9 Things to Know Before You Buy a Honda CRF 300L Rally

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thanks to ‪@MotoCampNerd‬ for sponsoring this video! Head over to www.motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork for all your motorcycle camping and motorcycle adventure needs. (affiliate link)

[@rideordietheyretring2tranx382]

dirt vs street DRZ400 vs crf300 isn't it gearing that determines street-ability

[@steveeichelberger806]

50 years of riding experience here. I own a BMW F800 GS and was wanting something light to explore the backroads and gravel roads. I bought the 300 Rally knowing the suspension was low quality. I just didn’t know how bad it was. I ordered a new rear shock and spring within days. Now it’s pretty good. I’m still on the stock front suspension and I can bottom it out frequently when I start picking up the pace, but it would rather go slower than that anyway. Some people complain about the seat not being comfortable. It’s like sitting on a sofa compared to a dirt bike, so it’s all in your perspective. It’s a smooth engine, very good wind protection, the bar for the rally fairing is great to mount my GPS to. It is comfortable and capable and the most boring bike I’ve ever owned. If you want a relaxing, comfortable, easy to ride, low maintenance, reliable, comfortable, inexpensive bike to own and maintain, I highly recommend it. For me the worst thing about it is that it needs a few more horsepower for the highway. It is perfectly happy running 65 MPH, but above that, I’d much rather be on a bigger bike. Just my opinion from someone who’s owned all kinds of bikes from trials, dirt bikes, sport bikes and now a BMW R1250 GSA. Just because it’s a great beginner bike, doesn’t mean it’s not for experienced riders.

[@solkinetic1583]

I turned mine into a 250L Rally L. I just cut the plastic off on the sides to expose the engine. Way easier to work on, and it looks badass.

[@bvitale35]

I got this last year as my first bike because of your channel. I love it! Thanks for the great content

[@jammcguire1276]

You being a larger person makes ur reviews invaluable! For the average size rider, any bike that can handle w a larger person will definitely work for them. I always add a point to ur reviews for that reason.

[@sean7212]

I have ridden and raced motorcycles for over 40 years, the Honda 300l, while not fast is an incredible motorcycle. I rode the entire Nevada BDR solo and did not need for anymore. I did change the suspension to race tech which was a night and day difference. I have surprised quite a few riders on bigger bikes, KTM 501's, with how capable the bike was and had no problems keeping up. Deleting smog gear and new exhaust lost a bunch of pounds and made the engine more " Open " feeling. I am excited about the new DRZ4S and may have to add one to the stable.

[@Trike.]

How much weight did you drop off your 300 after deleting the smog stuff , And how much does the stock exhaust weigh?

[@mayo_moto]

The mighty Moto Camp Nerd rode his bike out of the woods with a broken knee. Wanted to do some more exploring too. Absolute unit!

[@shanannygains]

Started watching your channel last year and bought a 300 rally after watching your videos. Most fun bike I've ever owned or ridden for that matter. 6(ish) grand for a brand new one was a no brainer.

[@Seveneleven44]

Reliability. Reliability. Reliability. You can slap as much lipstick on your KTM’s and defend the company that cares zero for you. I’ll take any Japanese bike over the others. I love my 300l. It serves a specific purpose, and it does it well.

[@lionelemata7433]

Doing both is fun too😊

[@raycummings8754]

I love my Rally and had a blast on it at Touratech last year. Upgraded the suspension to Rally Raid front and rear, and now it is almost a perfect bike. It was your earlier reviews that convinced my to buy it, so thanks Ben!

[@ryanconrad4932]

Love mine! Don't see me ever getting rid of it. New tires, suspension, lighter exhaust, seat, etc. Lots of fun to make unique and not that expensive to trick it out. Also, you are the reason this old guy got into riding and I'm loving it. So thanks!

[@billcotton1551]

I went from the CRF250 Rally , to the 300 Rally, and I think the suspension on the 300 is better, though , I only weigh 160 lbs. I did read that the 2025 model will have beefed up suspension.

[@DualsportDuffy]

I bought my 300 rally last year and can say it is exactly what I wanted. That being said, I did my research a lot of it from this channel and others. I also came from a crf250l. When I purchased the bike I already had my suspension ordered from Rally Raid, Moto x exhaust with 550 exu and seats concepts seat. I absolutely love this bike with this set up and we'll worth it to me. Thank you dork for all your content. Safe riding

[@timtamslam28]

I’m honestly sold on the rally as my first bike, looking forward to hopefully getting my hands on one soon! Thanks for the great content as always Ben!

[@mutstang66]

Iv had the 300l for almost a year now. Non rally. Love the thing so far. Not really anything bad to say about it except the suspension but that can be fixed with a few hundred bucks. It definitely loves the woods.

[@DG121480]

Please, for the love of god, Honda, make a 500-600 version of this bike. I would buy one tomorrow.

