HONDA CRF300L VS CRF300 RALLY | Which Is Best For You?
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- čas přidán 26. 06. 2024
- HONDA CRF300L VS CRF300 RALLY | Which Is Best For You?
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Yamaha Tenere 700:
The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is a midsize adventure/dual-sport motorcycle manufactured by Yamaha since 2019. It features a 689 cc (42.0 cu in) parallel-twin engine which powers the motorcycle through a six-speed gearbox and chain drive. Brakes are equipped with rider-switchable (on-off) ABS. The "baby Ténéré" is the latest in a series of dual-sport Yamaha motorcycles named after the Ténéré desert stage of the Dakar Rally in the Sahara. The successor to Yamaha's XT660Z Ténéré was first announced as the T7 concept at the 2016 EICMA with an anticipated production launch in 2018. A refined concept was publicized a year later.
Yamaha announced that delivery of bikes would begin in Europe in July 2019, and only the following year to the USA due to emissions and other regulatory delays. The liquid-cooled 4-stroke 8-valve DOHC engine with crossplane crankshaft was already in use and well reviewed in Yamaha's MT-07 naked and Tracer 700 sport touring bikes.
Honda CRF300L:
Balance is the key when riding any motorcycle. And we’re not talking about just balancing on two wheels: We’re talking about the balance between size, weight, power and handling that makes some bikes great-like the new Honda CRF300L. Based on our previous CRF250L, for 2021, it gets a larger engine with more torque and a whole host of chassis and suspension refinements. What you end up with is one of the best-balanced bikes ever for on- and off-road use. Perfect for weekend trail rides, it’s also among the best choices ever for commuting or urban transportation. And if you’re looking for a version with a windscreen and Dakar-inspired bodywork for a little more weather protection, make sure you check out our new CRF300L Rally.
Hello my name is Andrew, My family and I love powersports. Just something about the feel of freedom and power you get from a bike or ATV. On this channel you will find content for the Honda 300L as well as our journey we take together in the world of power sports.
#honda300L
#HondaCRF300L
#HondaCRF300Lrally
#honda
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REVIEWS:
DRZ 400 Review: czcams.com/video/SLd1rLcqzZE/video.html
TW200 Review: czcams.com/video/IWY0H_m9jo8/video.html
CRF300L rally Review: czcams.com/video/FEj-KXaRvSs/video.html
Tenere 700 review: czcams.com/video/91R2W2Gt9Gk/video.html
CRF300L review: czcams.com/video/21MM-_iJhbA/video.html
CRF300L vs KLX300: czcams.com/video/Ie3Tp0d86T0/video.html
CRF300L vs DRZ400: czcams.com/video/QeFyBMJkMqY/video.html
CRF300L vs WR250R: czcams.com/video/s0VY0wVymaY/video.html
CRF300L vs CRF250L: czcams.com/video/on1uzOHKNsk/video.html
Tenere 700 VS 300L side by side comparison: czcams.com/video/XjaQ7DgpVlo/video.html
I'm 65 and have a crf300l. I go exploring different towns and sometimes go on dirt roads. I put on a rucksack and ride within 1 to 3 hours from home. I like the high off the ground aspect. Easy to manoeuvre, light bike, yet powerful enough for my needs.
AS a 63 year old motorcycle rider I will be getting the crf300 rally. Being a seasoned rider with over 45 years riding experience, I don't want a heavy bike and there is only space for one bike in the garage, one that is more manageable in the dirt, yet can handle the road ok as well. It will be used for riding solo, the one bike that does it all, also having a low weight compared to the latest generation KLR was the deciding factor (just over 60kg less weight to haul around and/or pick up). There is no magic bike that does it all perfectly, but for me, the crf300 rally fits my needs the best, will be buying the crf300 rally as soon as stock becomes available down under (Australia) Cheers to all......enough said🤐
Good reasoning for your choice. I would get the same bike except I occasionally ride two up with my lady on the old mountain highways we have where I live in Idaho. Gonna go with a DR650, had one years ago and really miss it.. When hauling ass, or two of em' there's no replacement for displacement!
I'm in South Africa and we still don't have this bike here.
Nobody seems to like small capacity adventure bikes here, just about every man and his dog has to get a KTM1290 or BMW GS1200.Must be an ego thing!🤣
Amen brother, Thank God for CZcams huh, Instead of getting The KXL300, or the crf 300L and just for a little bit more money be so happy with the Rally. If you absolutely hate it or get a Lemon. Lol, let me know please.
Did you get your Rally Roger. If so how is it?
Did u end up getting a rally? I'm in Adelaide deciding on which one to get.
At now 67 years old, i would take the rally because i did a lot of enduro with my 125 (still do)and raced motocross on a 250 (not anymore), so i have to say that although i really enjoyed those type of riding , i believe my body would be happy to do some adventure riding on a bike that is light and have the feel of an enduro. Thanks for your very explicit comparison video.😊
Best information. Leaning towards the Rally … but being only a MTB / surfer … have no idea at all. So I subscribed because this is the info and presentation format I need. Thanks, Will Dye
Absolutely superb video :) I've been looking at both of these for a really big trip round Scandinavia thanks for sharing.
Love this mate! Thank you! I would really like the Rally, but I really want to Chuck the bike on a rack on the back of my van! And unfortunately they’re only rated to 150kg so I think it’s going to have to be a slight compromise and head for the L! Thanks for the vid! Good luck! Hope the camping trip goes to plan 🤘
Thanks for the video, I have a Rally on order! (been waiting almost a year) Can't wait!
Bought the 300 L a month ago, already own a 2017 AT DCT. On Friday I leave for a first ride to the Pirinees off road, can’t wait to enjoy my new little toy. I really love this bike, simplicity at its best.
