries between both bikes, and love the CRF, particularly surprised by how well it sits at 70 on the motorway and still accelerates well to 80!
I think the 300 may just be the perfect TET bike........ with a rear shock I assume 👍
@@lightweightadv I just don’t find the A road performance lacking on stock gearing to be honest. I think where the 300 will really shine is the first 5 gears being lower for off road, but top being higher for an easy 70mph cruise.
I’ll PM you on Facebook with the details of the mods I mentioned on there as it really peps up the midrange, (17%) whilst still gaining 10% at the top end.
@@lightweightadv what tyres do you use and how many miles do you get out of them?
@@lightweightadv thanks for answering my question. I’ve ordered the 300 and don’t know what tyres are best👍
in the Netherlands you can only buy the crf300L and rally, the 250's a gone from the list a the Honda dealers.
Just stumbled on your channel whilst doing a bit of research, as I'm thinking of getting a Rally. Excellent professional looking content, down to earth honest reviews. Looking forward to more of the same. If you fancy some laning in the peaks some time give my a shout.
Excellent video you hit on all the key points. Love your candid talk format. I don’t see the link for your windshield
Hi guys, first of all, nice job with the videos! i´m a 47 years old, 5.7, 150 pounds, newbie looking for my first (adventure) bike. CRF 250 rally caught my eyes but i have doubts about the seat high. I´m looking for a bike for commuting and trails adventures. I´d appreciate your insights. Cheers
@@lightweightadv L or Rally? 😉
@@lightweightadv thanks!! Keep up the good work.
@@lightweightadv can you share the links of the upgrades you made? thanks
@@lightweightadv Thanks!
Could you please speak more quietly, i literally have volume all the way up and it was so low still missed half information maybe a a mic.
To address the weight the bike really is a good middle ground-when you’re riding street on mountains sweepers and it’s a little windy you want a little bit of weight on the bike makes it stable
I just bought this bike 2017 model with 3000 miles and a absolute beast and very amazing ohlins full suspension
Great find! The Ohlins is a brilliant addition 😎👌🏻
Good video!! Thanks from Texas
Glad you enjoyed it, Justin 👊🏻😎
I agree with you it’s a perfect road bike.
I really don’t understand the negative comments about its road manners.
Great Review Mate 👍
Good video mate! Grat info! Just ordered a CRF300Rally! Comes in february, hopefully :)
What brand on the rear shock did you go for? Springs in the fork changed too? Any fiddeling with fuelling/air and full system? (Imo not worth the small gains, maybe?)
@@lightweightadv Great! Exactly my point of view too! If I wanted lots of power I would have looked at other bikes, like the Husky 701 or KTM 690 maybe. But I'm really liking the "tractor-factor" of the crf! Also money left for trips and adv gear.
Absolutely agree 100%, my next mod is that spring, thanks for the tip. I got one of the last 250s last autumn, it's the ideal platform for enjoying the countryside.
Like it says on the packet, agree with all you have said, the only difference is, I am 6’ tall although I have fitted bar risers I have had no problem with wind buffeting. I will probably keep my bike for a year and then get the 300
Hello, nice video and great information👍 I have CB500X which I am taking everywhere except very muddy situations so far. Waiting to test ride the new CRF300 Rally next month hopefully, then the only universe knows what happens with CB500X if I like the new CRF 😁153 kilos wet vs 197 👌 How is the service intervals on this bike I ride a lot 🤔
@@lightweightadv Sounds very promising. 8000 miles wow I expected lower mileage service 😍 As you said yourself in the video.. I do not lick bikes clean also I ride them, fck scratches and dirt on the bike 😁 Thank You 👍
That's a proper review mate! By the way, piggeon-wise how comfortable is it?