[@JakeShula]

@@DG121480 amen brother

[@airadaimagery692]

I think it’s going to be perfect for me once I get the Big Bore kit installed. I don’t do a lot of Hwy riding anyway, even though it will go 80mph now, I’ll get a little more top speed with the big bore. It’s going to be the low end torque that’s going to make it that much more enjoyable. It’s a perfect solution for me, because I just don’t want anything heavier for the type of off roading I do.

[@avgjoerides]

Seriously, could Honda take the 450RL motor and "tweak" it (I'm no engineer so maybe that's not possible🤷‍♂) to be the CFR450L Rally?

[@DG121480]

@avgjoerides it's about longevity and durability. That 450 is a hot motor, so they'd need to change a lot to get the service intervals up to realistic figures

[@riscracing5538]

@@avgjoerides Yes, they did already the CFR450L Rally Concept, seen at EICMA in 2018......but they did not role it out to the market....no one knows why...may be too expensive and they expected more sales of the 450L in the EU market / global to justify the build of the Rally version??

[@martincyr7259]

Everything you mentionned about the Rally is very true, especially the suspension. I own a '22 Rally and I've been riding it since the past two years. I have over 25k miles on it and it's as much fun as it was in the beginning. Did three BDRs: Mid-Atlantic, Wyoming and Colorado, all of them from Montreal and back. More comfortable on the highway than people would think. I plan to swap the stock rear shock with the K-Tech Shock Absorber Razor-R Lite this winter and also change the front fork spring with a stiffer one. The stock suspension didn't stop me from riding on all sorts of roads and trails even with all my camping gear, but I think an upgrade will make my experience with this great bike even better. They say that the '25 model will get an upgrade on the suspension. Thanks for the review.

[@sjmheron]

In my mid-40s I'm buying my first bike in the spring. I was looking at a Tenere 700 or the CRF300L Rally. With cost not being a primary driver your videos have really helped me come to the decision that the Rally is probably a better option for me. Thank you for helping me make a sensible choice I can still be excited about.

[@airadaimagery692]

Yeah, you don’t want a T7 for your first bike. Unless you just road riding. You need some experience to handle a T7 off road. You will have way more fun on the Rally once you do all the mods to it. It’ will do anything and take you anywhere, and you’ll be able to develop off road skills with ease. Not as easy as a dirt bike, but nothing like a T7.. I’m just a dual sport enthusiast, and never really liked heavy ADV bikes tho. I considered getting a CFMoto 450, but even if I did I wouldn’t sell my Rally. But now I have my eyes on the new baby GS 450 that’s supposed to hit the market in 2025. The new GS is supposed to be only 40lbs heavier than the Rally, which is 60lbs lighter than the CFMoto.. But even if I do get a GS I’m still not selling the Rally. Lightweight bikes are always more fun. I rode a T7. It feels heavier than it actually is. But that’s just my opinion. I been riding for 40 years. The Rally is something like my 20th bike, and I just like it that much.

[@sjmheron]

@@airadaimagery692 I'm taking a couple of courses and getting licenced in May. I've looked at the GS450 and if it is available by then it'll be a tough decision. I really like the styling.

[@logangodofcandy]

A light tall bike is easier than a heavy tall bike. A short bike is easier than both. Get a used Honda 250, ride it for a couple months, then sell it and get the bike you want. That little bit of experience will make you much better on a taller, heavier bike

[@airadaimagery692]

@ yeah I think that GS looks sick af! Lol... Courses will help you a lot, but it’s usually just for road riding. I didn’t take any courses until I had already been riding for 30+ years and I still leaned a few things. I Just did it for fun. But when it comes to off roading, that takes experience. I started riding when I was 9 and raced MX in the 90s, so I had plenty opportunity to develop off road skills. But even after all that, it’s still a completely different animal taking a heavy ADV bike off road. The very best thing that can prepare a person for off roading with dual sports and ADV bikes is a dirt bike. I know not everyone can afford one when they’re buying a street legal bike, but it would advance your skills 10 fold.

[@dangareau]

I'm 48 currently with a Rally and a Monkey. If you can only afford or have the space for 1 bike, get the Rally. If you have the space and can afford to get a used Grom (not a Monkey [greatest motorcycle ever], you might not be willing to part with it, I won't sell mine ever) or even an Amazon dual sport for $1600 delivered. This way you can drop it without caring, cause you will drop it, it's part of learning but you'll learn faster if you don't have to worry about it. If you're like me you won't be gentle or care but I'm told that I'm unusually abusive to my bikes so mine has a few more scars than most.

[@blacklabeloffroad]

I just bought my 300L Rally a few mounts ago and I absolutely Love it. Ive owned my DRZ400S sense 2005 and have a 24 CRF450RL. At 54 years old discovering the Rally has been super fun, doing all the mods as well. I haven't done a pipe because I'm enjoying the quiet at this point. This bike has made me love exploring again! Thanks for the content on the Rally.

[@dosazsolt9725]

don;t you find the 27 hp to be to less for the weight of the bike?