I’m looking at both now. Leaning towards the rally for the larger tank and wind protection. It will be used mostly as a commuter and tight trail bike. I have a AT Adventure Sports for my adventure touring. Yes I like longer range tanks. 😁🤣🤣
I’ll be subscribing for more comparisons.
Planning on rally all the way. Been looking for a while now. Great video.
I bought the 300L because it was the only option around. My partner picked up the KLX300…also, the only option. We were torn between the two, so glad we have both. That being said, I put 90/10 tires on mine and am waiting for the Yoshi pipe and EJK controller. I think it’s a blast and it got me back in to wanting to ride off road. My intention is not highway or long distance, so the L works better for me. I have a BMW F800GS for the long stuff and. BMW G310GS….trying to come up with a reason here….because I am addicted to bikes. Anyway, I would love to give the Rally a whirl, but am super happy with my 300L. Enjoyed your video and it’s content a lot!
I found a 300 Rally used near me, so thats what I got. I started with a 1990 VFR750 and put 20k miles on that, then had kids, so street riding was out for me for a while. I sold that, bought a Ruckus since I was living in the city and it was perfect for that. I've since moved out of the city, so the Ruckus is no longer useful as the road speeds are too high for it.
I picked the Rally because I love the looks of it (and also because it was available). Im likely going to be doing a 50/50 split of riding with it, so being slightly less good off road is not a huge issue. Im also a new dirt rider, so going with a T700 or the likes seemed like a bad idea while im learning off road riding. I think the Rally or 300L is a good choice for someone learning off road, but still needs/wants to be able to ride the street. I think it had adequate power (even for a guy as big as me 6' 200lbs+). I have friends with bikes that arent off road bikes, so having the wind protection to go ride with them is a plus in my book. Its a forever kind of bike, and a Swiss Army knife at that.
Thanks man for the channel. I just picked up a Rally today. Chose that over the standard L because of the fuel tank. Planning on a BDR with a buddy. The extra range is huge!
Another spot on video
I have the rally and have it set up as a light adventure bike and it works perfectly.
Still many mods to do but realistically with a bash plate and barkbusters, add some rackless bag and it's good to go for moto camping
Cheers
I’m leaning towards the Rally…thanks for this helpful video
I have previously tried the 250 rally and liked it. My first bike was a duke 390 always loved the adv content, so im thinking of buying one. Im 189cm and 96kg I was considering the T7 at one stage but the initial cost and the weight of the bike scared me off. My only concern with the 300rally is its low power, so im currently 80% 300 and 20% T7. Your insight will be highly appreciated, thanks for the great content.
Another fantastic video, I'm really enjoying your channel. Deposits at 2 dealers on the Rally. Retired and intend to see backroad America and Canada hauling it on a hitch carrier to unload and explore each area we stop. My Super Tenere would likely make our SUV wheelie. 🤣
Haha yeah the super T is a bit much for a hitch rack. Once you get it you will be like me, 2 bikes for 2 different purposes. I also have a tenere 700.
Thanx Andrew for the great video and your perspective. I'd like to buy the Rally as I'm creeping up close to 60. I had a 500RE back in my younger days and miss it terribly!!..... however, living at the bottom most part of Africa doesn't help my cause as our currency is very weak..... but where there's a will, I'm sure I'll find a way. Look forward to your comparison. Happy Days.
Tank you very much for this and other videos on CRF300. Im playing to get my first bike(at age of 52 he-he). I was mountain biking all my life and motor biking on vacations overseas DR350, KLX250, XT150. The time has come and im about to get myself a outdoor+road capable machine. The choice between 300L or 300Rally will be made after first test ride. That you again for the inspiration. Keep on doing great job!!!
I'm not sure what bike to get yet. Hopefully by this summer I will own and be riding a dual sport. I'm enjoying your videos. Keep up the good work. Cheers.
She is fortunate her side stand broke. The alternative could have been it going through the hull of the boat taking them down into what looked like cold water not near land. I'm happy her journey continues with just a bent side stand and will check out her channel cause that sounds interesting to watch. Thanks for the info.
Have a 250 Rally. 101.721km, which is around 63.206 miles. Love it.
Wow, just proves how reliable those bikes can be.
I have a 300 rally. I have done src moto skidplate, crash bars, headlight guard, and brake reservoir guard. I have also put a stiffer rear and front spring, and swapped the fluid over in the front forks, and a lithium ion battery to counter some of the weight of the add ons. I also swapped out the cheap stock rubber for d606s. I plan on doing the exhaust and ecu setup you have, and then it will be the perfect bike.
Hi,thank you endru for the video.
I am planing having one.
I’m just starting to save up for the 300l Rally! Hopefully I’ll be picking one up next spring
I just turned 74 and am looking to downsize in weight from my R1200GS. I want to continue to ride and have camaraderie with my riding buddies so I’m shopping all the 300-450 machines that will carry me to adventure on BDRs in the western states.
Thanks you for your reviews and information. My biggest concern is I’m not a small person; at 5’10” and 205 i have concerns about how the 300 platform will carry me. Our information has helped me with my decisions, thank you again!!
I enjoy your vids mate and have subscribed, so thanks heaps!
My current bike posed a similar conundrum and I ended up buying the smaller / lighter BMW 850 GS over the considerably bulkier 850 GS Adventure. I now want to add a lighter bike but this time I will probably get the 300 Rally, since I have at least an hours highway ride before I hit any dirt roads. Being on the highway on a lightweight bike will be daunting enough without being smashed by the wind at 110 KPH. I have yet to ride either model and I suspect that will seal the deal for me...
I bought a crd 450rl, i really love it. . I do love your content period. Keep up the great work!
Thank you, Well I have a rally coming then after that I want to see if yamaha makes a mini Tenere. So I. Going to have different bikes on here. Do you ever have the flame out issue with the 450?
