Why the Honda CRF300L might be the best dualsport ever
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A CRF500L or CRF650L would be nicer. What everyone really wants from Honda is a nice simple, no frills updated version of the XR400 and XR600. Honda would kill it with either of those in their line up, especially in the US/Australia. A 300lbs, 500cc dualsport that could cruise at 70-75mph with the reliability of the CRF250L would be a nice fun trailbike or travel bike.
Absolutely! 500 or 600. And as a kid I remember 72 as a good year too!
Emissions regulations means Honda would have to completely redesign the CRF500/650 engines. Meaning EFI, CAT, more complicated ECM etc. All this just to sell in Europe/US and higher costs to customers
@@jltrack They did it with the CRF250/300L, a brand new from the ground up motorcycle, and they managed to sell them at a bargain price too. Same principle, just needs more C.C's.
You can't redesign an engine that doesn't exist. Any CRF500/650 would be a newly developed engine anyway, but Honda would easily recoup that in many countries with the right bike aimed at the old XR250/400/600/650L series type of trail riders favourites. Build it in Thailand alongside the CRF300 with the same engineering, keep it around 140-150kgs. Sell for between 6,000-7,000 bucks, or pounds. It would be a sure winner, just like the XR series was for two or three decades.
I don't do new bikes but i would consider buying a CRF500 or CRF600L if they did one. I would even sell my blinged up XR600 for one of those!
I want them to make a 300 2t or another 500 2t.. cause they have patented a new direct fuel injection system for 2t engines
I’d trade my 1190r towards a fuel injected 500-650 Honda for sure
As long as I can remember everyone has asked, begged, and pleaded for a 300cc 6-speed dual sport. Why? Because 250cc on the highway suks. FINALLY, Honda and Kawasaki listened and now we have what we've asked for - and it performed just as we wanted. FINALLY! Trying to make this into a 350cc would just add needless weight when the 300 is exactly what we asked for.
Glad you were able to do this report.
This is heaver than a DR350 6 speed with less power.
@@JohnSmith-ef8nr Great, there's a bike out there that fits your criteria. Go buy a DR350. My point is both Kawasaki and Honda finally listened to the input folks have been giving them for years and they Gave Us What We Asked For! Even so, people still feel compelled to say it isn't enough, which is ridiculous.
@@luvnotvideos
No because the 250l and 300l are too heavy and under powered, even when compared to 20 year old bikes.
The new KLR is also under powered and too heavy.
Kawasaki also don't make the KLX450R anymore with no replacement for it.
I'll stick with my KLX450R and Tenere 700.
this just proves how much the Yamaha WR250R was ahead of its time coming out in 2008 with 295lb and 33hp... the crf300l is on sale almost 15 years later and still can't beat that specs...
(EMISSIONS)
@@drury2d8 unfortunately yess
Mate, I am 56 years old and I am retired (ok, I went to work at 14 ...) when I was a child I did motocross competitions for 10 years ... and you know the first love is never forgotten ... now I want to get back on the bike, ( i'm triatlhon trained...) to make some trips, go a little off-road, but I like light bikes, in my opinion this is the perfect bike, then Honda is a guarantee of quality and ease of riding, their bikes they are always easy to drive, thanks for the great video. Greetings from Northwest Italy. Ciao.
A real motoman rides a bike, and drives a car.. Busted!! 😆 lol
good for you buddy for wanting to get on. As I get older, I really dont care about going fast anymore. Im in it for exploring and just checking out the scenery. I really think the honda crf300L is the perfect dualsport. I take my KLX250 on some tight single track and some rocky trails and it does great to be honest. No I am no grahm Jarvis or Billy Bolt and I dont care to be. the average rider does not even ride like them, so this is why i think these bikes are perfect to explore. Dead reliable, cheap, and can do some difficult trails if you want. Also know a guy with 90k miles on his crf250L
@@RWWRENTAL Ciao Will. I'm Italian and I live in a small town in North West Italy (near Genoa) where around me there are mountains and sea and many trail to explore,also across the Alps, for me a bike like this is fine, I'm curious to try the new 300 version which must be a little more powerful (I have always been a racing car mechanic anyway ... and upgrading is a moment for me ...) I link you a tourist competition that they do in my beautiful area, near my home...look at what landscapes. th-cam.com/video/8acBr1H_S-g/w-d-xo.html
@@RWWRENTAL You really want to see what you are missing and ride locally without being harassed...buy an electric bike.
@@andrewjake0 you could not give me an electric bike. Petro all day long and everyday.
Very well edited and put together video, made me even more sure about picking up the 300L as my first bike.
Well done. I agree that the 300lb 350cc mellow dual-sport is what the world is waiting for. I bought a Beta 390 while I wait, but a CRF350L would be the bomb.
I miss the XR350s
How do you like that Beta?
@@tonyrichengod9280 , my comment won't help much, prolly, as I have a Beta X Trainer. Managed to get it plated here in Communist WI, and while it is cool to have a modern 2 stroke on the street, it's only good for getting to the closest trails. (Unbalanced knobbies and short gearing). Otherwise it's been great on the trails, and I encourage you to check out an RRS.
