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@mamjack6134

2 жыл бұрын

When doing highway test , what gas do you use, 89 regular or super 93?

@ronsouth3359

Жыл бұрын

Did you say you have to pull the shock absorber to screw the preload up???!!

@ronsouth3359

Жыл бұрын

Which ones engine is more relaxed at 65 miles an hour the 300L or the DRZ400

When I bought my 300L I was 6’5” and 250 lbs. I’m now down to 220 lbs. I haven’t managed to get any shorter but this has been the best power mod I’ve found for the bike.

@niallleslie7419

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, I'm 6'5"+ and about 215 lbs. in full riding gear. People often forget that it is the total weight of the machine, rider and all gear which counts. That is why diets are such an inexpensive performance upgrade as are lithium batteries, tubeless tires etc.

@jarrodleis4046

2 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome. Dirt biking is the best exercise!

@got_to_roll

2 жыл бұрын

👏🏻👏🏻😎 I'm 6'4" and down 20 pounds to 243 this year. Can't wait to actually get my 300 Rally to see how much more I can lose!

@Moondoggy1941

2 жыл бұрын

Nice drop in wait. Congrats.

@simpinainteasy680

2 жыл бұрын

Well done! Its tough losing 30lbs. I bet you feel way better as well

This guys reviews are genuinely 5 out of 5 very well done

@BigRockMoto

2 жыл бұрын

thanks

@cornell833

Жыл бұрын

So true

@basselamjad958

Жыл бұрын

He is the Excellence of Execution!

@michaelhildebrandt1073

Жыл бұрын

Reviewing the reviewer eh?

@jeffbanfieldsflwr3537

Жыл бұрын

Agreed, I love all of them. I can't afford any, but love them all the same.

without a doubt, your 30min+ bike reviews are not only really enjoyable to watch but also educational. I watch almost every review, even bikes that dont interest me because its from you. Keep it up!

The front brake line has a PVC sheath…..where it slides up & down through a slider on the left side of the dash. Use a heat gun….gently heat the PVC sheath and bend it slightly to curve forward. When it cools the PVC sheath will retain its forward bend and the brake line will remain out of your way and not block your view of the dash. It only takes a slight curve forward and it will be out of your way.

I’m sure emissions is the reason, but this bike should have been a 400cc bike. The EPA and their Euro counterparts ruin everything.

Ian, once again excelling at thorough, thought provoking, and factual summary of another bike. So many folks have, and are still, reviewing this bike but you've captured the broad strokes and some nuance details in one stop. Thanks much. I'm still on the Rally waiting list (only 2 ahead of me at the local dealer though!) - maybe swapping tags in July!

Man, you do a great job with your reviews. I really appreciate the opinions that are logically based. No frills and no BS. You’re delivery is really well received.

One of the best , most honest reviewers I have ever experienced, look forward to every review you do, Great Work!

At 65 years old, I'm looking for my final enduro. The suspension is a deal killer here. Thanks for the review.

I think someone is falling in love with smaller displacement bikes lately :) Can't blame you, I'm the same. Light is right.

@LTLT900

2 жыл бұрын

Me too.

@danhen222

2 жыл бұрын

I'm 200lbs and love riding my 125 2 stroke. The lighter the better

@rodrigomrp3004

2 жыл бұрын

At 64, undoubtedly me too!!! Unfortunately this little gem is not yet available in my country....

@mikep2563

Жыл бұрын

Yeah 205 love riding my tricked out 2003 ktm 125 sx

@mikep2563

Жыл бұрын

So fun

Dude, you have really hit your stride with your bike reviews. Think that you create & present some of the best & most interesting motorcycle videos on youtube, balancing the provision of detailed information with much appreciated entertainment - I've yet to watch a bike review that didn't that didn't put a smile on my face whilst moving my imminent adventure bike purchase decision forward. Plus, the intro and accompanying music on this video was all by itself worth the visit to your channel. Big Rock Moto Rocks...Big!

Best motorcycle reviews on KZread. Great work, thank you.

Ian, great to see the review, likely one of your most anticipated reviews. I could feel your pain on the bottoming out areas! It would be really interesting like you said to try that bike with a good suspension upgrade. The 300L is a great bike though for sure. Funny 😁 the outtakes, I can see you saying "I love my job" , ride safe! Thanks

Excellent review, Ian. Really hope that quad heals up without any complications or surgery needed. Thank you so much for your amazing channel!

Very honest and detailed... probably the best review of CRF 300 ever.

Excellent review, one of the most comprehensives as always

You definitely make the best motorcycle reviews on KZread, I went with the klx300 after your review on it and I’m glad I did! Thank you! 😎

@BigRockMoto

2 жыл бұрын

Great to hear!

Thanks for the great review. The CRF300L Rally is at the top of my list. I’m a novice rider, 5’ 10”, 180# and I live in the Wasatch mountains in Utah. I sent messages out to all the Honda dealers in the state a few days ago asking about price and availability. I got a call back the next morning from a smaller town dealership down south. A guy had cancelled his deposit on a Rally ABS the evening before. I’m going to pick it up on Saturday. 👍

We appreciate you Ian. Another great review.