Got a completely stock 250 rally doing a tour on the tet from uk through Spain, currently in Morocco going through the Sahara going toward and back along the coast to go back on the tet through Italy, Switzerland and France. Bought at 6000 miles and currently at 11000 running well no issues at all 👍🏻
Hey, thanks for the comment. Sorry we didn't reply sooner. That sounds like an absolutely amazing trip 😳, proof these bikes can do it all. What was a highlight from all of that?
Where did you get your front / side crash bars please? PS great tip about buying used. I hadn’t thought about that, but it could make the difference between getting a new 250L or a used Rally.
@@lightweightadv thanks. Trying to sell my cruiser XVS1300 Yamaha. Had a CRF250L a couple of years ago and have had a CRF1100 DCT. I’m 6’7” 120 kg so the first upgrade would be rear shock as I found the CRF250L shock too soft. Too much sag. Considering used low mileage 250Rally vs new 300L for similar money. I do occasional dual carriageway rides, but mainly back lanes. No actual off road experience yet!
Great review! I have a 300 Rally on order for my first bike (used dual sports are non-existent in my area) and I couldn't be more excited to have such a versatile machine for starting on and trying a bit of everything. Really interesting to hear your thoughts regarding the height proportions... I'm only 5'11" but have a 36" inseam, so maybe the Rally will be a perfect fit for my long legs and short torso!
@@lightweightadv I found the DRZ fairly comfortable and on paper they're a similar height, but the nearest Rally I could find is unfortunately over 1000km away! If I end up finding it a little short though I'll likely just buy a tall seat for it, and then over time replace the suspension. The Rally fills such a unique niche that I'm willing to upgrade her as I go. :)
@@MWitt-wl7ob I am very interested in the CRF 300 Rally. I am thinking about buying the L or the Rally version.
I have planned a vacation to Turkey. In Turkey i have estimated that the trip in that country will be atleast 4000 km.
But i also have to get overthere and back. To win time i need to ride the motorways. Also a little bit more then 3000 km.
Not all motorway but a big portion of it will be. So i am very interested in your experience with higher speeds and the comfort.
Still have 3 months to decide between the L or the Rally version. But i also have to prepare it for some luggage. Normally i always take my hammock but for this trip i think it is better to take my tent. But it is a large tent so i hope that the bike is also capable of taking at least 40 kg of luggage.
I have not seen the Rally with my own eyes. Only on video but it seems a very beautifull bike to me.
Good luck with your new 300 rally !keep in mind it’s not an entry-level bike it’s got some kick to it so respect it And learn how to ride it properly
Delkevic exhaust?
@@lightweightadv cool, I will -I have Delkevics on my Honda VFR 800 Vtec, great sound, light weight compared to stock and good price as well 🤗
What brand are the crash bars you see running down the bike??? Cheers for any info on this
Am considering 'downgrading' to either one of these or a 300 Rally next year from my 2009 XT660Z Tenere. I really enjoy the Tenere 95% of the time; on road it has excellent road manners and is actually really fun on tight twisty country lanes, hard packed gravel and fairly flat dirt. It has a really punchy torquey 50hp single and sounds amazing. I've been pushed to my limit a few too many times trying to keep up with my TRF mates on smaller enduro bikes on some yorkshire byways when it gets very technical and rocky, the weight of the Tenere (north of 200kg with luggage) really works against me, whilst a capable machine i'm fairly new to trail riding, and want to build my confidence but on more than one occasion i've been swearing at my fat bike!
How well would the 250 Rally do somewhere like Wales? with really technical trails? or around Cumbria? Part of my reasoning for buying my Tenere was doing the TET abroad - Scandinavia, Spain, and one day the Baltic states, but I don't fancy being pinned under 200kgs of Yamaha with bears and wolves roaming around!
@@lightweightadv Thanks for the quick reply and great vid btw. I will keep an eye on your adventures!
I bought this today , 2018 with 900 miles on it with some nice extras as well 😏.