You make a damn good argument for the CRF300L but after picking up the CRF450L.... I'll never look back. Thanks for the awesome vid.. as usual! 🤘 Keep on keepin on Man!! Thanks
Do you have a road legal CRF450L in the states or wherever you from?
Or is it the 450L with the race engine, that needs so much maintenance compared to the 300L?
Thank you!
@@sprechendemulltonne5051 -- Its the street legal version. Been around awhile and fits the needs pretty well across the board from hooligan work to commuter. Im in the U.S..
This 300 Rally seems perfect to me. Low maintenance. Low fuel consumption. Highway speed capable. Essentially the most off road capable, long distance scooter on earth.
Unless you have a 28” inseam.
@@jimpiquette1375 the trail CT 125 will fit you. Or some kids bike.
@@jimpiquette1375 try thicker sole adv boots. shave seat . u can do it.
@@jgrc73 I hear ya, but comparing the 450 to the 300 Rally for touring, the 450 doesn't make any sense. It costs Twice as much! 2X! Two! Has Zero wind protection. Requires 10 times as many oil changes! Then goes 1/4 the range on a tank of fuel! For long distance touring you'd need to carry a Jerry can and change the oil EVERY day! If they made a 450 Rally that was $2000 less, had good wind protection, and a larger fuel tank to give a decent range, it might be acceptable.
@@jgrc73 Depend were you ride and live. In east woods, the non rally might be good for single track, and you could ride it there. Eastern woods riders dont encounter jumps unless your on a moto track. Ive not watched a shootout with these vs a wr250 yet. Most serious riders will have both a lite trail / DP and a moto bike anyway.
Excellent footage! The video is crystal clear and excellent! I enjoyed this video/review very much!
I'd love to see a revival of the 350 / 400 range bikes. Yamaha has checked out, Suzuki is milking the old DR. KLX 300 just a bit too small. You bring great points about the weight and handling and my first love is the single trails. The only thing is are you carrrying your bike there or riding it on the road and that dual flex requires a bit more freeway power.
Robert DeMilo , agreed, I've not ridden any 250 / 300cc 4 strokes with too much power. While I'm not fast on trails, I have to ride them there and need to cruise at 60 - 65 mph for a while. Add in the soft suspension for my chubby 186 pounds, and I'll pass. Despite the extra cost, I'll be checking out my closest Beta dealer.
Great vid, I have been in Asia for 10 years now. All my prior ideas about how big or how much power you need have been totally inverted from my earlier days. Small is beautiful, flat smooth power delivery is the key. My CRF 150 L, yes air cooled, 5 speed and something like 14 hp is awesome. Correct it would not work in the states, but here on small side roads and then trails it's great. I am getting the 300, and here we get the leds, the sexy 450 style front headlight........And as always, it's a Honda. I love to work on bikes, but because I want to, not because have to. On my 150 valve adjustment is a 15 min job, including opening a beer. Super vid, thx.
Living in Cambodia and totally agree. My interest has gone from the big liter bikes to preferring a T7 and now being very tempted by the 300 Rally. This is if of course if you could only choose one bike to cover all.
My 87 XL250R is awesome to this day ! After market pipe and dual carbs for a 1 banger !
Honda if you made instead of teasing the CRF450 Rally 3 years ago now you would have a market all to your own and have a proper unicorn bike but yet again no Japanese manufacturer is filling this popular and die hard market of the ever growing lightweight, reliable,
I have a CRF300L Rally on order. Can't wait for it to arrive.
Did they say when it will arrive at the dealership?
I put down a deposit for the Rally a few days ago too. My dealer is getting 6 of them and I got number 6
So true, I have a 250L and a 690 Enduro 👍
Very good video.
If the new KLX300 is on par with the CRF 300L in power, then the KLX has an advantage with some adjustability in the suspension, although I'm not sure how much adjustability there is? I own a crf 250 rally and spent the money on suspension upgrades. It's amazing how much better the bike is now.
Regarding power, the KLX300 has more displacement, a wider bore, and a higher compression ratio. We won't know until both bikes can be tested side by side, but on paper the KLX300 has all the advantages on power.
I owned two 1976 honda 350 xl, they were the most fun on off road bikes, I ever owned. They were great around town and off road. You could take them on the interstate, but they weren't made for that. They got great mileage, sat high and easy to maintain. Off road was a lot of fun. Girls loved to go for a rides. The tires gripped , but a hour at 60 mph, you were ready for a break, probably 20 minutes to a half hour, was enough at that speed for a passenger. Slower speeds you could last somewhat longer. I mentioned I had two, one I sold to my best friend and bought another with lower miles and we rode them for years, just changing plugs, oil, filters, tires and points. Those bikes made for some of the best days in my life. It was late in the 80's he traded his in for a new silverwing and I sold mine to another friend and bought a new silverwing as well. Silverwings were decent road bikes and we took them on many road trips, they purred, but I always missed going off road like I did on the 350 XL. I'd like either the 650 or the 450, but will probably buy the 650, because the 450 needs valve adjustment every 1800 miles and I've heard the 650's can last 100,000 miles. I want a small luggage rack put on as well. It's time to get off road again.
