This is my Favorite video you’ve made. Always wanted a full comparison and this is well done. This is the type of info a Honda dealer should have , you deserve some cash from Honda for this
Here is my take….. I’ve had both at the same time. I’m 59 yo been riding all my life. I sold the 450 and kept the 300. Reason being that I like exploring trails and felt the 300 was a good fit for me. I did love the power of the 450 but 2 things were bound to happen. 1. I was gonna get hurt and 2. I was going to get traffic tickets. Lol. Really loving the 300 and I think it a great build platform.
That is inspiring! I’ve riding street bikes over 10 years and just recently bought 2011 CRF450R and was thinking that maybe I ride it until I get 50 or so (40 now), but reading this gives confidence that age is just a number. Will ride my Honda for some time and probably will take 300L or another dual-sport quite soon
I've been going back and forth on which one to buy, the 300L is looking like the way to go especially with the 450L at 12,5 OTD these days and people complaining about not being able to feather the throttle.
@@FourthWayRanch not saying they're easy to find. I bought mine new in 2021 and called several dealerships every day until one of them had one and I went and bought it. Took about three months.
I appreciate all the support! One thing I forgot to mention is the maintenance intervals. The 450L isn’t as bad as you think but requires more frequent oil changes and inspections. The CBR engine on the 300L needs an oil change every 5k miles (I never wait that long) and is way easier to maintain. Another thing to consider!
I'm happily waiting on my 300l tanner it's allegedly arriving in Scotland in January but I just know its going to be worth the wait , I'm glad you decided to keep yours
Do it gentleman. I bought my first bike at 38 and it was the 300L. Used it to get my motorcycle licence and explored all of the single track, backcountry roads, sand pits, etc in my area. Rode it for 3 years and have really improved. Just bought a ktm 250xcw as a pure trail bike, and decided to keep the 300L as my dual sport. Very happy with my decision.
Tanner, the #1 Honda CRF 300 salesman on TH-cam! Thanks for the amazing videos, ordered my 300L Rally today. Selling my BMW 1250 GSA and getting this to be more trail capable. I was between a used 450L and a new 300 Rally. My main concern was engine power and usability in traffic on my 100 klm trip to the trails. My local Honda dealer let me ride a CBR300 to get the feel of the engine power and it was very good, much better than I imagined. Price in Australia is about UAD$9600 / USD $6900 out the door and delivery is expected in 2-3 months. Thanks again for your amazing in depth reviews, cheers!
Man this was a great video! You were fair to both bikes and transparent. There is a market for both just a matter of what you like. I think this video is the best out there for anyone trying to choose between the two! The fact that folks can watch and know you have real world ridden them both, owned them is a plus. You didn’t just got someone to loan you the two for a comparison in other words. I love my 450 but it isn’t for everyone nor is the 300. But a person deciding between them will know watching this video which is for them. Keep em coming!
😁 I have them both. Trying to decide which to keep and which to part with to get a Husky 300ti for the woods. Thanks for the video! You do a great job.
@@shmack-dab-in-da-middle3960 🤣 Man, I’m not bragging. I’m single with no kids and couldn’t decide so while waiting on the 300 to come out I got the 450 and then was going to choose when I finally got the 300. Here we are. You too can make payments just like me if you want. They are happy to take anyones money. ✌🏽
Gas prices are killing us. Decided to buy a bike. Last 4 Bikes were plated 450 Yamahas. Was looking at both of these. Went with the CRF300L Rally. Better fuel economy. No weekly oil changes. Its still an absolute blast and I look forward to my commute every day. Also had lots of stalling and flameouts with the FI WR450Fs until I added the "offroad computer" and put money into exhaust. The 300L Rally was ready to rip out of the box.
Personally id go with the 450l used on marketplace with the mods. Buying from dealerships sucks, but when there's also a waitlist? 450l is more money but it's also more bike.
Spot on! Having owned both 450l and 250l, I agree. Sold my 250l because the 450l fits my riding style better. The 250l ended up being my around the town bike but having a street bike as well, I couldn’t justify keeping two dual sports and kept the more off road oriented bike. Great job on the comparison!
wow when did they come out with these models haha,i rode for years and years and the funnest i had was when i got my CRF450X and had a baja designs street legal kit put on it so,a motocross light weight dirt bike made to go anywhere,i could pull up at a red light and people would freak out looking at me.i could hit dirt roads and trails i could go anywhere,i was one step away from going full super moto with street tires and rims which is amazing at taking corners on asphalt and you can still go off roading.thats the funnest i had.racing my buddy on dirt rds in the country was a blast.ive never seen either of these,i cant ride anymore.personally i would rather buy a super old blue seat cr 500 and fix it up.yep just like the one in my avatar.1986 0r 87,88 i think,cant even remember lol
If I were wanting another dual sport, and a Honda, it would be the 300L, hands down! There is no way in the world that I would pay over 10K for dual sport 450 Honda, that's just insane. I can see spending that much for a KTM or Husqvarna, I wouldn't do it, but I can see why someone would.
Appreciate content like this. Have pretty much watched every video you have pertaining the 250l. Mine was unfortunately stolen last week, so I’m in the market for a 2022 dual sport. And just when I think I’m about to go 450rl, it just makes more sense to go 300l. Put almost 12k in two years on my 250l so hopefully the 300l is all about chewing up some miles.
