Honda CRF300L vs Honda CRF450L (From a Guy Who Owns Both)
Vložit
- čas přidán 13. 07. 2023
- As a person who owns both a Honda CRF450L and a Honda CRF300L Rally, I get asked a ton about which bike is better or which dual sport people should buy. Honestly this question confuses me a little just because these two bikes are very, very different.
Sure, on the surface Honda CRF450RL vs Honda CRF300L seems like a close competition. These are both small displacement Honda dual sports but under the surface the 300L vs 450L is a much wider gap than some people realize. The Honda CRF450RL is not a bike for the new rider. It's powerful, expensive, difficult to maintain, and hard to control. The Honda CRF300L Rally and Honda CRF300L, on the other hand, are incredibly easy to ride, beginner friendly motorcycles. A new rider has no business on a Honda CRF450RL. It would be dangerous and honestly not a lot of fun for a new dual sport rider to try and control. The Honda CRF300L may be the best beginner dual sport of all time, though.
If you're debating Honda CRF300L vs Honda CRF450L or Honda CRF300L vs Honda CRF450RL I can tell you that unless you're absolutely SURE the 450L is the bike for you, you're probably going to be better off starting on the 300L or 300L Rally.
Honda CRF450L Playlist: • Honda CRF450L Videos
Honda CRF300L Rally Playlist: • Honda CRF300L Rally Vi...
SUBSCRIBE for more adventures, how-tos, gear reviews, and moto shenanigans!
bit.ly/dorkintheroad
Check out www.dorkintheroad.com for all your dorky motorcycling needs!
Want early access to videos and other perks? Become a channel member: / @dorkintheroad
Merch Store: teespring.com/stores/dork-in-...
Instagram: / adorkintheroad
TikTok: / dorkintheroad
Support me on Patreon: www.patreon.com/user?u=26709234
Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Please consider using these affiliate links:
Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq
Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z
Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/4eMdJZ
MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork
Giant Loop: www.giantloopmoto.com/?ref=dork
Save 20% on Gaia GPS Premium with this link: www.gaiagps.com/discounts/?fp...
Dork in the Road’s Riding Gear Picks on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3t8fgOC
Dork in the Road’s Dual Sport Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3yzVuws
Dork in the Road’s Adventure Bike Mods on RMATV/MC: bit.ly/3zGFHxg
Select music courtesy of Epidemic Sound. Use this link to get a free 30-day trial: www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
Camera Gear:
Insta360 One RS: www.insta360.com/sal/one_rs?i...
Insta360 X3: www.insta360.com/sal/x3?insrc...
Insta 360 One RS Mic Adapter: store.insta360.com/accessory?...
Insta 360 Motorcycle Kit: store.insta360.com/accessory?...
Insta360 Extended Edition Selfie Stick: store.insta360.com/accessory?...
Thank you for supporting the channel by clicking on the affiliate links in this description.
Disclaimer for reasons: I am not a professional journalist, expert motorcycle rider, or a mechanic. These videos are for entertainment purposes and represent my personal opinions and experiences. I'm just a dude who isn't even good at riding or making videos, so be smart and don't risk life or limb trying to follow my example or advice. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Please consider using these affiliate links:
Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq
Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z
Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/4eMdJZ
MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork
Giant Loop: www.giantloopmoto.com/?ref=dork
Save 20% on Gaia GPS Premium with this link: www.gaiagps.com/discounts/?fp_ref=dork
Coming from a guy that has 15+ years of street riding from the extremes of racing liter bikes and stunt riding to the casuals of a weekend warrior with friends I knew that none of that mattered when it came to off roading so I stayed humble and started on the 300L. It was the best decision I could've made especially when my riding buddy has the 450 and I watch him struggle constantly off road in the same areas I snooze threw on the 300. Stay humble guys and start on something like the 300L
Same here.....15 years of street riding, Everything from 30hp to 160hp Daily riding....been there, done that........for off-roading, I got the DRZ400, and kinda wish I started on something smaller! Too much power, Too top heavy for learning Slow Articulated riding..... But I definitely love the power when it comes to open riding! Good stiff suspension...great for jumping over Logs....great on the roads. Hard lesson learned is Never ride on wet tarmac with any kind of knobbies! Took a spill at 40mph, luckily didn't get hurt, bike had some rash on Full Wrap guards and Foot peg.....picked the bike up and kept riding....these bikes take crashes very well.
