Am I Keeping or Selling my KLX300? 3-Month Review & Comparisons to CRF300L etc. (EP.4)

[@BigRockMoto]

➕ITEMS USED TO MAKE TODAY'S VIDEO➕ ⚡ MSR Voyager Jacket/Pant: bit.ly/40YqWmO ⚡ REV’IT Dirt 3 Glove: imp.i104546.net/BXa3A0 ⚡ Klim Krios Pro: imp.i104546.net/WD9gOM ⚡ Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro: imp.i104546.net/EKqeQ9 ⚡ DJI Osmo Action 4: amzn.to/48O1F2b ⚡ DJI Osmo Pocket 3: amzn.to/3Pcqeik ➕KLX300 BIKE BUILD➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡Oil Change Kit: tinyurl.com/y457nham ⚡Lithium Battery: tinyurl.com/yut7r4mz ⚡Skid Plate: tinyurl.com/cs4tbrad ⚡Handlebar Kit: tinyurl.com/2venbyrn ⚡Handguards: tinyurl.com/mwz4ceva ⚡Rear Rack: tinyurl.com/56mzydvy ⚡Grip Heaters: tinyurl.com/yea664se ⚡PillowTop Grips: tinyurl.com/9tfv9xbb ⚡DSport Tires (recommended): tinyurl.com/2dma86ky ⚡Wheel Weights: bit.ly/3F7t96z ⚡Tusk Tubes: tinyurl.com/ms5ezbap ⚡Rim Locks: tinyurl.com/ysswttd9 ⚡Sprocket: tinyurl.com/53sduw5k ⚡IMS Footpegs: tinyurl.com/yn9ckyhr (part # 1053900009, for 2013 KLX250S, fits all KLX) ⚡DoubleTake Mirrors: tinyurl.com/zuv6r462 ⚡Seat Concepts Seat: tinyurl.com/37yf8vt9 ⚡Olympus Tank Bag: bit.ly/3yfaQbi ⚡Tail Bag: imp.i104546.net/VyQQdk ➕SUPPORT➕ [I may receive commissions which are invested back into the channel] ⚡ Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia ⚡ Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚡ Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚡ Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚡ Pacific Powersports (Motoz Tires, Barkbusters): pacificpowersports.com/ USE CODE BRM2024 ⚡ 3D Cycle Parts: www.3dcycleparts.com/?aff=3 ⚡ Denali Lighting: tinyurl.com/9746het9 ⚡ Taco Moto : tacomoto.co/?ref=fi6gv640 ⚡ Cyclops Adventure Sports: tinyurl.com/2kaknpfn ⚡ Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚡ Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@johnyoung3103]

Sell it! To slow for pavement and to heavy off. Get a BETA 390 rr-s, plenty on the used market, only dropped once. plenty of senior riders bought them without lowering the seat height or adjusting the suspension. Great motos have to be built.

[@bryanmathew2079]

if OnLy They Used the 400cc. Kawa Sport Bike Eng. In This & DeveLoped @ 7-Spd. Trans with a 😅Granny Like Low 1-st Gear,

[@BERZERKERSV4]

As an A Level racer in FTR(Florida Trail Riders) I concur 100 %..... proper suspension set up is infinitely more important than raw horsepower...

[@bryanmathew2079]

Not Sure But That kLx230 iS Looking Sweet 4, $5-k. Just 4 easier Goings@& Over 55 years age, Where MostLy interested in Views& Enjoying 😊Scenery@ Life @ TraiLs mostLy, & Going up to 50mph@ Seconary Roads

[@josephgeorgeejr7039]

And the 1% that do are only really bound by imagination, because machines really don't have a limit lol, years back people thought back flipping or front flipping a bike was impossible, but that 1% and their imagination got it done, and is now common place!

[@mxbadboy263]

Thank you for not putting on the exhaust, ecu and other power mods. Your resoning for not doing so was spot on.

[@brucebrown6597]

As an Instructor, you’re preaching to the choir! 99% of the riders will never reach the full potential of their bike. Instead of chasing horsepower….. practice and take some courses! Thank-you Ian..!

[@BigRockMoto]

Well said!

[@zackiaryruddick701]

That's for race bikes not theses bikes 😂 anyone can use the full potential of a duel sports bike

[@brucebrown6597]

@@zackiaryruddick701 Funny boy! 🤣

[@PrestoninParadisus]

@@zackiaryruddick701you wouldn’t even outride an 80 two stroke on a track. Don’t kid yourself little boy

[@zackiaryruddick701]

@@PrestoninParadisus it would be hard to beat a good rider on a 80 two stroke on a track , if you where on a duel Sports bike like the drz the 80 is a race bike this is my point anyone can ride a drz hard to its full potential because it doesn't have much potential lol a yz 80 has the potential to go very fast if you have the skill the drz can only go so fast, now that I corrected you I bet I'd would still beat you even if you were on the 80 and I was on the drz 🤣 I can tell this because you used the 80 two stroke as you put it as a slow bike when it's clearly not 🤣

[@rogeliorodriguezlll]

I bought a KLX 300 last month because of you. It’s my first dual sport. I enjoy the hell out of this bike! It’s taken me places I never knew existed. But please get the CRF 450 next. That’s next on my radar and would love to know what you think. Thanks!