Great job, you're gonna have a lot of fun 👌🏻
I am undecided whether to buy one with 19,000 km in a nearby dealership. in Italy there are not many and it is necessary to take advantage of every opportunity. I already own a Honda Transalp but want something lighter. my doubt is: how many km can this engine do? maybe buying one with already 19,000 is not worth it?
Mine has 11t00 miles / 17000km on it and the engine feels like it has hardly worked. There are many examples out there with much more on. As long as it has been serviced and cared for, this is no problem
so it is a reliable engine! ok i think i will go to test this little baby
on monday! any advice on what to check?
Yeah, definitely go and have a look. Make sure the clutch engages as it should, they're a week point (although very easily fixed). Also, check the rear shock, they blow easily but again, a very easy and regular upgrade. Other than that, just all the regular things (service history etc). Good. Luck, let us know how you get on 😎👍🏻
its a japanese it will last a lifetime just take care of it
Thx for the info. I’m considering an 18 model year for my first enduro.
Hey, that’s great I think you will enjoy it, a really nice introduction into the dual sport world and gives the option of growing with the bike or moving on if that’s what you’re after 👍
Not buying but still watching
Do you list your mods anywhere? And where you got them?
Where do I get these plastics??
What brand is your windscreen extension/clip on
All good points. I have ordered the 300 Rally. Was going to be a Feb delivery, then March, now April (maybe) - all my accessories have already arrived. First time I've ever read instructions on anything - I'm that bored as already sold my existing bike. Oh well. Be worth the wait, I'm sure.
I'm in exactly the same situation :) Small accessories will come from Thailand sooner then a got a bike from my local dealer. I put order on the beginning of December on bike produced in 2020. I hope it will arrive in mid March. Here in Poland weather is still not bike friendly (+2-5 C, windy & rainy), so it's easier to wait....
@@mike.on.2wheels Mine arrived 10 days ago. You will love it!
I have the 2020 model. I upgraded the rear Suspension with a YSS shock and the Race Tech front forks upgrade with the additional spring and better oil. World of difference -super smooth and absorbs all the bumps
@@lightweightadv I ride in Southern California near Lake Arrowhead/Big Bear lake. Where do you ride? Cheers Mate! Allan
@@lightweightadv We? As in you and your Wife/GF? That’s fantastic happy riding mate! Allan USA
@@lightweightadv Yeah I just realized that when I saw the other gentleman lol
👍
What crash bars are they please
Thank you
Spot on review. I’ve put about 2,000 miles on my 2017.
@@lightweightadv I bought it with 900 miles on it. The first owner moded it with full FMF exhaust, a gear indicator and a lowering kit. I’m tall, it’s my first mc so when I got accustomed to it, I removed the lowering kit.
Also Dunlop D606 rear and Pirelli T21front tire really help it in the dirt.
Nice bike thanks mate
@@lightweightadv Looking at one had a 660 Tenere a few years back but was to much of a handful off-road
I have only done about 1100ks but I really like my rally. Every thing you said I second. $5200 A$ with 2000k and in great order. Brilliant on the beach and confidence inspiring on dirt. I look at 790’s and think why?
it would'nt pull the skin of a rice pudding. old mans bike
@@lightweightadv its a road bike pal...with the old cbr250 engine....green lane'r at best.......maybe some nice open single trails but we dont have that in the uk... and its never going to see a rally........like i said old mans bike.....#450life
@@SurRon_OffRoad I think you missed the point of the video Mate. Happy trails 😀
@@work750 I did'nt miss any point....i just made a coment that it wouldnt pull the skin off a rice pudding....i think its you's who's missing my point ..the 250l's/ rally's ars shit...there you go i spelt it out for ya....all the best to you too..#bikelife
@@SurRon_OffRoad hi Mate, "you's" may want to check your spelling! 😂
@@work750 WHAAhahaha....is that the best you can come back with....give your head a wobble....old men on here puttin the world to rights with a spellcheck... 😂🤣#bikelife...