One of the best bike review videos I've ever seen. Thanks for your hard work!

Had a DRZ that I rode off road for 6 years including the OR dual sport series. It was heavy, had brittle engine cases, and needed a 6th. And, it sounded great. Like all Suzukis, it was bullet proof & the suspension was OK. I replaced it with a KTM 450 EXC which was higher maintenance but much better all around.

I’ve watched Itchy boots use this on her adventure and I’m amazed at how well it works for her. She is a skilled rider, she is a tiny person and she did change the suspension. I am none of those things so last week I bought A 2022 CRF450RL. Time will tell if I made the right choice. Just ordered the Throttle Tamer and the Seat Concepts Comfort XL so LET THE MODS BEGIN! Woot Woot

I love your reviews! Great work, thanks! Waiting for the part 2 on the Honda 300 rally.

As always Great review Ian, I’m not slightly interested in a 300 dual sport but enjoy your work so I stuck with it till the end. I hope you’re not injured badly.

Just spent a day course in a quarry. Most of the street legal bikes were KTM but there was als a CRF300L. The KTM are way more aggressive, fun but also harder to control. The CRF300L is super easy to control and super confidence inspiring. Absolutely awesome bike, especially considering the reliability and the price. I yet have to get my hands on a Husky 701.

@nnchico1

Жыл бұрын

Don't sleep on the KLX 300 and the 2023 in black camo.........JS

I love the way this video starts, the music and the bike riding are top notch.. although i always wonder why dual sports cost so much more than the similar spec naked bike.

I really enjoy watching this review (especially offroad drive), it also shows small details that a beginner biker might not be aware of. That's 10 out of 10. Thank you

I bought one of these yesterday. I felt comfortable doing so because of the quality of this review.

I've owned mine since Sept and ride it on logging roads and single track. New tires are mandatory and make a world of difference. I also upgraded front spring and dropped a tooth on front sprocket. Love that it's basically zero maintenance. Also replaced bars and of course a skid plate

@allans7281

Жыл бұрын

I love how you tucked the brake wire underneath the crossbar. Bad design from Honda

@AlmostLakai94

Жыл бұрын

Are these suitable for daily light road commuting? Or are the tires going to make it significantly more expensive than a sport/naked? 😯 My bad if he answers this in the video I'm still near the beginning lol

Great Review Ian! A friend of mine is looking to purchase the CRF300L. You really can't beat it for the cost and durability. Problem is, they sell them out as soon as they arrive at the dealerships. Enjoyed the outtakes and I hope your leg is feeling much better. Cheers!

@ronald8673

2 жыл бұрын

My local dealer says this years limited supply will only be sold to deposited buyers. None will be available for "showroom display". Several nearby dealers say the wait list is already out to Sept./Oct.

Great job Ian. You've got your presentation nailed. Looking forward to hearing the DRZ4000 review.

Great review, as always. Thanks for the candid assessment and be careful out there!

Have 6xxx awesome miles on the CRF including a 1100 mile trip on the BRP and Dragon area in TN. It’s brilliant. This and a GS is the perfect combo. Mine will do 84 mph on a flat road w no wind, but it isn’t fun and not what it’s designed for. It’s a simple cheap last forever dual sport.

After changing the springs on my DRZ for my weight (230-240), I will always do it as an early mod. Makes a huge difference.

@TheAnnoyingBoss

7 ай бұрын

Sell it to someone who weighs similar to you

Just wanted to say thank-you for your efforts. I've been waiting for this review from you.

Excellent review. I always learn more about motorcycling in general with each of your reviews. This could be a really good bike for back country trips with suspension upgrades and the right tires! Thanks.

Thanks for posting this excellent review and I hope you're feeling better soon! After initial 600 mile oil and filter change, manual recommends oil change every 8,000 miles, filter every 16,000 miles. I'd do both every 4,000.

@darrellhay

2 жыл бұрын

Isn't that amazing?! 8000 miles, like it is a Civic running down the interstate

I'm 6'2" . Feels high for me . I can't imagine someone under 6' feeling comfortable. Upgraded the suspension after 1100 km. What a difference!

@dhmad0069

11 ай бұрын

I'm 5'9" and seat height is perfect for me.

@SachinLimbu77

10 ай бұрын

and I'm 5'"6 😂

@zurielsss

8 ай бұрын

Less than 4% of men are over 6’ 😂

@TheMotorman116

Ай бұрын

Ha! 5-6 and riding an XR650L!

At the end are the best parts :) Thank you for adding those moments.

Thanks for the thorough review! Good luck with your leg recovery!

