Review - Honda CRF450L

[@ausforce1]

This is how you do a motorbike review !!!!! stick to these key points and you will become the go to man on you tube mate !!! great work !

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@StephenSGordon]

One of the best reviews, ever; for content and presentation.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thank you Stephen. There are plenty more where that came from 😁

[@marks-0-0]

A serious question.....Why doesn't someone like Suzuki just put a good solid air cooled engine in a racing chassis to make a proper dual sport bike! Sell it for £7k OTR and they'd clean up! Maybe it's an emissions thing.

[@BrakeMagazine]

It's fold, emissions and market request. 🙂

[@motomac8392]

Some of the best feedback ive seen on this bike so far. Thank you

[@stanmetcalfe3817]

Another great review, honest and informative, been hanging on to see your take on it. it’s a Honda it’s always going to be dear but they must be applauded for making this. For me it fits the bill, I would value your choice of tyre possibly a Metzeler 6 days? Thanks again for a great review Llel.

[@BrakeMagazine]

That tyre would be great Stan. Just be aware it's a touch heavier than your Husky. It'll be more gentle though!

[@sandrider1406]

I’ve just sold my Husqvarna FE501 to get a CRF450L. The 450L is for me a real big trail bike, but it needs some tweaks to get it to what I want . The ECU is first, then fuel range and possibly exhaust.

[@zemquoi]

Best review of this bike I have seen.

[@lylestrombly6661]

I was really excited when I heard about the crf450l. I've had a 250l in the past and sold it because I wanted more power. Really wish they could have done better with the price, I can't see paying double the price of a 250l for this bike.

[@davidsalo8397]

I gladly paid double (well, not quite double) for my 450 RL. It's that good IMHO.

[@joedart2932]

Very good review! I like how you pointed out the bike can be built to grow with the rider. Hoping Suzuki comes out with something similar to replace the Dr-z...call it the Drm 450 😉

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks! I'd love that too. I've got sub a soft spot for Suzuki's

[@joedart2932]

@@BrakeMagazine haha yeah me too..we're kind of a rare breed here in the states. If they could come in at a grand or two lower and with a longer maintenance interval they'd have a real winner 👌

[@bkhschoo1]

Thinking of buying a honda CRF450L . Thought about buying a Euro bike first (FE301 huskie)but a bit weary because of the reliability issues and maintenance intervals. They are also more for experienced riders i think. I am a novice and also want to drive from my home to the nearby MX track and have some fun there and while having some fun i can work on my skills in the meantime. My checklist for my dirtbike is as follows : Good usable and user-friendly power (lhorsepower like a 250cc four stroke but without the hard shifting-work) Enough power for any kind of off road riding (trails, some MX track fun...) (torque like a 450cc but without the aggresivness of a more competition oriented 450cc four stroke) Obviously good suspension for trails, run-of-the-mill MX jumps... More or less road like service intervals (some more off course but not the extremes likes the euro/more competition oriented dirtbikes) Light enough for MX track/MX jumps (i know its not as light as the euro bikes or real MX bikes but can it be done with its 289 wet weight and suspension?) So a user friendly bike with adequate suspention/power for a hobbyist who wants to do all kind of dirt riding without being a pro or very aggressive rider. What do you think about my choice of the honda for what i want from my bike? If not what is the closest alternative? No competition but just some fun with it and learning on the go....

[@davidsalo8397]

I really like my 450 RL. I'm done with KTM!

[@dominiqueroumieh9260]

Thank you for the review. I was waiting for it. It's a bike that can be a great solution for riders between adventure bikes and dirt bikes especially when off-roading.

[@BrakeMagazine]

We think so. If you are coming from only riding big bikes it will be a nice transition.

[@svendura1]

Great review. Thanks a lot for a truck load of useful information. In the end I will stick to my CRF250 Rally. The 450 is not enough of an adventure bike, though I like it a lot.

[@BrakeMagazine]

We think the 450L rally will come too 😏

[@svendura1]

@@BrakeMagazine That would make a dream come true. Thumbs up!

[@appymarley]

@@BrakeMagazine and they will probably add another 2k to the price

[@oomsa]

Best review I've seen yet. Ty ty

[@f18a]

This is the most complete and useful review of the CRF450L that I have seen. Great job. Did you encounter any fueling issues off-idle or at low throttle angles?