I've got a Honda CRF300L Rally and a BMW 850 GS. I'm really liking the Rally. Despite the BMW being set up for both hwy and adv, IMHO, it's only better than the Honda while on the hwy. The BMW has 3x the HP, but at 505 lbs, it's a train wreck off road compared to the 330lb Rally. I live on a ranch, and jump on the Honda 90% of the time...
Yes! Exactly, my Tenere is much better to ride on the highway but anything else the 300L is just more easy and fun.
Hi Andrew,
I’m 55 and haven’t rode a motorcycle in ten years. Last October my buddy from work rode in on a CRF450RL I immediately loved the bike and had to have one but I’m only 5’ 8” and that bike is tall! He told me they make a smaller bike called the CRF300l and I did some research and found your channel. After 3 months of research, watching your videos and going to dealers to look at and sit on bikes( if they had any, and if they did they were already sold) I finally decided on the Crf300l and put my order in on January it should be here by June.
I really like the look of the rally but for the kind of riding I will be doing I opted for the 300L mainly using it for short commute to work and back, and on weekends riding single tracks and trails so the 300L suits me better. I plan to update suspension and tires. I already purchased a shaved seat to lower it 2 1/2” for me and if I need it lowered more I will have the lowering kit installed and front forks adjusted. I Really enjoy your channel it’s very informative and interesting. It helped me with my choice of the 300L over others and I got a lot of info on what mods I should and would like to do. Thanks! I can’t wait to get out and ride again!
I suggest not being so fast to go and lower your bike. I’m 49 years old, 5’7” tall and haven’t been on a street bike in 20 years. I was a little intimidated by my new Rally’s height and almost purchased a lowering link, and I did order a seat concepts low pro seat, but by the time the seat came in I was already use to the bike. The seat only made it that much more comfortable to ride, and I barely even noticed the 1 inch that it supposedly gave me. At 700 miles I’m super adapted to the bike now.
These bikes may be tall, but when you sit on them they squat down something ridiculous. The 450 doesn’t because it has a quality suspension. But I know if, and when I modify the suspension on the Rally that the bike is going to remain closer to the height that it sits without weight on it. But if I were to have went and lowered it before I got use to the way that it is now, I wouldn’t have known if I could have done without the lowering link or not. If that makes any sense? Now that I’m comfortable with the bike, I truly don’t think that I will be lowering once it is modified because I have confidence in the bike now... But, I’ll make that decision once it does get modified.
Isso sim é uma máquina que nos dá prazer.
I've got 5 Tenere 700s in my fleet and I'm really curious about getting rid of one and adding a 300L Rally to the fleet. Pumped for the season!
I live on Cebu Island in the Philippines. Retired here. Renting a 150L and so the utter lack of power is driving me insane. I found your channel on these two bikes. The 150 will rattle your teeth on the main ‘highways’ here. Hoping the suspension on the 300 rally will be far more comfortable. Just riding from Carcar to Moalboal when I picked it up from my buddy, took two hours ( the traffic is horrendous) and could not feel my butt for hours after getting off. I went to the highest peak on the island yesterday. And you’re just absolutely have to see the road conditions to believe it. They are fixing them as fast as They can but you’ll have stretches of three or 400 yards that are nothing but pure off-road. I’m not even sure how two wheel drive cars get through it. Anyway, I’m going to get a rally based on your wonderful assessment of these bikes. Thx so much!!
I plan on either getting the rally or the cfr 300l soon as my first bike mainly for travel to work as well as hitting trails when I can these videos have been very helpful but im still on the fence in the middle of the two options🤣 both have very good pros to their use for what I want one for. very hard to decide
I went to Honda today after watching lots of reviews with the intention of buying the rally.
I took the rally out, loved it, then the dealer said take out the crf 300L.
Well, it suited me better, the bike felt lighter at the front, easier to get on,(i'm 5'11", 11st 6lb, 54 yrs)just felt more nimble. Anyway , hope i've done the right thing, ordered the "L",with rack, heated grips, aftermarket screen,hand guards,only problem no (L's) until August 22 in the UK.(Rallys available a bit quicker in the UK, for some reason)
Thanks for the post.
This was great! I would be very interested in hearing your thoughts about the these Honda's and the Ténéré, since I am considering buying my first bike - and it will probably be one if these three.
I cant remember if we spoke about this before or not, Did you get a chance to watch the Tenere and 300L comparison video I did?
I luv my Rally! I bought it because I think it is the perfect choice for me to accomplish the Trans America Trail on. I’m 49 and I grew up riding dirt bikes, and when I was in my 20s I owned a couple crotch rockets. At some point i decided that I wanted to live a little bit longer, so I gave up riding fast on the street. I didn’t ride on the street again until I was about 35, when a buddy of mine let me ride his ‘91 model XL250? or XR250L? can’t remember exactly, but I fell in love with that bike and said the next bike I get will be much like this one...
So last year when the cards were in my favor to buy a new bike and I started searching for one, it didn’t take me long to figure out which bike was made for me, the 300 Rally... I thought about a CB500X for a little while, but then when I went and sat on one, I was like “nope”, not off road worthy enough... Funny thing is, I didn’t even get a chance to sit on a Rally before I committed to buying it, but I had no doubt that it was the bike for me. I had to wait from October of last year to February of this year, and I came extremely close to purchasing a second hand 250 Rally because I didn’t know when I would ever get my hands on the 300, but at the last minute my luck changed and I finally found one.
I would totally own both the Rally and the L model at the same time! And now that I’m thinking about it, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to own a T7 as well! Something tells me that maybe next year, after my TAT adventure, I just might be in the market for a T7...
I have DR650 and love it. Have been looking at the 300 rally but to many up to be done to it like suspension & clutch update, ECU. I am going to go with 390 KTM I am thinking. I am also 73 years old. This year I did a trip from Canada to the Mexico border and back 9500 miles on the Grate decide down and BDR on the may back took 34 days what a great ride with four mates.