Excellent Review. I own one and I agree one pretty much everything you said. Although, for me, the suspension is not an issue. I've owned an enduro before and yes, the suspensions was not even comparable. But the crf300l, being lower seated, a plush suspension, it can go everywhere. I went in some path that only jeeps could go. The first gear is so low and the engine is so torquy, I don't have to touch the clutch lever in hard terrain. It is not an enduro, it's a go everywhere bike. When I intend to go far and hit the highway for long distances, I take my KTM 1190r :)

Thanks - been enjoying your videos as a new follower. I have a Rally coming and came across an ECU reflash for 91 Octane by '550 Performance' out of Wisconsin and have seen others talking about fantastic results with this relatively inexpensive mod.. something worth looking into perhaps.

@alelectric2767

Жыл бұрын

Have you had this done yet? If so does it make a difference enough to justify the cost?

@TylerMcCool

Жыл бұрын

@@alelectric2767 I think it does - I have a ride video and talk about it a bit.

I was just about to purchase the Crf but I watched your review on the KLX and went with it. Great bike. Both bikes are very good.

Thanks for metric units and great test as always.

Another great review Ian, thanks. Comparison notes, or two cents, from a 190 pound 6' 2" tall KLX300 owner: Suspension, suspension, suspension is the difference. Keeping the wheels on the ground I have never bottomed the suspension on my KLX, and this is at stock settings. The KLX gives you rear rebound, compression and preload and front compression adjustments for more aggressive riders. And on highway speeds, my KLX300 at sea level easily pulls 80 mph (GPS adjusted) even with a light headwind. I still wouldn't want to play with the tractor trailers for more than a couple of exits but I can play in traffic at 70 mph and have a bit of power left over on the KLX. So after watching this review I'm glad I went with the KLX. And a note on seats, the KLX came with what felt like a 2x6 board for a seat. It never felt bad on the trails but when I sat for an hour or more road riding it was kinda horrible. But Seat Concepts, for only $219, was the perfect cure. All in all thanks again Ian for another great review and I hope the leg heals up quickly.

@BigRockMoto

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing

@tysoncammack9274

2 жыл бұрын

Hey I'm same height and weight and have been leaning toward the KLX300 because of the suspension. Sounds like you are a satisfied customer but any regrets or immediate upgrades you would do? Did you do any in depth thinking about this bike CRF300L or DRZ40 or some other equivelant? I'm still making final decisions but seems like the suspension is really a huge factor and ultimately may be what might put me over the edge on the KLX.

The front brake line is routed that way to allow for full suspension travel without excessively flexing and stressing the brake hose.

mate -- I hope your leg is all right! I did something not dissimilar around Christmas last year and it took a couple of months or more to sort itself out. Really enjoyed this review a lot. Very thorough -- thanks for doing it.

Very nice review. I'm not a fast off road rider so I think this bike will work for me. Thanks for answering my question, Ian!

I was seriously considering this bike, but after seeing the freeway test I know it's not going to be the right motorcycle for me. Very useful review of this bike because it gave me the information I needed. Thanks!

@bigdaddy2955

Жыл бұрын

Some basic mods to this bike would up the power significantly, while lowering its weight overall. All bikes require some mods to make it right for you and how you ride. Don't be chased off because of one reviewer.

@demetriuscooksey7147

Жыл бұрын

@Big Daddy I agree. But my wife likes to ride 2-up with me. No replacement for displacement!

@thecoolguy9364

Жыл бұрын

A 550 performance tune, aftermarket exhaust, and high flow air filter would all help

@davec.3198

Жыл бұрын

@@demetriuscooksey7147 It's a 300lb dirt bike. 2 up riding is stupid in this class. Putting 300lbs+ of meat on a 300lb bike was never an option.

@demetriuscooksey7147

Жыл бұрын

@Dave C. we used to put around on forest service roads with an old DR250. We weren't trying to win any races, we just enjoyed exploring together. I put on a bigger back sprocket, a pipe that breathed a little better, and beefed up the suspension. It was great until we discovered a DR650 that we could ride TO the trail on and didn't have to load and unload the thing from the pickup. We sold the 650 years ago because we started a family.

Due to the sand tracks we have locally, my choice was the DRZ400E model. Having ridden a WRF280 in sand, it had had adequate power for sand, but it was frenetic to ride for long distances with any comfort. I had tried Honda XR250, DRZ250, KLX300 and of those the KLX300 was more stable in sand and had adequate power. The problem with the KLX is the tank size is limited by the perimeter frame. You can adapt an Acerbis 20L petrol tank to either of the XR and DRZ 250's. My question is have Honda made the rear subframe strong enough for taking luggage weight. I have spent 5 years riding a Tiger 800XCx and while it was a great all road tourer, the size and weight does limit where you choose to ride it. I am back to riding the DRZ400 now. Yes the gearbox ratios are weird ( I fitted a ACT gear set to simulate a 6 speed box spread), the suspension needs stiffening, but there are a lot of after market products to suit the bike. Lack of fuel range would limit this bike in countries which fuel stations are 300-400 km apart.