[@HJZ75driver]

Bob Walters Shouldnt do, when its injected

[@ZsoltBoda]

I suggest this as your next project bike. Suits you better than some other with 16cm ground clearance. :) Just add a power commander, rally plexi and done :)

[@mikeisland7382]

With this bike Honda made a very good dual sport but equipped it with a race tank and seat. All the ones I've seen in the wild have an aftermarket seat and tank on them. When will the manufacturers wake up to 15+L tanks and comfortable seats for dual sports? I get that performance dirt bikes are expensive but we shouldn't have to pay the IMS/Acerbis/Nomad/Fisher and Seat concepts taxes on brand new bikes. Very solid review.

[@AndrewBoundy]

Great review. A lavalier/lapel mic wouldn't go a miss though guys ;-) $20 on Amazon - I struggled with the sound.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I'm wearing one. Our lav Audio file corrupted sorry. We normally have one on. 😁

[@AndrewBoundy]

Thought so - your audio is usually great - just being a dick.

[@danielc5205]

Yamaha better make the WR 450F a true dual sport to compete with Honda's new CRF 450L, WR 450R model? This bike has the potential to decrease WR 450F sells.

[@Digitalistical]

If Yamaha made a WR450R, I'd buy it instantly. Literally right now. Lol. And that's coming from a guy who rides Honda bikes!

[@samueljlarson]

I've had a WR250X for almost two years and haven't found anything better to replace it. Top notch dual sport. I really want to ride a CRF450L though....

[@jonoj7666]

In Australia they already do and its better in every way 👍

[@ptft4]

Good review, In my opinion the only problem is the price, had it been in the range of 80% of the Husky and KTM's nobody would criticize it for one second

[@roykaplan3316]

I have a 450x and a KTM 500EXC.. Love them both. Honda is much less mechanical engine noise (not exhaust). The Homda price? - Expected and $900 less than the comparable KTM. In Dollars 10399 for Honda and 11299 for KTM.. If I were buying now -the Honda would be my choice.

[@ThomasDTY]

Roy Kaplan and it's got Honda reliability

[@davidsalo8397]

KTM exc bikes just don't have the refined build of the 450 RL. I definitely prefer team Red over KTM.

[@leslieaustin151]

Hmm, an awful lot of bleating about the service interval. But it appears that other bikes have shorter intervals. If it only contains about a litre of oil, and it’s only an oil change, c’mon! No big job! Any engine these days will make its oil work hard, at only 1 litre it’s not going to last long, so if it’s the right bike, get over it and change the oil. Or do you all have to take your bike to the garage to get someone else to do it for you? A really thorough review, thank you. Plenty of REAL info there from someone who knows what they’re talking about. Again, thank you. Les

[@bikenavbm1229]

Mr Honda a little bit more kick 30-35 ponies, bit more range, I'd probably risk 1200mls easy miles=1 oil change(average euro trail tour) think the bike would be a winner even at that price. Excellent review as usual perhaps a comment on fueling/injection would have been usefull in fairness you did say it pulled any gear at any time so I guess its good? and range perhaps you had not the chance to test though, think those tyres would be reasonable for a summer TET run most of us chop and change tyres for season/ride type anyway so only requires only the smallest comment. Opps seems like I'm picking holes in your short review no I really do like your style referencing points that may be important to novices and experienced alike keep them coming and thanks.

[@bikenavbm1229]

@@mikeb1039 Where you are perhaps but here in the Eurozone I'm afraid not.

[@waltc4925]

I believe it to be almost a bullseye for a non competition off-road bike. I have been riding 40+ years (mostly smokers) and am looking for the "unicorn" dual sport bike to tackle the "TAT" and "Engineer Pass" and a few others with a couple friends. Not looking for a race bike, and don't care what brand it is. ( I still own a 550 Berg :) ). I believe the best bike is the one you want to ride all of the time. It needs to satisfy your performance requirements, but not be a burden as far as reliability or cost. That said, this s**t all costs too much ! So if Honda would just rebate the crf450l by $1k, I would be willing to chase the 20 lbs off of her myself. But that's just me.