[@dwr3333333333]

​@@dosazsolt9725I had a 1978 Honda XL (similar bike) that I bought brand new. It had 20 HP! I never question it's power! Did just fine on or off the freeway

[@andrewbriand7539]

If anyone is wondering to get the 250 vs 300. I was wanting to get a 300 but was able to pickup a CRF250Rally, which is my first bike for really cheap. Came with ohlins suspension, 550 tune, rhk bars, barkbusters, pivot pegs, Delkavich slip (pretty much everything done). From the money saved from not getting a 300, I was able to get some really good riding gear. There are a few videos out there showing that there isn't much of a performance difference. I agree with Ben about the fairings, they are annoying to work on. I have since cut them, and this helps to keep the bike running cooler, and make cleaning and maintenance much easier.

[@AriH211]

Ben, you've got an open invitation to ride my 301cc (78mm big bore) CRF300L. In my humble opinion, it's the epitome of what the platform can be.

[@Jeredsmith]

this is the last thing i would need to do for my 300l rally. I would like to test ride 1 locally in the DFW area to see if it's really worth it or just enjoy mine with all the "bolt on" mods and ecu that it has now. I also run a crf450rl so not sure i need to do big bore for the rally or just enjoy the rally for what it is lol

[@airadaimagery692]

I have one, can’t wait to install it!

[@ZeroXSEED]

@@Jeredsmith Never boreup something you want to hard ride on a trail. But for street bikes, maybe things will be fine. Remember, the cc increase itself is not that relevant, it's the spike in compression that do.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I would love to check it out! Trying to keep mine mostly stock engine-wise just because I think that's what most people in the audience will most likely do, but I'd LOVE to see what's possible with the upgrade.

[@Jeredsmith]

@@ZeroXSEED right i agree and like i said i have a 450rl so no reason to do it besides see if it's a real difference. I like the concept of the Rally with being indestructible and can go thousands of miles with mainly filling up fuel and making sure oil is in the engine and air is in the tires.

[@starbuck1966ncc]

Last December I got a 2023 Rally 300 after 24 years off a bike (last bike was a 1974 Suzuki TC 100 two stroke) The Rally is a Blast to ride and I use ethanol free fuel, I average between 82 and 84 MPG, full coverage insurance was $95 per year, now its 75 a year! The more I ride it the more I Love It!!

[@KlioRides]

Dude, in italy full coverage for me is 1200 a year🫠

[@BigBrainZane]

Great video! looking forward to your thoughts on the new DR4Z Cheers!

[@martingould4384]

Hi Ben, agree with your thoughts on the 300 - it grows on you. I bought a 300rally early this year and went for the Rally Raid level 2 kit fromt and rear - totally, totally transforms the bike. Did a 2200 mile trip from the UK to the Italian alps in September to ride the Colle de Sommeiller, absolutely awesome, the chuggability of the engine and the stock gearing worked brilliantly and the power was fine, even up at 10k ft. Even the stock seat was fine, once I'd added a cool cover. Look forward to you visiting the ABR festival next year!

[@Dansk55]

Your reviews made me consider and thereafter purchase a 450rl. Love it.

[@phillipleblanc6508]

I bought a new CRF 300L and put on Ohlin's suspension, Yoshimura exhaust, 550 Performance ECU/air filter/hi flow air box cover and hi flow air stack, upgraded handle bars, chain and sprockets and tires and foot pegs, USB ports, LED headlight and bright as heck running lights + some "that looks cool" stuff. I live in Laos and have driven that bike as hard as it could be driven. It is an absolute powerhouse of a tank. Has about 40 HP now. I'd put it up against anything. The best bike ever built but out of the showroom it needs a little help, unless you're a 60kg Lao guy hahaha

[@outsideguy3633]

Got my Rally in Jan as a retirement gift. Last time I rode a cycle it was a street cruiser and gas was $1/gal. I use the Rally for relaxed rides on gravel and 2 tracks. Highway capability is sufficient. I use 6’th gear exclusivey for overdrive on flat highways. No interstates for me. The larger Rally gas tank is a big plus. All day riding unencumbered by the thought process. I replaced the rear spring and shock right away, and I lost 20+ pounds after retiring. Both made the Rally more enjoyable. Have not done anything inside the forks. If you’re new to riding single or 2 tracks I strongly recommend the SCRmoto skid plate and crash bar kit. I know from experience on wet muddy clay trails during a downpour that Rally plastic is very vulnerable to low speed low angle slide crashes. My buddy got a KLX300 when I got my Rally. The KLX300 has a much better stock suspension and a 5 speed transmission. I thought hard about getting a KLX300 but the smaller gas tank and shorter range was a deal-breaker for me.

[@Bandit-Iggy]

I ordered the 2025 model just last weekend, and been on a Rally for the last 6 years now, i have lots of experience, in motocross & Enduro and Rally's in Africa, and i agree, this is the best bike ever built, not the fastest, but best overall in a class on its own, i'll be riding my 2025 Rally to Laos and China in januari, great video and big thumbs up from Hooken Iggy or the Iggstr👍👍😎

[@brettford946]

I bought mine after watching your Dual Sport tier list. Definitely happy with it.