Man the outtakes are great! More please 😊

Went with the KLX, had the suspension tuned and dropped by the magicians at Noleen. It’s an amazingly perfect trail bike now. The suspension even though dropped two inches is so perfect that I don’t miss the ground clearance one bit. The suspension is perfectly balanced and allows for a lot more carry speed. Being lowered, it is so much more enjoyable on the tight stuff. Added the amazing Fasstflex bars to it and bigger pegs. Perfection.

@billygraham2132

Жыл бұрын

Simply not enough power for Cali freeways. I love Honda. I’d buy a Drz400

@donwatkins9769

Жыл бұрын

How about the CRF300 from your house through Death Valley and then to Vegas for room and great meal and then back home the next day. I am strongly considering the 300 or maybe the KTN 390. I am only after FUN.

Noraly is actually doing what many of us would love to.

@Roger_Ramjet

2 жыл бұрын

Ted Simon was my man back in the day.

This bike is definitely on my list of desireable bikes, thanks for another great review (from the UK)

Excellent review , detailed informations , and happy you named twice Noraly ! hi !

Was original planning on buying a cheap dual sport, and this was one of my choices. But now I’m leaning towards the Rally, 500x or the 390Adv. Thanks for the content brother, KEEP FEEDING US! 👌🏽

@clutch2315

2 жыл бұрын

Check out FortNine's video on the 390 adventure before spending money on one. I had a 2018 500x but it had the 17 inch front and rear tires. not the best selection of tires for it, plus it was quite top heavy when trying to do any trail work. I'm now on a 2014 CRF250L to get better at off roading and trail work before going to something bigger.

@hiltonmcconnell2563

2 жыл бұрын

I have the KTM 390 Adventure and will take it over the Honda CB 500X I did up grade the hand guards and bash plate to the better KTM ones. also went with the Dunlop TrailMax Mission tires. Just over 10,000 Km and loving it, and the tires are only down 2mm another 8mm to go. I use it on Paved, gravel, and dirt roads and some trails. It is much more off road than you would think. the ground clearance is lacking but the suspension more than makes up for it. The KTM also retunes it at the first service, and that makes quite a difference, so them that are testing it before the first service do not know what this bike will do. Good luck on what ever you get.

@hiltonmcconnell2563

2 жыл бұрын

@@clutch2315 The FortMine's video on the 390 adventure is a joke there are some that actually take the 390 Adventure on some pretty gnarly trails and it does them no problems. I wonder about these guys who take a bike around the parking lot and then think they know what the bike is capable of. You do need to up grade the bash plate but you can get it form KTM. I have mine set up as a ADV bike but there is a girl who has hers set up for off road and dose mostly off road on it. Main difference would be the tires. After the first service they reset it and then you find out what the KRM 390 Adventure will do ring its neck and it gets up and moves out, Has to be one of the most fun bikes I have had, in over 55 years of riding. And I have ridden the CRF 500 X so I do know the difference. Off road the CB dose not come close to the KTM and not much difference on the highway. and a plus is that on a 14.5 liter gas tank I get as many miles as the Honda with a 17 liter gas tank.

Awesome review as always. This bike really goes to show that you just can't have everything. Power=weight, power + light weight= $$$, offroad capable= sacrificing suspension for hiway, offroad + hiway supension= $$$$. I think if I was looking at a Honda CRF I would be asking myself just what I'm looking for. If I'm riding mainly offroad I would look at the 250. If I'm doing more road/hiway miles or I was looking at a SuMo bike? I would probably spend the extra money for the 450L which a lot of ppl forget about.

@lastsonofkrypton36

Жыл бұрын

I don't know about people forgetting about the 450L; it's more that it really isn't an L-class bike. If it was, it would be a bigger hit. Instead, it has much higher maintenance intervals and cost.

the most informative review for this bike, great work! Thank you very much.

Thank you for reviewing this bike.

You should increase rev limit from stock 7.5k to 9.5k if you did your initial oil change. It will help with top speed on the highway (not much but it will help). Procedure is described in the manual…

Your reviews are just terrific. I just reserved a 300L Rally due next month. I'm 6'2" and 205lbs so definitely will upgrade suspension first. I can get the K-Tech Razor suspension front and back for about $650 total. I'm not seeing a lot of reviews on K-tech though. Any word on that? If it's a pretty good suspension then wouldn't $650 over cost of the 300L would be well worth it over the KLX300 if the rest of the bike is top notch? I'm stoked either way because my off road riding is more in the realm of put putting in an adventure state of mind. What are your thoughts?

Another great review Ian, keep up the great work Sir!!

Thank you for this in-depth review at the expense of hurting yourself. Hope you have a speedy recovery. 😊

Big Rock Moto, my casual observation: It looks like this bike suits you better than other bikes you owned, such as the KTM 690, WR250, and maybe even the Tenere if you care about low mpg, quiet, smoothness, low weight, and easy seat height, etc. Suspension, brakes, and tires are easy to fix.