Have had a CRF300L for a month now and for the money it's the ticket. If you want to spend some money on suspension and a few other bits you've got a great all around bike.
Just rode the new KLX300, pretty unreal off road, wheels up in the first 2 gears and tops out @92MPH!! Seems far better than the honda. Looks like an old design, but every piece and part made for the klx250 will fit! Hard to beat that :-)
Power wheelies without clutching it in 2nd gear?
@@virgillivingston8079 have to clutch it in 2nd but it comes up nice!
@@jasonlawrence8302 that’s not too bad
A year ago I left my CRF 250 Rally for the new Husqvarna 701 Long Range. Now I can’t say I regret that decision, but I still miss my dear Rally. However now, if that CRF 300 got out at the same time last year, it would have been very tempting. It’s something about that feeling of reliability and quality. At the same time the CRF’s has a large crowd of worshipers in the east (and now also the rest of the world), making special part manufacturers go off limits for cheap. Even tho I now ride a 701, I will never talk CRF’s down. They simply rock! And if you’re more curious about the CRF250, feel free to visit my channel. Thank’s for the video!
I'd like to see the 350 for sure.
I would love to see that as well, even the on the rally
I don't know man. Kinda hard to leave the faithful and bulletproof klr650. It just works.
Agreed. Love my KLR, affectionately named Trogdor. Recently took it on some muddy single tracks in central GA. It was a pig, but made it through without too much issue. Didn’t realize how hard I was working on it until I borrowed my dads XR250 and rode it on the same trails in half the time and twice the fun. Now, I’ll never get rid of Trogdor, but that experience has made me want a lighter, torquier bike for the trails.
Great video, I ride an XR650l and love the bike only problem is picking it up. It's 346lbs and I'm 155 so I really struggle picking when I drop it. The price is great for a brand new Honda, enough said this bike could replace my 650.
I too ride a big heavy xr650l.
Tranny is crap, as in the ratios, it's heavy , bike is giant sky scraper when factory. Forks are kinda lame. Clutch is hard, performance parts don't really get more performance And it's really heavy!
Now saying all that, it's cheaper than most if these dual sports currently avialble to get into, it still has that old honda ultra reliability! It's not powerful enough somtimes but it has enough power most of the time. ..
I have owned these big air cooled machines in nearly every cc honda has made in the last 40 years. Although I used to dream of uber high tech machines. With clean lines and chromolly/aluminum frames. But for now Untill 12grand gets freed up in my bank account or a good replacement for it comes along from Japanese manufacture. I would buy a 350.
If you ride with other riders, have them stop to help pick up the bike. We have a rule when we ride that no one picks up their own bike... When you go down, your heart rate is elevated, and then picking up a bike on top of that, just wears you out... Let your buddy's pick up the bike and you stop and help when they go down. This was game changer for us...
The CRF300 (and CRF250) have many problems. The biggest one is EFI. When it fails (and it WILL fail) here is no way to fix it in the middle of nowhere. A motorcycle EFI system uses about $2000 worth of parts that still doesn't work as well as a simple easy to work on $500 carburetor. And when they fail, they fail completely. No rigging something to get you home or at least to civilization. The next problem is seat height. The CRF-L has a seat that is taller than a Kawasaki KLR650 (carbureted version) or Suzuki DR650 (which is also carbureted) It is also liquid cooled (as is the KLR) which will cause more problems, failures, and maintenance. It uses shimmed valve adjustment instead of simple screw and locknut valves. And there is no aftermarket centerstand for it, so when (again WHEN, not if) you have a flat tire, you have no way to get the wheel off to fix it. I ride a lowered DR650. Carbureted, air cooled, and has an aftermarket centerstand. It will blow the CRF away, and is about the same price new, cheaper used.
Look up the The Enduro Star TS3 Trail Stand, that's what a LOT of people use instead of a center stand. Ease of maintenance anywhere is why is still ride my XR650L though, but that nikasil bore and cush drive on the DR650 makes it my pick if I had to ride to Ushuaia!
I should have turned my IT 200 into a dual sport, it wouldn’t have been great on the road, single track ? Pure magic.
Bring back the BRP (XR650R)!
@Santino Lawrence Bro this is a scam to auto charge you $170 a month
@Yosef Shane Dude get off this dirt bike video with your scam, nobody is going to pay $15 for an instagram password and then get charged $170 a month for joining a service.
For those of you saying we need a 500+CC bike, I guarantee I'll smoke most of you in the woods on a CRF300L.
There are maybe 1,000 people in the world that can truly max out a large displacement bike.
I went from two WR250Rs, to FI WR450Fs, a YZ450F setup for woods/dual sport riding, and when I was choosing my new bike there were 3 bikes on the showroom floor that I was looking at.
Could have gotten the CRF450RL, but chose a CRF300L.
Because I could wring the neck of my WR250Rs and left guys on larger displacement bikes behind. When I rode the 450s I was still fast but it wasn't near as fun as the smaller bike.