I’m waiting for my CRF300 Rally - due at the start of October.
I’ve come from road bikes and like you will start with something bulletproof. I’ll upgrade as I go…
@@flash_b_3602 you gonna need a seat straight out the gate. Just a heads up.
Thank you.. I appreciate your advice 👍🏻💯💐
Meh... My old KLX would have you all eating dust off road... 🎉
Biggest difference I've found, 450 are available in dealerships
Totally agree, no CRF300 rally available so it’s why I went with KLR
@@FrancoisTX1974 yeah there was a nice one at another dealer near me. Good price too. Think was 4500 brand new
@@jtec99 4500 for a brand new 300 rally?
😅
and *$5,600*
huge price difference
crf300l = $5,399
crf450l = $10,099
As a Honda certified tech that's owns a 450l and sold my t7, this nails it on the head. My customers ask me this question daily. I will be sharing this video with all of them.
Was the T7 too top heavy for you?
@@omicrondec honestly loved the t7 only reason I sold it was I had an offer of 3k above my purchase price. I have multiple bikes and work at a dealer. Money talks. Would buy another one in a heartbeat
@@joshtruesdale9515 ah..... The siren song of coin. Makes sense. Good for you. 👍🏻
Spot on….different animals!
Sold my T7 also. Can’t wait to buy a 450RL
... Ben, THAT was a great review and comparison. I raced for 13 years and stopped in 1985.
Now at 66 y/o I am back to the dirty side.
On 5/31/23 I bought a lightly used 300 Rally that already had all the upgrades most owners do and couldn't be more pleased.
I decided on that bike from your videos and many other singing its no hassle, no maintenance, easy to ride qualities.
Thanks for the video!!!
Ride well,
. Jeff .
Excellent advice to anyone looking for a dualsport. I own the CRF300 Rally and can't imagine needing more for my riding style. After upgrading the suspension and many other mods to make it my unicorn I still paid way less than the 450L. Also, my skill level is about as good as my writing skills.
My 300l is awesome! It took me awhile to find this unicorn. I don't need the 450. Let's ride
I’ve got a 300L and a 450RL too. Like them both for different reasons.
Good work. You nailed it.
I currently own a 300L Rally as well as a 450L. Two different weapons for two different battles. When I want to do more extreme trails or ride to the track, it’s the CRF 450L. When I want to do more laid back trails and some lightweight adventure riding, it’s the CRF 300L Rally for me.
Haha, I hit that thumbs-up button at like 0:16 after you said the "if you have to ask..." part. The 300L is fantastic for guys like me that want something to get me from home to work, with those occasional forest service roads thrown in for funsies on the weekend. The 450L is something for the man that knows how to measure valves and gaps and change oil every 45 minutes like a KTM.
I love your way of explaining details like this. Specs don't always convey the character of anything really, let alone motorcycles. This just makes complete sense. Please keep making content like this for us beginners.
There’s another element that is very worth considering. The 300 due to it’s street ability can do huge trips with lots of highway. Not that it’s super fun on the highway but it’s better then 450s. The big thing is it will put up with it. You can make the 300 a world bike if you want. I haven’t owned the 450L but I had a wr450f with plate on it for years. Awesome nutty bike but limited in real travel. Of the main dual sport, supermotos I’ve owned (drz, wr450f, Xr650r, crf300l) the 300L is the only one that I would try to ride to Alaska and back on. And suspension with some bolt ons make it really nice.
I can’t believe anyone hasn’t noticed the legend has spoken 😅totally agree Jake the 300L is bike I would consider that trip on.
It would be a boring trip riding at scooter speeds no fun power
Out of those listed, I'm going to have to choose the XR650L to travel to Alaska. Oil cooler, proper carb, larger tank(with spare), panniers and luggage.
@@keithquinn5624tell me you don't ride without telling me you don't ride 🤣
if speed & power is all you value get a sportbike/sports tourer
Now that you own the CRF450L do you still stand by your assessment that the 300L is better on the road. I would think maybe in town, maybe . . . but any speeds over 50 I would want the 450L to be able to pass or use the acceleration to get away from trouble.