I see you're "enjoying" the stock suspension as much as I did 😂

@maxflight777

9 ай бұрын

It’s heartbreaking isn’t it ? If Honda charged more but had decent suspension, it would have sold more.

Best review I've ever seen on any bike. Thanks for your great video.

Im in my 50s and have been riding Honda my entire life. Always my fav n always will. They have always been great from generators to small bikes n 3 wheelers to my 230..❤️

Man... I LOVE this bike! But... I really want a 50 hp version!

@TheMotorman116

Ай бұрын

KTM makes one, but it’s 12k!

Having owned my Rally for a while now (I bought it before the craze began). I think your review is spot on. As a new and relatively light rider (165lbs.), I have not had issues with the suspension and I can upgrade as my skill increases. The bike has enough power to cruise at 70 to 75mph, but it does not feel particularly stable at those speeds, especially with a cross wind. For me the biggest negative is a snatchy throttle which is really noticeable doing slow speed maneuvers in 1st gear. Even with a Throttle Tamer I have not been able to fix it.

@BigRockMoto

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for the info

Outstanding review. Love your work, thank you

this review was awesome, thank you.

I had an XT225 when I was younger, and I loved to take it just about anywhere. This is a much more capable machine that I would have loved even more, but I have a WR250R now that I'm sure it's much more capable at more aggressive off road riding. It's good to have options for all kinds of riders.

Excellent work Ian. I love dual sports; 2019 XT250 owner here. I sat on the "rally version" of this bike and the seat heat intimidated me a little bit as a newer rider but now I've come to appreciate the 300L extra displacement and 6th gear. I doubt i'd ever give up the XT though as I've invested too much in aftermarket goodies and spare parts- love that bike ;-D

@randypower

2 жыл бұрын

I went from an XT250 to 300 Rally and these are almost two different bikes. I like the CRF a lot, but also wish I had the XT.

@airadaimagery692

2 жыл бұрын

I was a little bit intimidated by the 300 Rally’s seat height at first, but I started getting use to it , and by the time my seat concepts low pro seat came in, I was pretty much use to it, but was super happy to get that new seat. Not because it was lower, but because it was so much more comfortable. The stock seat was absolutely horrible... The new seat only gave me about 1” difference, and that was barely noticeable

@JohnnyBoy919

2 жыл бұрын

Night fury how tall are you? Also I believe the standard 300l is slightly lower and more similar to your xt250.

@JohnnyBoy919

2 жыл бұрын

@@randypower why did you get the rally over the standard 300l? The 300l would feel more like your xt250.

@randypower

2 жыл бұрын

@@JohnnyBoy919 hey John, i spend a lot of time on the asphalt getting to dirt, so the added fairings and windscreen are welcome additions. The tiny tank on the non-Rally was a deal breaker for me. Aftermarket will probably address this but it hasn't happened yet and I've enjoyed the bigger tank for 8777 miles already. The other differences are icing on the cake (larger front brake rotor, better pegs, no front brake line moronically in front of the dash).

Thank you. An excellent and insightful review. Much appreciated.

Every question I had about this bike you've answered. Great job sir!

Stock tires on my 300L were not Dunlops, I think they were IRC tires, fyi. (Virginia, USA)

I had the 250L and loved it. I sold it and bought an Africa Twin. I really liked it also BUT the weight eventually got to me. I replaced it with the 300L Rally. Yes, it is under sprung, however, I replaced the rear shock and front fork spring with K-Tech for my weight 255 lbs). Rear Shock $545. Front spring $93. Makes a big difference. I am not a real aggressive rider, I just like to explore. You can do the replacement work yourself, just take your time and one step at a time. Also, for the shorter rider, KoubaLink makes a lowering link ($179) that should resolve the height issue. Tusk makes at least three different soft luggage options for this type of bike. So, there it is, you buy this bike and invest a grand and your off on your own adventure exploring. Well worth the money. I wish I would have done this when I was much younger. P.S. Throw in a skid plate and handguards, another $250. Now you can go anywhere!

@airadaimagery692

2 жыл бұрын

Luv my 300 Rally! Seat concepts seat was the best mod I’ve made so far. I couldn’t ride for more than an hour and half without my rear end getting soar. Swapped the handlebars out and added bark busters. When I get the extra cash I’ll upgrade the suspension, but I’m fine with it for right now. Just gives me something to look forward to.

@dylanyoung3911

2 жыл бұрын

I just reserved a Rally and am planning on the K-Tech suspension. I agree $650 total for suspension puts this bike at the top with all the other aspects of the bike. Do you have any reservations on K-tech at all or are you completely happy with it? Not many reviews out there so I'm wondering why so many go with more expensive options.