[@bigdogslawnservice6153]

Nice review, thanks!!

[@ZsoltBoda]

another great review, cheers!

[@KenmeriCaptain]

great vid! thanks for sharing your thoughts

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for watching!

[@brianrichard1768]

I agree. For 10k , I would expect a hydraulic clutch. I am also disappointed with the weight. What are the valve adj intervals?

[@SteveInskip]

Excellent review!

[@BrakeMagazine]

Glad you liked it!

[@MrGbustamante]

Love mine. Its the US version with a few more ponies and a Vortex. Theres really no other bike in this class. Maybe a Husky 450 if it was more reliable.

[@BrakeMagazine]

The Yamaha, KTM, Beta and Sherco models are all really good bikes

[@joaodanunciacaonunes7539]

Hi, first of all congratulations for the videos. Nice work!! Im a beginner in the world of motorcycling. with 47 years old, i´m 5.7 and 155 pounds. I´m looking for my first bike and I´m thinking getting the CRF 250L. For daily use and some off-road experience. Do you have other options regarding the dual bikes/dirt bikes? i would apreciate your insights. Cheers

[@BrakeMagazine]

That's absolutely the best bike for you to buy for what you want.

[@metaldog7128]

Great review 👍 but nearly ten thousand pounds 😂😂😂😂 no thanks, service intervals are crap for 2018/19 why buy it new and loose so much money? Just look at what you can buy for £10.000 you could easily get a great second hand bike and have a lot of money to buy goodies for it, or some new kit for yourself? Sorry Honda you have overpriced a bike that we should of been offered at least 10 years ago! Because let's face it you could of done it , but you missed out, Im sticking with my xr650r it's got a fantastic motor that's not afraid of a motorway , mine came with super Moto wheels and the standard wheels brand new £5.250 on the road 👍 it's 10 years old now and still going strong, people complain about it only having a kickstart?? I don't care it's never ran out of battery and got me stranded 😄 because there is no battery 😀 she literally can go anywhere and dose. if Honda could put that motor in a crf frame?? That would be fantastic , but it will never happen, so why you're all servicing you're new bikes every other week, I'm still out having fun 👌✌️

[@BrakeMagazine]

Amen. Although, electric starts are really nice 😂😂

[@metaldog7128]

Brake Magazine 😂😂 just makes you lazy 😂 it was you're dads review of the XR in tbm all them years ago that made me go test it for myself 👍 tell him thanks because it puts a smile on my face every time I ride it 😀 you're doing a good job keep it up and thank you ✌️👊

[@KenmeriCaptain]

@@metaldog7128 hey mate, I'm looking at getting rid of my FZ1n in favour of an XR650R... does it ever feel slow or like you don't have enough power? I'm wanting one in motard setup

[@metaldog7128]

KenmeriCaptain : hi , you need to understand it's not going to be the same as riding a road bike, yes they are fast on the road and will sit at 70 mph all day long ( with the right gearing ) and just over 100+mph top end, but if you're running something like 13/14 front sprocket and48/51rear sprocket, you're be looking at the sky most of your ride, and another thing, is getting used to the starting procedure , I've seen plenty of people trying to start them the same way they start a 2 stroke! And then call the bike a peace of shit?? Because they don't understand how it works, basically they are a big 650 desert race bike, keep it maintained and it will last a lifetime . Best thing is to find one and ride it , it's not a bike for a novice! Don't respect it and it will bite you.

[@HJZ75driver]

Metaldogrides Starting an XR is an art. Choke, find TDC, kick it once, half choke...Right to the top again and give it a decent boot. Should fire. If not, check kill switch 🤦‍♂️

[@wicho99w99]

It’s an amazing bike, Honda it’s also releasing a new crf250f trail bike should be interesting t check it out

[@filipplo1111]

Cool bike! But, In Norway it costs like $16-17k

[@pepeseco6643]

Good review, but the engine, is it really 25 HP? Is it really worth spending double the price vs. crf 250l? Even understanding that the overall finished product is top quality and focused.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yes. But the difference in torque is double. It's much a much easier engine because of the torque. Is it twice as good. Nearly, yes. Is it twice as fun, probably not. If it's worth it depends on your money!