The only place a larger bike shines is on the Interstate or 80mph straight shots in the desert, and if you want those things things a dual sport isn't the right bike for you anyways.
THANK YOU!!! DID NOT KNOW THEY WERE SO INEXPENSIVE GOING TO TO MY HONDA DEALERSHIP ON MONDAY!!!
Great Great video even though you haven't thrown a leg over a CRF300L. Having owned and ridden (all plated ) a 00' XR400, 98' XR600, 01' DRZ400E, 08' KLX 250, 14' WR250R, 19' KTM 500 EXC and just rode a 20' KTM 350. You are damn near spot on and my next pick of bike would defiantly be a CRF300L Rally. For now, i will wait to see what Yamaha replaces the WR250R with. Suzuki aint never coming out with anything good in the future. Never ever had a problem with a Carb bike up to 8000ft so Carb vs EFI is not an issue for me. I'll throw a $1000 at any suspension needed and be happy.
thanks! I actually finally test rode both, and both a VERY SIMILAR however neither is a power horse. power is similar to a wr250R although the wr250r has better suspension. however the klx300 and crf300L is way better than the 250 predecessors. out of the 2 300s, I found the crf300L to have a bit more travel, but more plush. the crf had a more "dirtbike" feel, but still very similar. I also "felt" the power was SLIGHTLY better than the klx300. unfortunately, I test rode it on the flat tracks, so I still havent put any through its paces yet. sadly covid manufacturing delay is preventing this. hopefully when my buddy gets the klx300 and I the crf300L we can do some good comparisons
Great Video, I would like to see a 2021 XT350 electric start, a little upscale from the XT250. For years we have been waiting for a nice mid bore dualsport that was under 260 LBS and could do 125 miles on a tank of gas. It would be fun to ride this bike the Honda 300....
Had a 350cc bike for over 20 years ...looks like it might come full circle again as being the best size for a duelsports
CRF300L is my first bike, changed the rear shock and front spring to match my weight and it is amazing. Mine tops at 130km/hr ( 81mph,) but does 115km/hr( 70 mph) confortably. I'm 1.90, 90+kg ( 6.2 and 200ish pounds) for reference.
Its not a long range cruiser, but with the suspension upgrade its a fun bike to ride in town and trails.
I agree with the others, a 450cc - 500cc tuned to 45-50hp at the 140kg weight would be ideal.
Great video. Have my 300L reserved and looking forward to its arrival in a couple of months. I'll install an after market 3.0+ gallon fuel tank for longer trips, but that's about it. The bike checks all of the boxes for me.
Why didn't you go with the rally for the bigger tank?
Where you getting the 3 gallon tank ?
Although I understand wanting a bigger bike, I support the 300cc small bike. Everything has to be bigger, faster, stronger but you never need it. Perfect bike
I have a KLX 250 and definitely agree it is under powered for highway driving. However I don't drive it on the highway very often, so I probably won't upgrade to a 300, I have a V-Star 1300 for road trips. But I can see how moving to 300 cc will make both the KLX and CRF better bikes for dual sport use. They should have done it years ago. Not sure why they stuck with 250 cc for so long. Nobody class races them anyway.
Great info coverage. Thanks for sharing and happy riding
I've sat on both the klx300 and crf300. I'd say the CRF would need immediate suspension mods at my weight, where the KLX300 doesn't seem like it will. The only thing I like better about the CRF300 over the KLX300 was it felt larger and more comfy for my lanky frame. However, I've got a voyager 1200 for my road riding days, so I'm more focused on offroad performance from my dual sport.
The honda 300 is one of the most low maintenance engines out there.
I know a guy with 90k miles on a crf250L hence why I think these are the best dualsports "in its class"
@@RWWRENTAL that is impressive even for a Honda. That’s why I love my Yamahas and Honda’s, nothing lasts like they do.
Just bought my second CRF 300 L (11/3/2021)out the door for $5578.19 /with ABS. Bought from Southern Honda in Chattanooga TN. No transportation or dealer prep charges ever. They seem to have inventory where my local dealers did not. I had to wait 2 days for the Rally and two weeks for the 300L, did not want ABS but it was all they had to offer. I do have to pay Florida taxes when I tag it.
I would love to compare apples to apples, the new CRF300L vs the new KLX300. That would be fun.
I wanted the klx as was said to be cheaper but was told klx Won't have compliance plate fitted unlike the Honda crfl that does
@@jamesgeorgevellavella1961 not sure where you live but the klx300 is sold as a plated bike in the U.S right now. Saw it in dealers when I picked up my 450L
KLX: bigger displacement, adjustable suspension, same frame/chassis as the 250 (many existing 250 mods still fit it).
CRF: comes in red...
CRF250L reviews: sweet bike, but should have been a 300
CRF300L reviews: sweet bike, but should have been a 350
future CRF350L reviews: ??? Pretty sure I know how this goes. Some people are never happy.