[@UnicornMoto]

14:59 Pro tip - lay the bike on it's side to change the oil filter. It should dribble almost nothing and you should be able to easily install the spring.

[@robertcurtis7017]

that is what i thought

[@Thojouno]

Another pro tip, just a little grease on the spring will fix it in place long enough to get the oil filter on.

[@mrcla55yguy20]

I’ve only worked on my little Hondas for a few years now. I helped someone change their klx 230sm oil. I got to that part and was like wtf is this 💩. That wasn’t the only instance -The rear axle couldn’t be torqued properly, the cotter pin in the axle bolt was dumb af, the lack of holding mechanism for the oil filter was annoying, the plastics mounting points were annoying,etc I could go on. My pro tip is Honda has better engineering out the box. Working on that klx, albeit a cheap Kawasaki offering , made me not want to buy any of their poop. Not saying they are bad bikes. Still considering possibly getting one, but only because of lack of displacement offerings by competitors. Those little 230sm are built like trash though. I’d never recommend the purchase of one

[@battleax002]

I have just sold my KLX250 and bought a KLX300. Some improvements but my 250 I did the airbox, carb, pipe and reindexing the cams. The 300 is that without all the work. I have 8 motorcycles and the 300 is a great extra bike. It is about perfect for a hitch carrier bike on the back of our Winnebago 22R. No need for a trailer, just back the KLX off and exploring and errands are a fun activity. Like you my wife is not big, so we 2 up on it with a little padding augmentation. Unlike you our kids are long ago grown and gone. I’ve enjoyed your series, and have been looking at down-to-earth mods and real world riding experiences. The only thing I’m gonna try is removing the secondary throttle plate. But I want to ride it more so I can really tell if there is any difference. Keep it.

[@chiliboom6140]

Only thing I’d add regarding getting your suspension done, ride it a while as is before modifying anything. Otherwise you won’t know what changed and don’t have a beginning reference point. That also includes doing one adjustment/mod then try riding that way for a while. Recording what you changed and by how much. Cause if it sucks, you can go back to how it was before and do whatever other adjustments may be needed. I wouldn’t recommend just changing it all right away. Cause if you don’t like it you will be chasing an unknown standard. Do what you want, that’s just my advice.

[@rickreid81]

Spot on video & series review of the KLX 300. I agree with your power & suspension commentary. My KLX is a 2023. I am happy with it as is. It never promised to be a rally bike. Just an easy to ride reliable duel sport. No more, no less.

[@RetiredAdventureRider]

You nailed the reason I sold my Africa Twin and bought a CRF250L for off-road. I was intimidated by the weight to try more difficult routes, and now I feel confident to go into something knowing I can get the bike turned around if I need to.

[@1zanglang]

You can use a philips screwdriver put through the filter and spring, to keep the spring in place. When the filter and spring assembly is secured inside the cup, just retain it with your hand, remove the screwdriver and mount the cap.

[@max_archer]

I was gonna suggest a chopstick or one of those wood BBQ skewers but a screwdriver makes way more sense.

[@RedRupert64]

I wish Yamaha or Honda built a DRZ400. I've been waiting for years.

[@dino5254]

I use a dab of grease and it stays put.

[@Abyssdiver]

@@dino5254 I use a dab of JB weld to keep it in place... 🤪

[@Propelled]

Not a JIS?

[@ronlawson5819]

As a KLX 300R owner,your comment on the power and suspension are spot on.For the money it’s a great bike.Yes it is not on the same level as anything from KTM group or the WR line…..and is not intended to be.Keep up the great work

[@andrewthompson1313]

I bought the Honda CRF 300L with ABS and replaced the suspension. Rear shock replacement and replacement of the front cartridges and springs. It feels like a totally different bike - especially on rough trails. I am very happy with it. It is a great bike for improving my riding skills. It has enough power for my riding preferences. Ian, thanks for your extremely helpful reviews. I bought my CRF 300L after watching your review two years ago.

[@airadaimagery692]

Reprogramming the ECU just to a stock improved tune, manages the power better and you get more consistent, linear power through out the low-mid range, and it actually feels like a slight power increase, but in all actuality, it’s a power management gain. Not to mention it delivers more of a controlled feeling in the throttle sensitivity. Also, not to mention, the richness increase in the fuel mixture helps the engine run cooler. Everyone thinks that modifying the ECU is about a power increase, when in all actuality it alleviates many of the ways the manufacturer restricts the little motor, and makes it run like its supposed to. I’m not going to lie, it took me some time to learn all this for myself. I’m so glad I did. It’s like owning a completely different bike. Sure you can go with a full stage 2.0 tune, and upgrade the exhaust and all that, but it’s not even necessary just to get the little motor to run more effectively and efficiently. And gain more control.

[@topjmmi]

Who did you use to reprogram your ECU?@@airadaimagery692

[@brianh8801]

@@airadaimagery692 Looking for clarification/confirmation. Did you reprogram a CRF or KLX ECU since your reply was on a CRF comment? And was it reprogrammed to something else, then you went back to stock? Thanks🤙🏽

[@dirtdad8478]

Sooo true about the suspension. Most important aspect of a d/s or off road bike for me. Too bad Yamaha does not offer anything yet. I currently own 2023 WR450F and 250. Absolutely the best bikes I have owned in all my 50yrs of riding. I live in NM, so my 450 is plated. Sucks about California with the Yamahas. I decided to convert my 450 in to my d/s bike. I do love the KLX and Honda's price and reliability. Great bikes, I owned the KLX250S and it was a fun bike. I appreciate you testing these level of bikes. They are very fun and great bikes for any level of rider.

