Honda CRF300L vs Kawasaki KLX300 (Now That I've Ridden Both Off Road)

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  • čas přidán 23. 05. 2023
  • The Honda CRF300L and Kawasaki KLX300 are two of the best values in dual sport motorcycles. Both are capable, easy to ride, incredibly reliable, and affordable for most riders. For new and intermediate riders looking for the best entry level dual sport motorcycle, KLX 300 vs CRF 300L is quite a dilemma. On paper, Honda CRF300L vs KLX300 is a dead heat. But once you ride both the KLX and the CRF, how do they actually feel? Which of these beginner dual sport motorcycles is the best choice?
    I've now spent extensive time both with the Honda CRF300L off road and the Kawasaki KLX 300 off road and I am ready to give my complete and honest opinion about which is best beginner dual sport.
    At the end of the day, KLX300 vs CRF300 is a close match for a reason. These bikes are basically the same. There's honestly very little reason to choose one over the other because the feeling of riding both dual sports off road is the same. They're both capable but slow, bulletproof but undersprung, and inexpensive but with a clear limitations both on and off road.
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Komentáře • 391

  • @DorkintheRoad
    @DorkintheRoad  Před rokem +11

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    • @jameshaynes5890
      @jameshaynes5890 Před rokem

      At 6' 350lbs, is a CRF250-300l rally a no-go for me? This would be a first bike for me as well.

  • @alfshether5219
    @alfshether5219 Před rokem +18

    At 66 years old I sold my heavy adv bikes (3) and bought a 2018 250 Klx. Heavier shock and fork springs along with power upgrades and it dragged my 240 lb carcus through the woods with fun and made using 6th gear on the hwy possible. This year at 70 years young I added a 2023 Klx 300, with the same mods and now have a very capable adv/dual sport that I can pick up when things go sideways. Both the Kawasaki and Honda are a great platform for reasonable purchase price that can be upgraded to be much more capable with not huge dollars. Dealer choice was the determining factor. Ride happy, Alf.

  • @HillbillySnake
    @HillbillySnake Před rokem +74

    As someone that has also had the chance to ride both, I agree completely. You can literally pick “do I want a red bike or a green bike?” and either way you’ll have a great bike that’s so similarly matched to the competitor that it doesn’t matter.

    • @jothain
      @jothain Před rokem +1

      On Jap bikes it's quite many times the same thing. Same cc and style, well you can't go wrong no matter which of the brands you end up. I've owned Kawasaki and Yahama and I frequently use my girlfriends Honda. They're all solid choices and I really don't understand the make crazy people.

    • @tg8150
      @tg8150 Před rokem +2

      But not built in Japan anymore for these cheap bikes. Made in Thailand. Neither of these bikes have any power whatsoever. Trust me.

    • @jothain
      @jothain Před rokem +2

      @@tg8150 you don't always need power. My 600 xt has something like puny 40hp and it enough to keep it going in road speeds.

    • @GideonMagoh
      @GideonMagoh Před měsícem

      @@tg8150 Do you think these would be a bad choice if you're looking for a bike that you can commute to work at highway speeds while also having something that you can have fun in the woods with?

  • @bmotomo421
    @bmotomo421 Před rokem +56

    For someone closer to the weight the suspension is calibrated for, the KLX suspension is way better. Front and rear. And can be ridden way more aggressively off road. The 300l on the other hand, has the best power delivery. And a transmission with perfectly matched grear ratios to go with it. Those are the two biggest differences I noticed between the two. I had a 2021 KLX. And my brother has the 300L. Both of us have been riding/racing dirt bikes for thirty plus years. There something about these bikes that I feel make them a lot of fun no matter your skill level. The are just so user friendly. And both bike make noticeably more power with a fuel tuner and free flowing exhaust. The Honda suspension can easily be upgraded too. If you can get past the fact that for pure fun, you dont need to ride the highest performance bike. Either of these can do a lot more than most people think they can.

    • @GideonMagoh
      @GideonMagoh Před měsícem

      I've never rode; but I'm looking to get my first bike for commuting to work (25 miles on the highway) and fun in the woods.
      Any thoughts?