Great video. I bought the 2021 XR650L. Love it and chose it because it can take a passenger. It’s seat height is the only downside. Looking at the 300L as a companion bike and commuter for my adult sons.
Haha I was just about to mention I dislike how tall they are. Overall great bikes tho.
Thank you for your video! I bought the 300L cause it is a good beginner bike!
I have the 300L Rally ABS. I think Andrew is generally correct. If you are going to ride single track only, I think the 300L is your best choice. I have to ride approximately 25 - 50 miles to get to locations that allow me to ride off road, so the Rally is the better choice for me. The mods I've made so far are a Yoshimura RS-4 and a 550 Performance ECU. I got the bike in Oct '21 and told myself to ride it a year before changing anything. You see how long my resolve lasted. LOL!
Haha a year, until you start to see all the attractive mods out there lol. Yeah the Yoshi and ECU really wake the bike up.
I have the 300LABS. Reason was this was first street legal motorcycle I ever got, and felt the Rally was a bit more than I needed for first bike. The 300L seemed like the perfect beginner bike for me, and I am extremely happy with my choice. Should be in the Pine Barrens this weekend, looking forward to first trip there this season.
ohh nice, you are around me then? I actually might have someone coming for a ride in my local area tomorrow. If you are free on Sunday 04/24 let me know I could show you my areas near the delaware memorial bridge area. I have at least a days worth of riding we can do.
I just got a CRF300L...after trying several competitors the Honda was a better fit for me (57 years old, 5'9"). Working through break in, can't wait to getting out for a long ride.
I'm happy I got the 300L .I'm on the tracks and trails more than I thought I would and riding back and forth to work is saving me a lot of time and money. Awesome bike.
I agree, it is a great bike. So many benefits.
I have the CFR 300l Rally. Taking my time to customize. Just ordered the Rally Raid rear rack. It’s 4 to 6 weeks out. Now deciding on luggage. Leaning towards Mosko Moto. Absolutely love the bike.
I can't wait to I get my rally, so many plans ahead.
try TUSK enduro bags or boxes
I live in Medellin Colombia. For in-city riding have a big Yammie 950 bolt. But the best riding is through the jungle and in Pueblos looking at both the Rally and KTM 390 Adventure Here we also have the Honda 300 Adventure and really not sure of the difference between Rally is. But can't wait to get a new bike! Hope to see more on this bike! Have a gr8 day!
I got the rally for my first bike. I plan on riding back and forth to work which is about 10 minutes from home. I also plan on exploring the easy trails near by that mostly resemble small dirt roads / fire roads on the weekends and at some point take it on camping trips.
Then you buy the perfect bike! 😉💪 CHP#26
You ask, I oblige. I am headed to my local dealership first thing in the morning to test ride and hopefully purchase a 2023 CRF300L Rally. I will be picking up the non ABS version of the rally as I've never had ABS on a motorcycle before and don't feel like it is necessary for my riding needs. The extra few hundred will be spend having the dealership slap on the heated grip option. I started out riding in 2014 (at the tender age of 31) on a 2002 DRZ 400E. After several years I ended up wrecking and hurting my neck/spine pretty good. I hurt my mental game even worse. I stopped riding until last year when I was physically/mentally ready to try again. I found another offering from Honda in the 2023 XR150L. It was a great bike to regain my skills and confidence. However as a 50/50 commuter bike it fails to be what I need it to be. My commute to town is about 45 minutes (rural life) and consist of a mix of poorly maintained gravel/dirt roads and paved surface roads. The XR150L is barely able to keep up with traffic, even dropping below the 55mph speed limits I encounter on a hill or two. After doing all my research with different makes/models I have ended up at the 300 Rally. It has everything I would have done to upgrade the XR. Windscreen, led headlight ect. All that and a much better high end speed with more power to make my commutes. The higher speed also lets me hop on the freeway for a few exits to make trips to places other than town. The ability to add heated grips without rewinding a stater or freeing up power with LED upgrades is a huge bonus as I tend to want to ride regardless of temps. Gas is not cheap these days. I thank you and all the other youtubers doing reviews and adding perspective. It has helped me narrow down the choices. I look forward to being the new owner of a 2023 CRF 300L Rally come tomorrow! (written 01/10/2024)
Rally for me. Both are amazing and if finances allow it I'll just get the 300l eventually too though lol. Gonna be mostly commuting with light trail stuff and maybe light winter commuting so the tank and wind screen make it worth it for me. Appreciate this video 🙏🏽
Never owned a motorcycle and have next to no experience riding but been looking at these. Hoping getting a motorcycle opens up more camping/adventuring opportunities. Hope to get one when I get back from deployment.
You wont regret it ..but do buy training too… 👍
Good video
Rally... definitely... when i grow up. I'm on a Wr now, but i want something more relaxed and able to crunch miles between mud stretches.
Good comparison review.
After watching dozens of small dual sport reviews, I settled on the Kawasaki KLX 300. No regrets.
Soild bike overall!
Thanks .... moving up from my CT125 Trail to a 300L. .....
I went from a 250 rally to a 300l. Both great bikes. As a travel bike the rally a better option, larger fuel range etc. As an off road machine 300l a better bike easier to ride, more forgiving and better geared. I'm sure the 300 rally a great bike. I can't see me changing my 300l for a very long time. Ride safe
I think you are correct in your analysis. Have fun with the 300L it's a great bike.
Is ABS important on these bikes? Thinking of the rally. Buying one. Great video
I want one of these but still have difficulty in deciding despite good discussion on both. Like the rally more but will lean to the L since I already have a touring MC.