[@baldwin276]

It’s a great bike! I’ve had mine for a year. Would recommend the SRC Moto Skid Plate and lower crash bar combo. Does not get in the way for maintenance and provides protection in rock gardens.

[@AllenJeter20]

Seconded

[@Philoseligion]

@baldwin276 That src combo works with the outback motortek upper crashbars. I put all of it on recently. I'm not a youtuber, so I don't think this will offend anyone. This project, very unprofessional videoed, is the only video set currently on my channel. I haven't uploaded the rest of the project, at this time. I could, if people are interested and patient.

[@reg26]

I have the SRC guards on my rally and they are awesome. It also protects your shift lever/brake peddle to a degree and keeps the lower plastics from breaking and getting scratched. There is no need to get the upper crash guards . Like Ben says the Barkbusters take care of that . The upper fairings never touch the ground. Another nice thing about the SRC guards is that all the weight is at the bottom of the bike so you don't even know they are there. Great product

[@airadaimagery692]

That’s the one that I wanted when I bought mine in February 2022 but they were out of stock so I had to take a different route. But it still works great with lower crash bars and a separate skid plate. Dropped my bike about 4 times with No damage. I took the handlebar mounts off for the hand guards and mounted them to the triple tree with Zeta triple tree mounts because they twisted 2 out of the 4 times I dropped it. No more twisting.

[@reg26]

Does not get in the way of any maintenance at all. Yes get the guard with the skid plate. It's built like a tank. You will not need any other protection other than handguards. This guy beats the crap out of his rally and finally got them Watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/pp-vaamfnZKSa7s

[@donkeycrock]

Perfect video. CRF 300 Rally, my first bike. Love it.

[@teejaymcglynn]

I bought my 21 Rally because of its uniqueness and after playing around for a few months decided it’s a lifelong keeper with great potential. In my opinion, the soft suspension is perfect for it. New riders confidence will improve with seat time and will grow into it and experienced riders will outfit with their suspension of choice. One thing that wasn’t mentioned pertaining to the fairings- the lower belly pan/ plate traps a lot of muck and should be removed before hosing off to get the most of it washed away.

[@elijahbrooks8589]

I’m about #180-190 and 69” w 29” inseam. I love it everywhere I’ve ridden, single track woods, mud, sand. Gravel or dirt roads are a race track. My R6 is being rebuilt (10 years old) and I’m riding it too work until I finish it. I travel 13 miles on 70 MPH toll road I’m just as fast around town as middleweight naked bikes but I max out at 80 MPH. FLAT OUT DOWN HILL WITH WIND AT MY BACK FOLLOWING SEMI 87 MPH! My bike is stock with phone mount, bark busters, tail rack.

[@advredbikes]

Thank you Ben for those awesome recommendations, I have the CRF 250 L. I love it but I have heard they’re changing up the 300 rally for 2025 especially appearance. I’m looking into that one. Looking forward to your next video. Thank you.

[@butcherknife59knife46]

Thanks Ben. I just picked up a 2021 CRF300L. Im looking forward to riding it ! Way to may good reviews on this bike. I got it for a steal. A few hour drive but worth it. Stay safe on the 2 wheels. Spring a coming . Around Bend Oregon out on 2 wheels

[@max_archer]

I'm moving to Bend next month and planning on getting my first bike as soon as riding season opens up. I've looked at a bunch of things but I keep coming back to the 300L Rally and it's probably gonna be what I end up with. Hopefully the new one with the improved suspension will be on the market by the time I'm buying.

[@jimcarr8425]

I've managed to remodel the plastics on mine and found that PVC cement is your friend, that and fibre-glass matting :-D I hit a tree a couple of weeks ago going sideways having hit a run on leaf-covered green chalk and re positioned the cockpit and foot brake - sorted with a six-foot scaffolding pole and grunt.

[@EastboundDwn]

Love my 300L Rally! I agree, the stock tires are terrible, like saw bkades cutting through sand. I had the outback crash bars but took them off, too heavy, and a pain to take on and off to remove the plastic. Great video!🍻

[@GrizzlyAdamUT]

I put 2500 miles on mine in about 6 months on multi-day trips and I love the bike. I recently upgraded the suspension and I have new tires ready.

[@Mugochap]

Thanks for this review, this was helpful content. I keep going back and forth between this and the 450… the commentary about the highway riding is where I’m most concerned as I have up to 1 hour highway rides to get to anything off pavement.

[@cnyjody9650]

I love mine. Bought it in April of this year. Only took my Harley Ultra Classic out twice this year. Put over 3000 miles on the Honda. One finger clutch pull, try that on a Harley with a Barnett clutch, lol. I'm getting 70 mpg, and I'm 200 lbs. I start looking for gas stations around 190 miles. Oil changes are a snap in under 5 minutes. I've had no problem "keeping up" with traffic at 70-75 mph. The fastest I've had it was 83 mph. Once the snow melts, the suspension will get an upgrade, that's all this bike needs, and I think she deserves it. I got tired of being a fair weather rider with the Ultra Classic. Now I can ride any time I want, if the roads don't have snow on them.