@hankwojo

2 жыл бұрын

@@dylanyoung3911 I suppose it depends on what kind of riding you are planning to do. I am not a hard enduro highly technical type of rider. I like a little bit of a challenge but I like exploring off the beaten path. I think the Rally was designed for a little more distance (bigger gas tank than the 300L standard model), bigger brake rotors, a little bit more weather protection, etc. Mainly I upgraded the suspension because my size and weight definitely put the OEM suspension to the test. I decided on K-Tech due to value, other reviews that I have found (check some of the 300L forums). The K-Tech seemed reasonably priced. Yes, there are more pricier options with all the adjustments you need and more. But if you are going to ride hard and fast on technical woopy stuff and beat it on single track the CRF300L Rally may not be the bike for that type of stuff. I would think the DRZ, KTM or Husky would be more fitting. On the other hand, if you're going to pack a small bag, head out with no destination in mind I think the 300 Rally with the K-Tech upgrade will handle anything you come across. I hope this answers you question, yes I am happy with it. But, that's me. It's definitely night and day compared to stock.

@Matt-zn4zp

2 жыл бұрын

I too have a 300L and just bought K-Tech front spring and complete rear shock. Looking forward to seeing the difference. I’ll try to report back when I get some time on the new suspension.

@BigRockMoto

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for the info

Great breakdown. Really appreciate it, as it made up my mind on a purchase. Thanks for the post.

Thanks for the in-depth review!

I was going to buy the 300 rally but bought a used KTM 690 Enduro after researching the power and suspension upgrades I would eventually do. Does seem like a nice bike for the price.

@gabecanderson

2 жыл бұрын

That's exactly what I did too. Had a 300L on order, it was delayed several months, and while I was waiting I scored a '19 690R at a good price. Couldn't be happier.

@TheIdlesurfer

2 жыл бұрын

I have the Husqvarna 701, 2016 so a bit less powerful than the 2017 and later versions. I'm very pleased with my choice but it is not a novice ride. I got it as a novice and it bit my arse a fair few times. Mine has a Rally Raid screen and a Seat Concepts seat, so it is a light ADV. I've done a lot of miles off road on it and it is pretty good on road, for a big single. I'm not tempted by the 300.

@gautamasakyamuni6688

2 жыл бұрын

Right choice!

@TonyHerson

2 жыл бұрын

In my opinion the rally is kinda a bad option. It's a terrible adventure bike and a bad dirt bike. The L makes more sense. It's not pretending to be something it's not

@BruceHoult

2 жыл бұрын

@@TonyHerson watch this and tell me the 300 Rally isn't almost an unfair advantage vs the KTMs and Huskies in Aus/NZ adv riding. He's got upgraded suspension on his 300 Rally, as have I on my 250 Rally. I paid US$4200 for mine, brand new, on the road (a 2019 model bought in March 2020), and spent $900 on the suspension, so I'm in for $5100 all up. They have plenty of power when the open road speed limit is 100 km/h kzread.info/dash/bejne/f5yHraWBY8S9kso.html

Quality review on this bike. I appreciate the amount of work and how thorough you are on all your bike reviews. The suspension is totally inadequate…You are remarkably forgiving on the review for a bike that is not rideable by many looking for a dual sport. Suspension components cost a lot which negates one of the best features of the bike. So if you have the know-how and are willing to spend the money for a quality rear shock & spring and front fork springs this is really a $6500 - $7000 motorcycle. Do that and you have a great $7000 bike… A better question is why reward Honda by buying this? Maybe the KLX300 or DRZ400 aren’t that bad of a choice. Also as you approach that $7000 price point it really opens up other possibilities to, “What can I get for the same amount of money?”.

@Roger_Ramjet

2 жыл бұрын

I would buy the Honda and upgrade.

@vinniem4404

2 жыл бұрын

This review is garbage. A lot of bad information

What a really great review, well done👍 Hope you are feeling better now!

I appreciate your review. I’m a first time on-road bike owner, and I just bought a brand new 2022 300LA, I absolutely agree with your assessment and I Am extremely happy with my purchase so far, even though I live in the northeast, and I won’t truly be able to enjoy it till about the middle of the month of may. Thanks!

I rode my XR650L from Prudhoe to Ushuaia and just changed the front sprocket as needed and changed out tires too. I rode mostly 80/20 tires even on the Dalton and Ruta 40. Really liked the simplicity reliability of the Honda. I tried a CRF250L for a thousand miles but just not enough grunt.

@iducatifan1

2 жыл бұрын

That's cool

@mediocreman2

Жыл бұрын

Little difference in new price between the two as well.

@pfcokelly

Жыл бұрын

I really want the 300l to be good enough to replace my xr650l. I absolutely adore my red pig but she is heavy, chugs gas, and no abs(can't tour well can't technical well) The freeway review of the 300l has me thinking it's not enough. I want the reliability and power of the XR with the weight and modern stuff of the 300l.

@TheMotorman116

Ай бұрын

@@pfcokellysame exact predicament. The 650 is a good bike, but after three years I still can’t get over the height and weight. I rode a dirt only XR 250 for years as a kid, so the 650 was bought out of nostalgia mostly, and thinking I could deal with the weight and being taller than my old 250. Now I’m looking at a 300L and saying goodbye to the big red.