I've got a CRF250L Rally. Love it to bits. Once it had done 1500 miles or so the engine freed up and I could use 1 gear higher up all the hills. Rev its nuts off and it's got all the power a trail bike needs. And yeah, cruises happily at 70 mph when needed with enough left for a quick squirt to 75 for overtaking. tIt's absolutely ideal and relaxing at 55-60 on twisty back roads (dirt or sealed). My other bike is an 1100 twin. That's power and torque. But it weights 620 lb. That's for the 500 mile days. My previous trail bike was a mid 80s XR600. Yeah, it would pop wheelies without a thought, but super tiring, on-road and off. And that kick start. I didn't mind all that in 1989 when I got it, but it's 2021 now. The Rally is like a feather in comparison, while still having presence and stability and relative comfort on the road.
Agree with others...immediate $1k investment in suspension will be mandatory. The KLX300 will have a leg up in this department imho. These will NOT be enduros but will be reliable and the added HP or torque vs the prior gen demand my attention. I'm leaning toward a KLX300
If you weigh over 170lbs you're most likely dropping money on any bikes suspension you buy.
So if you're a bigger dude this should already be factored in regardless of which flavor of dual sport you choose.
YSS makes fully adjustable fork cartridges for around $700USD. The rear is around $470USD.
The Honda also has a massive aftermarket and global following. Parts are cheaper and readily available on the Hondas.
Considering the suspension on all bikes needs to he replaced anyways and the KLX300 is $350 for slightly better stock suspension, I think the $1,000 more spent on the Hondas suspension is worth it.
Awesome breakdown! You've compared enough bikes, pros and con to formulate a sound review for the crf 300...thx
In Australia, the 2021 DRZ400E sells at $10,399 on road. Onlt some colour changes (black rims and stickers). Nothing else has changed, bar the price. The 2018 models were $7,990 on road! I wish Suzuki would make changes that reflect their price rise. They are heavy but also strong, so cannot complain too much there. However, 450cc and a 6th gear and LED lighting would go a long way and certainly justify the price increase. I loved mine and if I were to have a bush basher or general purpose dual sport again, I'd buy one in a heart beat! They are just so comfy. But until then, I think my next bike is the 500EXCF to compliment my 1290R
If you really like single track, I reckon you should try an Enduro bike like a Husky FE350.
already have a 2 stroke for that
Maintenance intervals suck..!!!
@@markberenger4413 Yep. Definitely kept me from going with the 350 or the 501.
Great job. This might be the next bike for my teenage son to move from dirt racing to dual sport with his dad. I'll keep my eye on this for the future.
BTW - recognize some of your local trails.
Honda 4 ur kid good dad. 👍👊
I own honda crf 150L here in the Philippines. Wish i could upgrade to 300L someday. Thanks for sharing this video. Ride safe!
I really hope that Yamaha will get it right and give us an 400 or even better 450, with real hp output and decent suspension unlike Honda. That it will be a machine that so many people are waiting for, and if they will have a rally version that will be perfection.
Honda made an improvement on a really weak product in their lineup and that is a plus for them, but still is not as good as Yamaha wr250r.
Or maybe suzuki will update their drz.
Can only hope. Needs much longer oil/valve checks than the crf450l. I can give up some weight to achieve this. Seems Yamaha would be the 1st to get there.
As long as you haven´t actually tried the 300L it is all very speculative. In my view, the main glitches of the honda are still there:
A crappy suspension and only half a cooler which has the fan blowing hot air to your leg all day long (I live in the tropics). On top of that, the riding position of the KLX ist still better with lower pegs which are further back.
You also have to put the HP number in perspective. The higher HP means nothing if there is no low end grunt - which was the case for the CRF250. I´m sure the 300 will be better - but think of that tiny little cooler for an even bigger engine now. It is beyond my comprehension why Honda doesn´t give it a proper unit on both sides.
I´ve owned all DS variants from Honda and Kawa as I rented them out here in THailand. 2 KLXs is all I have left for now - for private use only.
Klx is much better than the honda....rideem both
KInda glad I got the Husky 501 to complement my XT250. The husky701 made the most sense and I almost bought it. But remembering how heavy the xt250 was to pick up, I didn't want more weight...glad I got the lighter 501.
Quit screwing around. You can't have low weight, kickass suspension and great power for 5 or 6 grand, not happening. That's why I just ordered a 2021 CRF 450L. I'm done waiting.
And you wont be disappointed! I have had my '19 for just over a year now. Nearly 5,000 miles. Only negative thing I can say about the bike is the short oil change intervals. But you can stretch those out to 1,000mi if youre not racing it all the time (I'm actually more street in my usage). Plus, its very very easy to change and quick to do.
lol everyone knows the crf450L is superior to the crf300
@@SnickterP out of curiosity, does the 450l require valve adjustment at regular intervals? Just want to understand overall maintenance requirements compared to the 300l.
@@adamzadro8216 Yes, it has a regular valve check like most bikes require. Manual says they should be checked every 1,800 miles....however, most people report that after the first check, they never change, so many dont bother checking them after that.
I want the 350!!
I have the Kawasaki KLX250 and I like it, but it isn't the best on road. It is best at around 45 mph, but is still comfortable at 55. More than that and it starts to work the bike. Does pretty well off road. I am planning on better tires though. I like the new Honda, but doubt if I trade for it.