I have the Rally version. Since I'm pushing 70, I wanted something to replace my big heavy Africa Twin. I had a 250L and sold it a while back and I kinda missed it. So the 300L Rally seemed to be the perfect compromise. The weight loss going from the AT to the 300L Rally was just the ticket. I'm looking forward to you buying the Rally version and seeing what mods you do. Keep up the good work!
haha im 60 and was thinking am I too old to buy a rally
@@garyflood4484 Nonsense! Go get it while you can. I'm not an aggressive or technical rider. I just like finding old roads (dirt and tarmac) and seeing where they take me. You get to see places not many others do and the Rally is perfect. It can go anywhere. I pack a camera and a drone and I'm off. Don't wait or you will be too old!
Love the 300L ,will be buying it soon, I ride a ktm 690 and a yamaha tenere so I'm looking for a light weight bike to play on .Great video all the best from Germany.
Die 300 Rally oder auch 300 L sind spielerisch gegenüber einer Tenere zu fahren! Ich hab eine Africa Twin ADV DCT und die 300 Rally! Die Africa ist eine S Klasse und die Rally ein Minicooper😉! Lg CHP#26
Would like to hear your views on saddlebags or the best luggage to buy. Noraly's bike is so over loaded that it's difficult to see what she has. Right now I am leaning to buying the 300L because I am an older guy and will not be going that far with it. I think it would be best for some of the rough roads here in Thailand and since it is hotter here in Thailand, it may be better not to have the screen most months. Thanks for this great video and I will be looking for the next ones. .........Sal : )
Going with Rally because I plan on going months and months on the road and staying off pavement as much as possible. Mostly camping and fishing and hitting a town every once in awhile for laundry and stocking up. Going to start in Canada and when the weather changes start heading south. Can't start for a year or so when I am fully retired.
I just acquired my 2021 Honda CRF 300L two days ago. It has 3,620 miles on it but looks spanking new. I traded my 2013 KTM Duke 690 Supermoto for it even swap. I am 68 years old and 5'-10" tall. I also own a Kawasaki X300 Versys. I lowered my Versys 1-1/2" and it became a fantastic motorcycle after that mod. I ordered a lowering link for my Honda yesterday that will allow an infinite amount of lowering up to 4". I plan to lower the CRF about 2" to 3". I am certain that this will make the little Honda easier to mount and easier to ride, not to mention a huge gain in safety. I will alter the kickstand accordingly. I have put 34 miles on the CRF so far and find that it is a wonderful small motorcycle. However my Kawasaki Versys outclasses the CRF in nearly every respect even though both bikes have their respective virtues. I miss the fantastic performance of the KTM Duke but I am ready for small and easy motorcycle fun. I think my little CFR 300L will deliver loads of fun at 70+ mpg!! My Kawasaki performs similarly but has 40bhp compared to the Honda"s 27bhp. In spite of it's higher performance the Kawasaki gets about 56 mpg making it a very efficient motorcycle as well.
Itchy boots mention on the video is over a year old now, she's been riding through west Africa on this bike and has really put it through its paces. It is incredible how tough this bike has proven to be for her.
Which one are you speaking of? She did africa on the 250L but when from Chile to the tip of Alaska on the 300L.
Hi,
Had the 250L, and bought the 300 Rally. I choose the rally as it is a light weight adventure bike. I commute on it, have some trip planned. I took it on tracks allready and it is doing well enough for skill level. Also, it has more presence on the road than the L version. Less likely to have a car pulling just in front of you and ypu have slam on the brakes.
Ride safe and be happy.
Yes it is definitely a bigger bike on the road. I bet you like having that huge tank.
I have a cb500x and im looking into the rally, im really into the idea of a light weight adv while expanding my off road capabilities
As far as the 300 platform I would most definitely buy the rally. Not too crazy about the bottom fairling but I do like the wind protection and LED lights along with the larger tank. I'm starting to get up there 65. And I would like to get down to only one bike. Even though I used to race hare scrambles and what not in my younger years (used to be fairly quick). South Florida there's very little off-road areas. Because of this I'm also considering the DR650 for better road work. Sometimes you need to choose what you ride over where you want to ride.
Have to agree 100% with choicing for what you ride and not what you want to ride.
I'm considering many dual sports and will be getting one for it's overall utility and simplicity since motorcycles are my primary transportation. For me I think the 250cc are a little to small, but the CRF300 might be just right because of the gearing. My favorite kind of riding is old back roads and would like something more comfortable then what I have (FZ6) to continue on forest service roads. I've outgrown the need for speed of the FZ, but still want to be able to carry a load and sometimes cruise the interstate. I also realize I'm not likely to be off road more then 15% of the time and rarely technical trails since I ride alone most of the time. After much research the DR650 is at the top of my list unless a CRF300 becomes available before I can get the DR. I'm not considering a ADV because of weight and not being as welling to drop it as a dual sport 😅.
I grew up riding big cruisers, but recently picked up a Trail 125 just for giggles. It seriously has me wanting an ADV bike, but I’ll probably go with the Africa Twin. That said…I really like these. I wish they introduce a 650L though.
I am getting the CRF L putting Dunlop 606 rear and Pirelli m16 front. adding a bash plate, rad guard, better bars and hand guards. going with a 45 rear sprocket, and rear carrier. Do wish it had a larger gas tank, but do not wat the wind screen or fearing, The dealer also said the rear suspension would be to soft on the rally, for my weight.
I have an old Yamaha XT350, but it has some issues. Came across these when checking what’s available brand new and might give the same joy as riding the Yamaha. I would probably choose for the 300l, it has a nicer headlight and less plastic overall
I just pulled the trigger on a 300L Rally, what did it for me was the upgraded headlight, the windshield, the bigger fuel tank, and the extra plastics/coverage etc. I think for the money, it's a no brainer to get the Rally, but that's just me. I also went with non abs.