@AzPauly

Ай бұрын

@@TheMotorman116 I'm having similar thoughts..owned the XRL 15 years.. now nearly 60, getting hard to sling my leg over the seat and weight is getting difficult to manage..have a little XT225 for solo camping trips and use it more often, in fact just put 300mi on it in Moab last week, but lacks road speed to connect forest roads..let us know if you get the 300L and your thoughts on it..

Thanks Ian. Great work. I think honda had a set market in mind with this bike. If it had 350cc or above engine and a bit bigger fuel tank and better suspension. It will be damn close to perfect dual sport.

@212driller

2 жыл бұрын

Yea that's why I've given up waiting and bought a 1993 dr350s. They had it right back then. Hopefully we are a 350-450cc dual sport in the near future.

@andrewcannon587

Жыл бұрын

i'm hoping for a WR350R on the same 250R chassis if it come

@212driller

Жыл бұрын

@@andrewcannon587 that would be incredible

@racerx3669

Жыл бұрын

just get a husq

@andrewcannon587

Жыл бұрын

@@racerx3669 husq=ktm=high maintenance+high cost+high problem

Wow what an awesome review, great job! Subscribed!

10/10 From Australia - Excellent review Aaron, really hung on every word you said and trust your opinion. Thank you for your contribution to reviewing the MT 450 - Im am purchasing one untested based on real reviews like yours.

Not sure what is available easily in the States but in the UK a simple £240 YSS shock and rider matched spring is easily fitted and transforms the bike. To be honest anyone buying a CRF should budget for this simple upgrade👍

Another great review. Your review are always half hour but seems so short…means you do a great job. Tks! I’m still lost and I ‘m sure ( I really hope 😉) at the end you will make the comparison between the 3…CRF300L, KLX 300 and DRZ. I’m an experienced on road rider, start slowly Forest road with my Strom 650 but really need a dual sport who will be exclusively for off road, Forest road and easy single trail. Problem, I’m a big guy, 6’3 for 240 so which one…..I like the idea of the 300 rally but it will need 1000$ of upgraded suspension and now we are in the price range of the DRZ and XR650L . Ian! Help me..😅. More seriously, keep doing amazing job and fast recovery.

@got_to_roll

2 жыл бұрын

I'm feeling your concerns at 6'4" 245#. I'm hoping a $150 shock spring replacement will suffice if I ever get the Rally (I've got deposits at 2 dealers).

@FrancoisTX1974

2 жыл бұрын

@@got_to_roll i made some search and to upgrade suspension, it’s around 1200$. For that, you have a new rear shock, a front spring with new valves. All of that customized to your weight, height, type of riding.

OMG the outtakes!! 10/10

One of your best video 👍 Great job , I have a Crf 300 Rally and I Agree with all you said !

Wonderful review. It has helped me finalize my motorcycle directions with the details you provided. In my younger years (early '70s), I road only Hondas. My first was the That XL250 was wonderful and fit my needs to go on trails and also the highway. One time I had my younger brother on the back and we cruised along the Vermont interstate getting up to almost 75 miles per hour if we tucked in. Unfortunately, I sold it while in college. (I did recently find a 1974 XL250 - needs a bit of work.) I was motorcycle-less until about 15 years ago. He sold me his 1986 BMW R80 RT after he bought his first brand new touring BMW. The bike was fun enough to ride, but just wasn't right. I traded with his cousin for a 1982 BMW R65. It had less of the touring "stuff" on it but still wasn't quite right - several wear and tear issues. In April 2017 preparing for my retirement, I bought my second new motorcycle - a 2016 Africa Twin. I considered the CRF250 but I now weigh as much as my brother and I combined back in 1974. The CFR 250 would not quite do it as my only motorcycle. I also consider the CB500X, but it did not have the current features back then. The Africa Twin is a tall motorcycle for someone with a 30 inch inseam - and in reality a returning rider with rusty skills. I almost dropped the Africa Twin on the initial ride home when I stalled it at a traffic light with a left turn and railroad tracks. The OEM seat was already in the low position. Honda's low seat was on order. The low seat helped but my built-in cushioning wanted more on the Africa Twin. Ultimately, I purchased a Sargent low seat. It has more cushioning. Both the Honda low-seat and the Sargent seat have me at best close to the balls one my feet - tip-toe is probably a more accurate description. On the highway and local roads, I have no real issues with the seat hight. The Africa Twin handles the interstate so smoothly that I found myself in the fast lane at speeds I could never approach with my XL250. A State Trooper even verified the degree of excess speed. Afterwards I looked at my GPS tracks that showed me a bit slower. I suspect that when I took my helmet off and he saw my white hair and beard, he was probably expecting a younger person. He gave me a warning. (I believe my veteran plate also helped.) I had been considering selling my Africa Twin. It has very low mileage since I road very little during Covid days and with some health issues just before that. But I would miss the the highway and back road capabilities of the Africa Twin. The CFR300 would be fun for trail riding. I can lower the suspension an inch more which would allow me to be solidly on the balls of my feet. I decided that I need to get that 1974 XL250 running again for those short off road adventures and enjoy them like Noraly. Thank you for your in depth review. Hope that leg healed quickly.