[@randywood9060]

It's more fun to ride a slow bike fast than try to ride a fast bike slow. That bike is what it is,ride and enjoy. Loved my wr250r.

[@kaleba9333]

I kept kicking around a KLX300 for a couple years. Ended up purchasing the CRF300l based on it being $1k cheaper for me, based on local dealers. Also the additional upgrades available for the Honda, and the display with a gas gauge just put the Honda on top for me. Thanks for your great videos!

[@SirMo]

I've been having a hard time deciding between the two myself. I like the looks of the KLX300 better but man not having a fuel gauge is a bummer on it. Think I'm probably going to go with the Honda CRF300L (or the Rally version).

[@mikemathews1711]

Your comments on suspension are right on...as a multi national champion road racer it makes a lot of difference. I did do some simple power mods and picked up 2hp (dyno verified) for the little KLX 300. I used the Twin Air filter, KX250 snorkel, EJK fuel controller, and drilled six 1/4 holes in the stock exhaust (took a while). The exhaust noise is only slightly louder than stock but lets more air flow through the engine (I don't like loud exhaust either). The added power was really worth the mods while riding the TAT on the mountain passes and trails in CO and the sands of UT and NV. I completed the TAT from NC-OR last year and rode the bike back to SC....now having more than 20,000 miles on the bike. Mileage was as high as 74mpg on trails and low as 60mpg blasting down the highway. I was carrying almost 90lbs of luggage with a MoskoMoto Rackless 80 setup. Plan to ride the Continental Divide this summer. Thanks for your review of a great bike for trail riding. I use my Yam Super Tenere/Tri Tiger 955 for my adventure road trips...11 bikes total in the garage!

[@CountGeeMonay]

I am planning on doing the exact same mods to my 2021 klx300. I am unsure though of where I'm the exhaust to drill the holes. Do you have any I fk you can share on where you put the holes, how deep, etc.? Thanks.

[@ef7388]

Great comparison, but as an old guy riding dual sport since 1974, I ride a drz400, 4 gallon tank and lowered 1.5 inches. Superb for back roads, forest roads and trails. Lowering solves weight and seat height.

[@letsdothis223]

I'm 66 and I've been riding dirt for 50yrs. I have the KLX300 and love it. But can you "Please" do one more video with this bike on how to properly setting up the suspension front and rear. I'm 220 and it's too soft for me. Thanks👍

[@plokmko0]

Thanks for a honest well reasoned video. Spot on with the Honda, put $700 into the suspension and maybe a lighter street legal muffler and done !!! A DRZ 400 with EFI, a 6spd and ABS is my dream bike ... 🙏

[@joshdoddadbod]

Same here.

[@BraapTales]

They already make that bike, it’s called Kove 450. And Ive owned a DRZ before and would still own one if Suzuki cared about it.

[@xer0piggy]

The easy fix for the filter spring falling out is to take a pair of pliers and bend the last loop of the coil outwards to make a slightly bigger circle. Then it will fit snugly inside the four raised areas and never fall out again! This does not affect operation at all as it's only job is to keep pressure against the oil filter.

[@KLX300-Rider]

I thoroughly enjoyed this video & your breakdown of the different bikes! I just bought my first bike & went with the KLX 300 Lime Green. As a newbie I didn't want to buy to much bike, I wanted something I could learn on without committing accidental suicide. I narrowed it down to the CRF 300 & the KLX 300, eventually settling in on the KLX. Suspension & handling were the most important considerations for me, plus I wanted a bike that I loved the look of. The lime green KLX in my opinion wins out, especially with the TST Industries rear fender eliminator & the Doubletake Mirrors. At 6 feet 185lbs the bike feels great. I've seen videos of people my size topping out at 82 to 85mph on level ground, plenty fast enough for highway speed limits at 55mph in upstate NY. Some are 65mph, but most are 55. I absolutely LOVE this bike! I've ridden it on the streets & dirt roads, it's awesome. I'm not confident enough yet for "rough trails", being a greenhorn rider - soon... Commuting to work is much better on a bike than in my WRX, lol. There is major loop through the Adirondack Mountains in upstate NY where I live, 694 miles total, 200 of which are dirt / seasonal roads. My buddy and I are planning on doing this route this summer, he has a CRF 300. Hopefully I'll have a GoPro setup by then. I enjoy much of your content - subscribed, keep up the great work, I'm learning a lot from your work!👊👍

[@michaelkinville177]

What a great start! I've learned so much more about bike control on dirt bikes and a KLR250 than all my street riding.

[@paullandreth-smith1546]

Ha ha! Love your passion about suspension vs power. A LONG time ago when I used to do track days on my Daytona 675.... by far the most noticeable 'mod' was to get the suspension properly set up by a pro. Took the guy 10 minutes but made me so much faster, far more than if I'd buggered about with exhaust / airbox mods. Keep up the good work!