    • @chublez
      @chublez Před měsícem

      ​@GideonMagoh Go buy one. Either. Whichever is in stock. Take the class. Get endorsement. Sit on em. If you can't figure which you like better buy the one you can pay the least for. More gas money.

    • @machupikachu1085
      @machupikachu1085 Před 28 dny

      @@GideonMagoh you will reach the limits on the suspension of the Honda way before you will reach the limits of the KLX. If you keep the Honda, you will upgrade the suspension. You may never need to on the KLX. Plus, that cammo is cool! Also, you may consider the KLX 300sm. It will be way better on road, and with some decent knobbies, it will tear it up off road. And the sm suspension is still way better than the Honda's.
      Cheers!

  • @joethompson297
    @joethompson297 Před rokem +55

    I would say, if you are a heavier rider, then the KLX's adjustable preload (rear) and compression (front/rear) tip the scales (I'm 240lbs +) Great review!

    • @CrustyMac300
      @CrustyMac300 Před rokem +4

      I have to agree with you on that! I'm 200 plus gear can get up to that 225/230 lbs range, have adjusted the suspension to my likes, turned the spring load up six rotations and although it's still too soft, the compression damping adjustments front and rear have helped significantly.

    • @KingFriday274
      @KingFriday274 Před rokem

      I'm 180lbs. I'm going to try some race tech springs in the front as my first mod. It's too soft and sags a lot.

    • @joethompson297
      @joethompson297 Před rokem

      @@KingFriday274 adjusting the compression helps in the front. It’s set very soft from the factory

    • @KingFriday274
      @KingFriday274 Před rokem

      @joethompson297 compression dampening doesn't do anything for preload/sag. It sags 3.5 inches.

    • @machupikachu1085
      @machupikachu1085 Před 28 dny

      @@KingFriday274 I dated a girl like that in college.

  • @Kenny_C346
    @Kenny_C346 Před rokem +22

    Recently purchased my very 1st bike having never rode before. Bought the KLX300ds and absolutely love it. Your gear reviews and videos have been a big help.

    • @DorkintheRoad
      @DorkintheRoad  Před rokem +2

      Great bike. Glad you're enjoying it

    • @leeinwis
      @leeinwis Před 5 měsíci

      The cow knows how to make bikes 😃.

    • @pieterrossouw8596
      @pieterrossouw8596 Před 4 měsíci +1

      @@DorkintheRoad I'm also looking at thilese bikes and with a budget stretch I'm considering a CR500X. I'm ~290 lbs and pretty tall, probably just over 300 with gear. Can these 300cc bikes handle that or should I be looking in the 500-650cc range. I like the Vstrom too but 650 feels a bit intimidating as a first bike since I've only ever rode a 125cc scooter 10+ years ago.

    • @rsbreeze
      @rsbreeze Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@pieterrossouw8596 check out the Honda XR650.

  • @iRideA10Speed900
    @iRideA10Speed900 Před rokem +3

    Really happy to see your thoughts on the KLX! Just picked one up today and looking forward to dabbing my foot into the off-road world!

  • @twowheeledadventures5615
    @twowheeledadventures5615 Před rokem +12

    Considerations: For light adventure riding, the CRF300L has longer valve check intervals and larger, after-market fuel tank availability. KLX has "usable" suspension, unlike the CRF which needs to be replaced.

  • @heirvon_558
    @heirvon_558 Před rokem +2

    Excellent video. I bought the KLX300 simply because it was available. Very happy with it after many modifications. But I knew that going in. Thanks again for good content.

  • @johnpagejr.7628
    @johnpagejr.7628 Před rokem +4

    Great advice Ben! I have the CRF300L Rally and love it. I did not consider the KLX because there was none available in my area. I had to wait almost 6 months to get the CRF. But I think it was worth the wait. So all you out there wanting one or the other of these bikes, take Dork In The Roads advice and get what ever one you can get and ride it like you stole it. Witch is not going to be very fast but loads of fun.

  • @ronny-drz
    @ronny-drz Před rokem +2

    Tough call to decide which one to get. Good video, great info and very well said! Cheers, Ronny

  • @curtishouser7173
    @curtishouser7173 Před rokem +1

    Probably not what most people want to hear that are looking to make a purchase but probably the best opinion. Well done.