It was a close race between the KLX and the CRF for me - I ended up getting the KLX because the cost of the suspension upgrades would have been far more than the difference in price. However, yes, the instrumentation is ancient on the KLX. I'm happy with it though - I also like the slightly lower weight.

@airadaimagery692

2 жыл бұрын

Do You have a gas gauge?

@elindenstein

2 жыл бұрын

@@airadaimagery692 No, but I just refill at 100 miles. Easy peasy.

@JohnnyBoy919

2 жыл бұрын

@@elindenstein the instrumentation on the crf300l is perfect, everything you need and nothing that you don't. Not like you have to scroll through thousand of things to try to find what you're looking for. Kawasaki really should have done a better job with that. Honda did much more than kawasaki going from the 250 to the 300. Literally the only thing kawasaki did was up the displacement...other than that it looks identical to the 250. I'd personally rather get the honda and just upgrade the suspension, but good luck with the kawasaki!

@Weltbummler23

2 жыл бұрын

I hear the mpg and range of the honda is much better. Pretty wild how different it is. Its easy to change the suspension but almost impossible to gain 15mpg.

@elindenstein

2 жыл бұрын

@@Weltbummler23 Yeah if I were commuting or world traveling, I would have picked the CRF Rally, but this is just for practice and trails

Another great review sir. It helps tremendously.

Thanks for the review. Great work!

Thanks again for a great review. This is actually one review I was really looking forward too. I am so confused right now! I want a lighter bike for adventure type rides. I was considering this bike in the rally configuration. So, I was going between the 300 Rally, KLR, Tenere 700, KTM 390. So far I think I am going to lean towards the Tenere. I have a super tenere for 7 yrs now, and I just love the sound and power on the hwy. I was going KLR, owned 5. But it is not going to be a whole lot different. I appreciate the time you take on your reviews. This has really helped me come to terms with the type of bike I am searching for. Cheers! Hope heal up quick.

@FrenchyRider574

2 жыл бұрын

I'm gonna get the 300 rally, I think it's the best lightweight adventure bike. Count an extra 1000$ to upgrade the suspensions to your weight, 1000$ to get new exhaust and ecu (550 performance) to make the engine a lot more alive and torquey and then just some barkbusters and handlebar risers and you got an off road weapon that is still more affordable than any other options...

@glossblack1098

2 жыл бұрын

Consider the KTM 690 too. Same hp as T7 but 50 kg lighter and better suspension.

@PapaDougsAdventures01

2 жыл бұрын

As mentioned the T7 is a LOT heavier and really in the Middle weight class and $5000 US more than the CRF300L. The KTM 390 Adv has a lot more horsepower,is over a $1000 more and has a smaller front wheel. I have a Tenere 700 on order and I own the 890 Adv R so I’m looking for a smaller more “Flickable” bike. At this point I’ll probably get KTM 390 Adv.

@dirtdad8478

2 жыл бұрын

@@glossblack1098 I owned a 690 for a couple yrs, thinking the same thing. I enjoyed it more as a dirt bike. I did not like the gear ratios. I actually preferred my wr250r over it.

@dirtdad8478

2 жыл бұрын

@@PapaDougsAdventures01 I do have a 350exc, looking for something to replace the super tenere. the t7 is over 100lbs lighter. still a little more than I would like.

It sounds like what the market really needs is mildly updated DRZ 400 with fi and a 6 speed or a big brother to the CRF300L. I really like the CRF450L that Honda gave us but I can’t help but think a cheaper version 450l based on the 300l would be just about perfect for a lot of people. BTW I hope your leg got better quickly.

@vtrack1963

2 жыл бұрын

Well stated, excellent comment. The bike you describe would dominate the market and be fun to ride by most perspective buyers.

@texlee1640

2 жыл бұрын

Former CRF450L owner here and I agree that a 450 Rally with fewer service intervals would sell like hot cakes.

@skylerlovell1780

2 жыл бұрын

My buddy and I have been saying the same thing for months. A 450l rally with the same service intervals of the 300 would be much closer to "perfect". Heck, throw the 500x twin in a 450l rally even.

@texlee1640

2 жыл бұрын

@@skylerlovell1780 Yea, the only problem would be getting your hands on one as they would backed up for years with the demand.

@lastsonofkrypton36

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, it's curious that no manufacturer has made that bike. I mean, they see the success of the DRZ, right? And listen to any owner and they bemoan the missing 6th gear and wonder why FI hasn't been brought on yet. Still, I also wonder why my mid-2000s XT225 is ~250lbs wet, and these "newer" dual-sports are over 300lbs. It isn't the small increase in engine cc's. A late 90s XT350 weighs less than this modern 300cc bike. Why?

Great review! Glad I watched, you changed my mind on getting a 300L

I'm enjoying your reviews, nice job!