[@gregktm]

US model is around 40 hp

[@swedbear4035]

Fantastic review! Very balanced in every aspect! What tires would you choose from for 50/50 riding with this type of bike? Deep sand is scarce in my neighborhoods, but wet surfaces all the more common! 😄 Thanks a lot!

[@thorstenwanoth6774]

Just over 7000 in UK money here in South Africa - and believe me - we are all complaining about how expensive this is here. Think that big global corporations such as Honda, KTM etc. are pricing their products to fit the relevant market conditions and ZAR is undervalued. I don't see Honda selling many of the 450L's here as for the same money you can have a roadworthy KTM or Husky 500/501

[@adamrichards2072]

I'm looking at doing a major trip here in Australia. It will be about 3000km with about half of that being off road. Is over the budget but could be doable. I would have to sell my 200exc. My biggest concern would be the bitumen part of the trip and fuel range. The up side would be that i could still ride up bush with my mates whem i get home. Alternatively, i could get a dr650, but my mates would hate riding with me in the bush.

[@HeadhunterUK007]

As always, a great review. Thanks. What tyres would you recommend for a typical UK green lane?

[@EugeneYunak]

did you find 690 too heavy for the kind of trail riding seen in this video? i'm trying to decide on whether i can live with the new 690 for three purposes: 1) afternoon trail tide ~10-15km from home, weekend trip to the mountains nearby (50-100km) with light gear, leave the bags in the camp in the morning and do some exploring and 3) long off-and-on road adventure, think TET, Mongolia, etc, could be 500 road km a day but also medium offroad for exploration on TET/bad roads. if i end up needing either something more like 790 for adv because 690 is too viby on long road days, or a dedicated dual-sport like 450L because it's too heavy for TET/trails, i'd rather buy one of those now, and then expand my garage later, than sink a lot of money into the 690. i already have a sherco 300 for dedicated enduro when i have the time on weekends (i leave it in a garage 30 km from home near my training place), and a dedicated road/city bike er6f that i'm also quite happy to take on a road trip, but of course it's miserable offroad (although i've done some light stuff still, as long as my ground clearance allowed it). any input you might have would be greatly appreciated!

[@EugeneYunak]

oh and i've had an 1190R and it was waaay too heavy to properly go offroad. alright on packed ground and light sand, light climbs etc. but with my experience levels it was way too big for single-track and steep forest climbs on my local trails. i don't even feel too confident on them on my sherco. i wouldn't even want to take it to TET for fear of having to pick it up all day. i have 1 season worth of offroad experience so far, 31" inseam and i'm not very strong nor endurant. for my uses, i'd like to keep it in 120-130kmph range on-road for trips, with relatively big amount of soft luggage, and a couple of dry bags up to 40L total on weekend trips.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Great question. I think most of the enduro style tyres will do the job. It depends on your budget but most of the known brands make good, street legal enduro tyres for off road. Metzeler Six Days, Michelin Comp 6, Pirelli Scorpion Enduro, Mitas, Goldentyre will all do the job. 😊

[@BrakeMagazine]

Depending on your ability yes and no. For what you want it's a good all-round bike. When it's gets technical it is a bit of handful and it sucks a bit on long street rides but it can do it all. However, honestly it sounds like a 790 would be a better option. If you know it's technical I'd ride the enduro bike and enjoy that, and then use the 790 or equivalent for everything else. That's typically how we split it. We all like the 690/701 but they feel like an odd middle ground. I can't get one much harder places than I can take a decent ADV bike and it's not anywhere near as good as on the rear of ADV riding. I think I'd find a demo if you can. 😊

[@BrakeMagazine]

Then even maybe the 690 won't be too easy. It's still heavyish, cumbersome. Its really hard to say with any certainty. If I was you I would ask your dealer for a test ride. 😊

[@VARider1]

KTM vs Honda Dual Sport Shootout - enough said.