I hadn't ridden in 20 yrs and had my sights on the 300L but couldn't find one. I had the 450L in the back of my mind but was a little intimidated by it, but found a '19 450L for sale with only 2000 miles and most mods I had already considered so I bought it. The first week was super scary and I questioned my choice, but I ride at least an hour most days after work and do longer stuff on the weekend, I finally feel pretty comfortable on it and now don't regret the purchase at all. And as Ben said, the faster you go the better the bike feels and handles, it's extraordinary! 😄 Either way, get a bike and start exploring.
Excellent...straight info a lot of dealers don't know or won't tell you. After many bikes, I've learned the expensive way that when choosing a motorcycle, "Be true to thine own self" or you won't be happy.
Thank you for the time and effort to put these videos together. Very informative, and fun to watch.
Honestly a fantastic video which doesn't leave you with more questions than what you started with. Very well presented.
Very good, strong and valid points made here.
This will be a very helpful video.
And thanks for the shoutout! 👍🏻
You are an inspiration to us all
The service intervals and major cost difference was a large part of the decision making process of me buying a 300L
This comp video is spot on and amazingly insightful. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Great Video Ben, I have followed you for a while now, and yes you have them all covered in your Videos, plus the mods you have made to both bikes. Thank you!
Excellent advice Ben! You described the differences very well and I have to agree with you.
What a great video! You hit the nail on the head on your comparisons of the two motorcycles. I have five years of motocross racing when I was a younger man and my 450 L is definitely a thoroughbred. I have all the upgrades that you can put on it and it’s a very exciting bike, but I would not let anybody ride it, that didn’t have some good dirtbike experience.
Great video, I’ve been thinking about upgrading from my tw200 and adding another bike to the garage . This video helps in my research a lot, I really appreciate your honesty in your videos
Great advice. I would love this video updated in the future with comments on a 300LS vs Yamaha 250 XT to narrow the field a bit. I really enjoyed this video
Excellent advice! I've been dual-sport riding for the better part of 5 decades (started on a Yamaha DT125 in 1974), and I couldn't agree more. The "intensity" factor of my dual-sport bikes has followed a bell curve, peaking with a Husky 400 2-stroke (not technically street legal, but I managed to get it registered in my state) in my mid-30's, now tapered to a Suzuki DRZ-400s in my 60's... next step may be a Yamaha WR250R.
I drove a CR500 once and I personally will never! consider that FUN!!!!
Is the DRZ 400 a good beginner bike? Looking into riding forest roads in Idaho backcountry
@@jsf8145 It depends on how tall you are. I have a 34" inseam, so the DRZ would be an okay beginner bike for me. However, if you are vertically challenged, I would go with a dual sport with a lower seat height (when getting started with off-road riding, it's important to be able to "dab" easily).
I have no regrets buying my 450RL two years ago. The bike is a wild bull in it's stock form, but adding a throttle tamer and then ECU totally transformed the bike for me. The main reason why I bought this bike vs any other dual sport is the platform. This bike has amazing platform and the sky is the limit with building it to suit your needs.
Currently riding a 250R. But looking at a 450l for the dual purpose. Love running it hard. Scared the 300 will be to tame. Any thoughts?
@@jeepfish15 Get the 450RL! You will have to put some money into it, but it will be well worth it in the end. My top mods are:
1) Tires
2) Throttle Tamer
3) ECU
4) Windscreen
By adding a GET SX-1 ECU to the 450RL, you get a smooth running bike that's much easier to ride. And it hauls butt!! Not for beginners. I love it!
Pardon my stupidity; is there any advantage to new ecu vs just doing stock ecu reflash? This question applies to 300 and 450.
@@mfranquemont1884 Prior to getting my AIM ECU, I looked into a reflash/hack and was unable to find any procedure or hardware. Not sure if there is anything out there.
Good advice. I've owned a 450L since they came out and have ridden the 300L. From a larger experienced rider's perspective I found the 300L to be 3/4 sized, under sprung and under powered for street use. Fine for casual trails but mixed dual sport that includes highway you're staying inline and not passing if there's any hills. For the larger more experienced rider moving to dual sport I think a DRZ400 or DR650 would be better starting points with the additional displacement for street use and better suspension that will be ok right out of the box. The bike I'm hoping to see Honda build is a CRF600 Rally. Shin height rally tanks, big seat and passenger pegs would pull me away from the 450.
