sold my 690 and got a 300l, no regrets whatsoever, I got the k tech suspension on it and so far it has been able to do exactly the same trails that I did with the 690, so for me the 300l is better in tight situations and that is exactly the reason why I bought it cheers !
I have the 300 rally without ABS. I have more fun on this thing than the law allows...literally. I had the 250 version, and I needed just a bit more power, and range, so when this came out, I bought one as soon as I found it. I painted it Army green, as I'm not a fan of the honda RED. have about 9K miles on it, and I motocamp a lot, and explore the world with it. It's been on 3 BDR's , (Idaho, Washington, and Oregon), and more to come...I live in Oregon, so the forest service roads are found easier than the pavement. I average 75mpg with it, using regular gas. Took it to Indiana this fall and rode around Michigan, and Indiana. Found some cool roads in Montana, and South Dakota. Not a bike for the freeway, but the backroads are perfect at 55mph...It'll crawl up a tree too! I'll be visiting your area this fall, so thanks for all the cool ideas for riding! We'll be staying about a week, so I can't wait to show my riding buddies Zion, and maybe even the North rim...Rock on!
Man, I love this! If I may, what paint did you use for your Honda? I'd like to paint mine a desert color but not sure of what to use. I'd love to see some images of your bike. Ride on friend, ride on!!
Ok, I used Krylon spray paint for plastic. I first roughed up all the pieces with 600 grit sand paper. Then I cleaned/rinsed them really good wearing latex gloves to keep my finger oil off the plastic. After the cleaning/rinsing, I rubbed 91% rubbing alcohol all over every piece while wearing more gloves. Then I used Adhesion Promoter (spray can type), before the paint to help it stick. (It goes on clear, and REALLY helps). Then a coat of primer to help the paint stay put. Then a few coats of paint. This is the third bike I have done this too. The paint never chips off. I'll try and send a few pics your way, but I will have to learn how...
Thanks for sharing this and the paint tips, not a fan of Honda red either….but a Honda lover (own an ST1300). I’m currently on an XT250 that I would describe the same as you, more smiles per mile and the cheapest fun I’ve ever had on two wheels. I’ll be building up a 300L as my retirement bike and plan to pick off the Great Divide Ride from Banff to Mexico, ten work my way North on the BDR’s back to Canada. I’m curious if you’ve done anything to the suspension? I keep hearing that is the weak spot, but bike is otherwise perfect for my needs I believe.
How much do you weigh with gear? I’m curious as I want this as my only bike for 80% trail riding. Anyone near 200lbs I hear the stock suspension is borderline dangerous
Got myself a crf300L last fall. It’s my first motorcycle ever! Got it as a 40th bday present to myself and love it! Just Put down a deposit for a crf300LS for my wife!
Great video ! I live in northern Michigan , and picked up a 2021 300L over the summer . I got it for $ 5200 , it has about $ 1500 in extras on it , and had less than 300 miles on it when i bought it. I also have a Harley Road King. I mainly bought the 300 for exploring dirt roads and two tracks. I knew what to expect going in with this bike. I took about 10 years off from the dirt before I bought the 300. I used to ride 450's , the 300 of course has way less power , but that's okay , I'm 63 and my go fast days are a distant memory. I was lucky in that the previous owner upgraded the suspension with a new Wilbers shock , and a stiffer fork spring. Honda reliability is a huge selling point for this bike , as are the long service intervals. 8000 mile oil change , and 16,000 mile valve check . I'll take it ! Overall I'm very happy with the bike , it will be with me for a long time. 👍
It took me over a month of searching and keeping an eye on possible availability within a 500-mile radius, just to find a 300 Rally ABS in May/June 2023. I had found some base CRF300L's and a couple non-ABS Rallies, but eventually a couple ABS models popped up and I snagged one at the beginning of July. I'm glad I was patient.
I'm from Western NC and I have a '23 300L Rally no ABS. I love it I'm a short rider (5'3). It's a blast on the back roads and for commuting around the city pot holes.
Hi great ramble!Got a 2022 crf 300 l and ride modest enduro.Did spend 850 usd on YSS shock and fork suspension upgrade.Use it mainly off-road and it is a great little bike.Bit on the small side with me on 6 ft 2 and close to 200 pound but it is OK.Power is ok most of the time …I prefer it a bit less so it does not get out of control too quick.Greetings from S.Spain
The DR650 is only about 40lbs more than the 300 you will like the dr when you spend time on it especially if you ride loaded most or the time. I ride a small bike but no luggage on it for tough trialing. I ride the 2012 KLX250 for off road 2009 DR650 for mixed road and the 2016 Africa twin for long trips.