[@BrakeMagazine]

It'd be interesting for sure. If you guys want it we can do it 😁

[@NK-dl2nc]

Specs are always going to be argued by armchair critics but its real world riding which matters. I do think Honda have got it wrong with the pricing. Not sure how a bike that uses so many elements from its competition models can cost so much to develop into a dualsport. Everybody slagged the CCM GP450 as expensive, but you were getting a bike you could ride all day on road and take anywhere off road with its top end suspension and superb chassis. They even extended the service intervals to a sensible level just by dropping the power to 40bhp! You could by one of the italian converted CRF 450 for less which had full road kit and was competition spec. I don't reckon they will sell many when you can get a new SWM 500 under 6k.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Completely agree 🙌

[@matthewhoopes4440]

Much of the price depends on what the market will bear, not necessarily the true value of the bike. I think $8000-8500 would reflect better for the bike and they'd probably sell more. I keep thinking this is the bike I will buy, then 10g's hits me, but I'm not interested in any other bike in this market. But 10g's is too much. But I want no other dualsport. ..lol. Never ending circle.

[@Unfunny_Username_389]

ace review

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks!

[@trailwayfilms]

Great video! I've got a 2014 crf450x that I use as a kind of dual sport as I live quite far away from trails. I had to change the titanium valves for stainless steel ones, and swap out the piston for a Trx450r piston as it has extra piston rings, this helps with longer life on the top end and less maintenance (although I'm pretty anal about oil changes anyway) I was considering one of these but after this video I really don't think I need to as mine is pretty much the same bike already and I have a longer range tank. I'm still looking for the perfect comprimise of a trail bike that's good on long camping trips abroad. Any ideas?

[@BrakeMagazine]

If you live in the UK you're probably on it. If you live outside Europe a well prepped DR 650 is probably pretty good if that's your vibe. A lot of people like the 690/701 but I'm not the biggest fan.

[@trailwayfilms]

@@BrakeMagazine yeah I'm in the Midlands, UK. I'm not too keen on the 690 either just from what I read about reliability issues. Would you ride a crf450x to the pyrenees for example from UK?

[@razvangroza1957]

interesting, how it compares with a KMT 690 Enduro?

[@BrakeMagazine]

They're very different. The Honda is a much better, easier dirtbikes in technical riding but the 690 would be way nicer if it's a little more open and flowing. 😊 Different bikes for different purposes. 🤙

[@johna6968]

Not really my kind of bike but great review. Stuck in the middle of nowhere with problems, I'd be happier carrying a spare clutch cable than attempting to repair hydraulics.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I mean, it's a valid point but you don't want a cable front brake :P Plus, riding without a clutch isn't so hard. 😄

[@johna6968]

Brake Magazine No clutch isn't fun, particularly when the going gets tough and also back on tarmac. All unnecessary if carrying spare cable. Cable brakes? I like the channel, the ridiculous comparison not so.

[@BrakeMagazine]

It's actually pretty easy on tarmac. We're gonna make a how to on it. The cable brake was just a joke 😁

[@johna6968]

I guess some people know everything despite being half your age. Unsubscribed

[@BrakeMagazine]

I'm sorry you've taken offense to this. Thanks for watching. 🙂

[@FlorinNitulescu_1]

How can you recommend a bike that for the same price as the competition, is less powerful, weights more and has less aftermarket options? Who would anyone spend more for less?

[@BrakeMagazine]

This is a great question Florin! It's the biggest problem Honda have with this bike. A lot of the time specs don't make the bike. I agree the price is wrong and I said that. However, a lot of the time having the most powerful or the lightest bike isn't all that we need. The Honda works because it's very easy and sometimes easy is what people need. If you're experienced then a KTM or Husqvarna enduro bike would be better but for a lot of people, either new to dirtbikes (especially from street riding) or those into trail riding, they're aggressive, scary and not what they need. I think some people will spend more for the right fit as much as anything. 😊

[@KingOfBanks]

Service intervals being nearly double is a massive point here in Australia where it's easy to rack up 300/400km in a day if you have to ride out of and into town. I don't know what the numbers say about reliability though.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Apart from the early 250F era 😏 Otherwise I agree, the generally produce reliable bikes.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Exactly. And honestly, the 10 minute oil change isn't a huge deal 😅

[@mt1885]

I agree KTM/Husqvarna is WWWWAY BETTER !!!! This HONDA is TOP HEAVY and a SLUG....