If you're a seasoned off road rider. Especially a larger rider (I'm 6' 240lbs) the DR will need $2500k of suspension upgrades right off the bat along with a long list of other upgrades to make it a great bike off road. You can easily put $5k in upgrades in a DR getting it dialed in but once you do it's a reliable weapon. ✌️
@@AzTurboMiniof just start with an XR650L base and use that money more wisely.
An excellent review of these two bikes. Bravo!!
I have an odd comparison to make. I bought my 450RL new two years ago, have put 11,500miles on it, and have used it for everything from MX tracks to regular commuting. Recently, I acquired a low hours '19 CRF250R which has the same chassis and geometry, just far lighter and similar HP. This weekend I went to a track I'd been to previously on the 450RL, expecting a night and day difference. I was amazed to find that I might actually be faster on the porky 450. The 250 is certainly more nimble, and doesn't land like a dumptruck, but the 450's torque and handling is just dang good. I came away with a greater appreciation for what the CRF450L/RL can do.
Good video thanks, I completely agree with your assessment. I just rode the SA version of the 300L in Colombia in sand, highway, whoops, etc., and it was very forgiving and fun. It was gutless yes but that lack of power kept my speed down and kept me safe. I own a 2019 450L and just as you mentioned have put little clicks on it because I had a tumble and tore my shoulder. The 450L is a beast especially if you uncork it and I paid the price. Having recovered now I’m selling the 450L because I want to remain in one piece. I wouldn’t buy the 300L because my other bike meets all my needs better then both the Hondas, it’s a KTM 890 Adventure R. A big bike but super stable at any speed off road and good on the highway. Matches my skill and riding needs perfectly
Love it, "If you have to ask which one is best for you, get the 300L"! Perfect, end of vid, 'nuff said! Keep up the great content Ben. You and Ian remain top of the pile on my favorite CZcams MC personalities.
Cracking video, you talk a lot of sense. I’ve been riding bikes for 56 years, I’ve raced bikes, had road bikes etc etc. so many folks are taken in by the dealerships saying yeah you’ll be fine on it, easy to control etc etc and next thing you know the rider and the new bike are sliding down the road or track. Me personally I’m downsizing from an ATAS DCT 1100 to 300 Rally, not because I wouldn’t be able to handle the power of the 450 but because I want to enjoy a tame bike without the hassle of maintaining it every few hours. Great video and ride safe 👍🏻
Well said. Ive always said that, in particular toward the throttle response, is that ones a dimmer and the other is a light switch.
Great video. And super honest 👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks 🤘🏼
Really good discussion and nice to see that Oregon landscape again. Hilarious chennel name - that's what pulled me in.
Can’t say enough good things about my 450L. I absolutely love it. Couple of issues; I’ve found it to be a splendid pavement machine. No, it’s not a Goldwing, but I’ve ridden far worse dirt-oriented machines on the street. And as for the ‘excessive’ maintenance; I maintain mine according to how it’s been ridden, using my air filter as my barometer. I’ve been known to change oil the same day after getting home from the MX track. I’ve also been known to push it to 1200 miles if it’s just me doing old guy dualsport stuff.
Otherwise, great video. I’ve been riding since 1969, and raced MX & off-road for 35ish years. The 450L is a landmark bike for Honda. It’s a gem. I’m glad I get to experience it while I’m still able to. (I’ll be 61 next month.) Carry on.
Excessive by comparison. I'm doing 1000 mile oil changes and for most people that's only a few times a year. I've just had to do it 3 times in the last month because of all the trips I've been taking, so it feels excessive at the moment, lol.
Why such early oil changes
Great video and excellent advice, thank you!
great honest advice. Well done Mr Dork!
For tall, bigger riders, a good alternative might be the honda XR650L. It's inexpensive, reliable, not too powerful , not too heavy (350 lbs), but can go just about anywhere. It's low tech, easy to work on with lots of aftermarket parts, etc. and hasn't changed much since the 1990's.
I was on a ride with a friend I'd just met and he referred to my bike as "your 450". I said it's a 650, and he was "whaaaa? ... well you ride it like a 450" 😂
Bought one this past April (2023) already have 14k miles on it.
@@swamp033127
Keep your countershaft splines lubed, and use a 650R width engagement sprocket.
@@swamp033127how is it?
thankyou for all of the crf300 info, its a bike I'm looking at buying soon!
Great video man! Wonderful information and advice, thanks!