For me, the WR 450F is just about right for me. I can take it to the track, take it to the mountains, or convert it to a dual sport someday. The downsides of the WR 450F, high price, high maintenance, 80 mile fuel range.
@@dougiequick1 The CRF450RL and the WR 450F are basically the same thing other than brand. Australian WR 450Fs come street legal from the factory, just like the CRF 450RL.
I put together a 300l when I worked at a Honda shop, it seemed pretty heavy to push around but it was really nice on the street with the test rides. I was considering upgrading to the 300l from my 230l but sadly didn't have the money and couldn't get the bike in this year.
Thanks, man! Moving over to moto after forty years of MTB most would call extreme and your videos have been very informative, and fun. You are feeding the beast and helping me make good moves in a positive fashion. I've been thinking 300L, but, you know, who wouldn't want more power? So I've looked. Some I've talked to insist I need a bigger bike with much more power than the 300L ("This 400lb Triumph 660 thing will be perrrrfect for you!") (Price and 5.7 inches of travel is way less than perfect, Mr. T, and no I will not be back to go up to that 990 in two years.) even after I tell them all I want to do is ride dirt roads, two-tracks, and trails up in the mountains. After hearing you and a few others I listen to, I now think the 450L is not my best move for the first moto in, gulp, 35 years, even though I'd probably do okay with it. I like to shoot for better than okay. I know what mismatched suspension can feel like on an MTB and it's gonna be fun seeing those mods I'm anticipating needing because of my weight and the weight I carry up into the woods. My style is more through than around, so I probably should listen. I wished you were in my ear when I plopped that $200 down for that 350 Harley Sprint many moons ago. Damned thing near killed me, and that was just kicking it over every morning. :-) I'm so out of it that a button to start a 300L is novel, and exciting! Am I gonna have an orgasm going uphill on these things?
Just like the CRF250L was dumbed down from CBR250R 26hp spec to only 23hp. The 286cc of the CRF300L was dumbed down to only 26.5hp from the CBR300R 31 hp spec. Just use the CBR300R ECU with some stage one mods and enjoy about 33 hp at the crank. A low cost YSS rear shock with rebound damping adjustment can easily solve the comical noSHOWa rear suspension work.
Great explanation...have a 250L after having had KTM exc's and much bigger dual sports and the fun and "feel" difference is much closer than the spec sheet would suggest and it is hard to articulate. I definitely agree you have to ride one to understand and helps to have the mindset of appreciating "fun per $$" and enjoy practicing the skills it takes to hustle a slow bike fast(ish).
i understand you totaly because i had a 250L and a 450L ....... for me the 250L was the way better allround bike and very easy and stressless to ride onroad and on slow singletrack..
I also got the yss fully adjustable rear shock and front spring upgrade for my 300 rally. Wow, totally different bike. Much more stable off road.I'm 250lbs but the 230lb springs on the yss stuff is plenty stiff enough. Lots of preload left unused.
Loving these vids. The last 4 have been gold. Comparisons and the riding with commentary from both riders. Nothing but quality content. I love my 450l and my wife loves her 250l. Both fit the way we ride. My wife also hates the 450l as it’s too tall and harder to ride and I don’t like the 250l because I feel it needs more power and I blow through the suspension. Makes me cringe every time the forks bottom out. When we switch back to our own bikes we both are happy with the ride we have. Truly does come down to what you want and what you’re willing to pay for it.
Not really comparable once you get to the dealership. The 450 is almost double the money. If it was only an extra $1000-$1500 more I could see but for the cost of the 450 you can buy a dedicated dirt bike and a dedicated street bike. The 250 and 300cc dual sports are all ideal for most people also. 40 years olds aren’t out getting 20 feet of air on a dual sport. They are crawling through trails
Get a KTM 690 Enduro! Although it might be too big for your liking. I'm 6'6" and 300lbs and it's a good fit for me. Like you said though, try before you buy if you can.
Just bought the 300L. Love it so far, come from a dirtbike background, bought a 600cc super sport and just got rid of it to get a supermoto. Fits my needs better, can go to class on it and hit the trails when I want. Would’ve got the 450l for the power but it’s too damn expensive. Only flaw is just the current state of aftermarket things available for the 300l. Not too many common brands have made parts for the bike and any that have are pretty much out of stock.
@@RedboneUnincorporated It’s relevant to me however. I don’t mind people buying the KLX. Are you here in some sort of goal to make me feel bad for buying a bike that I felt was best for me? Why?
@@CaptainCooter I'm simply saying by every single measurable factor the KLX is better than the Honda. It's not a dig, it's objective. Not one article, tester, or owner who have had the opportunity to use both disagree. The KLX wins the day according to everyone. The KLX has more power, better and adjustable suspension, more aftermarket parts, higher ground clearance, performs better off road, lighter, taller, and more nimble. I want the Honda to be better, it just simply isn't.
honestly i've seen a lot of comparisons and almost all say the suspension on the klx is better however the engine is better on the crf. Suspention is far easier to change lol
Hey Tan, you know I always click Like right at the start of all your clips, love your stuff to the core, and your relaxed almost arrogant attitude to life ;) I cannot wait till december when the CRF300L comes to Sweden, they told me "only five .." of them will ever be sold brand new here this year!? Honda seems to have a shortage. Then again I'm not aware of amounts sold in other countries, I'm sure you in the US get plenty more of all the fun stuff coming from Asia.