[@NeenerPoops]

I have a 2024 CRF Rally with all the goodies. Added Ktech fork spring and shock. Yoshi exhaust and 550 performance stage 1 tune. This really lights the bike up! It is not comfy to ride at 75 mph - but its on KNOBBIES! It will never be comfy at those speeds but it will easily do it. I have seen 78 mph @ 8k RPM so there is still some power left. With the affordability of the bike, a guy can do these mods and really wake the machine up and still have spent less than other machines cost. I have no regrets.

[@mrnorcal32]

Yep keeping mine forever. Awesome bike!!!

[@davidgiorlando4086]

You left out one more! Make it 10 things you need to know. Its one of the coolest looking bikes ever made! I am an advanced rider in both adventure and dirt bikes. I have one in my stable because its so cool, cheap to own, and i smile every time I look at it or ride it. I've done shock and fork upgrades and D606 tires. I've ridden it at 12kft in Colorado and blazed through the California desert. It just fun!

[@FilthyForce]

Fantastic video as usual 👏

[@frankangelinefrisch3374]

Good video. I just picked up a really nice set of 88 & 89 Honda NX250's that came up while I was shopping for a nice used 300 Rally. The NX250 is a new model to me as it was only sold for a couple years in the USA so Id never seen them before, but it seems pretty similar to the 300 Rally.

[@Euryheli]

I agree with your assessment. I got one last year for my son as his first road/ADV bike, he’s 16 and has been on dirt bikes for years. It’s a heck of a bike. Feels like a trail bike in the woods and has no problems doing highway speeds. I’d been looking for one for years when I came across this one, I feel like if I’d found one years ago when I started looking I would have saved myself a 701 and a dirtbike.

[@MyATVlife]

My wife has already "outgrown" her XR150L so we will be upgrading her in 2026. I think the 300L Rally is the most logical next step up 👍

[@Goldinils]

sounds wrong :P

[@DorkintheRoad]

So long as she's cool with the seat height it's a great choice.

[@ddg9584]

No it is not. She will outgrow the 300L 3 months later.

[@lionelemata7433]

I rode a 150 L from Da Nang to Hanoi with lots of tourists stops along the way. Then went on a 8 day tour north all the way to the Chinese border on everything from scenic mountain roads to single track jungle on a 300 L. Beginner or racer, the bike is a blast. My Rally is transformed cuz that’s just how I do😊. All the mods enhances the experience.

[@Ghostrider-71]

I wish I had seen this before purchasing my KLR 650 Adventure. I love the KLR but it is heavy for a newbie rider. Off-road, as long as it’s dry dirt, would be fun. Wet mud is NO fun, I learned my lesson and have been sticking to paved roads to get more experienced and get more confidence back. Meh, maybe this could be a great 2nd bike. Thank you for posting.

[@cmercerelli]

Every point you made was spot on.

[@petezny4343]

My KLX300 sits in the garage watching all those other bikes come and go and she's smiling because she knows I'll probably never sell her, she's here to stay. She knows that I'll always come back to her for a fun relaxed ride after ripping on my 100+ hp ADV. She knows that she's just as capable, probably more, of finishing a BDR even though she needs that extra can of emergency gas. I get everything you said about the Rally because after 48 years of riding and over 25 motorcycles my 300cc dual sport is probably the best bike I've ever owned.

[@Tony-zp8xn]

I love mine. Not quite a 50cc bump from the 250l to the 300l. It's only a 37cc difference from the 249cc engine of the 250l to the 286cc engine of the 300l. I never rode a 250l, but I can imagine the 300l is quite a difference from the 250l. If Honda had made it a true 300cc engine, I think there would probably be far fewer "gutless on the highway" complaints from some people.

[@Bob-t2c]

New subscriber here.., looking to get motor bikes at the age of 42, this looks like a good gateway drug. So timely is the video that it actually calmed me f down stuck in Singapore airport 2 days trying to get home for Christmas. 🎄

[@42micks42]

Top analogy Dork. I have had mine 3 years, Hardly riding it but just getting into it now due to having a T7. It goes anywhere like a goat and its like riding a push bike after heavy adventure bikes. I put some KTec springs front and back and transformed the suspension for under £200 and a few mods including tires and now wish I had ridden it a lot more. Cheers Mick

[@quacktac]

I want to get into some greenlaning and adventure riding next year. I wanted a T700 but I think it's decided, I'm buying one of these.

[@daletroy3348]

Love ❤️ my Rally , so much so that I’ve put a bore kit in it with Yoshimura pipe ecu reflash to suit new 301 cc , obviously suspension, XL comfort seat , pivot pegs , bashplate heated grips. Bars and risers, radiator guard plus some other odds and ends and i can imagine that id ever sell it , i have a CFmoto 450 MT ( ibex) with suspension upgrades and tires bashplate etc for my longer road type adventure rides , both bikes are brilliant, particularly when modded to suit ❤❤❤

[@PedroPereira-ut6pp]

i have a crf300 rally for almost a year (partially because of this channel) and can say thats a good first bike if you want to try it in the woods. the stock tyre are great for the street and for some offroad.... if its starting to get wet or muddy....... cheers!