Hey Ben! Nice comparison! I've recently stepped away from two different bikes; a 2023 Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer, and a 2021 Ducati Fasthouse Desert Sled. I raced motocross when I was younger, so I believe I'd be able to ride the 450L without issue, but part of me just doesn't want the hassle the 450 entails.. trail riding at my age involves far more enjoying the countryside views, and less having to pay attention to the bike. As the old saying goes, my 67 year old mind is writing checks my body can't cash!
The money saved buying the 300L will buy some new gear and suspension upgrades. Ciao for now!
I have a wr 450 and a Honda 300l Rally and wholeheartedly agree with your comments. I'm an experienced rider and I would advise just as you did.
Thank you for saying it blunty! Too many people think they can manage the 450 because they hear the 250l/300l is "gutless", meanwhile they wouldn't even be able to ride in the powerband on the 300l on a trail nevermind the 450.. A lot of people come from 600+ cc road-oriented bikes and think that "oh 450 is small, I can manage that", but then they scare themselves and the bike collects dust for 2 years. I'm going to go one step further on your statement @6:13; find the limitations, ride it to its max, and then keep going further. Think 110%, you should be riding the sucker around corners at 100% throttle and trying to drift the whole way through. using the clutch to get traction, get some wheelies over obsticals on the 300, ect. That's when you should graduate yourself to the 450 if you still want more dirt power. Well spoken and thanks for cutting out the selling a bike slogan, lot of people think with their ⚾⚾'s instead of doing the practical thing and working on their rider skills on something that has more than enough dirt capability for them. Not to discreddit that the 300L is poorly sprung and a rider would benefit more from having the better suspension of the 450, but you can ride those 250/300's harder than some can imagine..
Man, nice real deal viewpoint thank u
I knew most of this because of your channel. When I first started considering off-road, I had exactly the same question you mentioned. So glad you talked me out of the 450.
… And then I bought a Himalayan 😆
Perfect! Exactly what I needed to hear. Thanks
Made my decision final. Awesome video man thanks 🫡
Great video - thanks. I’d put some additional focus on the maintenance intervals between the two - the 450RL requires oil changes every 600 to 1000 miles and valve adjustments (if ridden hard) every 2000 miles.
very good point. and to add the crf300l requires oil changes at every 8k
I had no idea they were this different. I really thought they were similar but one just had a little more oomph. Sounds like it's a stark difference between the two. Very informative! Thank you.
450 is a rocket ship.
@@371kenny So I am gathering. It doesn't have much impact for me as I'm not in the market for either, but I really appreciate Ben providing the info!
Spot on, at 57 I own the 300l have have spent the same as the purchase price of the 450. Service interval on the 300L are friendly. I ride gravel with big bikes I have rode the 450 and love the fun factor it’s more work to ride. Dork I think this is one of your best reviews
Thank you
Great advice sir. Much appreciated.
Great video. Thanks!
Awesome info, thank you!
You answered my question super quickly. Under 3.5 minutes to be exact. 450 it is! Thank you
Try to find someone with the bike you’re most interested in before purchasing. If possible!
I love your reviews! You make me laugh every time!
Like the looks of your 300, the crash bars & saddle bags
Just bought a 300l 2 days ago. Had to drive 2 hours and pass 12 Honda dealerships to get one. It's pretty rad. Just got the seat concepts comfort xl based on Dork's previous reccomendation and installed last night. Looking forward to many miles of riding.
Great video. As a current R1250GS Adventure owner that sees some light trails on that bike, I have been weighing the decision of what I intend to use for my Oregon BDR ride next September. I've been eyeing up the CRF450L with the intent of improving suspension, comfort in the seat, and carrying the gear I need. The challenge with all of these bikes in that class (to me) is that you either look at bikes at the top of the class (EXC450 Six Days) or buy a cheaper Japanese bike like the 450L or a WR450L and spend the money on suspension and upgrades and have the benefit of simpler maintenance and perhaps, greater reliability than the Huskies and KTM's. Sorry to ramble.. but your videos are entertaining and full of good information.
Just get a 300L Rally. Spend way less. Get the big bore kit for it from 550performance if you are worried about power. Upgrade your suspension. You don't have to race through your trip. Instead, enjoy it.
Great video, reminds me of the days when I was mad that so many bikes were high maintenance. I had to be patient and eventually Honda made the 300.
dude, great video!