I’m deciding between these two for a search and rescue bike in AZ and some light travel locally. I originally decided 300, however 450 makes more sense because my on road travel probably won’t go beyond 1-200 miles from home.
Xr650 it's the best option imo. My 00 xr650r will hit 100 mph on the highway. It will take me off road anywhere I want to go. And now with the sumo conversion it is my favorite bike to ride in the twisties. Not bad for a bike with 38000 + miles and still running strong. But that's not what this video is about 🤣. Best budget dual sport imo.
Been looking at similar budget suspension upgrades. If ya do it make a tutorial video for sure, that will get tons of attraction! Suspension is the only real downfall imo
Suzuki could make this totally moot next year If they finally come out with all new DRZ400 with FI, a 6 speed and adjustable suspension at a pricepoint in between the two hondas...which more or less is a rumor circulating
They should have made the 450 the Rally edition. The 300L, I was disappointed by its heavy weight and lack of power. I am thinking about keeping my 300L stock (pretty much) just to putt around on the street and buying a used two stroke racer to scare myself every once in a while and get some blood pumping thru the arteries. Ride to Live, Live to Ride!
@@FAFO_24 yes I have the YSS shock with the piggy back gas resovoire. The spring that comes with the shock suits a 200lb rider. I am very satisfied with this shock.
Honda is producing motorbikes in Taiwan, India, China..... so they can keep the price down. I would bet that quality is going down to, and use of cheap parts is increased. If you want power, top suspension and to be equally good on and off road your answer is Husqvarna 701 dual sport or super moto ....and it's made for big and tall guys. AJP PR 7 is also something to consider.
Hey Tanner, Great video! Really enjoy your videos. You made a comment about changing gearing on the 300 for trail riding. What do you recommend? I've heard suggestions on 45 rear and as high as 49 rear. Curious your thoughts.
@@justsomedude445 absolutely less maintenance. Honda used the same engine from their street bikes ex. Cbr300 and the cb300 series. Engine was made for lots of miles but is heavier because of that. My wife’s cb300 had 38k miles and ran great. The little 300 is made to last.
I’ve got a feeling you would love where the wr250r falls in comparison to the 300l and 450l. I tried out a wr coming from a 250l and fell in love with it.
Picked up on Crf450L Achilles heel...flame outs at low speed. Which is fixed with 7 ounce flywheel! Vortex and full Yoshimura system, aftermarket air filter and open air box did not solve the flameout problems... With heavier flywheels it chews on and at low speed the 450L is so much better. Gains more fun factor and doesn't stall. Anyone experienced the same?
So, i have a wr250r that I've owned since new, I've put 40,000 km on it. Dual sport and adventure riding. Previous experience with the drz400se and honda xl350r and an old yz250 2stroke. My wife is on the crf300l. It feels like garbage compared to the wr250r in my opinion. Suspension, brakes and overall build quality are poor on the crf300l. But the seat height is low and the engine and gearbox are smooth. Im mostly interested in your thoughts on the 450L vs the ktm500 and husqvarna 501? Do you feel like the crf450L is a better road bike then the Ktm? If i were to get a newer used bike i think id want the premium suspension right out of the box. I've got good clutch control and think i could pilot the 450L or 500exc down the nasty woods trails, but alot of my riding has the inevitable long hwy stretch. What bike is better on the hwy, crf450L, ktm 450/500 exc???
I like my 300l scooter engine in an enduro package, it's exactly what I wanted. I wouldn't compare it to a real dirt bike, some of us just like "farm bikes" for f'in around and arnt trying to do triple jumps like all the u tube reviewers...lol
Good video but what gearing did you go to on the CRF300L mine is coming in March, I hope and want every thing on it before it leaves the shop. Going with a APX bash plate and rear rack some hand guards and Led lights Dunlop D606 rear and Pirelli MT 21 front. The only road this bike will see is going to and from the trails. Also looking at protection for the rear break as the dealer had a couple of people damage them, and a larger foot for the kick stand as the ground hear is quite soft in the spring, Also going with heated grips my hands can not take the cold like they use to. I ride till the snow flies. If you have any more suggestions would be appreciated.
My friend has the 300 nice bike not much power. I have a 450 rl and that thing has power power power. Both great bikes but I figured the 300 I would grow out of it.
Why not both? (Mexican music intensifies) In seriousness-ish, I think I would prefer the 250L/300L at this time, should I decide to finally upgrade from my 230M.
A tiny bit off topic QQQ -I am in the Philippines and have a XR150L, test rode a CRF250L yesterday and I am sure it is a better fit (a 2020, 4,000 miles, $2k less than a new CRF300L). I immediately noticed what sounds like a "turbo spin up whine", is that a normal engine sound or an indicator of a problem? My optimistic guess is it is normal fuel injector sound which I am not used to always having owned carbureted bikes before.
im holding out on any bike purchase until the new year, and im really torn between a 690smcr and the 300L. obviously there is a huge difference there, but the reason im even considering the 300L is for the price savings. my question to you is, is it really a decent performing bike on the road. its going to see 99% road miles And by road miles, im talking less than 65mph roads around my town and through the mountains. no highways for either bike. Im 6' and 190 and my worries with the 300 are that im gonna twist that throttle and just be hugely disappointed and/or im gonna be sick of that suspension in a hurry. should I save the $ or should I splurge on the 690 and enjoy the pavement.
@@darkskinben5789 true. I’d be commuting so the 300l would be much better for me with the longer service intervals and better fuel mileage. Plus I could always just buy a regular dirt bike. Everyone is different though.