[@nana-cu5rh]

Top shelf review indeed However, $10k plus for a bike to have weekend fun on is rather prohibitive. Smarten up Honda.

[@nimrod6603]

Really good honest review of the 450 in my opinion!! But then again: yours always are😄👍🏻

[@marksardar4557]

Didnt hear any mention of no ABS.

[@jasonjayalap]

Paying for a milder bike seems strange but since it's the only one like that, reasonable.... If that mildness meant more comfortable on road performance (the other half of dual sport, right?). But with a hard seat, bad stock tires, and short intervals, what are we getting here? Maybe a rally version for the same price is something we can dream of.

[@BritishBikerPhilippines]

I can't afford it. Great review though, very very good. I am excited to see if the rumours are true about Kawasaki releasing a new off-road bike in the 500cc sector soon, and it's sure to be more affordable.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Thanks for the feedback! That would be exciting 😏

[@valentijnwesterveld4483]

Annoying, that hollow background when you speak. Sorry, but I closed the review because of that reason. Overall the channel is great and deserves compliments.

[@leep814]

I think most people wanted a modern xr400 with good suspension and respectable weight. At a reasonable price point between $6000 to $8000. Idk, maybe it's just me

[@BrakeMagazine]

Well they kinda did that at a much higher price point. The L version is basically an XR for 2018 🤔

[@leep814]

@@BrakeMagazine I guess they did. I just wanted a 250L with a little more power and less weight

[@BrakeMagazine]

They made a 250L with twice as much torque and 100 times better chassis. 😁 The torque makes a HUGE difference over a 250L.

[@spraytastic1]

Good review .pcp deals around 500 deposit run it for 3 years and give it back cheap rental !. as for the power i think honda are supplying power up kits for the new ordered bikes.

[@BrakeMagazine]

The power depends on where you live. In the US it's more like 40+HP.

[@RedRupert64]

Great vid 👍 Isn't that just a red 2008 WR450F? Not all WR450Fs have 50 hp, and there's a WR250F if you feel less power is appropriate 🤔 Look around, and you'll find a nice clean, hardly used WR for around £2500. Want a little softer? A Yam TTR 250 or a WR250R should fit the bill nicely.

[@mackman1480]

Why are the European bikes so under powered the same bike in North America is pushing 41 hp and 38 on the dyno at the wheel. Do the emissions make that much of a difference if the bike has regular power without restrictions. Is the price you quote including taxes or is that extra.

[@BrakeMagazine]

That was to meet current EU emissions. A lot of smaller brands don't bother meeting them but that's not Hondas style. Price was including tax.

[@mackman1480]

@@BrakeMagazine I am just looking at the Prairie Honda dealers website and they list a 2019 CRF 450L brand new for $10649 marked down $1250 Canadian dollars plus federal GST of 5% and Provincial tax of 7% where I live. Its to bad that the bike is detuned with half of the hp and torque that other markets have as the video's I have seen of people riding say this bike is a blast to ride with Honda reliability. The only complaint is people think the price is a little high. I remember someone in the 80's having a CR 500 two stroke now that had monster power.

[@jaypuck6912]

I'll stick with my 14 yo KTM 625 SXC. I can buy three of them and a tri-rail trailer on Craiglist for the price of one of these and I'll have a lot more HP and torque, a bigger gas tank, and well.. it's taken me to 13,000 ft in Colorado without a sputter.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

SWM 500 RS OR 300 THE PERFECT DUALSPORT OR TRAIL BIKE ( ALSO THEY HAVE HYDULIC CLUTCH & 1.6 LT OIL CAPACITY ) LONGER SERVICE INTERVALS

[@BrakeMagazine]

The engine on the Honda is a much more reliable than the SWM 300 😊 but otherwise we agree.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

@@BrakeMagazine I own one 8000kms no problems on issues ( and that's flogging through the Australian Bush in the dust and heat ) No sure were you get your info from , but I'm specking from experience.