[@ottomusprime5028]

I was planning on adding the 4 gallon tank to my WR anyway but a debris fire took it out so I’m waiting on my 2025 CRF300L Rally delivery now during the Oregon rainy season (till July 5th, for those that don’t know). 2025 will have new suspension but Ohlins offers a full set if you wanna flex.

[@michaellloyd7940]

Very good review! I just purchased a 2023 300 rally last summer, and I'm very happy with my purchase. I got rid of the crappie stock tires and upgraded the suspension with the Rally Raid level 2 front and rear from EVO suspension. Plus, other mods.

[@JakeShula]

How much for the suspension upgrade?

[@JakeShula]

@@sys-administrator not if you want something capable on road. In my opinion

[@DorkintheRoad]

Paul did my suspension, as well. He's a miracle worker.

[@michaellloyd7940]

​@JakeShula, it depends on what brand of suspension you get. I purchased Rally Raid level 2 suspension. The rear shock is purchased and has the hydraulic preload adjuster which adds to the cost, but in my opinion it's worth it. The cost of the rear shock is about $850 and the fork kit is about $770. If you plan on keeping the bike for a long time it's worth the cost in my opinion. The bike handles totally different now. I highly recommend EVO suspension, Paul is a wizard with motorcycle suspension.

[@seanclarke848]

I bought a 300 rally for my daughter we use it for BDR adventure rides. I agree with every thing the dork has to say about this bike. I ride a crf450x as my adventure platform and there are times I cant hardly keep up with my daughter on her rally. They just work so good! Fun easy to ride, you can flat throw down the miles on these bikes! I have also owned an Africa twin. I have way more fun on my 450 or the 300 over the twin.

[@fixedG]

I got a Transalp as a starter bike earlier this year, and it's been great, but I'm still considering one of these for the next one.

[@robertmills794]

I was looking at the 300l but not the rally. Figuring suspension and tires off the bat,.. for all the reasons you've so well stated. It's a good complement to the GS1200 already in the stable.

[@jhock2781]

I have a 450RL that I love - It's a real desert rocket. Just completed LA to Barstow to Vegas and it was a great experience. However, my wife has a 300L, which I also love. And I have a real soft spot for the 300L Rally. Really considering getting rid of my Zero FX and acquiring one to do longer distance dual sport rides as my 450RL just isn't set up to handle that task anymore.

[@MishMashMoto]

Tell Ben to get well soon and to keep going for/living the dream.

[@MotoCampNerd]

Finished physical therapy last week! Thanks for the well wishes!

[@Bozo-squid]

Great, now I want a 300 rally. Thanks dork!

[@GimmeSomeLovexD-kx9jq]

I’ve been riding on and off road for a decade and I just sold my crf 450 rl for the 300l As my dedicated dirt bike.The 300 has plenty of gusto for the tight woods that I ride while not needing to keep a beast on a leash. The lower seat also helps me keep upright when things go squirrelly

[@GimmeSomeLovexD-kx9jq]

@ Lugging around in 2nd or 1st gear all day isn’t fun to me, so the extra power isn’t a benefit. I can upgrade the suspension on the 300 to get it performing. And the weight difference is negligible tbh. So with the massive upside of the 300 being more usable and the downsides being able to be brought to par why would I want the 450? I don’t get many chances to open up the 450 where I ride, even so I’ll get the same enjoyment wringing the 300 in the same areas

[@jaygrafton3048]

I bought a leftover 2018 250 Rally for $4000 in early 2020 and I love it. All the normal upgrades but upgrading the suspension turned the bike into a keep. I may upgrade to a 300 Rally someday but for now I’m happy. Maybe I could find a wreck CB300r. 😊

[@RoeyHaviv]

@@jaygrafton3048 have you considered a big bore kit? Since you already invested in suspension

[@justindavis1546]

Great information. Thank you.

[@DirtChainy]

I LOVE my 250L but it is my main transpo if I can’t get the family SUV. It’s time to upgrade to an interstate capable bike, I just don’t know if this is it. I just watched your best small ADV vid (great vid btw) and am torn. But one thing is for sure, we are spoiled for choices

[@EffequalsMA]

My outbacks on my 300L (non-Rally) have hit the ground plenty, pavement and off road. They have saved the Rascal from being totalled. I'd say I'd prefer they used a stronger grade of steel, like Chro-Mo, as they bend every time I go down.

[@TheProfoundPenguin]

I have owned pretty much all the small dual sports, including the 250L, 300L, 300L rally, wr250r, and the drz400. In my opinion the best one is the WR250r, followed by the drz400, then the 300L. What stood out on the 300L was how butter smooth it was compared to all the options. The 300L is the most beginner friendly smooth bike.