I order my 2023 CRF 300 rally thank to your video for help me to shoot the rally
Will purchase the 300l rally. Mt. Roads here are on and off paved and dirt with cobbles, mud and washouts. Gas can be many km. Trails are red mud which i find to much work for single riding.
Thanks for the education.
I went with the Rally for my riding in SW Colorado. The Alpine loop, Rimrocker trail, Uncompahgre National Forest and even Moab are all surrounding me but there is a fair amount of open highway between them all. The fairings, windscreen and additional weight make a big difference when connecting these passes and trails, especially on windy days and we get plenty of them. I need to upgrade some stuff, but it's still a great bike out of the box for the $$. The choice depends on what terrain you'll be riding most.
If I'm mostly on road would the Rally make more sense? Also do the fairings make it much harder to do maintenance? 😯
@@AlmostLakai94 If you're mostly on the road, the Rally makes way more sense to me. Just having the windscreen for the highway is a big difference. The plastics are a pain in the ass for maintenance, but it is what it is. If you're not riding almost any dirt, check out the new Honda scrambler. I think it's a 550...
@@tommroy I was looking at that also.. only thing is I might be doing some light commuting in the winter (Midwest US) so I figured a dual would be best. But I'm gonna watch some stuff on that too 🙏🏽
@@tommroy also just remembered the CB500x lol
Amazon Store link: www.amazon.com/shop/EliteGamingHQ
Other videos you may enjoy:
Honda 300L full review: czcams.com/video/21MM-_iJhbA/video.html
Honda 300L VS KLX300: czcams.com/video/Ie3Tp0d86T0/video.html
Honda 300L VS DRZ400: czcams.com/video/QeFyBMJkMqY/video.html
Honda 300L VS Honda 250L: czcams.com/video/on1uzOHKNsk/video.html
Honda 300L VS Yamaha Tenere 700: czcams.com/video/XjaQ7DgpVlo/video.html
Is the Honda CRF300L really the best Dual sport: czcams.com/video/qBuIH0uKNpc/video.html
Honda CRF 300L full performance with ECU, Exhaust, and intake: czcams.com/video/ZM85o2Tj65w/video.html
BEST dual sport for adventure riding and motocamping: czcams.com/video/ZHIiNdR3BZQ/video.html
Hello, very nice purchase advice. I had the CRF 250 L in 2017. It was a great bike and I had a lot of fun off-road. You can get through almost anywhere easily and manoeuvrably. Only the small tank was a huge problem. I now drive the Benelli TRK 502 and a Voge 650 DSX, both of which I really enjoy. one for travel and the other off-road.
That is the way to go having one bike for each purpose. I have not ridden either of those bikes but maybe one day.
Felt lucky to land a #1 spot on the reserve list at a local dealer for either a 300L or a Rally about 3 weeks ago.. with a preference for a Rally, I was very happy when I got the call that the delivery at the end of this month includes a Rally.. the added value I think is well worth the additional price, most notably the larger gas tank (when you want to use that additional range) the wind protection and the styling frankly.. really like the looks of the Rally, more than the 300L. I am coming from a street / road race background where 100-200bhp is the range... I am sure there will be an adjustment period, but can't wait to get out on some trails and put it through the paces. Will likely do 550 ECU & Yosh RS4 Exhaust if I can find one in stock anywhere... and down the line probably upgrade the suspension if I end up loving the bike. Thanks for the videos, cheers.
Heard suspension should be first, if ur 160+ doing offroad
@@alijah3218 this is so true. But if all he is use to is fast street bikes, adding the power to the bike might be more important to him than suspension. That has to be a difficult decision to make for a person like himself, especially if he’s limited to funds.
@@alijah3218 I'm 180 and will def be doing a mix of street and some light trail riding.. I am not someone with dirt experience so I will work my way up and deal with the stock suspension at first before upgrading..
Great channel and looking forward to your comparison of the two . I bought my rally last year in June and hit a deer in august causing 4800$ (insurance job) in dmgs and finally just got it back today because of all the parts being on back order … just fyi the rally plastics are surprisingly really expensive lol
Haha wow, were you ok? I'm really worried some nights of deer. They are everyone on these backroads where I live.
@@MotorcyclesOffroad It was at 45 mph early morning and he jumped directly into my front wheel so there was no chance to brake ... Went over the handlebars and separated my left shoulder (5 week recovery) ... Other then that I didn't even have a bruise or scratch . I was wearing full motorcycle armored gear which saved me from more serious injury
Have 300L rally got last October last year after 6 month wait love the bike got almost 1500 miles so far 👍🤟
Wow you have been riding it a lot. Congratulations and I'm glad you enjoy your bike.
Ever since I bought my Husky 701 I've been wanting to test ride the 300 rally, to find out if the 701 really is worth twice the price. Test ride on Wednesday (yes we get everything a lot later than everyone else, besides the T7 a few years back) and I'm stoked!
how did this turn out? i have a 701 sm
@@misterchuck6866 They didn’t being the 300 rally in their test fleet, so I haven’t ridden one yet.
I just sold my Tenere 700 and am looking for a 300 Rally.The Tenere is a great bike but it is very big and heavy,and it has way more power than it really needs.I will be doing very little actual off road so the Rally makes more sense for me.Mostly solo camping,that kind of stuff.Bigger tank,wind screen,etc.I packed all my stuff on my Honda Grom and went camping.Did just fine on back highways so I'm sure the Rally will be great.I will upgrade the suspension to a degree.I already ordered some parts for it so I hope I find one soon,but I live in Minnesota and it;s gettin' mighty cold here so I have plenty of time to find one and get it set up.My dealer said they are supposed to get one in next month.Hopefully I'll get my hands on it.
Bought one these for my Grom.Super high quality,built like a tank,very reasonably priced.