[@BrakeMagazine]

It's good to here that. We raced them just before the Husqvarna brand got sold to KTM, with the same engine. We had a lot of small problems with the starters and electrical faults such as temperature sensors.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

I know the SWM - rebadged Husky has fix most of the known issues they had , so basically now they are a very reliable bike , obviously not competitive with new modem Enduro bikes but as you say about the CRF450 L , it’s s great trail / Dual Sport bike. The SWM 300/500 really fall into that Trail / Dual sport bike now ( which is fantastic) as bikes like the DRZ with only 5 speed & carburettor engine & the KLR , DR are so outdated now , the SWM RS 300, 500 ,650 & Superdual really fill the gap in a market that has been forgotten about .

[@waltc4925]

Yes, I have been watching both SWM & AJP for the last year, and they both have the right idea (trail bike). What they can't offer (yet), is support, supply chain, at least in the states.

[@davidkaser7423]

What would you suggest for me. I currently ride a Yamaha ttr 230 stock. I trail ride and race single track. I do not ride on road any longer since every psycho driver seems to find me and tries to kill me. I do want a bike that has a front light and speed/hour/mileage. Thinking a 2019 wr 250, but the hight of the bike has me waiting. I prefer a bike I can put my feet on the ground when needed, and as muddy trails go, it is necessary. I will never do motocross, and do not understand why manufacturers are making bikes so tall. If you ask me they need a bike built for the avarage hight rider, 5'9" to 6'2". I am not finding any. I love the hight of my ttr 230, but need more speed now. What do you think would work ?

[@BrakeMagazine]

Great question! Most dirtbikes are designed for people that are average height of between 5'9 And 5'11. I have two suggestions. The first is to watch our video on tips for short people, because this technique will help. The second is to choose a bike that fits. If you want a slightly more powerful but low training there are some nice options. Have a look at the KTM freeride 250 or the Beta X-Trainer 300. The other option is to lower a 350/400 sized dirt bike with a suspension tuner. They can shorten the suspension internally dramatically lowering seat height. Seat height is pretty easy to explain too. Dirtbikes need a lot of suspension travel and that makes a bike tall. They also need to be easy to transfer from sitting down to standing up, so they have relatively open cockpits. Combine that with decent ground clearance and you have a tallish bike. 😊

[@davidkaser7423]

@@BrakeMagazine I just said to hell with it, and purchased a new 2019 wr250f. Will be riding it in a couple days. have to find a decal set for it, and put a tracker on it, and get it titled ( just so I have a titile, not needed).

[@jeanmorelli1588]

Where is the EP 2 of V Strom project???? We need it !!

[@BrakeMagazine]

It's coming. Our bike was stolen so we are having to start from scratch. 😊

[@marksardar4557]

Watched a few reviews for this and they all seem to follow a Honda script. No-one seems to mention that it has no ABS. Will stick to owners reviews in future.

[@BrakeMagazine]

It's a dirt bike. Dirtbikes don't come with ABS across the board. The primary reason is that producing ABS systems that are good off road requires expensive electronics that's dramatically increase the cost of the bike. The only bikes with good off-road ABS systems currently cost over £11000.00. It generally adds around £2000 to final sale price of a bike. That's why there isn't ABS and non of us mention something that is industry standard.

[@themotofixery]

For the money why would this be any better than the offerings from ktm or beta?

[@BrakeMagazine]

Because it's different. I think if you're an experienced off road person and looking from a money perspective, it isn't. If you're coming from a beginner perspective, we loved how gentle and friendly it was. That's it. You can't buy another trail bike that handles this well with a forgiving and usable engine. Hope that helps.

[@gregktm]

read any of the comments above...

[@davidsalo8397]

Because I got tired of hauling my KTM to the repair shop. I ride Team Red now!

[@fredricknilsson7]

To bad that fuel tank is so smal, when Im out I want to be able to ride for 150km.

[@Kimsand520]

So its a "beginners" bike with only 40Hp(20HP in the states?!), no hydralic clutch, frequent oil changes and a few nice pieces here and there for 9000(!) Pounds. For me, the problem is the lackluster engine compared to what you get for the price. If Ktm can push 70HP from a singel with 10k intervals, this is not good enough. The pricing is insane for this bike.. As many people have said, i would rather have a lightly used Ktm 690 or a 500 for that price with way better specs! (I had a 690)

[@f18a]

The US version of the CRF450L dynos at 40HP @ 7500 RPM and 28 ftlbs @ 6500 RPM.