Great video sir..
Excellent advice.
Great video and compare and contrast
Good video brother. I bought my KLX250S because it was my first dirt worthy bike (at 50 years old) and I knew I could big bore it relatively cheap. It now sits at 331, and I have about 2300 trail miles under my belt (mostly singletrack and moderate two-track). I sometimes lust for something more modern and high-strung, but truth is, she is as fast as I need to go. Honda 450L looks like a lot of fun, but I'm going to stick with the known quantity and try to keep my knees and shoulders as functional as possible for as long as possible...LOL (56 this year)
Perspective is always important and "mule vs thoroughbred" is a good analogy. As a long time rider who started with dual sports, spent 6 years doing closed circuit motocross and GP, then coming back to dual sport I appreciate different tools for different purposes. The DRZ400S might be a middle ground between these two with more "hoot" than the CRF300L and more forgiving than the CRF450L. As an older 180lb rider with a lot of experience I simply don't want to work so hard as the CRF450 will demand. A CRF300L with suspension tune to sharpen it up is a tool that would take me far and I would arrive at the destination after a long ride relaxed instead of wild eyed.
Just picked up my 300 rally. First bike for me thanks for the fantastic content. Any recommendations for a cover? Gonna be leaving it in the driveway until winter begins
Spot on video, Ben. Old school Honda guy, been riding XRs all my life. Absolutely LOVE my XR650r, but I’m over 50 and the power and weight just aren’t that fun anymore. Bought an XR250R last year and what a difference eighty pounds and less than half the horsepower makes! Would love to dual sport both of these bikes, but unfortunately Kentucky isn’t an easy place to do that ( pretty impossible!!). So, I did the next best thing and after a hundred phone calls and a long wait, picked up my 2023 300 Rally ABS two weeks ago. I can honestly say it is the most fun I’ve EVER had on two wheels!!! Smooth, quiet, super comfortable, and very refined compared to all of my old school sleds. Doubt I will ever part with the BRP or the LRP, as they too are excellent bikes, but I’m really looking forward to making the rally suit me with the appropriate mods. I live in a beautiful area to ride dual sport, and this platform truly is excellent for beginners or veteran riders. Be sss as de, Ben and keep up the great work!!
From what I see the 300L is lighter.
Excellent explanation!
Thanks for the video and saving me some money and time
Perfect review.
Did sell my 2021 Husqvarna TP250 for a 300L.
For me much more fun on the backcountry roads.
I owned a KTM 520 EXC and it was way over my skill level. It got stolen and at the time that was a real bummer, but it probably saved my life. I gave it a year (just kept riding my XL600V TransAlp for some light offroading) and when my wife picked up a 300L and I rode that, I was sold and bought one myself. So now I'm gradually increasing my skills on that, going moto camping next week!
im learning riding a bike on a 300! its so nice!!
Great review dude, I rode the CRF300L through Costa Rica recently and found it really 'wallowy' like the suspension was way too soft front and rear, and I'm only an 80kg rider. Is that consistent from stock? I will admit I didn't set preload or adjust the compression and dampening, so Im curious. Also, do you reckon the 450 Suspension is better?
My dad started me on a late 80's honda xr100 when i was 10, when i was 14 i got a 2006 crf230f. Then when i was 18 (24 now) i got his 2004 yzf250, although havent ridden it much due to long haul trucking for the oast 5 years. This spring i decided to take some time off and explore the western half US and western Canada, then head up to Alaska.
But for that trip i knew i was going to be changing altitude and wanted something that wasnt quite as twitchy as my yzf and street legal, so i got a 2018 250L.
Fantastic bike, there has been only 1 hill (it was optional) that i couldnt get up with it, and that might have been just me. I love the gearing it has, being abke to lug along in first gear at 5mph and then cruise on the highway at 65-70 is awesome.
The low seat height is great, as its helpful to "walk" the bike through a sketchy part of trail, i love the fuel injection, as ive rudden it up to 12,700 ft with no issues.
The forks are really soft, any air over 2ft off a jump and they woukd bottom out. Just did a racetech upgrade where you add a spring into the left fork where the damper is, with only a 5 min test ride i can tell its already better.
Ive put about 1200 miles on the bike so far, and its never been too much to handle, in fact i mught look into a few power upgrades to give it a little boost. I'm thinking ill keep this bike for quite a while.