[@DorkintheRoad]

WR is definitely the most capable of the bunch. Sad Yamaha stopped making it.

[@samgirl_9138]

AWESOME video Dork

[@Crittermoto]

Y’all know I love my 250L! Would I change it out for a 300L…..nah! If I had no bike, would I buy a new 300 over a used 250….yes.

[@beyondtheletterbox]

@@Crittermoto 100%with you on that!

[@RaymondLovelace]

Im ordering the 2025 rally. It has upgraded suspension, usb port,and led lighting. I'm going to have to wait another month or so to get it here in the S east.

[@markcross-powers8206]

I echo a lots of the comments here. I bought mine the beginning of the year to go where I wasn’t comfortable taking my GS. I was looking for another bike that was worth upgrading and this is a great platform to do jut that. I literally had only six miles on the stock suspension before placing an order to Rally Raid and upgrading the front and rear. Some bikes are not worth upgrading because they are never going to get you where you want to be performance wise. This bike is worth building and upgrading to what your needs and expectations are. That said, it’s never going to be a DesertX or a GS, but frankly I don’t think it needs to be to have a blast.

[@shaunbeckhelling2245]

🤞the new drz 400 will hopefully be a serious competitor too the 300l. This may prompt Honda to up there game

[@toddkurtz1468]

Yeah but I guarantee you it will be at least 2000.00 more

[@nathanking1110]

I had a 250l rally and got a drz400…don’t have either now but I honestly miss the rally

[@generaldistrust]

13:15 ....I had to, I'm that goofy and I loved it 😹

[@SlipperyJack60]

I've got a 300L and I get 20 miles to the litre, which in US malarkey is 74 miles to the US gallon. And that's on road riding to off road sections in the uk. So percent wise it's predominantly road riding. However, I do give it the right hand on a regular basis ie I don't ride it like a little..... Anyway, I love it, I think that it's great. I just went out today on the South Downs for a few hours and got it covered in sh... I mean mud. I was going to hose it off, but I'll be going out on it again tomorrow. I can't get enough of it. My poor Z900RS sits at home weeping.

[@brianmartindale2221]

"I see kilometers and kilometers of Texas ..." lol

[@maxbialystock254]

Malarkey reference appreciated. Try going Canadian gallons. Strong crazy

[@zeros7067]

Let's not forget the annoying 5k rpm rattle and the radiator heat deflection onto one's right leg. The 2025 model has fixed the heat deflection issue plus it has some other small but necessary upgrades.

[@neilcrump5860]

Try the Voge 300 Rally. It's definitely a rival for the Honda and doesn't need any modifications on the suspension or tyres.

[@insatiable_mind]

The 300L is a stroked 250L. It’s the same bore with a longer stroke. This increases the HP by 10% and the torque by 20% also giving it a longer torque curve at lower rpm’s. I’ll take a stroked motor over a bored out motor any time.

[@UltralightMotorcycleCamping]

Kawasaki miraculously lowered the US price on the KLX300 by $750 in 2025. I wish they offered a slightly more expensive adventure version of the KLX300 with a 4-5 gallon tank, large rear rack, etc. At least it's possible to buy a large after market fuel tank for the KLX. Even better would be a 450 cc version of the KLX300. 13:37 - I always get a chuckle seeing the guy standing where you want to ride and helpfully directing you to ride over the steep baby head rock garden.

[@human1513]

Cool video. Even had me laughing in a good way.

[@renebeland4837]

For sure it’s a great beginner ADV bike but don’t forget us aging guys that used to be somewhat good riders. I am in my mid 60’s and I got one last year, this bike gave me confidence to keep getting between trees with my buddies and I can pick it up by myself. 70’s here I come still riding.

[@Whatnow458]

I wanted one in the spring, but I’m cheap. And tall. So I bought a plated DRZ400E, and sprung it for me. Put a charging port and a garmin mount and I’m happy for less than half the price of a used 300L. I’ll have one someday though.

[@boblynch7535]

Interesting. I ride a Tiger 900. GT Pro for seat height and electronic rear suspension. AX41s for the dirt roads I pretty much stay on. I’m also 70, but ski town 70. Up here in Idaho there’s plenty of dirt roads where conditions vary with the seasons. I’ve gotten over my head once or twice but, knock wood, pulled it off! Definitely ready for a lighter bike. Been holding out for Triumph to buck up with their 400 or new Motocross platform to bring out a light ADV. the new BMW GS450 is certainly interesting. But maybe this unassuming Honda would be the answer!

[@davea9502]

Enjoyed the video! You mentioned a hitch carrier, what brand/model do you use and do you have any videos on its use?

[@jimthompson717]

I had a 2017 Honda CRF Rally. I found it was capable on road and off, but not really great at either. However, as a beginner's bike it would be perfect. It would also be outstanding for a motorhome, as an explorer or grocery getter.

[@michaeldenherder3440]

I almost bought a 300L but I couldn't decide between the 300 L or an Himalayan 411. Then finally, after thinking for a long time and watching hundreds of videos, I chose the Himalayan. Probably it was because of the more classic looks. Still I would be very interested in a 300L or a Rally.