[@mrcla55yguy20]

I love the way you ended it. Very nice editing/creating idea. And great info provided in this series as well as your entire channel. The wealth of information that you and others in the community offer to guys like me that either can’t afford to test all these machines extensively, or don’t make it our aim to, is so valuable and hopefully greatly appreciated by anyone that is lucky enough to have big rock moto pop up in their feed.you truly make useful art 🤙

[@craigwall8703]

Agree on the injection if the DRZ had injection I'd have it sitting in the garage. No injection is a deal breaker sadly.

[@SirMo]

Yeah, carburetors don't belong on new motorcycles in this century.

[@elitecorsair]

Honda 450 to compare against the fe501 sounds awesome

[@stephenmitchum5864]

I have owned both only one model year apart and the CRF L is my least favorite dual sport I have ever owned.

[@leanit5756]

I have owned a couple of DRZs, DR650Ss, XT250s, EXC-Fs, a CRF450L, and a XL500, over the course of 42 years riding dual-purpose bikes. Now I have.a '24 KLX300. It is my favorite so far. I wish it had an honest 350cc engine, but I still prefer it over the other bikes. The reason being the compromises this bike balances are a good match to what I want. It is good at so much (power delivery, brakes, suspension, seat height, seat comfort, standup riding position, and handling) and it has no glaring and annoying shortcoming(s) unlike each of the other bikes (other than the XL which was so long ago I can't remember one way or the other).

[@I_Santos_]

The detail and useful information so clearly explained on this channel just can’t be beat. You take great pride in doing the best possible work and it shows. I really enjoy what you do here.

[@BigRockMoto]

I appreciate that!

[@ddg9584]

Test out a Honda 450 in my opinion. We know what we need to know about this bike and the 300L as well.

[@mikeschlup5279]

dynamic. Small gas tanks are only available for the CRF450L

[@mikeisland7382]

@@mikeschlup5279 Sadly like most dual sports you have to go aftermarket. Nomad 20L gives you range and keeps the weight low.

[@noidreculse8906]

I bought a’23 based on your reviews and am very happy with it 😊

[@danielklopp7007]

Agree 100% regarding engine mods... if you wanted more power, why didn't you buy a bike with a bigger engine? Regarding a KLX400; Kawasaki did sell this model (it was a rebadged DRZ400).... IMHO it was (and still is) one of the best dual-sports ever (see above comment regarding power),

[@jakeviolet2195]

Because there is no similar bike with a bigger engine. The closest thing is the DRZ, which is 23 years old and still pretty slow! Where are the new generation of performance dual sports? Sadly, they don't exist.

[@bmotomo421]

Actually, the KLX is older than the DRZ. It was first introduced in the late 90s. More importantly, the build quality is a couple levels below the DRZ. A stock DRZ makes noticeably more power than a modified KLX. The drawback of the Suzuki is the tall seat height.

[@captainwin6333]

@@jakeviolet2195The whole bike is designed around an engine with that power output. If you radically increase the HP, you'd have to attend to just about everything else on the bike and the amount you end up spending, you'd have been better off buying a 450 in the first place. The fact this engine puts out a small HP number to start with, you're never going to make earth shaking power from it. It's just not possible. Even if you doubled the power output, you'd still be looking at weedy levels of HP and probably poor torque figures, that's before mentioning reliability which would be wrecked by doing something like that. Best to buy a bike with the sort of power you're looking for in the first place and you'll get the whole package that's designed for that amount of power without having to spend money on aftermarket bits and pieces.

[@captainwin6333]

@@jakeviolet2195Buy a KTM 450 Rally Replica or a 390 Adventure or a Beta Alp 350

[@raptorjesus5488]

If you want a more powerful duel sport get a ktm/husky/gasgas 350, 450, or 500

[@davidsonneman1121]

Spot on. Best investment is suspension setup. As you start to push a bike harder you will make mistakes. Suspension setup is often the difference between a crash and a "save".

[@mikem9953]

That was very informative, and non biased. Thank you.

[@danielryle5596]

Great honest review Ian as always! I think you have nailed the review on the klx300 very well! The bike is what it is and built for a purpose! I have done some power mods to mine like the 331cc kit and let it breath better but without modifying the cylinder head to flow more air and fitting different cams you are really only gaining torque down low and the suspension I would describe as budget! Definitely a fun bike and keep up the good work!

[@majorlee1]

It’s already been 3 months! Jeesh time flys. Road out to lake Hemet yesterday on my GS was beautiful. Ride on Ian! That’s a sweet KLX 😎

[@BigRockMoto]

My back yard...

[@majorlee1]

Awesome! I am jealous. I think we ride a lot of the same areas. Might see ya out there one day 👍

[@jackreece6303]

Again, the best reviews and commentary of any KZbinr. Thank you for the time and effort here.