Just subbed.... Everything you said about the Honda is true...I am a Suzuki DRZ400s rider and I love the bike but I do wish for the elusive 6th gear. The DRZ is dead reliable and very low maintenance just like the Honda but I feel the Suzuki has quite a bit more torque and power and is a bit more dirt worthy than the Honda...That's why I went with the DRZ. Great content and I subscribed. I have been riding since the 70's and was brought up in the Mojave desert. I'm in Illinois now and not much off road in farm country. I make trips in my RV and take my bike out west to ride. Thanks for the content.
Great video! Think i need a CRF300LS for my lighter bike. Ya. The cons can be taken care of for under 2k. Back/front spring, 3 gallon gas tank, new bars, better tires, new seat.. you sold me on it!! Thanks!!!
I had both the KLR and 300L. I sold the 300L because I couldnt ride it as long as distance as the KLR. Because of the seat. After about 1 hour on the 300L my butt was hurting.
Great video, keep riding man. At some point though, and I mean this in the best way, borrow a buddy's ktm 500 exc and see what you think about all your bikes after that. I had the 300l and a ktm 500 and the latter was the best choice I ever made in riding (adv/dual sport with medium hard riding on trails/ohv). Trust me on this, I looooved my 300L, until that fated day I took a 15min test ride at the ktm dealer who actually let me take a test ride (most don't). I was happy and sad - happy seeing just how much better dual sporting can get, and sad to think about how much time and energy I invested in my 300l. All my fears I had about maintenance and 'too much power' from the 500 were pretty much myth, and it quickly became the greatest pleasure I could find on 2 wheels.
I have no experience with KTMs and I certainly wouldn't say no to one. I have heard they require more of a maintenance routine than the Japanese Dual Sports, how much so..I've no idea. Maybe I'll give one a shot down the road!
@@precipiceofgrind If you race, the maintenance intervals are high. If you're just dual sporting, you can change out oil every 1K miles (some nuts go to 2k), and still get clean grades from an oil inspection lab. Other maintenance is universal to all bikes and or easy (ie. valve check is now really easy/fast to do). Ping me back if you ride a 500 (or 350), I think you'll be like, what the...? Especially those made 2020 or after, they are so nimble and light it's a game changer for the ride experience (in the dirt, not so happy about it at 80mph in the wind on the highway though, but still feels more in control/ie safer than the 300l on the highway which is too low power for overtaking trucks at 70mph in a pinch)
Thanks for trying...I showed this video to my wife and said that is why I need 3 different bikes....you have one guess what she said........ It is a do almost all.....great content.
It's a valid argument. One needs different platforms to navigate different riding styles. It makes sense. There's an old saying, better to ask forgiveness than permission...or something like that. Thank you for taking the time to watch our content, much appreciated!!
Hi great vid I’ve just put a deposit gown on a new 300l taking old bike in tomorrow to pay and picking up 1st March as new plate here in GB just wondering where you purchased your rally style screen from or is it a rally screen,cheers Simon GB
Thanks for watching and congrats on your new 300L! I got it from T Rex Racing and am quite satisfied with it. Haven't had any issues even with multiple bike drops.
Well, for me, the DR650 is better at highway due to more power and heavier weight but as far as body comfort..I think I might be more 'position' comfortable on the 300L.
@@precipiceofgrind Thanks! I have an adventurized 2020 WR250R, which I put in the 300L category, but would like to add a light adventure/ADV bike that is just one step better on the highway. Mainly passing power as I am also very comfortable on my WR.
Like The Video(s)? Hit That SUBSCRIBE!! Really Helps The Channel!! Thanks For Watching!!
It’s basically a mountain bike with a motor , I love it . Keeps me one step ahead of the grizzlies here in Canada
sold my 690 and got a 300l, no regrets whatsoever, I got the k tech suspension on it and so far it has been able to do exactly the same trails that I did with the 690, so for me the 300l is better in tight situations and that is exactly the reason why I bought it
cheers !
Excellent!