  • @KLX300-Rider
    @KLX300-Rider Před 2 měsíci +1

    Excellent points made! Since they are so similar, & a win / win, I decided to buy the 2024 KLX 300 (lime green) as my first bike because I really like the look over the Honda. There's something about that green that just grabs me. I can also say that this will NOT be the only bike I buy. I have been infected with the love of riding, the love of bikes & wish I had gotten one decades ago, not waiting until I was 54 years old. Thanks for all you put into making these videos, they truly are helpful & APPRECIATED!

  • @DerrickNedzelMtnBike
    @DerrickNedzelMtnBike Před rokem +5

    Great advice, thank you for focusing on what really matters for a new rider!

  • @humbertogonzalez7505
    @humbertogonzalez7505 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Really enjoyed the review. I learned to ride on a klx250 back in the early 80’s. Now that I’m older, a little bit more mature and much, much heavier, I still like small displacement motorcycles.

  • @kensmith3665
    @kensmith3665 Před rokem

    So on the nail, did you hit this! So refreshing.

  • @ndrew19
    @ndrew19 Před rokem

    Owned both...currently on a modded out KLX...and could not agree with your assessment more. Right on🤟

  • @rebman5150
    @rebman5150 Před rokem +6

    Probably the best advice I've heard from any reviewer on these and similar bikes. Stop worrying about the tiny details. Big picture; just go get one and ride! I'm going Kawasaki. I have a Z900, and Kawis are on sale to the end of June (if buying new) and Hondas are damn near impossible to find right now, new or used. Many used prices are equal to new; crazy.

  • @MrRickrm
    @MrRickrm Před rokem +2

    My buddy rides a gs 800. Now has the Kawasaki. Yesterday after we set up his suspension, he is about your size. He was loving it. In some water crossings and very tight turn around he thought the kawai was so much easier. Following behind on my wr250r I was amazed at how well it went. Those stock tires are really pretty good.

  • @ffiddy
    @ffiddy Před 8 měsíci +1

    I've been watching your videos for about a year (KEEP IT UP!!). And because of that, I was leaning heavily towards a CRF300L Rally when your logic prevailed with 'don't get caught up on the minutia' mentality> so, I went with a 2020 CRF250L Rally instead (doubt I'll notice ~2 HP / ~2 FPT). Having said that, my brother and I both have been wanting to get out and do some 'dual-sport stuff.' Ie: camping, fishing, pleasure riding, etc. Well, I've pulled the trigger on my 2020 CRF250 Rally and my brother is still in the deciding phase and saving his OT for his 1st dual sport bike. He's leaning towards a Kawi 300 and I hope this video helps him make a decision sooner vs later. THANK YOU for the content. You were VERY instrumental in my decision making> so much so, that I bought my wife a 2020 CRF250L also! We ride around our property and on back roads near Grass Valley, CA. MOST FUN to be had while fully clothed!! Looking forward to new content, hope you had a good Thanksgiving! ~fiddy

  • @Rickmac22
    @Rickmac22 Před rokem +1

    Dude! Great review! Love your objective honesty... Keep reviewing and riding.

  • @bluhoss4768
    @bluhoss4768 Před rokem +2

    I started with a BMW 850gs and bit off more than I could handle. I purchased a 300L and I'm having a blast building my dirt skills. Loved the BMW and may go back to it after I become more proficient on the dirt. Love the 300L right now.

  • @trailsandtires1457
    @trailsandtires1457 Před rokem

    This Might be the best review I have watched in awhile!

  • @merryequipment
    @merryequipment Před rokem

    This is a great video. Thank You!! Can’t argue with a fair closing like that!

  • @Jack-lp4jd
    @Jack-lp4jd Před 11 měsíci +1

    Great video! First comparison video where you said the deciding factor should be price and the other stuff is negligable. The others just left me in the same situation where I can't make a decision.

  • @milesholland6826
    @milesholland6826 Před 3 měsíci

    Great review. I, too, struggle over details. Your practical view is really helpful. Thank you

  • @Jonnyjackhammer
    @Jonnyjackhammer Před 11 měsíci +1

    Going with the 2023 Klx 300 R. Always have ridden Honda but want to switch it up. Great vid!