[@ShadowVonChadwick]

I used this bike for two years as a re-entry back after three decades. I did send forks & the rear unit to a specialist for re-valve (Race Tech gold) and springs (100kg) as both ends needed a service, worth every dollar, made it planted at speed & safer, a different bike. A SC comfort seat that was not that comfortable and an IMS 11lt tank. Extra fuel gave me a 300+Km (190mi) range, as long as it wasn't in sand or just on the throttle all the time, even then I was still happy. It came with air box lid totally removed, oversized main jet & Staintune ex pipe & header, yes I wish it was a shade quieter, the power actually scared me the first time I really opened it up. So I reinstated the lid with modified kdx snorkel, a lot of work getting jetting right for good power and good economy (carbied Au 2010 250s with 300r complete top end). Barkbusters, Bash plate, bar risers, aftermarket leavers & importantly braided front break line. 606 rear with MT21 up front. Gearing 15/47 was a shade lower than stock (14/42), but better than 14/47 it had when purchased. Great bike, had a lot of fun with it & never a problem over 11,000 km. The problem I found was peg positioned too high and forward a tad. Great bike but a bit small for me. Just moved on to a KLX400r in great nick. I have a 34" inseam, 5'10.5" tall and hover between 95-105 kg. But have reduced endurance from health problems. Yes, I love exploring. I don't think I will ever be as good a rider as I was in my youth, but I don't need to be. As I ride smarter with a bit more caution. And still trying to lose weight. Love your work, you don't forget us with limited spare cash for toys, so a continued 👍 & Cheers from DownUnder.

[@ElRubio864]

Id love to see a crf450l video from you, there is a lot of different opinions on that bike

[@chriskneifl3290]

Short service intervals make this bike a non-starter for people wanting to use it for light adv riding.

[@TyB_23]

Yamaha 450

[@MrDavidfuchser]

and cracked cases from properly torqued oil drain holes

[@GraemeRobinson]

with the oil filter I'd just thread the filter and spring onto a screwdrive to keep the spring aligned while you position the filter then hold it in place until you put the cover on. Looks easier than my ktm 390 where the filter is hard to remove as its held in place by grommet and there's no easy way of gripping the filter to remove it. I'm making a custom tool for that one.

[@derekm6236]

Amen about the horsepower. How often do most non-pro riders approach the peak of their power curve anyway???

[@slalomking]

The best reviewer on bikes, period !!!

[@eldonhongo6095]

Sell the klx and get a Honda 450 RL for long term review please. My wife rides the klx and it’s very well engineered for her. It’s MEH for me. I ride a heavily modified 2020 KTM 690 enduro R, and a 2023 Honda crf 450 rl. Also have a heavily modified 2017 Suzuki DR 650. I ride the Honda the most. Very thrilling! Always watch your channel.

[@chiptaxfree]

Review the Honda 450rl.

[@AdventuresofLokiandPaul-ju3jv]

I agree about not fretting to add more power to the KLX. I have done many of the mods to increase it but in retrospect don't think it was worth it. I do love my little KLX and do a lot of exploring on it. I did need a more powerful bike for doing group dual sport rides and such so bought a Husqvarna FE 501s. I love the new Husky. But I plan on keeping the KLX as a daily rider. I have it set up so that it is very comfortable and like you mentioned, the stock power is still very respectable.

[@Mike-zn3gd]

I have a DRZ 400 and a KLX 300. I bought the KLX as a potential replacement for the DRZ and after taking the KLX on aggressive single tracks in the mountains in BC I found that it will go anywhere the DRZ and KTMs will go. But slower. 😄. Like you pointed out if you buy the KLX then spend time and $ trying to get more power, maybe you should have bought a different bike. I am having a hard time deciding which one to keep. 🤔

[@jakeviolet2195]

I sold my DRZ because it was too slow. But now I don't know where to go from here. The only option seems to be the CRF450RL. But I don't like the idea of spending $1,500 for a pipe and ECU right out of the gate and then changing the oil and checking the valves every five minutes. I sure wish the Japanese would develop a real performance dual sport.

[@bmotomo421]

I did the same and kept the Suzuki. The DRZ is simply a better bike from the get-go.

[@charleydog2669]

The drz is better for me right now because my buddies ride klr s and dr 650 and it takes a bit to keep up with them on the road to the forest and I am afraid giving up nearly a third of the hp would make me anchor. Otherwise I would already have a klx.

[@aaronbritt2025]

I'd love to see you do a 400 dual sport comparison. DR400, CRF450, KTM, etc... I agree there's no point in buying a 300 and trying to add power. This is why I need a 400 (power and height. I'm 6' 3"). I've had 2 DR400's back in the early 2000's (first one got stolen). I'm shopping now, so I'm trying to decide if I get another new DR400 or something else....

[@mxbadboy263]

DRZ all the way!

[@aaronbritt2025]

@@mxbadboy263 Just bought one this morning.

[@RomulusReemus]

Hoping you move on to the CRF450L

[@GLHS592]

That last comparison segment was great. Each motorcyle has its strengths and weaknesses. I don't know why one of the big 4 Japanese motorcycle manufacturers doesn't try to dominate the segment by combining some of the strenghts from each model you talked about. I know cost is a big factor, but I'd be willing to pay a little extra for a CRF300L with a 400 cc engine and better suspension or a DRZ400 with fuel injection and a 6 speed transmission. I rode yesterday with my good riding buddy and a friend of his came down from Nashville with his brand new CRF300L. I rode it and EVERTHING about that motorcycle is smooth. I think I'd buy one if I were buying new today. Everybody talks bad about the suspension, but I kinda liked it. The soft suspension is perfect for someone who just wants to explore the dirt roads around here. If I could dial my DRZ400's suspension down like the CRF300L for just cruising around and dial it back up for rougher roads and trails, that would be awesome. I get what you are saying about the power mods. I bought my 2014 DRZ400S used and it was setup just about right. The previous owner bought a bunch of red anodized doo-dads I don't care for, but it had a skid plate, hand guards, Renthal bars, tail tidy, and a full Yoshimura exhast. The exhaust makes for more power, but it's too loud. I'm not going to change it, but it drives you crazy after a few miles. The guy with the new CRF300L isn't going to change anything on his motorcycle. He said that he'll just ride his KTM on the trails if he wants to go fast. I get that because dual sporting in Middle Tennessee is more about exploring the backroads than it is about going fast.