Guessing you have some BTC? Pretty high right now. I'm waiting for a dump them I'm stocking up again. BTC thumbs up from me for not cursing in this one lol...
Wish I found this video before I bought a 450l, right out of the gate the throttle was way to choppy, tires were garbage and the clutch is killer on single track. Last week my front suspension blew so I'm hoping to get warranty but I'm not holding my breath. Feels like I paid way too much for a lemon. 🍋 I'm 120lbs so I'm shocked that the forks blew out so quickly. (Picked this bike up 2 months ago)
Always had dirtbikes. I bought a 2021 300l and feels like has no power, im breakin in the engine so i dont want to rev it to the max but it doesnt feel like a dirtbike my fix will be installing a quick throttle, if it still feels slow i will sell it.. i know its not a racing bike but it feels slow, perhaps change the rear or front sprocket?
Soooo at 6’3 280lbs I might as well go with the 450. Even though I enjoy slow technical riding? Would it work out the 300 after a massive suspension upgrade? I’m leaning towards the 300 rally as I’m trying to get away my the street its just to nerve racking anymore. I don’t have a trailer so I’ll be riding to all the trials which aren’t far away from my home
Thanks for the review. Ryan F9 says the "L" on these bikes means "lame". What is he saying here? Lower power or lesser of an off road bike? just curious to know. Thanks
i am 90 kilos and i wanna travel around the world. which is better for me??? 450??? or i still can use 300??? considering still I need to buy boxes for equipments food and and ...
This is my Favorite video you’ve made. Always wanted a full comparison and this is well done. This is the type of info a Honda dealer should have , you deserve some cash from Honda for this
Here is my take….. I’ve had both at the same time. I’m 59 yo been riding all my life. I sold the 450 and kept the 300. Reason being that I like exploring trails and felt the 300 was a good fit for me. I did love the power of the 450 but 2 things were bound to happen. 1. I was gonna get hurt and 2. I was going to get traffic tickets. Lol. Really loving the 300 and I think it a great build platform.
That is inspiring! I’ve riding street bikes over 10 years and just recently bought 2011 CRF450R and was thinking that maybe I ride it until I get 50 or so (40 now), but reading this gives confidence that age is just a number. Will ride my Honda for some time and probably will take 300L or another dual-sport quite soon
I've been going back and forth on which one to buy, the 300L is looking like the way to go especially with the 450L at 12,5 OTD these days and people complaining about not being able to feather the throttle.
@@FourthWayRanch klx 300 is the better choice.
@@RedboneUnincorporated good luck finding one, I wanted the camo edition but they're not around.
@@FourthWayRanch not saying they're easy to find. I bought mine new in 2021 and called several dealerships every day until one of them had one and I went and bought it. Took about three months.
I appreciate all the support! One thing I forgot to mention is the maintenance intervals. The 450L isn’t as bad as you think but requires more frequent oil changes and inspections. The CBR engine on the 300L needs an oil change every 5k miles (I never wait that long) and is way easier to maintain. Another thing to consider!
I'm happily waiting on my 300l tanner it's allegedly arriving in Scotland in January but I just know its going to be worth the wait , I'm glad you decided to keep yours
Very helpful. Buying a bike for the first time at age 49.
Ordering a CRF 300l.
Same. I’m 43 years old and eye balling the 300l as my first bike to explore Idaho’s backcountry
Do it gentleman. I bought my first bike at 38 and it was the 300L. Used it to get my motorcycle licence and explored all of the single track, backcountry roads, sand pits, etc in my area. Rode it for 3 years and have really improved. Just bought a ktm 250xcw as a pure trail bike, and decided to keep the 300L as my dual sport. Very happy with my decision.
Not gonna lie... your past 4 vids editing has been fire. I rarely watch comparison videos but this one was good. Covered some great points.
My biggest regret of all the bikes I've had was selling my 250L.... Maybe a 300 in my future. By far my favorite ride.
Tanner, the #1 Honda CRF 300 salesman on TH-cam! Thanks for the amazing videos, ordered my 300L Rally today. Selling my BMW 1250 GSA and getting this to be more trail capable. I was between a used 450L and a new 300 Rally. My main concern was engine power and usability in traffic on my 100 klm trip to the trails. My local Honda dealer let me ride a CBR300 to get the feel of the engine power and it was very good, much better than I imagined. Price in Australia is about UAD$9600 / USD $6900 out the door and delivery is expected in 2-3 months. Thanks again for your amazing in depth reviews, cheers!
Yeah too bad he got rid of his. You were duped!
Man this was a great video! You were fair to both bikes and transparent. There is a market for both just a matter of what you like. I think this video is the best out there for anyone trying to choose between the two! The fact that folks can watch and know you have real world ridden them both, owned them is a plus. You didn’t just got someone to loan you the two for a comparison in other words. I love my 450 but it isn’t for everyone nor is the 300. But a person deciding between them will know watching this video which is for them. Keep em coming!
Thanks Tanner for some good information on the two bikes. I am still waiting for my 300 rally, they said maybe this Friday it will come in.
😁 I have them both. Trying to decide which to keep and which to part with to get a Husky 300ti for the woods. Thanks for the video! You do a great job.
Yeah I have three of each myself I just can't decide which ones to keep either
Get that husky
@@gromatron28 thanks for the suggestion. That’s what I really want as I find myself staying in the woods now.