I have the 300 rally without ABS. I have more fun on this thing than the law allows...literally. I had the 250 version, and I needed just a bit more power, and range, so when this came out, I bought one as soon as I found it. I painted it Army green, as I'm not a fan of the honda RED. have about 9K miles on it, and I motocamp a lot, and explore the world with it. It's been on 3 BDR's , (Idaho, Washington, and Oregon), and more to come...I live in Oregon, so the forest service roads are found easier than the pavement. I average 75mpg with it, using regular gas. Took it to Indiana this fall and rode around Michigan, and Indiana. Found some cool roads in Montana, and South Dakota. Not a bike for the freeway, but the backroads are perfect at 55mph...It'll crawl up a tree too! I'll be visiting your area this fall, so thanks for all the cool ideas for riding! We'll be staying about a week, so I can't wait to show my riding buddies Zion, and maybe even the North rim...Rock on!
Man, I love this! If I may, what paint did you use for your Honda? I'd like to paint mine a desert color but not sure of what to use. I'd love to see some images of your bike. Ride on friend, ride on!!
Ok, I used Krylon spray paint for plastic. I first roughed up all the pieces with 600 grit sand paper. Then I cleaned/rinsed them really good wearing latex gloves to keep my finger oil off the plastic. After the cleaning/rinsing, I rubbed 91% rubbing alcohol all over every piece while wearing more gloves. Then I used Adhesion Promoter (spray can type), before the paint to help it stick. (It goes on clear, and REALLY helps). Then a coat of primer to help the paint stay put. Then a few coats of paint. This is the third bike I have done this too. The paint never chips off. I'll try and send a few pics your way, but I will have to learn how...
Thanks for sharing this and the paint tips, not a fan of Honda red either….but a Honda lover (own an ST1300). I’m currently on an XT250 that I would describe the same as you, more smiles per mile and the cheapest fun I’ve ever had on two wheels. I’ll be building up a 300L as my retirement bike and plan to pick off the Great Divide Ride from Banff to Mexico, ten work my way North on the BDR’s back to Canada. I’m curious if you’ve done anything to the suspension? I keep hearing that is the weak spot, but bike is otherwise perfect for my needs I believe.
How much do you weigh with gear? I’m curious as I want this as my only bike for 80% trail riding. Anyone near 200lbs I hear the stock suspension is borderline dangerous
Got myself a crf300L last fall. It’s my first motorcycle ever! Got it as a 40th bday present to myself and love it! Just Put down a deposit for a crf300LS for my wife!
Awesome, congrats! I have yet to see a 300LS model in person yet!
Great video ! I live in northern Michigan , and picked up a 2021 300L over the summer . I got it for $ 5200 , it has about $ 1500 in extras on it , and had less than 300 miles on it when i bought it. I also have a Harley Road King. I mainly bought the 300 for exploring dirt roads and two tracks. I knew what to expect going in with this bike. I took about 10 years off from the dirt before I bought the 300. I used to ride 450's , the 300 of course has way less power , but that's okay , I'm 63 and my go fast days are a distant memory. I was lucky in that the previous owner upgraded the suspension with a new Wilbers shock , and a stiffer fork spring. Honda reliability is a huge selling point for this bike , as are the long service intervals.
8000 mile oil change , and 16,000 mile valve check . I'll take it !
Overall I'm very happy with the bike , it will be with me for a long time. 👍
Very nice, you knew what you were getting! Indeed, there are some very nice advantages with the 300L...
It took me over a month of searching and keeping an eye on possible availability within a 500-mile radius, just to find a 300 Rally ABS in May/June 2023. I had found some base CRF300L's and a couple non-ABS Rallies, but eventually a couple ABS models popped up and I snagged one at the beginning of July. I'm glad I was patient.
I'm from Western NC and I have a '23 300L Rally no ABS. I love it I'm a short rider (5'3). It's a blast on the back roads and for commuting around the city pot holes.
I'm 5’5” and I'm concerned with the height. How do you manage?
Hi great ramble!Got a 2022 crf 300 l and ride modest enduro.Did spend 850 usd on YSS shock and fork suspension upgrade.Use it mainly off-road and it is a great little bike.Bit on the small side with me on 6 ft 2 and close to 200 pound but it is OK.Power is ok most of the time …I prefer it a bit less so it does not get out of control too quick.Greetings from S.Spain
Hi From Ireland .
Love The Content, Honda C.R.F. 300L Good Starter Bike, Keep It Coming. Cheers.
Hello Hello, Thank you very much for watching!! Will do, stay well friend!
The DR650 is only about 40lbs more than the 300 you will like the dr when you spend time on it especially if you ride loaded most or the time. I ride a small bike but no luggage on it for tough trialing. I ride the 2012 KLX250 for off road 2009 DR650 for mixed road and the 2016 Africa twin for long trips.