[@jasgsxr2726]

Great work thanks Ian , looking forward to the 450 - 500 cc comparison.

[@emfl4437]

Another great comparison video. I have really enjoyed this series and appreciate your comprehensive review.

[@dstubby82]

10:41 That's a flawless statement more people need to hear... 😮😃🤜🤛

[@jacobproffit5743]

A CRF450RL review would be awesome!

[@seethingsclearlyawaken3424]

I was under the impression that the new DRZ is injected, not carbureted. I guess I was wrong.

[@SB-fe4gt]

The comparison chart is very helpful and appreciated! IMO the bikes you listed in the comparison chart are all of the bikes that belong there :). Sure would be nice to have at least a 3 gallon tank to eliminate my "range anxiety". The gas tank shape on the Honda CRF300L is a show stopper for me...it flares really wide really quickly which makes me have to spread my legs too much when I sit against the tank and my hips start hurting.

[@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC]

My KLX300R has plenty of power. I have a ball on it at the OHV parks. At no time have I ever felt it needed more power.

[@charlesnew1289]

great video, please be careful with drivers that pull off the road, sometimes they are doing a u-turn without looking or blinkers because they missed a turn. take care out there.

[@josephthornton8560]

I didnt get to learn as much as I had hoped. Was a great series, thanks Ian. Was hoping to see more. I have ricochet skid plate. First time I changed the oil, I was very disappointed about the mess that does leak onto the plate. I Rode all season thinking about how much dirt grime and gunk must be building up under there. I did some mods at the beginning of the new year and took the plate off to clean it. There was really nothing there. Not even enough to wipe with a towel. Washing the bike after rides, kinda self-cleaning the bash plate "good enough"?

[@Motosportz]

Thanks for making the point about HP -v- suspension. Spot on. Also some power mods can actually make your bike harder to ride as it pushes the front end around while you whisky throttle your way through rough sections.

[@markwalters1584]

I would love to see you do a review on the Honda 450. I'm ready to buy but I'm thinking dr650 because I live in Texas and man it gets pretty warm here. I just don't know if the Honda 450 can survive the heat. At least the dr650 has a external oil cooler. I enjoy your videos.

[@manugrend]

As always, a very comprehensive review, complete with well thought and prepared info and real down to earth advice/opinions. Perhaps the best channel out there if you want more in depth info on a bike and comparison. Super!! 👍👍

[@moorepower13]

Nice to see the DRZ400 come out on top of yet another comparison.

[@wmbushUT]

Thanks again for the reviews. I ultimately went for the CRF 300 LS know ing i would have to do about 2k worth of upgrades ti get i how i wanted it for a BDR bike.. glad i could use your links to support your CH!!

[@michaelparker6218]

I am looking to build a BDR/motocamp machine. Minimal road riding, mostly trailer to trails/forrest roads. I am stuck between the CRF and KLX! The CRF has awesome aftermarket support and engine/gearbox. The KLX sounds like it has slightly less vibrations and better suspension but minimal aftermarket… most importantly the KLX doesn’t have a large tank option (yet?)

[@wmbushUT]

@@michaelparker6218 3.6 gallon tanks (thats not intrusive) and parts are why i went with the CRF. Also go in knowing you need to spend $ on new suspension.. $300 -1800 depending on what you want to do… i went for railyraid. $1700 will see how it is…

[@danielpalmberg3371]

I had to watch to the end. I'll never buy any of theese bikes, but I enjoy the presentation and the quality of the rewiew. Keep it up! Wether you would sell or keep the bike - I cant say, but you have your business idea of going through different bikes, so I guess you have your answer there.....

[@Lonestar19d]

Ian, I have a 2022 (basically exactly the same bike). You have almost exactly the same mods I do,. I added a Tusk universal windshield and it's really nice. I modded mine and use Ram mount balls and arms so I can quickly adjust/remove the windshield. Makes a really nice difference at highway speed, which isn't a lot, but it's nice.

[@terryperrier2893]

I agree with your assessment of the KLX 300. It's a fun playful bike but under powered and lacking in the suspension. A great bike for the money. I currently own a 2023 KLX 300 DS in the camo colour. It is for sale because I am replacing it with a 2024 Beta 390 RS. I felt my money would be spent more wisely on a new, entirely more capable, bike instead of upgrading the suspension on the KLX. I know you had a Beta 500 but I would enjoy an indepth, long term build/review on the Beta 390 RS. I am setting up my Beta as my DS/ADV weekend off-road camping bike. I had my dealer install a Stadium 1" lowering kit and the Seat Concepts low seat(I am a towering 5'6")I also run a 2022 Tuareg 660. Loved your series on the Tuareg. I like the way you present your reviews! Keep up the great work.