@@shmack-dab-in-da-middle3960 🤣 Man, I’m not bragging. I’m single with no kids and couldn’t decide so while waiting on the 300 to come out I got the 450 and then was going to choose when I finally got the 300. Here we are. You too can make payments just like me if you want. They are happy to take anyones money. ✌🏽
I know it's so hard for me to pick which one to ride everyday I just put all the keys in a bowl and mix them up and pick one
Gas prices are killing us. Decided to buy a bike. Last 4 Bikes were plated 450 Yamahas. Was looking at both of these. Went with the CRF300L Rally. Better fuel economy. No weekly oil changes. Its still an absolute blast and I look forward to my commute every day. Also had lots of stalling and flameouts with the FI WR450Fs until I added the "offroad computer" and put money into exhaust. The 300L Rally was ready to rip out of the box.
Bara av nyfikenhet, testade du installera tyngre svänghjul?
Why would you buy a dirtbike for commuting? Just get a Vespa.
Got a 300L in August and I love it so much I'm now selling my GSXS750
Personally id go with the 450l used on marketplace with the mods. Buying from dealerships sucks, but when there's also a waitlist? 450l is more money but it's also more bike.
That’s exactly what I did. Low mileage used bike for 6k. Allot of bike for the money.
Yeah, it's a bike for men.
Spot on! Having owned both 450l and 250l, I agree. Sold my 250l because the 450l fits my riding style better. The 250l ended up being my around the town bike but having a street bike as well, I couldn’t justify keeping two dual sports and kept the more off road oriented bike. Great job on the comparison!
wow when did they come out with these models haha,i rode for years and years and the funnest i had was when i got my CRF450X and had a baja designs street legal kit put on it so,a motocross light weight dirt bike made to go anywhere,i could pull up at a red light and people would freak out looking at me.i could hit dirt roads and trails i could go anywhere,i was one step away from going full super moto with street tires and rims which is amazing at taking corners on asphalt and you can still go off roading.thats the funnest i had.racing my buddy on dirt rds in the country was a blast.ive never seen either of these,i cant ride anymore.personally i would rather buy a super old blue seat cr 500 and fix it up.yep just like the one in my avatar.1986 0r 87,88 i think,cant even remember lol
You covered all the reasons that I'm happy that I got the 300L except mine has the ABS which is good for a new rider like myself. Nice video, thanks!
Same! Couldn’t be happier.
Ditto that. Love my new crf300 - just got back from riding it in Baja on sandy hills, beaches, rocky streams, dirt roads, etc and it was a dream.
You know what's better for a new rider? A moped.
If I were wanting another dual sport, and a Honda, it would be the 300L, hands down! There is no way in the world that I would pay over 10K for dual sport 450 Honda, that's just insane. I can see spending that much for a KTM or Husqvarna, I wouldn't do it, but I can see why someone would.
Used they're like 6k and usually with the mods that fix them.
Appreciate content like this. Have pretty much watched every video you have pertaining the 250l.
Mine was unfortunately stolen last week, so I’m in the market for a 2022 dual sport. And just when I think I’m about to go 450rl, it just makes more sense to go 300l. Put almost 12k in two years on my 250l so hopefully the 300l is all about chewing up some miles.
My 22 RL is perfect. The one thing I don’t like is the stock gearing and throttle response once you get rid of those problems it’s mint.
For me, the WR 450F is just about right for me. I can take it to the track, take it to the mountains, or convert it to a dual sport someday. The downsides of the WR 450F, high price, high maintenance, 80 mile fuel range.
It's also NOT a dual sport.... just because your in some state where it allows signals and lights on a dirt bike, doesn't make it a dual sport.
WRF does not even belong in the conversation as it is a dirt bike
@@dougiequick1 The CRF450RL and the WR 450F are basically the same thing other than brand. Australian WR 450Fs come street legal from the factory, just like the CRF 450RL.
Im so jealous
I know you would come through for us tanner you always deliver on videos and the dadadadadada dash 😆
I put together a 300l when I worked at a Honda shop, it seemed pretty heavy to push around but it was really nice on the street with the test rides. I was considering upgrading to the 300l from my 230l but sadly didn't have the money and couldn't get the bike in this year.
Thanks, man! Moving over to moto after forty years of MTB most would call extreme and your videos have been very informative, and fun. You are feeding the beast and helping me make good moves in a positive fashion.
I've been thinking 300L, but, you know, who wouldn't want more power? So I've looked. Some I've talked to insist I need a bigger bike with much more power than the 300L ("This 400lb Triumph 660 thing will be perrrrfect for you!") (Price and 5.7 inches of travel is way less than perfect, Mr. T, and no I will not be back to go up to that 990 in two years.) even after I tell them all I want to do is ride dirt roads, two-tracks, and trails up in the mountains. After hearing you and a few others I listen to, I now think the 450L is not my best move for the first moto in, gulp, 35 years, even though I'd probably do okay with it. I like to shoot for better than okay.
I know what mismatched suspension can feel like on an MTB and it's gonna be fun seeing those mods I'm anticipating needing because of my weight and the weight I carry up into the woods. My style is more through than around, so I probably should listen. I wished you were in my ear when I plopped that $200 down for that 350 Harley Sprint many moons ago. Damned thing near killed me, and that was just kicking it over every morning. :-) I'm so out of it that a button to start a 300L is novel, and exciting! Am I gonna have an orgasm going uphill on these things?