Just subbed.... Everything you said about the Honda is true...I am a Suzuki DRZ400s rider and I love the bike but I do wish for the elusive 6th gear. The DRZ is dead reliable and very low maintenance just like the Honda but I feel the Suzuki has quite a bit more torque and power and is a bit more dirt worthy than the Honda...That's why I went with the DRZ. Great content and I subscribed. I have been riding since the 70's and was brought up in the Mojave desert. I'm in Illinois now and not much off road in farm country. I make trips in my RV and take my bike out west to ride. Thanks for the content.
Awesome, glad you liked the content! I love the Mojave, endless riding opportunities out there! Appreciate you watching and supporting the channel!!
Great video! Think i need a CRF300LS for my lighter bike. Ya. The cons can be taken care of for under 2k. Back/front spring, 3 gallon gas tank, new bars, better tires, new seat.. you sold me on it!! Thanks!!!
Thanks for watching! Awesome bike, love mine! Might have to invest in that larger gas tank in the near future.
I had both the KLR and 300L. I sold the 300L because I couldnt ride it as long as distance as the KLR. Because of the seat. After about 1 hour on the 300L my butt was hurting.
Having owned a CRF250 Rally for nearly 7 years I reckon I'd go for a 300L next 👍
Interesting, I have been thinking of a CRF 300 Rally but I hate the color. This has me thinking.
Great video, keep riding man. At some point though, and I mean this in the best way, borrow a buddy's ktm 500 exc and see what you think about all your bikes after that. I had the 300l and a ktm 500 and the latter was the best choice I ever made in riding (adv/dual sport with medium hard riding on trails/ohv). Trust me on this, I looooved my 300L, until that fated day I took a 15min test ride at the ktm dealer who actually let me take a test ride (most don't). I was happy and sad - happy seeing just how much better dual sporting can get, and sad to think about how much time and energy I invested in my 300l. All my fears I had about maintenance and 'too much power' from the 500 were pretty much myth, and it quickly became the greatest pleasure I could find on 2 wheels.
I have no experience with KTMs and I certainly wouldn't say no to one. I have heard they require more of a maintenance routine than the Japanese Dual Sports, how much so..I've no idea. Maybe I'll give one a shot down the road!
@@precipiceofgrind If you race, the maintenance intervals are high. If you're just dual sporting, you can change out oil every 1K miles (some nuts go to 2k), and still get clean grades from an oil inspection lab. Other maintenance is universal to all bikes and or easy (ie. valve check is now really easy/fast to do). Ping me back if you ride a 500 (or 350), I think you'll be like, what the...? Especially those made 2020 or after, they are so nimble and light it's a game changer for the ride experience (in the dirt, not so happy about it at 80mph in the wind on the highway though, but still feels more in control/ie safer than the 300l on the highway which is too low power for overtaking trucks at 70mph in a pinch)
Thanks for trying...I showed this video to my wife and said that is why I need 3 different bikes....you have one guess what she said........ It is a do almost all.....great content.
It's a valid argument. One needs different platforms to navigate different riding styles. It makes sense. There's an old saying, better to ask forgiveness than permission...or something like that. Thank you for taking the time to watch our content, much appreciated!!
Hi great vid I’ve just put a deposit gown on a new 300l taking old bike in tomorrow to pay and picking up 1st March as new plate here in GB just wondering where you purchased your rally style screen from or is it a rally screen,cheers Simon GB
Thanks for watching and congrats on your new 300L! I got it from T Rex Racing and am quite satisfied with it. Haven't had any issues even with multiple bike drops.
As usual, solid video. Thx.
You're most welcome, thank you for watching!
I am a new follower of your channel Greetings from Türkiye 😊
Awesome! Thank you very much for watching and supporting the channel! Always wanted to visit your country!!
CRF300l orXT250?
If you only had one bike which would you pick Crf300 or Dr650??
DR650
Are you going to upgrade the suspension, or does it do well enough stock?
Currently, the stock suspension is fine for me.
How does the 300L compare to the DR650 on the highway? Thanks,
Well, for me, the DR650 is better at highway due to more power and heavier weight but as far as body comfort..I think I might be more 'position' comfortable on the 300L.
@@precipiceofgrind Thanks! I have an adventurized 2020 WR250R, which I put in the 300L category, but would like to add a light adventure/ADV bike that is just one step better on the highway. Mainly passing power as I am also very comfortable on my WR.
But you have to pay so much attention to the road you only get furtive glances at scenery...
Far from lightweight!! Well over 300lbs. Honda wont make it lighter, their too cheap!