Thanks for another great video of good information and incredible scenery professionally edited to be pleasing to watch while learning something. The time and effort you put in shows, please keep putting in that time and effort!
Now onto my question. You have always said such great things about your Kawi KLX250, I'm curious why the video focuses on the Honda CRF300L that isn't even sold here yet, while the Kawi KLX300 is in USA dealers now. I realize your video had to be started well before KLX300 availability, but it has been known to be coming sooner. I was surprised you mentioned hypothetical future 350s without evening acknowledging the KLX300. I don't mean that as criticism, I'm just curious. Has something put you off to the KLX300? I'm seriously considering buying the KLX300 Tuesday, but if there's something I'm not considering or I've missed, I can save my money for another few weeks until the Hondas are offloaded from the boat. Ride on!
Because of you I'm going to put some money back on it. I'm just sick of waiting for a bike. October was told march and I still don't own a new bike. Australia is a bit behind you guys
This is some really nice scenery and video quality!
Thanks! Awesome and true journey
My klx 250 is “good enough” for being on the road. I heard the 300 wasn’t much of a difference. I’ve had mine for over a year now. I love it, but at the same time wish I had some more power on road. I managed to tackle a full technical mountain climb this weekend. Only slammed once on ice. Stock tires kicked ass somehow. (I’m a noob off-road btw)
If I can cruise at 85-90mph comfortably on this, and can carry lightweight minimal luggage, this will be my next bike purchase.
something I would like to test out in Colorado when they become available. it can do it on low elevation states, but most adventure riders go to western states like Utah, CO, Idaho for exploring. so would be nice to see what they can do on the highway
@@RWWRENTAL Indeed. I live in Salt Lake City, so I'm central to a lot of eeepic stuff like Moab, but it's a 3.5 ish hour ride cruising at 90mph to get there.
I have a 2018 Bonneville for an all-rounder, a race bike, and now I want to get into the dirt and adventure riding. Never done it before so I want something that's durable (for the drops), light, and reliable. I hope this Honda will work for that :)
Otherwise I may have to get the Tenere or KTM 690 Adventure, but that's way more money.
I'm settling for light-duty adventure riding on my Bonneville in the meantime. Took it on Potash Road in Moab but I dropped it on some rocks, oops! Won't do that again.
It won't be able to do 90, the new 2021 Honda CRF450RL, can just do 90.
@@slalomking Since posting this, I found out about the Husqvarna 701 Enduro, which I'm very excited about! I think that's my next bike choice.
Like a Tenere 700 but much lighter :)
There will be plenty of options for the suspension.. The race tech kit is simple for the front and upgrading the rear can be a simple spring upgrade or a full shock replacement. I run the Ohlins on the rear and Racetechs spring kit up front on my Rally and I couldnt ask for a better setup on the trail . I realize Im not on my dirtbike but thats the point of a dual sport. Go anywhere comfortably and have fun doing it. 250 L is my go to bike although I have a 450L its not as easy to ride as the Rally and goes anywhere the 450 does.
Thanks for the comment. I really don't want to have to throw core parts of a brand new bike into the garbage just to make it almost as good as its competitors and be out of pocket another $1+K plus lost riding time to do the work. You're helping me confirm I should get a KLX300.
Also hoping for the 350. I have a 1985 XL350 that is the best bike ever but it is old and wore out. With a change from 14 40 to 15 40 gearing I can now cruise at 75 and still do roll on first gear wheelies. A new version of this would be perfect. It has or had new anyways 27 hp and is 302 lbs though which is really close to this 300. So maybe i will stand corrected and the 350 wont be necessary. We shall see.
Great video. The crf300 looks great but I in my opinion i believe there is a even better and real dualsport motorbike... was sold for 20 years, has lower seat height (great for short guys) , is extremely light, has a reliability as no others (has no liquid cooling, has no electric start) and is clearly more road oriented, who meets the real needs of usual biker... The 1986 Yamaha XT350...
The transmission ratio seems much better than most small dual sport with tighter low end and wider high end. Although I'd still like a bit higher top end if I actually bought my own. The shock is way too soft off-road, but at least it doesn't buck like my wr250r did before getting it adjusted. I think with at least another 100cc, 3+ gallon tank, and shaving another 11lbs off would make it very near perfect
I've had both the klx250s and the drz400s. The drz is superior in every way. It's got better suspension, much more power and a buttery smooth transmission. The crf300l won't be as capable as the drz, trust me!
I like it! but, where is that place? what is called? beautiful trails!. Thanks
DRZ still takes the cake for the money/power ratio
Nope. That would be klx300sm and crf300l. Modern and cheaper
I agree, I had a drz400e and prefer my wr290r much better, let's face it when you are adventure riding you need a lower, smaller and lighter bike with a low center of gravity, you almost always get into narly situations where you have to man handle that bike, where that drz gets you in trouble. And I am not a small guy at 5'11" 220
That DRZ with the extra height, weight and torque just wear you down
For trail riding, adventure riding, play riding, dual sporting that klx300r and crf300l and rally are going to be hard to beat, say you buy a 300 rally, you just put a lighter slipon, ejk programer, springs, fat bars for your weight buy your gear and you can ride all day with you buddys with a tenere t7, ktm690, huski701 ktm500,
@@paulcamino5034 paul ,your wr290(big bore!) is a really good bike ,much more advanced than the drz which is good but truthfully things have moved on a bit..The crf isn,t the same as your wr ,its fair to say your wr is more dirt capable thats for sure!