[@bobritter7197]

Have you got the Voge 300 Rally over there yet? Have you ridden one? It's like one of those but with a Kawasaki KLX 300 clone engine in it. Many have said it's a little better out of the crate (suspension!) but it's NOT a Honda,... but it is a few k[ish] cheaper. Would be interested to see what you think if one turns up in your vicinity. Great vlog, btw.

[@maxyorkshire5930]

I broke the plastics on the second day riding. I had to cut off the bottom half. But the bike is a beast it is better than my klr in everyway especially on the highway.

[@pieterrossouw8596]

Went for the CB500X myself but it was almost the CRF300L. I think I made the right choice for me for now since I do very light offroading but tons of road trips, but at some point I do want to try a more nimble lighter dual sport type bike. Wish it came in a 400-600cc capacity.

[@Staycationnn]

I feel like if you have any experience working on cars, working on a bike is like nothing. Having to remove some fairings and a crash bar has got to be like 10-15 bolts max. Compare that to jack stands, tire removal, and then the same plastics/undertrays etc., it's like a walk in the park. Just one more reason this bike is awesome.

[@porkshank13]

I am 240 lbs (without gear) and on relatively flat roads mine will cruise at 70 all day. Its interesting because it doesn't have much to give beyond that, but doesn't feel like its straining at 70. Though I would say it feels best (whatever that means) 60 - 65. I have stock gearing and a Performance 550 Stage 1 upgrade, but those speeds apply even before I did the upgrade. However, I get much better gas mileage than you. I have averaged about 70 mpg. I typically don't start looking for gas until I hit almost 200 miles.

[@mfranquemont1884]

What elevation do you ride at? What’s your thought on uphills greater than 7%?

[@airadaimagery692]

My bike tops out at 80mph and I have a 42T sprocket on the rear. I’m only 30lbs lighter than you.

[@porkshank13]

@@mfranquemont1884 I currently have ridden mostly in the Catskills and Berkshires. Without looking it up I am guessing I am typically anywhere from 500 ft to 3000 ft. On any sort of moderate to steep incline I need to downshift. Especially if it is a longer hill. On back roads with lower speed limits I don't notice are care, even though I will still be downshifting on steeper hills. On the faster 55 mph mountain back roads, especially on any sort of long sustained uphill and I become aware of the lack of power. Of course this is all my very subjective observations/descriptions. For the record I do have a couple much larger motorcycles I ride on the same roads. This guy has some great videos showing some long distance riding, including sustained highway rides: www.youtube.com/@TrekEthos. Hope this helps!

[@kylepayne9657]

I went to look at a new 2024 300L Rally here in Las Vegas. Out the door pricing was $9,000. Personally, i believe that’s outrageous. So, I’ll keep an eye out for one that’s being sold privately.

[@adaptableadventurerider]

Brilliant video I agree honestly thought it was a much better road bike than the Himalayan I had to reject at 500 miles riddled with issues, the rally is a lot faster for start an the 300 Rally was fine at our legal motorway speeds here in the uk n great on the trails, I thought the rear shock was rubbish ended up with a level 1 rally raid rear shock on mine which was brilliant, with hpa, keeps the seat height the same. it reminded me of riding good low powered two stroke like the rd250lc in many ways, I do ride a 1927 Norton 16h on my other channel so I’m used to riding a 4.9hp 252lbs bike in modern traffic n it never gets held up. I really struggled with the seat on my crf mostly due to a previous nerve injury. For me I would have loved to have seen them do a 19” tubeless option Personally I thought it was a brilliant bike though an out of the 2x 390s we had full of issues which ended up rejected the Himmy again ended up rejected and the 300 rally it was the pick of the bunch For a bit of context I’ve owned n rode bikes from the 1200gsa, ex iom tt bikes and plenty of other stuff from 1927 to modern day great bike with Honda reliability. I’m on an nx500 now bought it for my dad who’s got stage 3b/4 prostate cancer as the t7 I got for him was to much, ended up selling it getting the nx500 been that impressed I’m buying a 2nd one for myself an selling my 1150gsa I agree I think the Rally is a brilliant bit of kit I wish they had made the plastics a lot better mine went as I stopped trail riding n the Nx is a better fit for our riding now :) having said that often think about getting another 300 Rally.

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

I love this channel

[@donewhiskey]

What should people consider, before buying? I ended up selling all my other bikes, because the 300L met every need. It's an absolute weapon in the city, have to say

[@davidc1961utube]

My WR250R was about 330#, and the 690/701 platform is about 245/250#. Very different prices and availability, but not the ONLY light adventure bike. A very good one though, and definitely confidence inspiring...

[@ridemfast7625]

690/701 are over 325lbs...

[@DorkintheRoad]

690 is a big dual sport. No fairings, big tank, other ADV style trappings.

[@davidc1961utube]

@DorkintheRoad Yeah, and by the time you move up to the CF Moto 450 you are in the high 300s