[@DadCanFixAnything]

As one of those "older folks," I completely agree the FI is more reliable than carburetors. Where carburetors have an advantage is in keeping performance mods simple and affordable.

[@davebennett5069]

"If only this was a KLX 350" - a comment you made. EXACTLY what I've been wanting forever. This bike in every way but with just another 50cc's. That's all I'd want. I have no idea why they went from 250 to a bit under 300, rather than just going to 350...too much competition with the 450?!? Still seems like a missed opportunity.

[@aaronhansen8037]

I can’t agree more. I own this exact bike. The only real thing I dislike is lack of power.

[@Farkle222]

Great video. Had 2 stroke KTM 250's in the late 80's early 90's. Got back in the woods on a 21 XT250. The lack of power is not an issue. Very impressed with the trackability of the engine. Very little wheel spin. It just tractors up rocky New England hills. For the most part kept up or stayed ahead of the 10k plus dual sports. With that said some suspension work would be welcomed.

[@robmcd]

In 2016 I went the KLX250S over the DRZ400 due to lighter weight, handling and I think the KLX suspension at that time was superior. (Based on motorcycle journalists at the time.) The biggest bummer for the KLX is aftermarket support. Low seat height was important to me too. I also saw the bill blue big bore 351 kit as a way to get more grunt when I get more experienced. I didn’t go the WR in 2016 due to price but it was the best bike. I didn’t go the CRD250L because I was a bit turned off by a street motor in a bike I bought to be a tractor. My only advice to someone looking to buy one of these bikes today is 1. How much range do you need? 2. If you’re big go for the max torque. 3. What rpm do you need at 100kph If I was buying today right now I’d go the Suzuki and decrease the rear sprocket a touch to reduce highway rpm. With the bigger torque first and second gear shouldn’t hurt much.

[@SPENJERE]

Very nice review, thank you very much. Until last night I didn’t even know these bikes existed now seriously looking into this one.

[@brockjohnson4116]

As Ian mentioned a buying used WR250r is an option Buying one used with 15000 km will still need it's next valve check in line with these ones (40,000 km intervals on WR) Cheaper to purchase (Used over new) Has more power Has better factory suspension (but taller) Less weight Hoping they release a WR400r one day soon for my only bike (instead of 5 now)

[@_hold_the_line_]

True, the WR250R has titanium valves and is a great bike to learn on. Always fun and very reliable. Just get a bigger tank, better seat and maybe re-gear and you're good to go.

[@7nash974]

I would like for you to get the 450l....your review of the 450L would be appreciated...

[@GodzillaGoesGaga]

Great review. My take about power is, is it enough for me to explore at reasonable non bone breaking speeds ? Sounds like a big “Yeah” !!

[@codename_wind_official]

Thanks, tip that works for me, use a long straw like from mcdonald's through the filter and spring to get it started and straight. Then put tension on it with your hand and slide it out. Hold tension and get the cap on. I have one bolt already in the cap to line it up all together...then hold it all and start the second bolt by hand. 😊

[@QuantumLife343]

I actually crashed my diet bike recently it was a bad crash, luckily a guy helped me I'm going to be buying the Kawasaki KLX300 next spring

[@frankslovich7432]

I looked at most of the bikes on your list and went with the Honda. The slipper clutch is great for my slightly arthritic hands and overall reliability were the selling points. Definitely need the suspension mods at some point.

[@someguy325es]

I have a Chinese 2.7 gallon poly tank and it did fit my 2024 with some fiddling. I had to grind a little bit on the lower rear frame bracket a little bit and I used 2 of the flanged washers from the back that I removed while installing a tidy tail on the plastic side panel where it bolts to the side of the tank. The secondary throttle valve delete is also 100% worth the effort and does not make it twitchy or change the drivability at all.

[@BigRockMoto]

Good info

[@CraigSmith568]

The carb and five speed don't really bother me, but I think I would choose the Honda over the DRZ and the KLX mainly because of the aftermarket support over the KLX and the lighter weight over the DRZ. I currently own a DRZ400 SM, but that is totally different since it is on road only.

[@beaunaro]

Thanks for the good review! Keep it up.

[@kalebbrown93]

Thank you for the comparison chart at the end. I was struggling to assemble something similar myself.

[@tieoneon1614]

Amen. This is the first bike Iv been really happy with almost completely OEM as a dual sport/exploring bike. U can gain 2 hp super easy from just pulling the air snorkel, and putting on a lighter MX chain {gold looks great with the gold forks}. And 13t sprocket makes the bike feel a lot quicker, and bigger pegs are only $19. Under $90 spent. Roll the bars forward, turn the suspension clickers in 1 turn. Extremely capable and comfortable everywhere, best bike Iv ever had and Iv had A LOT!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks for sharing

[@7272adam]

Great video. I did the secondary throttle plate delete on mine and thats it for power. That mod alone really improves the bikes response and top speed.

[@TommyNitro]

I agree with what you're saying about power. If you want power, the 300s are not the bikes you should get. I get it if you have it and want to play around with tinkering and maybe doing a big bore kit or something as a hobby. But you have to know that for real performance.....just get something bigger.