  • @josephthornton8560
    @josephthornton8560 Před rokem +3

    Great review, I own 2 KLX 300s, I weigh 270# and I have to agree with your conclusion. I bought my bikes knowing what I was buying them for.

  • @tomg4592
    @tomg4592 Před rokem

    Good review and I like your take on these two bikes. Most people won't be able to tell any difference.

  • @danshobbies13
    @danshobbies13 Před rokem +7

    I just picked up a KLX 300 a few weeks ago. I love it and it handles my 6 foot 295 pounds just fine. I’m very impressed actually.

    • @cyclonus01
      @cyclonus01 Před 5 měsíci +1

      I'm 6 feet 255 to 260lbs. Will this bike perform well for someone like me with no mods? Seems like the crf300l or rally needs mods for heavier riders?

    • @JordanC100
      @JordanC100 Před 3 měsíci

      ​@@cyclonus01 did you ever grab it?

    • @cyclonus01
      @cyclonus01 Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@JordanC100 nope, looking to get a crf450l instead.

  • @Theairguitarguy
    @Theairguitarguy Před rokem

    Great comparison, cheers!

  • @StansE250
    @StansE250 Před 9 měsíci

    Appreciate the candor. At the end of the day, I’ve never chosen to spend much time on Kawasakis. I HAVE spent (all) of my time on Hondas & Yammies. That’s the comparisons that I generally lean toward ….

  • @kawabungah20
    @kawabungah20 Před rokem

    Excellent advice! You, Ben, are excellent to us!

  • @lesterroberts4787
    @lesterroberts4787 Před rokem

    Awesome comparison, well done Dork.

  • @wherewithalmoto
    @wherewithalmoto Před rokem +50

    Please don't try the blindfold test, might be fun to watch but don't really want to see what would happen 😂

    • @Choice15
      @Choice15 Před rokem +2

      I don’t think you will see anything that’s happening

  • @ianferrier235
    @ianferrier235 Před rokem

    Really enjoyed that Scott, I like the moto talk maybe even more than the rides😊

  • @scottp2696
    @scottp2696 Před rokem

    Love it nice honest straight forward review

  • @zavaz987
    @zavaz987 Před rokem +11

    This is nice to hear. I had been researching both and leaning towards the CRF, but they appear to be non-existent, at least in my part of the country, New England. About 6 weeks ago, I found a KLX at a dealer in MA (I live in VT) that hadn't been sold already (they sell out within a day or two of being posted on a dealer's website; I'd already missed a couple). I've been happy with the KLX and it's nice to know that the differences aren't worth agonizing over.

    • @sebkorsnes
      @sebkorsnes Před rokem

      Tell me about it! Im in New England too and I cant find a CRF ANYWHERE. Called a dealer and he said the waiting list was 30+ people for the CRF.

    • @CrustyMac300
      @CrustyMac300 Před rokem +2

      I was looking for a Yamaha, non-existent, Honda - same. Walked into a Kawasaki dealership, one on the floor and walked out the door with it. Been happy I did and never looked back! I've already spent half as much as list price on it in modifications and have made it into everything I was looking for. Now I need to either lose about 25 lbs or get a stiffer rear spring, then I'll be ready for a BDR or extended multi-day off-road moto camping excursion. Mine is the Camo Gray version.

    • @Jonnyca21
      @Jonnyca21 Před rokem

      I ended up getting an older CRF250L Rally because I couldn't find a CRF300L/Rally and the KLX300 wasn't available yet (at the time). Also can't get a KLX300 around my area so will be some time before I can upgrade and so at this point I might end up just sticking with the 250 as it already has upgraded suspension and I really like the way it rides. Would have liked the little extra power in the 300 and the way the setup the gearing better but I can live with the 250 and a bit larger rear sprocket at this stage of it all.

    • @brycetheshredder
      @brycetheshredder Před rokem +1

      @@Jonnyca21 yeah the extra power isn’t worth having to upgrade the suspension all over again.
      Suspension goes so much farther on these bikes than a couple extra horsepower. Especially for what they were designed to do.