Very nice comparison. I guess you touch the crucial points of each model. Well done.. On my side, I am renovationg a 97 DR650. I am still puzzled by the possible advantage of a 300CRF versus a 650. The DR is the same weight but double the cc which means more tork, less stress on the engine. Any thought ?
There is a few reasons the 300L could be for some a better choice. For one the 300L is 25kg/56lbs lighter then the DR650. Also the honda wears its weight different, I have a whole video explaining the difference in ergonomics and software they can use to dial in the ergonomics (I will like it in the end). Next are things like liquid cooling, inverted forks, and the ability for ABS. 6 speed transmissions a a prerequisite for many people as well. Honds handles the transmission on this bike awesome, they have a close first 5 years like a dirtbike but a tall 6th gear for road use. Next I will have to say fuel injection has a ton of advantages from elevation changes all the way to tuning advantages, you can tune FI bikes to the fuel air mixture all the way down to specific RPMs. One big advantage to mine for example is an advance in engine timing through the ECU, means I have to run high test fuel but made a huge difference as far as power and throttle response.
Lasty here is a link to the video talking about modern bike advantages. czcams.com/video/qBuIH0uKNpc/video.html
I have a 300L, non-abs. And to me, it sounded like the perfect bike to have, a dirtbike that can go on the road, no ABS, and as pure as can be. I have already upgraded to a bigger bike, but I am finding it hard to sell this bike as you can just get on it and go with no issues whatsoever.
Have a TW200 but want a 300 Rally pretty bad as a second bike. TW is dirt modded and does surprisingly well on single tracks. 300 Rally would enable me to do BDR and longer motocamping trips. I motocamp off the TW but am limited to 140 miles currently. Hopefully the Rallys will become more available...sigh.
Another superbly thought out vid.
One thing I would like to mention, and it sounds counterintuitative, to use the rally as a dirt road tourer/adventure bike , the suspension has too much travel and is too high. I am currently converting the 300rally for dirt touring. I have reduced the suspension in the front by 60mm ( and height) and the rear travel by 40mm and height (.via kouba link).
Why reduce travel. Two reasons. One : For fast loaded travel extreme travel means the bike pitches a lot under braking and accelleration. That makes the bike a handful , especially during cornering where is can cause weaving and break traction.
and Two: the extra travel isn't going to get used anyway if you aren't jumping of using extreme travel in supertight lumpy stuff.
It also allows the bike to be lower , which also improved cornering on firmer surfaces.
Living and riding in Australia the Rally tank is a godsend. The L tank is too small to get between fuel in a lot of places, even with the bike's amazing fuel economy.
I really like my rally and feel I can say after nearly 50 years of actual dirt riding , that this bike is an absolute gem ( once the suspension is set up properly).
The screen is VERY well designed ( at least for my height ( 5'10/177cm)).
Mods so far:
MotoX exhaust ( modded dB killer. That's a story in itself) for weight reduction
Renthal Ultra low bars with raisers ( for the bend and weight reduction)
Seat Concepts low seat
YSS rear shock with reduced travel by 40mm at the rear wheel. Kouba link lowering 40mm loser. Stiffer spring to rebalance the lesser travel.
Andreani fork cartridges with internal 60mm spacer and stiffer springs to balance the lesser travel.
Alloy folding gear lever
rear footpegs gone.
Alloy Carry rack
a whole heap of steel brackets replkaced with carbonfibre ot alloy
Reshaped rear tailpiece
550 ECU
14/38 final drive for better motor/wheel speed at dirt road touring pace and slightly better fuel economy.
Removed the rubber and steel bits from the stock pegs. Surprisingly good pegs stock underneath that extra useless weight.
Have Shinko 705 and a Michelin Sirac to replace the horrendous stock IRC's . Yet to be mounted.
I have also made alloy spacers to replace the steel wheel spacers and inter bearing spacers to furthur rdduce weight.
GPS mount ( Noraly style)
The thing that gets missed when reviewing the L and the Rally is how ridiculously smooth the motor is for a single. Tingleless!
Keep up the good work.
Sounds like a really solid set up, you should be proud!
Question on the Seat Concepts low seat. Is it like sitting on a board? Still have suppcent padding??
@@MotorcyclesOffroad As a friend on mine once said " you motto should be Go Forth And Modify". Work in progress!
@@markallen3856 It is a fallacy that thinner means less comfortable. In fact thicker softer seats will end up being less comfortable than a properly designed/constructed very thin seat. Your rear was designed to take the sitting load on the Ischial Tuberosities ( the lumpy boney bits in you bum). All around them is nerves and blood supply. Soft seats occlude the connections to you legs. Bicycle riders understand this pretty well. Bike seats are designed to take all the load on the correct points but have a bit of give ( you have to find the right seat for you though).
On that same note you can extend you riding distance by wearing proper padded cycling knicks under your motorcycle pants for doing real distance.
My BMW F800R had a thick soft seat on it stock and 80km was about the limit before I had to stand up and get off the seat. The Seat concepts I put on it was a third of the thickness and I could comfortably sit on it for hours.
Note though, I have done a 24hour MTB race on a bicycle seat, so maybe my rear is not completely representative...
@@markallen3856 it’s WAY better than stock. Is it as good as it could be if there were stock height padding? Probably not. But I’ll put it to you this way, without getting too graphic... With the stock seat I could only ride about 1.5hrs before there was a certain area of my rear end that just couldn’t take anymore. With the seat concepts low pro seat, I rode for a total of 3hrs so far and have not experienced irritation like I did with the stock seat. Worth every penny.
Picked up a gently used WR with a 3.1 gal fuel + my rotopax with 4+ gal total, and windscreen. Lighter weight with better suspension. Best of both worlds lol.