You're too old to get in the game now. It's time to retire.
Just like the CRF250L was dumbed down from CBR250R 26hp spec to only 23hp. The 286cc of the CRF300L was dumbed down to only 26.5hp from the CBR300R 31 hp spec. Just use the CBR300R ECU with some stage one mods and enjoy about 33 hp at the crank. A low cost YSS rear shock with rebound damping adjustment can easily solve the comical noSHOWa rear suspension work.
Appreciate the breakdown and passing us your knowledge. Thanks for posting!
My pleasure! Glad it was helpful.
Brilliant reveiws pal, so glad I got 300l 2 week ago
I guess I love my 450l because it’s literally the same personality as my mt09
I’m 60. I’ve put 33,000 plus klms on my 2016250L I love it.More power would be good!
Great explanation...have a 250L after having had KTM exc's and much bigger dual sports and the fun and "feel" difference is much closer than the spec sheet would suggest and it is hard to articulate. I definitely agree you have to ride one to understand and helps to have the mindset of appreciating "fun per $$" and enjoy practicing the skills it takes to hustle a slow bike fast(ish).
i understand you totaly because i had a 250L and a 450L ....... for me the 250L was the way better allround bike and very easy and stressless to ride onroad and on slow singletrack..
I also got the yss fully adjustable rear shock and front spring upgrade for my 300 rally. Wow, totally different bike. Much more stable off road.I'm 250lbs but the 230lb springs on the yss stuff is plenty stiff enough. Lots of preload left unused.
Also , great comparison video ! I really enjoyed this 👍
Loving these vids. The last 4 have been gold. Comparisons and the riding with commentary from both riders. Nothing but quality content.
I love my 450l and my wife loves her 250l. Both fit the way we ride. My wife also hates the 450l as it’s too tall and harder to ride and I don’t like the 250l because I feel it needs more power and I blow through the suspension. Makes me cringe every time the forks bottom out. When we switch back to our own bikes we both are happy with the ride we have. Truly does come down to what you want and what you’re willing to pay for it.
Thank You i will chose the 300L i appreciate your honesty!
Not really comparable once you get to the dealership. The 450 is almost double the money. If it was only an extra $1000-$1500 more I could see but for the cost of the 450 you can buy a dedicated dirt bike and a dedicated street bike.
The 250 and 300cc dual sports are all ideal for most people also. 40 years olds aren’t out getting 20 feet of air on a dual sport. They are crawling through trails
Only a fool buys from a dealership. Second-hand market is flooded with both.
Thanks so much for this assessment.
Get a KTM 690 Enduro! Although it might be too big for your liking. I'm 6'6" and 300lbs and it's a good fit for me. Like you said though, try before you buy if you can.
Just bought the 300L. Love it so far, come from a dirtbike background, bought a 600cc super sport and just got rid of it to get a supermoto. Fits my needs better, can go to class on it and hit the trails when I want. Would’ve got the 450l for the power but it’s too damn expensive.
Only flaw is just the current state of aftermarket things available for the 300l. Not too many common brands have made parts for the bike and any that have are pretty much out of stock.
Too bad you didn't research, you would've found the KLX 300 is better by leaps and bounds.
@@RedboneUnincorporated I’ve bought one Kawasaki brand new, it was the biggest POS I’ve ever had to deal with. Never again.
@@CaptainCooter You're anecdotal experience is literally irrelevant to the indisputable facts that the klx is simply a better bike.
@@RedboneUnincorporated It’s relevant to me however. I don’t mind people buying the KLX. Are you here in some sort of goal to make me feel bad for buying a bike that I felt was best for me? Why?
@@CaptainCooter I'm simply saying by every single measurable factor the KLX is better than the Honda.
It's not a dig, it's objective. Not one article, tester, or owner who have had the opportunity to use both disagree. The KLX wins the day according to everyone.
The KLX has more power, better and adjustable suspension, more aftermarket parts, higher ground clearance, performs better off road, lighter, taller, and more nimble.
I want the Honda to be better, it just simply isn't.
I’m buying the klx Because it doesn’t have a unibody frame and it’s closer to 300cc and it’s geared more towards off road riding
honestly i've seen a lot of comparisons and almost all say the suspension on the klx is better however the engine is better on the crf. Suspention is far easier to change lol
I'd be very curious to see what you think of the new 690/701 platforms (2020 and newer) with all your dual sport knowledge.
Hey Tan, you know I always click Like right at the start of all your clips, love your stuff to the core, and your relaxed almost arrogant attitude to life ;) I cannot wait till december when the CRF300L comes to Sweden, they told me "only five .." of them will ever be sold brand new here this year!? Honda seems to have a shortage. Then again I'm not aware of amounts sold in other countries, I'm sure you in the US get plenty more of all the fun stuff coming from Asia.
I’m deciding between these two for a search and rescue bike in AZ and some light travel locally. I originally decided 300, however 450 makes more sense because my on road travel probably won’t go beyond 1-200 miles from home.
Xr650 it's the best option imo. My 00 xr650r will hit 100 mph on the highway. It will take me off road anywhere I want to go. And now with the sumo conversion it is my favorite bike to ride in the twisties. Not bad for a bike with 38000 + miles and still running strong. But that's not what this video is about 🤣. Best budget dual sport imo.
It’s a great bike for sure!