  • @coachp7486
    @coachp7486 Před 9 měsíci

    Really ‘bang on’ with your closing comments. The one part you touched on that may be more of a decisive factor is the dealer. Is there one closest to you ? Do you have a fave dealership that has treated you well ? Are there good mechanics there ? Is there a trust factor there that can make the decision easier for you ? Like Mr. Dork said, the diff btw these two bikes is small and the marketing that’s out there is there to try to sway you. He’s right. But maybe it’s the dealer choice that really matters in this scenario ? Thanks for sharing this vid, Mr. Dork. 👍🏽

  • @Michael_Shay
    @Michael_Shay Před rokem +2

    I'm a newish rider on a CRF250L Rally and it's my first bike. Honestly I wouldn't have known the suspension was bad if nobody said anything. I may have felt something was a bit off but not known exactly what but I don't think I would've known. Just because I have no point of comparison. I've ridden my bike, a TW200, and a DRZ400 for about 5 minutes. Realistically a new rider is gonna be happy with whatever bike they get because they're just happy to be on a bike.
    I think you're right when you say get whatever one you can get the best deal on. Also with the Honda, get the one that you can find near you. The Honda dealerships in my city still have a 1+ year wait time on these bikes. Whereas I've actually seen KLXs in stock at places.

  • @zr2trackerjoe
    @zr2trackerjoe Před rokem +8

    I finished the last power mod on my KLX and totally wish they could just sell it this way. Noticeably different from stock. 10400 miles worth of fun!

    • @jakebaur2148
      @jakebaur2148 Před 11 měsíci

      I am trying to buy my first bike in 20 years and have been zeroing in on the KLX300R. What type of mods have you done to your bike?

  • @timclarke1032
    @timclarke1032 Před 9 měsíci

    solid comparison, thank you from another big guy

  • @wipperwil
    @wipperwil Před rokem

    Thanks Dork…. Best appraisal on the topic ever.

  • @pcmaust
    @pcmaust Před rokem

    I am currently a Honda owner (XR650l) and consider myself to be a pretty darn proficient trail rider. But, I am old! My daughter has a Yamaha XT250. I did all of the mods for her. Bar risers, better bars, bark busters, seat concepts seat, etc etc etc... As I rode her bike more and more I discovered that I liked it and bikes in that size. So, I decided to buy either the Honda or the KLX. The KLX was available but the Honda 300 wasn't. Last weekend, I did a 140 mile loop from my house to Fawnskin near Big Bear and back. I would say 60 / 40 trails and tarmac. I rode hwy 138 up to Pilot Rock staging area and rode the trails from there into Big Bear. On the way home took 18 to 138 to get back. All on the KLX 300. I have to say, it did remarkably well even with the stock tires that came with it.. I am about to change those out for a decent set of 90/10 off-road tires. This week I am lowering the gearing which will make the bike near perfect. I've owned KTM, Husky, all the high end stuff. Now days, I am very happy to own and ride the retro stuff like the Honda XRL, and now the Kawi 300. I am a bit of a off-road snob so my bias is toward the Kawi primarily for the suspension. But I have no doubt that I would have enjoyed the Honda also. Still for me, the suspension sold me on the Kawi.

  • @maxwelch1330
    @maxwelch1330 Před rokem

    Literally decided on which one to get because ever since I was a 12 year old kid in the dealership who couldn’t afford a dirtbike and but fell in love with the green machines. Now at 20 I own the Kawasaki and absolutely love the thing

  • @wrayjordan7188
    @wrayjordan7188 Před 7 měsíci

    Great review. Thanks for the work on it.

  • @meanwileinthedesert..2320

    Great review. Nice hearing a vlogger keeping it 100. In the immortal words of late great Freddie Mercury, ''just get on your bikes and ride!''

  • @GrotrianSeiler
    @GrotrianSeiler Před rokem +3

    Really loving my new KLX. What a great bike. Has surpassed all expectations. All for $7400 out the door. Great fun!

  • @jasonkendrick1974
    @jasonkendrick1974 Před rokem +5

    Kawasaki is unveiling 16 new and revamped bikes for 2024 on June 6. The klx will be among them. Fingers crossed for an ABS option, a little power increase and/or some improvements in the instrumentation.

    • @DarrinSK
      @DarrinSK Před rokem +1

      You won't want that abs off road

  • @rodneybutler7939
    @rodneybutler7939 Před rokem

    GREAT VIDEO !!! All your video's are GREAT !!!!