A+ advice for a new rider. The internet needs more real information like this
Thanks for the video, the 250/300 is just a wonderful fun bike to ride full of pleasant surprises.
I’m currently trying to decide between the T700, 500/350 exc and the crf450L. Have you had the fuel starvation problems that I’ve read about? We have a lot of unmaintained roads where I live. I’m looking for a fun bike to explore with. I do my own maintenance on snowmobiles and atv’s.
Thank you for your thoughts!
Hi DITR, great insight for beginners. I wish I started on a soft easy DS. My buddies got me on a 250f motocrosser for single track back 7 years ago or so and almost gave up riding so many times. I could barely keep it going, clutch was a nightmare, suspension harsh, on/off power, and bloody hard to kick start! I now own a street legal Yamaha wr450f and would probably only have been capable to not get myself into trouble on such a bike for the last couple of years (still can though lol). It’s a hunk of junk on the road, but so much better at offroad than my frackled DR650 was once you get to the trails. I went the enduro riding route, now dabbling with on-road, but I think starting on something like the 300L/klx300, or cr230f or ttr230 or crf250x would be the best entry point for someone wanting to do either dual sporting or beginner off-roading. Cheers for the content!
I thought my 12 years of street riding 150hp+ bikes made me ready for the 450RL on the trails. WRONG. After ~6 whiskey throttle crashes, I bought a KLX140F to practice the basics of off-road riding and positioning. I love the 450 and can't wait to graduate from the 140 to give it another shot. Great vids, love your content!
Great video. I agree. With every you said. The only thing I would add is the 450 is not a fun bike for slow technical trails and some single track. Did I mention great video? Keep up the good work
In stock form it definitely isn't. With the mods I've done, it's a beast in the technical stuff.
I bought a 450RL coming from a motocross background wanting a motocross bike I can ride on the road. I also knew going into it that I would have to spend money on an exhaust and ecu, and after getting those mods along with a thermostat and emissions delete I can say with 100% confidence I have no regrets.
Very good video.
Thanks , the no bullshit analysis I was looking for 👍
What’s your take?
I believe you are spot on!
I’m am so glad I started on a 300, I got the 23’ KLX300 back in April this year so I’m new to dualsport riding or riding in general, I get harassed frequently about riding a “baby bike” but then I throw the 7k mile service intervals in their face and that usually shuts them down. Initially the first bike I looked at was the CRF450l. But once upon a time I rode my brothers yzf 450 and thought back to then and me having to literally lay on the gas tank under acceleration in 4th gear just to keep the dam thing from trying to throw me of the back of it. Well I was reminded of that and settled on the 300cc category. I also commute 20miles to work, and after work or on the weekends like to explore the network of forestry roads and single track by my house near Mt. Rainier. My bike KLX300 is just like you said it is a very capable “Mule” and not a racehorse. Plus I’m in my mid 40’s and 6’ 150lbs. I’m not in a hurry to bust up my body for the thrills. I enjoy exploring and finding cools places to take in the scenery of landscapes. Love your channel dork, your the first person I heard “ATGATT” and have followed it every time n the road I “dress for the slide and not the ride”
Hey Ben noticing a huge improvement in your helmet voice recordings and hearing Travis, etc just as good. Please update on your current set up please!
I appreciate this video, as I think I'm going to get a CRF300LS for my Australia trip!
Jake, the garden snake just made a great video on helmet setup and I basically just copy him every time
True video. Love my 450l after I did the common mods. I also am an experienced rider and can see clearly that this bike is not for new riders. It want to go fast all the time making it a little difficult at slow speeds offroad, however seasonal roads/ open cut trails and highways I think this bike is the winner
I had a YZ426F way back in the day when these high performance 4 strokes were first coming out, and I was not an inexperienced rider, and whew, what a beast. All that torque and power sounds like a good idea until you have to hold on to it all day. You need to be fit! I swapped it out for a WR250F and was much happier with that bike.