[@dwayneneufeld1696]

As always, good job Ian! Debating this bike for the wife for a lighter bike than her adventure bike she has now. You helped as usual:) Thanks!

[@advredbikes]

Thanks so much for the review. Ian was very helpful being able to compare all those bikes and the off-road experience looks really fun thank you.

[@markbevans8564]

Your garage is getting full, the Husky is lots more fun. Might be time to pass it along. I got 6 bikes in my garage, 4 with 21” front wheels, I gotta lighten the load also. 👍

[@5150pws]

My first oil change on my 300 I doubled up a moving blanket and laid the bike on its side on the blanket, removed the oil filter and put new one in with the spring, no problem. The fun part was picking the bike back up off of the ground😆

[@lozt6032]

My CRF has Ktech f&r, I did fit a UniFilter to go to Morocco. It has amazing mpg and handles really well and the filter liberates a little torque and performs excellently in dusty conditions. Good review. The Honda is more popular in the UK than the KLX although they are very similar

[@alwinsor6604]

Thanks!

[@BigRockMoto]

Thanks

[@timeboom]

Great series on the KLX Ian thank you, there's alot of fun to be had on a bike like this. Fully understand not hanging on to it though if you go that way - would love to see what you could do with a CRF 450L, particularly as a light adv bike!

[@Tony-zp8xn]

When I was getting dual sport last year, it was pretty much the KLX, CRF, and the XT that I was looking at. Same as you, the DRZ was out because of the carb. The XT was eventually out because of the 5-speed and lack of liquid cooling. The Rally checked the most boxes for me, so that's what I went with. After a few add-ons, all I have left to do is upgrade the suspension. I'm not concerned with power mods, but it would have been nice if it were maybe 325cc or so.

[@davidcoleman4941]

Your spot on about power, great suspension is a must on a trail bike. I got rid of my HONDA CRF300L terrible suspension even though I upgraded it. I'm looking at the new Himalayan just for fun and errands. Love your show Australia

[@chriskneifl3290]

What suspension upgrade did you do? I have heard nothing but good things about the Honda after upgrading both the rear shock and the fork.

[@daddister7471]

I hear ya', Ian. With the limited amount of tight, technical riding you do compared to ADV, I think the service intervals of the Euro dual sports really won't be an issue.

[@RippyR]

Love the content on these type of bikes because we get to see the capacity it has, specially for someone who is considering getting into motorcycles and specifically adv or off road, so it would be cool more content on you riding this bike on different terrains where most unexperienced people would think it couldnt or wouldnt be able to.

[@rickyzechariah1793]

Some quick thoughts on "chasing a bit more hp". I think the 250 version out of any dual sport bike, had the most "reliably improveable hp." My HP went from 19 rear wheel hp to 30 rear wheel hp with Bill Blue's 351cc BB kit, pipe and special Mikuni 33>34mm pumper carb. That is a 58% increase in rear wheel hp! In addition, I have nearly 280,000 Kilometers TOTAL on that bike - 70K KM when I did the 351cc big bore and then at about 200,000KM I did a BB rebuild (now about 365c) because it seemed to have lost some compression - but it never left me stranded. By comparison, I had a KTM690 enduro than in the first 29,000 miles it was in the shop with warranty work 12 times. (To simplify - it went thru 3 engines an 9 different times it was was issues with the fueling - fuel pump or injectors. Because the bike lasts so long, I put lots of money into the suspension - KX250 forks, tripples, brake and wheel and shock tunded to my weight and riding style. I realize the 300cc version would probaly end up the same @ 30hp but start higher at +/- 22RWHP so the percentage increase would not be the same - 36%, but that is still significant. I rode a DR400E about 7,000 miles for work in Afghanistan & Tajikistan and thought that had to be closest stock bike to my engine characteristics: KLX351 slightly more power; DRE slightly more torque, KLX significantly lighter - about 25 lbs but by far the biggest thing you notice is gearing. A pretty wide, 6 speed transmission on the KLX and a narrow 5 on the DRE.

[@scottkouns8578]

love this review and have been waiting for it for a while. Great job Ian!! What we all need now is a bike like this with 35 hp at the wheel with the same light weight but not over $8K

[@Meldonator]

love the KLX, looks really fun and troubleless to ride but I would go for a CRF450 anyday as a good swiss army knife type of bike IMHO

[@chriskneifl3290]

Service intervals are too short on it (every 600 miles).

[@underthedrone2735]

Fun Fact: There are some accessories that are the same or almost the same sold for bicycles that work just as well at 1/5 the price than when the word "motorcycle" is attached to them. We see the same thing with marine parts. Same part but labeled and painted for a land vehicle costs much less. An old but lucrative trick. I use a $20 tailbag on my DRZ400s that is pretty much the same as what they sell for Dual-Sport bikes for $100. I do throw a Roc strap around it just to make sure it doesn't fly off on journey's since I can't see it while riding like the fender and tank bags.

[@JacobAnawalt]

Another great review, of what sounds like a great bike. I like how you do the comparison, and the honesty about what you might upgrade and not be worth upgrading on the system.

[@fattrolls8094]

Couldn’t agree more on the suspension point. I had mine setup for a rider 5 pounds heavier than me and it was responsive and controllable and I could carry more speed through twisties