  • @davidcamenga431
    @davidcamenga431 Před 2 měsíci

    Got a new 300L enjoying your adventures. I’ve upgraded tank 3.6 Acerbis, Acerbis Skid plate, Barkbusters. Next Friday doing full KTech suspension, Rear D606, Front Pirelli MT21.
    New KTech Fork cartridges , KTech shock.
    Looking forward to seeing how off road is with upgrades.

  • @chrisl3062
    @chrisl3062 Před rokem +1

    I have a 250L rally and really like having a windscreen. I absolutely love the look of the Kawasaki camo version though

  • @jwaller1327
    @jwaller1327 Před rokem +3

    I bought the KLX300 because it became available first. My buddy waited and got the CRF300L. Both of us were just beginning off road riding, though we both had 20+ road experience. Not much between them. I still think the CRF300L is the clear winner for road and maybe the better do-it-all bike. But the KLX300 crashes better when riding off road. I never had to replace anything from dropping my KLX (which happened a lot as I was an inexperienced dirt rider). My buddy was always breaking things like plastics, gear levers, rear brake lever, etc. The black camo on the KLX does a good job of hiding scratches and stuff that would be obvious on the green one or a red CRF.

  • @adamniswonger8015
    @adamniswonger8015 Před rokem +1

    Good conclusion. I owned the crf 300and just test rode a KLX300. I also owned both of these as 250’s (as well as the wr250r). The center of gravity fees lower on the Kawi, but the engine vibes a lot more on the Kawi as well. Above 65 is less pleasant on the KLX if that’s a concern. If not, get either.

  • @matthewarnold8100
    @matthewarnold8100 Před rokem +1

    I have a KLX and I sometimes wonder if I would have been better with the Honda. Thanks for the review. I feel like I made the right choice. I think the KLX looks cooler. That's it! I'd still like to ride a CRF to see the difference for myself (or lack thereof).

  • @ashmite
    @ashmite Před rokem

    100% agree. I have a '17 CRF250L and with suspension upgrades and the EFI / Exhaust mod, it is a great bike, but it is easy to outgrow even with the suspension mods. So, I have put it up for sale as I'm looking for a more intermediate+ bike. I'm probably going to land on a DR-Z400S, which you've owned. I also have a DR650, so having two bikes with 5 speeds might be the way to go.
    I'd be interested in your thoughts on the CRF300L vs the DR-Z400S.

  • @WAZZUjohn03
    @WAZZUjohn03 Před rokem +1

    Well said. I would add the recommendation to buy from the dealership that gives you the best experience, and not just price.

  • @AbramsGunner
    @AbramsGunner Před rokem

    Bought my '09 KLX in 2016. It does everything I want it to do and I haven't felt the need to buy anything better. Drop the front to a 13 tooth, spring front and rear for your weight, and have fun!

  • @newguyrc1128
    @newguyrc1128 Před rokem +1

    A buddy of mine was looking at them. I told him to look at maintenance issues, and procedures, and get the one he can keep running easier.

  • @MrCorn34
    @MrCorn34 Před rokem +1

    Well said. For me the Honda having fuel and gear gauges is what swayed me to team red.

  • @Cat-tf5te
    @Cat-tf5te Před 11 měsíci

    Great review! Thank you!

  • @airadaimagery692
    @airadaimagery692 Před rokem +4

    I totally agree. I’ve owned both Honda and Kawasaki motorcycles for more than 40 years now, and in my opinion, they have both always been great reliable bikes. That said, I do like having a fuel gauge on a bike that I ride on the Hwy. C’mon Kawasaki!

  • @pauljones4730
    @pauljones4730 Před rokem +1

    Couldn't have described the klx any better myself lol. I've got a 2021 and love it.

  • @BlakeJames42
    @BlakeJames42 Před měsícem

    Im looking for my first bike and tho I was so sold on buying a mt07 or somthing close. Both these sound way more fun. Thanks for the video!

  • @jreviews5924
    @jreviews5924 Před 6 měsíci

    I’m and advanced rider been riding for 20 years. Just bought a KLx250 after having dozens of big bikes, I love the klx. Probably the most fun I’ve ever had on a bike, with the MT07 a close second.