Itchy Boots rode a CRF250l in the Kalahari offroad rally. She finally broke the rear frame in the final stage ,but still finished.
Exactly. It's a girl's bike.
Been looking at similar budget suspension upgrades. If ya do it make a tutorial video for sure, that will get tons of attraction! Suspension is the only real downfall imo
I totally agree
That and lack of balls. A 300lb bike needs way more torque. Get the DRZ400.
Really appreciate the "if you don't want to watch the whole 10 min video" summary, in place of dramatically burying the lead.
Suzuki could make this totally moot next year If they finally come out with all new DRZ400 with FI, a 6 speed and adjustable suspension at a pricepoint in between the two hondas...which more or less is a rumor circulating
talking just 4 stroke Hondas, of the 2 in my opinion the 300.
on a budget used XR400R , XR600R or used/new XR650L
I weigh 140 and I bottom out the 300l rear shock on rollers. K-Tech solved the problem.
Ground clearance comparison? Seat height? Suspension travel? Acceleration? Speed? Seat? Carburetor? Dash?
So....I should buy both?
If you were closer we might be having a serious conversation about that 450L...but I'm happy enough with my DRZ for now.
I’ll deliver Dork😂
Great video, I have the 300l and looking for luggage ideas. What rack is that please? I've not come across that one when searching.
AXP!
They should have made the 450 the Rally edition.
The 300L, I was disappointed by its heavy weight and lack of power. I am thinking about keeping my 300L stock (pretty much) just to putt around on the street and buying a used two stroke racer to scare myself every once in a while and get some blood pumping thru the arteries.
Ride to Live, Live to Ride!
Either of those two, those are good bikes.. if only i have one..😭
Love honda but next will be the klx300 for me, first things to go is that fugly headlight
Still torn between the 300L and the 300Rally, I like the bigger tank on the Rally but the fuggly headlight set-up is a little off putting.
Get the DR350. 33hp yet 6 gears unlike the 400.
Change the rear shock on the 300 and it’s like 30% better.
is there a shock you recommend? I just ordered a 300L and am 200 lb
@@FAFO_24 yes I have the YSS shock with the piggy back gas resovoire. The spring that comes with the shock suits a 200lb rider. I am very satisfied with this shock.
Like Crf 300L 👍👍
Honda is producing motorbikes in Taiwan, India, China..... so they can keep the price down. I would bet that quality is going down to, and use of cheap parts is increased.
If you want power, top suspension and to be equally good on and off road your answer is Husqvarna 701 dual sport or super moto ....and it's made for big and tall guys.
AJP PR 7 is also something to consider.
Hey Tanner, Great video! Really enjoy your videos. You made a comment about changing gearing on the 300 for trail riding. What do you recommend? I've heard suggestions on 45 rear and as high as 49 rear. Curious your thoughts.
I know you hate to hear it, but the drz is the compromise. Especially if you live in a place like Florida where a carb literally doesn't matter.
Isnt the maintenance intervals on the 450 even worse than a KTM - EXC ??
Maintenance... who does that
Worse? No. They’re almost the same.
@@JRodSMX oh ok , well still the 300 is a way lower maintenance bike , is my understanding
@@gromatron28 anyone who actually rides them does
@@justsomedude445 absolutely less maintenance. Honda used the same engine from their street bikes ex. Cbr300 and the cb300 series. Engine was made for lots of miles but is heavier because of that. My wife’s cb300 had 38k miles and ran great. The little 300 is made to last.
Swap the suspension on the down low and sell the 450.......heavily modified.......
I’ve got a feeling you would love where the wr250r falls in comparison to the 300l and 450l. I tried out a wr coming from a 250l and fell in love with it.
Nope... tried the WR250r and much prefer the 300l(with suspension upgrade).
Would have to lower the 450L. Tippy toes on my 300L
I want one of those sweatshirts ! Let me know when you start selling them !
Picked up on Crf450L Achilles heel...flame outs at low speed. Which is fixed with 7 ounce flywheel! Vortex and full Yoshimura system, aftermarket air filter and open air box did not solve the flameout problems... With heavier flywheels it chews on and at low speed the 450L is so much better. Gains more fun factor and doesn't stall. Anyone experienced the same?
That hoodie though!
So, i have a wr250r that I've owned since new, I've put 40,000 km on it. Dual sport and adventure riding. Previous experience with the drz400se and honda xl350r and an old yz250 2stroke.
My wife is on the crf300l. It feels like garbage compared to the wr250r in my opinion. Suspension, brakes and overall build quality are poor on the crf300l. But the seat height is low and the engine and gearbox are smooth.
Im mostly interested in your thoughts on the 450L vs the ktm500 and husqvarna 501? Do you feel like the crf450L is a better road bike then the Ktm?
If i were to get a newer used bike i think id want the premium suspension right out of the box. I've got good clutch control and think i could pilot the 450L or 500exc down the nasty woods trails, but alot of my riding has the inevitable long hwy stretch. What bike is better on the hwy, crf450L, ktm 450/500 exc???
I like my 300l scooter engine in an enduro package, it's exactly what I wanted. I wouldn't compare it to a real dirt bike, some of us just like "farm bikes" for f'in around and arnt trying to do triple jumps like all the u tube reviewers...lol
About standing on the crf300l while on gnarly trails is it close to the 450 and positioning while standing too?