I ride around Taylor Park CO often so I hear what your saying about elevation. I just sold my WR450F and ordered a KLX300. It would be nice to see the 2- 300's compared side by side.
Those that I have viewed were ok but seemed biased one way or another.
BTW- the used bike market is hot, I listed my WR for $1,800 over what the stealership offered on trade and it sold in 1 hour.
Great video, thanks.
I'm still adamant about the Yamaha XT250cc, yes it lacks some power compared to this Honda 300cc, and yes I'm a light weight at 157lbs, but all in all, the xt250 is the longest lasting engine in its class.
I have a 2015 Yamaha wr250r. I'm curious to see if the crf300l will be an upgrade. The wr250r will still remain lighter and has better suspension.
Probably crf will be better onroad
@@protectork9831 I agree, I wish they did more to lighten the bike closer to the wr250r.
My buddy has a wr250 & I have a 250l. I've ridden his a few times & to be honest, I love the way the 250l feels in comparison. Everything is just butter & the weight is situated that it doesn't feel heavier at all on a single track. Love the low end torque compared to the high end torque of the wr. The only downside is the super soft suspension in whoops, etc.
I'm tempted to sell my 250l, double my money with bitcoin & get one of these new 300's - just a pain in the ass to sell it for a reasonable price
@@kimjongryan9043 thanks for your comparison!
Keep your WR!! It isn't in the comparison so the others look better. But it's more $ especially if you get the suspension done by "Go Race" or other quality shop. Cost me $1200+!! Worth it, no pogo rear end and my feet are on the flat on the ground(145lb rider with my gear)!
But still......309 lbs! My old xl350 was 257. The 90's DRS 350 was a pretty good do- all bike. Single track-able and highway, 286 lbs. I rode eastern style tight woods and fire road, not wide open spaces besides the highway. Thicker fork oil and taller CEET seat foam, and higher pegs was all I did to it. Skilled rider too not a beginner. I had real dirt bikes, but the old xl was my DP/ adventure bike till I cooked the valve train and cam (xl/xr 350's did that).
weight can also be a good thing for true dualsporters. ever ridden a light dirtbike on the highway vs a 300lb dualsport? its a big difference in stability and comfort, thats the purpose of the crf300L
Thanks for your insight Will. I too will be interested in seeing the max load capacity for both KLX300 and CRF300. Too little data seems available now especially with the Kawasaki. I'm looking for that light weight dual sport that is capable of carrying a decent load.
Tw200
Curious why no mention of the KLX300? Might as well compare apples to apples. Some are saying they prefer the KLX300 over the Honda due to the adjustable suspension. I will end up with one of these two bikes, most likely, though it might be awhile. My dealer doesn't have them and can't get them for some number of months.
I'm getting back into riding again after being away for nearly 30 yrs. As a side note, I can't believe no manufacturer has figured out that a 350 dual-sport would be the ticket! Back in the day I had a DR370 dirt bike and loved it. Make something like it, or a 350 as a dual-sport, and it would be killer.
For that price i will stick with my 1980 23in front wheel Honda XL250S.......though someone did offer a tempting exchange with a RE Himalayan 400. The 300 is a good balance.
I pick and agree with the Honda CRF300L Rally my best for trials
Just secured my 300L today.
Same here man can’t wait!
Me too, so psyched
Congrats everyone! I got a 2020 250L last year. One of the last produced with a build date of 4/2020
@@DStabs720 How much?
@@markwegner6100 $5350 out the door
The bike seems perfect for me. At 150 lbs, I have an advantage power-to-weight ratio. Unfortunately, it is too tall, I wish they introduce a 3rd model (the low Thailand version) to western market. I don't really care about adjustable suspension of the KLX, makes no different for my weight.
Have you actually sat on a crf250l before? Seat height is very similar to a crf250l. I have a wr250r which is about 2 inches taller than a crf250l and I could touch the ground with tippy toes and I am about 140 pounds.
Not to mention the crf250l/300 has softer suspension so it will sag more.
Also typically the lower the seat height, the lower the ground clearance which sucks if you take it off road.
Also if it is still too tall you could try a seat concepts low seat without having to mess with suspension.
I agree with a 350 or 400. I used to ride a honda 350xl dual purpose street legal. I cannot remember anything bad about it.
I'm holding out for the crf400L. 😂
Don't they already have a 450?
@A Stoic's Door It's all about the price. They want to get you into owning the bike, cheap as they can, and then sell you the additions.
I’d be happy with a 350L.
@@lucasgraham4762 I don't think we'll see a 350 or 400. With the 450 in production it wouldn't be worth bringing something that close to the 450 to market.