  • @CHUY-DRZ400s
    @CHUY-DRZ400s Před rokem

    Great review!👍🏻👍🏻.
    Answered all my questions.
    That being said.
    1st and foremost for me is color.
    2nd price.
    Either one will do .
    Thank you.

  • @user-dw4gx4jg7m
    @user-dw4gx4jg7m Před rokem +2

    I have the Honda and also spent time on the KLX. Maybe I missed you say it but the foot pegs on the Kawasaki are the tiny ones from the 90's and the Honda's are a decent version of modern larger pegs. I noticed that right away and especially off road, the rest I agree 100%

  • @JK-yu7hj
    @JK-yu7hj Před rokem +1

    Both are awesome if you want a lightweight dual sport. Neither is meant to be taken seriously, they are go almost anywhere, playful machines and were designed for having a good time. Both respond well to inexpensive modifications so buy one and personalize it!

  • @bigboystation8498
    @bigboystation8498 Před rokem +5

    If both are extremely similar in performance then I have to give the nod to the CRF being superior due to the instrument gauge (tach, fuel indicator, gear indicator)
    For a new rider these additions can be very important but are generally unmentioned by reviewers for some reason

    • @john1911ccw
      @john1911ccw Před 11 měsíci

      The Honda is bulletproof because it’s a Honda! I ride Harleys because of the style, looks and sound but Hondas are the best made motorcycles. For a Dual Sport I chose the Honda CRF300L for the quality.

  • @HoHoMoto
    @HoHoMoto Před rokem

    What’s up Chewy!! Thanks Dork!!

  • @openvortexix9970
    @openvortexix9970 Před 9 měsíci

    Just found and love your channel,ur awesome. Keep doing what you do. 🙂👍

  • @JCrozier1
    @JCrozier1 Před rokem

    Solid input. I'm still trying to decide if there's enough difference to change from the DR200.

  • @ih8momjokes1
    @ih8momjokes1 Před 9 měsíci

    dork i love your videos, i'd love to see you work on a body transformation and get rock solid fit to see how your opinion changes on riding these bikes/any bike!

  • @chasingtrail
    @chasingtrail Před rokem +1

    Here in northern CA you still can't find the 300L. They still have waitlists and you aren't going to find a deal. KLX300 is pretty easy to find and is currently on sale.

  • @richardgitz2264
    @richardgitz2264 Před rokem

    Good one Mr Dork, thank you.

  • @corner_store_bill
    @corner_store_bill Před rokem

    I have a 2023 KLX 300 and I ride trails like a purpose built dirt bike. The dash is basic because you aren't supposed to be looking at the dash. The stock 606s suck. But once u get some new tires this bike rips. I love it. I've also taken 6, 200+mi highway trips and it did pretty good at 75-77...I love this bike. But at the end of the day whatever bike gets u on the road and in the woods is the bike for you. It's all about having fun.

  • @gregm1513
    @gregm1513 Před rokem

    Good content dude!

  • @attuneu
    @attuneu Před 11 měsíci

    Great review.
    Thanks

  • @mkramsauer
    @mkramsauer Před rokem

    Great comparison brother 👊 real true life experience is the best

  • @fixedG
    @fixedG Před rokem

    Thank you for referencing new rider and extra wider weight both in the same breath.

  • @hillkillr
    @hillkillr Před rokem +1

    As a CRF250L owner, my recommendation is to look for something with more power, like at least 40 hp. Not being able to cruise on the highway at 80 mph sucks, getting passed by 18 wheelers is not fun either, and had I known that 75 is something it can only do on downhills with a tailwind before buying it, I would have kept looking. That said, I've had alot of fun on the little CRF both on and off road, but touring is pretty much out of the question. At the moment, I'm looking for a something with a bit more power and cargo options so I can eat some miles on the interstate. I probably won't get rid of the CRF though.

  • @Eric-R
    @Eric-R Před 7 měsíci +2

    thanks for this comparison! I think the biggest difference that would irritate me is the KLX lacks a fuel gauge. But if the price was better than the Honda, I would probably get the KLX anyway.