Good video but what gearing did you go to on the CRF300L mine is coming in March, I hope and want every thing on it before it leaves the shop. Going with a APX bash plate and rear rack some hand guards and Led lights Dunlop D606 rear and Pirelli MT 21 front. The only road this bike will see is going to and from the trails. Also looking at protection for the rear break as the dealer had a couple of people damage them, and a larger foot for the kick stand as the ground hear is quite soft in the spring, Also going with heated grips my hands can not take the cold like they use to. I ride till the snow flies. If you have any more suggestions would be appreciated.
nice hart but would like to know what gearing you went to. and is it needed for slow speed riding
That looks like a shopping list straight from reddit. Let me guess, first bike?
My friend has the 300 nice bike not much power. I have a 450 rl and that thing has power power power. Both great bikes but I figured the 300 I would grow out of it.
Wise decision.
Thanks for the great video!
Why not both?
(Mexican music intensifies)
In seriousness-ish, I think I would prefer the 250L/300L at this time, should I decide to finally upgrade from my 230M.
Why did you choose the crf 300l over the klx 300? Is there a real reason I can’t decide
Idk if its just me but if i went with a honda again id stick with a 2 stroke🤷♂️
Neither. Go buy an xr650
unless you're short
A tiny bit off topic
QQQ -I am in the Philippines and have a XR150L, test rode a CRF250L yesterday and I am sure it is a better fit (a 2020, 4,000 miles, $2k less than a new CRF300L). I immediately noticed what sounds like a "turbo spin up whine", is that a normal engine sound or an indicator of a problem? My optimistic guess is it is normal fuel injector sound which I am not used to always having owned carbureted bikes before.
Thanks Downey!
Thanks!
Between the crf300 and crf450rl, you should buy the drz400
Did you have a problem with that chain guard making noise on the 300l?
im holding out on any bike purchase until the new year, and im really torn between a 690smcr and the 300L. obviously there is a huge difference there, but the reason im even considering the 300L is for the price savings. my question to you is, is it really a decent performing bike on the road. its going to see 99% road miles And by road miles, im talking less than 65mph roads around my town and through the mountains. no highways for either bike. Im 6' and 190 and my worries with the 300 are that im gonna twist that throttle and just be hugely disappointed and/or im gonna be sick of that suspension in a hurry. should I save the $ or should I splurge on the 690 and enjoy the pavement.
300 is perfect for what you need
Had a deposit on a 300l rally for months . Still saying be around March.
So get I'm line asap if you want a 300l
I never would of considered buying a dual sport but now I want a 300l 😂
300l is what I want but I'm debating if I should save for a 450l because I want a dirtbike not a "kinda dirtbike"
@@darkskinben5789 true. I’d be commuting so the 300l would be much better for me with the longer service intervals and better fuel mileage. Plus I could always just buy a regular dirt bike. Everyone is different though.
@@darkskinben5789 Get the 450.
My 300l is sitting at the dealer with camshaft tensioner failure. They’re telling me it could be a year before they get the part to fix it.
Sorry to hear... how many miles did you log before the camshaft tensioner failed on your 300L?
Camshafts don't have tensioners, you're being hoodwinked.
Guessing you have some BTC? Pretty high right now. I'm waiting for a dump them I'm stocking up again. BTC thumbs up from me for not cursing in this one lol...
Neither, KLXR 230 or 300. Ride safe my 2 wheel friends.
Wish I found this video before I bought a 450l, right out of the gate the throttle was way to choppy, tires were garbage and the clutch is killer on single track. Last week my front suspension blew so I'm hoping to get warranty but I'm not holding my breath. Feels like I paid way too much for a lemon. 🍋 I'm 120lbs so I'm shocked that the forks blew out so quickly. (Picked this bike up 2 months ago)
Have you rode with a passenger on the 300l. I see a lot of people saying the suspension is to soft. And some saying its fine.
I'm curious what bike you would choose between a 2023 XR650 OR a CRF 300L.? Say for 50/50 pavement trail.
There's no replacement for displacement.
What chain rings do you recommend for the Honda 450l? I do more off road then on road. Intermediate rider. Logging roads and trails. Thanks
300L has a *cast iron* cylinder it will need rebuilding as they wear oval. Most likely BUY a new cylinder as only 1 piston is available like ANCIENT.
Why? Cbr 300 doesnt need and works fine for years...
@@MoodSwingZX They cut cost just like non removable sub frame and non-adjustable suspension from the 1970s'.
Always had dirtbikes. I bought a 2021 300l and feels like has no power, im breakin in the engine so i dont want to rev it to the max but it doesnt feel like a dirtbike my fix will be installing a quick throttle, if it still feels slow i will sell it.. i know its not a racing bike but it feels slow, perhaps change the rear or front sprocket?
Get a 450
Soooo at 6’3 280lbs I might as well go with the 450. Even though I enjoy slow technical riding? Would it work out the 300 after a massive suspension upgrade? I’m leaning towards the 300 rally as I’m trying to get away my the street its just to nerve racking anymore. I don’t have a trailer so I’ll be riding to all the trials which aren’t far away from my home
Group ride at kxcr Sunday. It’s in clay city ky. Be about 5-6 of us.
Thanks for the review. Ryan F9 says the "L" on these bikes means "lame". What is he saying here? Lower power or lesser of an off road bike? just curious to know. Thanks
Both.
i am 90 kilos and i wanna travel around the world. which is better for me??? 450??? or i still can use 300??? considering still I need to buy boxes for equipments food and and ...