Ya but the extra torque on the 300 is nice
@@TheEc1ypse regeared the Yamaha still pulls on my buddy’s 300
@@KentwoodWarrior nice man
Currently I don't own a bike. Had a small Chinese bike until it got stolen. Look at a highway commuter. Have decided on the Nc750x. But would like the all rounder 300 Rally
I'm a 55yo experienced road rider wanting to learn to ride offroad and be able to explore Western Australia a bit more. Nothing too gnarly, but I want reliability, range and relative lightness. I have to ride an hour to get out of the city and get into any dirt.
The CRF300 Rally ticks every box for me and I cannot wait until she arrives - 6 month wait in Oz currently. If there was no Rally version I'd choose the standard CRF300L - there's nothing on the market quite as well sorted as these two bikes IMO.
My 300l rally, which will be my first motorcycle, is supposed to be here at the end of May and I chose a rally because the gas prices are killing me, my 2 door bmw now costs 110$ every 2 weeks to fill up so the bike will be my daily driver this summer.
I want a dual sport to be able to explore the trails around where I live since I have already driven most of the roads and I would like to go do the eastern bdr's eventually but making it to the starting point of that is like a 6h drive if you take the fastest route so the added touring comforts the rally has will be nice.
And Noraly was a big inspiration for me getting a motorcycle so that may have something to do with it :p
Oh, I'm from northern Quebec btw, out in the middle of nowhere aka Lac St-Jean.
These are all great reasons, also Im sure it is beautiful up there.
I previously had a ‘14 250L. Now I have a ‘17 Rally. I just like the look of the Rally better and couldn’t justify the extra cost of a 300L/300 Rally.
I can see what you mean if you already have the bike, but I tested the bikes back to back and found the 300L to be very different then the 250L in many ways. czcams.com/video/on1uzOHKNsk/video.html
@@MotorcyclesOffroad I watched this video before I bought the 250L. I agree with it but having the 250L before I know I’d be buying a seat, upgrading suspension, sprocket swap, etc, along with other mods. With the $2k different in price (higher MSRP and dealer fees), I went with the 250L Rally. If I get a chance to ride the 300 Rally I might change my mind. The Rally I bought was a two owner bike and it was MINT. Not a scratch on it and I don’t think it ever saw rain let alone off-road. Maybe someday I’ll ride the 300L and change my mind but the 250 Rally is good for me right now.
@@RugerM77 sounds like you got a really clean bike!
The dual sport/adv market has really crashed here in New Zealand. Second hand is often close to the price of a new motorcycle. Here's what I'm considering from cheapest to most expensive:
Royal Enfield Himalayan
Honda 300 rally
Kawasaki KLR650adv
New subscriber! Love your content. Looking at the 300l due to being shorter (5’9”) and I understand you can lower the seat height roughly 1.75” which will help. Much shorter than the WR250. Would love to hear your thoughts!
Kevin
I am 5'10" I think you will be fine with the 300L.
I got a 21 300l abs for gold mining in the mother load California. lots of back roads, gravel roads, and old trails, with a metal detector. Im 225 so its kinda squishy, butt I like it alot. I got rid of a 2001 DRZ400s with 14000 miles for it.
You probably already said, but when are you set to get the Rally? It's going to be great to see some single owner comparisons where the reviewer is just borrowing one or the other.
I looked at both and in my mind they are more or less the same, just more stuff to break on the Rally. My background is MX from a long time ago. The 300L reminds me of my jeep, which I bought the base model 2dr and turned it into what I wanted, which is my plan for the 300L.
But hey if you got the cash go for it!
I'm debating between these two and the KLX300. I live in NoVA, and it takes about 2 hours to get to a good off-road riding area. I've got a KTM890 Adventure but need to build my off-road skills back up with a smaller bike. The Rally has the advantage on the ride out to the trails, but a disadvantage on the trails. I have a feeling that I'd end up taking either out on my truck because even with the Rally, 2 hours of highway is going to have me tired before I get there. In many ways that makes getting the L (or the KLX) makes more sense if I'm going to trailer it, but the Rally is more of a "mini-me" to the KTM, so having it be a bit bigger/wider and having the fixed windshield, might lend itself to improving my skills on the 890. It's a tough choice.
I have both, between my son and I we have about 2,500 miles on each. Typically riding 30 minutes each way to the trails then riding deep sand , whoops and single track, swapping bikes at the midway point.
That is awesome, you are one of the lucky ones.
I have a CRF300L and a BMW R1250GS. I use the CRF for TET and GS for long distance touring with (very) light off-road.
Sounds as if you are doing the right thing with these bikes and their intended purpose.
I am still trying to decide which bike to get, trying to find out all the pros and cons of these two bikes. They seem to be solid platforms for what I would use them for, but so does the 300 KLX and the DRZ 400. But if I were to be forced to buy one tomorrow I would probably pick the 300L. I like the simplicity of this bike, not to mention I would be hitting the dirt more than I would be on pavement. And this bike seems to be pretty nimble.
I had a DRZ 400 for about 9 years, absolutely love the bike, the power and suspension; however, I kept having to rebuilt the carb (because of gas in California, even putting in stabilizer and draining the carb). Secondly, frustrated with only 5 speeds. This bike needed 6 gears, lastly, sometime hard to start, even when warm. Bottom line, bikes need fuel injection and 6 speeds in my mind. Suzuki kept the 5spd carb, I believe to be grandfathered in as street legal bike in US, but never got evolved. So that is my thoughts on why Honda (if Suzuki modernized their bikes, then a different story).
Hi, I was thinking to buy one of these bikes. First I wanted to buy an Africa Twin or Tenere, but I have decided to go for a lighter bike, that is how CRF get in the picture. I liked more the outlook of the Rally, but I thought L is enough for me, cost cheaper. But now there is a sale on the Rally , so I can get it for the same price than the L. So, I have deicided to gor the Rally now. Thanks for the video! Helped a lot!
Awesome! I think you will enjoy the bike a lot.