  • @sadnessinside123
    @sadnessinside123 Před rokem

    Thank you for this video. Truely appreciate it. That is what it is all about. "Go out and ride"

  • @ParallelCamper
    @ParallelCamper Před rokem

    I really would like to see the blindfold test you suggested. That would be fascinating!

  • @smartass6071
    @smartass6071 Před 9 měsíci

    I loved my 2006 klx250 I bought new in 2006. I put a tone of miles on it with zero issues. I'm 5'11'' and weigh 150 with riding gear. The hight on the klx did not bother me at all. I would get another klx except for the size of the fuel tank. The rally has a longer range with its bigger fuel tank. I really wish I could ride both before I make my choice.

  • @sebastiengreen1517
    @sebastiengreen1517 Před rokem +3

    I have the crf300l and my dad the klx300. As a 150 lbs rider the suspension on the klx works really better and is just less bouncy. I find that the klx front break has more grip and that its dunlop 605 tires are better offroad. The crf feels more modern and its tires are better on the road. Its throttle response feels quicker and I find its transmission smoother. I'm still glad I went with the crf but I feel the klx might be a better deal because upgrading the suspension is quite expensive.

    • @kylepafford1750
      @kylepafford1750 Před rokem +2

      Then again, throttle response and transmission are not only expensive but difficult to upgrade, while tires, suspension, and brakes are easier to do although still expensive.

  • @tonyramirez2731
    @tonyramirez2731 Před 2 měsíci

    Great video!!!

  • @OldFriendsandNewRoads

    really good comparison video, these both look fun as s#$t !! Appreciate the bike buying tip at the end! haha

  • @polaridoo1
    @polaridoo1 Před 5 měsíci

    Love the review and i love your advice better. Sometimes people over analyze minutiae and should probably just go out and ride more. I know I have spent more time researching some purchases than actually using the stupid things.

  • @everythingisIAM
    @everythingisIAM Před rokem +1

    id buy the deep impact, although i am not liking that the klx price ...it keeps going up. Been trying save up to pay cash and seen alot of rises on this...I may say screw it and get the 450. i live in midwest and you cant find the honda 300s anywhere, TYSM for this vlog, I enjoy your comparisons...and youre right!

  • @enb3810
    @enb3810 Před 11 měsíci +1

    For about $1200 you can get your suspension rebuilt by precision concepts in California.
    Took my klr from unrideable over 20mph on harsh roads to 40mph down my local dirt track

  • @dpw9768
    @dpw9768 Před 5 měsíci

    Great video thank you sir

  • @danielpittman889
    @danielpittman889 Před 9 měsíci

    So, what I'm hearing is that the KLX is just a little bit better.
    Message received - thanks homie!

  • @thegreenman2030
    @thegreenman2030 Před 11 měsíci +1

    The 1st bike I ever rode was a KLR250 in 1994 and fell in love with motorcycles and duel sports. If I decide to go down this path again then it would most likely buy a Honda just out of brand loyalty due to the rock solid longevity I have gotten from my cars, motorcycles, 4wheeler, and small engine power equipment. That’s just a personal thing though.
    The Yamaha TW200 does greatly interest me, but I never see them on the used market. No way I’m paying close to $6k for a brand new one.

  • @mollygrubber
    @mollygrubber Před rokem

    I think you're right - for the most part - however where I am, the dealership network and parts availability for Kawasaki bikes is much more sparse. Just another thing to consider I guess. I went looking for one but had to "settle" for team Red lol.

  • @stickrudder4332
    @stickrudder4332 Před rokem +2

    One is red, the other green. Now which one was available ? Klx Camo. Happy and enjoying the ride. Four months later and still no Reds in site.

  • @Bobert383
    @Bobert383 Před rokem

    Great analogy with deep impact and armageddon.

  • @savillecreations8046
    @savillecreations8046 Před 6 měsíci

    I have the Honda simply because I like Honda. Pretty sure I would enjoy both bikes however. Thanks for the video.

  • @SmokinZen
    @SmokinZen Před rokem +1

    Best comparison of these bikes ever. Way too many misleading videos on these bikes good advice, I did get the KLX300 because it was available and I am a happy camper

  • @michiganmoto7687
    @michiganmoto7687 Před rokem +2

    Between the two I wouldn’t care which I had, but ultimately would prefer the rally for the increased fuel capacity.