450 RL with Taco Moto ECU. but I am a bit biased..Honda makes some great machines...
Who has the KTM exc f. That is the best dual sport ever with a 250 350 and 500 option. I have one and it is the best on power and cruises on the road with a very high sixth gear
I saw it at the 8 minute mark byw
No doubt that for displacement to power to weight ratio, the KTM & Husqvarna rule. However, if you start bringing money into the equation, one can easily be dissuaded into looking past western Europe to the far east for something a little more economically friendly.
Thanks for the review. I’m a get one.
Holding out for the Versys x 400. I own a Honda but the Kawa twin 400cc engine from the Ninja/Z 400 with the assist/slip clutch can't be beat at this time.
versys-x owner here. dont wait for the 400. Even if happens which I doubt with the new KLX300 and KLR650, suspension travel is not enough (13-15cm) and is heavy (175kg)
@@onthepegs Don't kill the dream lol. Thanks for the info
I’ll also kill your dream. Remember what you get with twins vs singles....more weight. If your type of riding is more off-road than on as this video suggests, you’re not gonna love a 400cc parallel in between your knees. If you’re more an “adventure” rider looking for on road with decent off-road capability then I understand your enthusiasm
Can't find a dual sport new, any where, in central Wi. I want a CT125 Honda, then I saw the Kawasaki klx230. Then the CRF's, Now the 300s, from Kawasaki. Would like to see any of them in person. Slim pickings here. Thanks Covid.
I'm waiting for a 400 🤞🤞🤞
It's too close to the 450 I seriously doubt they'd go thru the trouble and make a whole new model for that. 300 makes since bc the gap between 250 and 450 was huge leaving many ppl that didn't really fit with either.
Why would they make a 400 when they already make a 450 🤦
In Australia Victoria crfl is out with a 6week wait or more but klx failed compliance I was told. I'm talking about 300cc in both
I'm just not sure 40cc increase in displacement is going to feel all that different, I hope so. I'm really looking at this bike, T7, and just making my KTM 500 a little more dual sporty for things like BDRs & TAT. I love the power of the 500, it's 50 pounds lighter that this bike, but will likely not be as comfy on the hwy. We all need to get on one & ride it before deciding.
A 350cc dual sport with proper fully adjustable suspension and a simple maintenance engine is the way to go. Problem is manufactures made them years ago. Why they didn't improve on the designs and keep them is beyond me. My old DR350se needed some upgrades to make me happier off road, but it was super reliable and had 30hp stock with great low end torque and mid range power. It suffered with poor stock suspension although it was a full sized bike with a true 18" rear wheel, and it came with the all important 6 speed transmission..Why they didn't put that on the DRZ400 series is beyond me. Let's face it cheap CV carburetors for street use just plain stink off road. I switched mine to a flat slide pumper carb and had race tech redo my suspenson on the good old DR350 and it weighed only 280 something lbs stock before I took more weight off..A modern Honda XR400r made street legal and keep it light with and add fuel injection instead of a cheap carb would be the smart thing for Honda to do..They would sell them all, Although I prefer the simplicity of a proper pumper carb to FI.
I think the 300l rally will be the best modern dual sport that is sub 450 lbs. But I'll stick with my dr650 at least until companies start coming out with something similar with higher displacement like 350-500cc.
Love this bike cause of itchi boots
Awesome review thank you
I expect to see a big bore kit soon enough. I'm just going to grab a 300 as soon as I can find one, and do the exhaust and fuel tune right away while waiting for the big bore kit.
Good Video! The 701 must be a real PIG; I've ridden my XR600 all over Rampart without much issue. One of the new 300s is on my short list as I'm planning on doing some bike consolidation in the future. I am in 100% agreement on the DRZ400S, I've owned 2 of them over the last 20 years and the you can either gear it for hwy or dirt you could never do both with that bike.
Sir, you earned my respect. The trails you ride are scary!
Thanks for this vid - very helpful
Honda should bring back the XR series.
Worth waiting for the wr350r, I guess.
for how long?
Unfortunately the CRF300L is not available in Australia but there is the DR-Z400E which costs same as the DR650SE AUD 10,300.
But one thing that I HATE about Suzuki's bikes are the stupidly small gas tanks!
Only 10Lt on the 400 and 13Lt on the 650 which in my opinion offer an endurance of max 150-170 Kms!!!
Good bike, only thing i don't like about is the seat and overall color (just don't like all this red).
I had drz400, yamaha wr250r, yamaha wr450f and Ktm exc 500. For dual-sport is exc 500 fantastic! Long service intvalls and reability.
The 500 EXC has the shortest service intervals of all those other bikes by a pretty wide margin. How often are you doing oil and valve checks on it?
I guess the 450f is the exception...but I’d imagine still less than the KTM?
@@rantANDrave1987 500 hours now. oil/filter every 2000 kms. Never had to adjust valves yet
I dont think you can compare a honda crf300L to a 500. 500 is for sure a great machine, I have one, but I am also looking for my "maintenance free" machine that I can just kind of forget about and really eyeing the crf300L. not to mention the extra weight is better on the road
bro why this background music feel like I'm watching FEMA camp coverage of families rittled with the plague.