You got it absolutely right. Long story short I am 30 years old and I'm a 450L owner who had climbed the ladder up since I was 5 years old (Pw50, Pw70, XR200R, KLR250, 3x KLR650, TE510, EXC500, CRF450L) I totally agree that in the stock form this was the hardest and the less enjoyable bike to handle I ever had. That said, once uncorked with a proper seat, somewhat of a windshield, an aftermarket ECU, an aftermarket exhaust and a +7oz flywheel added over the stock bike, it became my favorite bike ever (but 19k$ CAD total cost ouch). I do everything with that bike, it is just so versatile! The only downside is that it now became a weapon for a new rider lol. I personally love it and use the power jumping every log and rock on the trails or doing wheelies at stop signs... but my buddy who just started riding have the 300 rally and he can almost keep up on the trail while he his focusing on the basics. We did put some Ohlin's suspensions on the 300 and its now PERFECT for a rookie. We tried each other bikes and we would never trade up. I prefer mine and hate his, and vis versa. So again, you are 100% on it.
Of interest . . . I started with a BMW 90GS spent too little time riding it before I went to RawHide class and got coach up to the BMW 1200GS ... that did not work. So, I dialed down to the KLR 650 and now I am looking at the Honda CRF 300 L Rally. In short, I think I should have worked up as you suggested. Good post - I am checking out your other videos on the CRF now !!!
This is a great way to split it. Coming from a ktm450exc i debated buying the 450L but after riding my brothers decided that it wasn't the right tool for the job for me. Too similar to the exc in things i was trying to get away from. I am what i would consider a pretty decent weekend warrior but was looking for something i needed to put zero thought into, could easily ride slow and mellow behind my daughters (7&10) and happily log long(500km+) days on with my camping gear. For me picking up a used 300L and tossing some money at it for suspension and a bit of performance made more sense. Both fantastic bikes, but both very different bikes. I can make the 300L ride tight single track at a respectable rate, load it up with camping gear for multi day trips, and still put auper slow behind my girls while they learn to ride. Skilled in many trades but master in none.
Video is right-on. I have both plus and an Africa Twin. I bought the 300l first and built it up for off road. Oddly, the 450l feels like my built 300l but with crazy power and a bit more height.
I think you got the differences pretty spot on. I have a few buddies with 250L's so I have seat time with them, they are indeed a very good intro bike for those looking to get into the dual sport/lw adv bike scene. I owned a 450L for a few years, l absolutely loved it after I got it all set up but in bone stock form it was a bit of a mess. I have a KTM 500 now which is a slightly better version of the 450L but they are certainly peers. I have another buddy with a 450L (he quickly moved up from a 250L, too soon imho) that really has no business riding/owning it but he keeps pushing himself with it and is likely getting better. They are very different tools that warrant very different skillsets but both are fine options in this segment.
awesome video thank you. where do you think the Honda CRF250RX stands in this comparison. If you're just doing trails and no road, would you personally rather be on the 250RX or the 450L?
You’re spot on. I rode dirt bikes as a kid and had tons of street mile before venturing into dual sports. I went with a wr250r for my first dual sport. After 1.5 years and 2000 miles off road including 2 bdrs I was finding the suspension limits/drawbacks to the wr. After the NEBDR I called the Honda dealer and got a 2022 crf450rl. I wouldn’t be as confident as I am now on the 450 if I hadn’t started on the 250. I still have and ride the wr250r, it’s a great bike The 450 is worth every penny off road and not bad on the road, way better than the WR.
I watch all your videos and I strictly ride hard enduro. Just good content for every rider imo
Also having both bike your description is very good. For a few hours fun in the woods or the hills I take the 450L. For a days riding or a “mini adventure” I take the CRF300 Rally. For everything else I have the T7 world raid.
Spoiled for choice.
You sir, nailed it!!!
I see Excite Bike intro and I subscribe. 🏍️
Wow. Awesome auto correct there ! Be safe,Ben!
I have a 300L and a T7. I think you summed it up very well. I picked up the 300L to gain some experience off road before heading there with the T7. I have since found myself trying to do more enduro type riding and it is there that the limitations of the 300L are realized, at least for me. I feel I’m asking more of the bike than it is capable of in its stock form. Gearing is too high, suspension is too soft, and power is too lacking. While you can address most of this, by the time you do that you will have put another $3 grand in the bike. I’m currently looking at a Beta 390 or possible the 430 to replace the Honda…
If you want an easy bike to ride, one that is good on road and on forest service roads, dirt two track, or even easy single track, the Honda works extremely well. But if things start getting a little more technical, the 300L struggles to keep up…at least that’s my experience.