[@Kimsand520]

@@f18a So i had it the other way around, we in EU gets 25HP and you get 40HP.. Still :(

[@jdwinton5411]

I have a Husky 701 enduro and I agree with you that its 74hp is nice, however it's wet weight is 56lbs (25kgs) heavier than the Honda, suspension is arguably worse (4cs) and the 74hp is at the crank where the 38-40hp of the honda was measured at the rear wheel so the difference is not as drastic. When comparing to the 500 KTM/Husky the HP difference stock is approaching a non issue and although the KTM/Husky is lighter, it is not by much and with the new Honda you are getting an aluminum sub frame that goes all the way back to the end of the fender so your lights and plate are not bouncing around like they are going to break off at any moment, plus it gives you a nice sturdy area to mount soft luggage. All three are great bikes, the Honda is much better for the person looking to do some trail riding and wants to carry some soft luggage, the 500 KTM/Husky is much more suited for the person who wants extreme offroad performance and wants the street legal kit for merely getting from one trail to the next. The 690/701 is for the person who wants to ride from their house to the trail, ride all day, possibly camp, then ride back home. I think this is great, more options is always good for the consumer

[@viffer781]

@@jdwinton5411 Well said. I am a new 450L owner and recognize this bike is NOT for everyone and takes some serious though if it IS for you. Hard core enduro people - stick to KTM, Sherco, Yamaha etc as the 450L is NOT that. "Dual sports" riders - a terrible overloaded term that means VERY different things to different people - If you ride a WR250R, DRZ400, DR650 etc and expect long service intervals -> not for you. I feel the 450L fits the gap between the older Dual Sports (WR, DRZ, DR CRF250L) and the Enduro (WR450F, KTM EXCs etc) which is exactly what I wanted :) This notes I have a DRZ400E dual sport and KTM 1190 Adv \ so the 450L is a fantastic addition - for my needs. My only gripe: bigger fuel tank would be nice ;)

[@waltc4925]

So Buy THAT ktm. There are plenty big hp orange bikes on the used market. I wonder why that is ??

[@paulgw101]

Lovely bike, shame you have to sell your youngest child to buy one. 😢🏍👍🏻

[@BrakeMagazine]

😂😂😂

[@MrAli171]

To late sold children and wife for new Ducati v4 😀

[@BrakeMagazine]

Bet that still didn't cover it 😂

[@robsonenduro3316]

what's lovely about it? nothing really.

[@dznnf7]

I wish I could've been the first to comment so I could predict everyone crying about having to change oil so often.

[@Angry-Lynx]

It could be awesome dual sport bike if you didnt have to change oil so often ;

[@Sertao2013]

Here is what I think . The people that have that kind of money to spend on a 500 cc bike are not going to get the Honda with no hydraulic clutch, once they ride the KTM or the Husqvana for just a little bit more money . Honda's price tag will be the death of this bike . Price it at 6,000 and you have a winner .

[@davidsalo8397]

I no longer own an exc. I'm now a happy Honda guy! Got tired of hauling my KTM to the repair shop.

[@sickunit2096]

I saw a man who looks like Frank Zappa give this bike a shit review. All you have to do is look at the way he rides compared to someone from Brake Magazine. Comments like “it’s a bit plasticy”. Knobhead. Its a dirtbike.

[@kellyfontes7757]

Your height and weight?

[@BrakeMagazine]

6'2 90kg when this was filmed

[@MrScoobieman]

What’s the standard weight? I just picked up at 450 L and I weigh 160 pounds. Do I need to adjust the shocks?

[@MotoSly]

just go with KTM :) less money... better bike...

[@BrakeMagazine]

Not better, just different. The six days KTM is basically the same money 😊

[@mt1885]

I AGREE 100% --- the big 4 are all recycled - 4 stroke aluminum frame TOP-HEAVY slugs. EURO bikes is where the 2 strokes are at!

[@quidestnunc9238]

Audio Suggestion: lavalier microphone. You need to pick up the sound at the source; in this circumstance it is your mouth. And please do not blare "music" or muffler (silencer) sound at a decibel level higher than than your voice; loud noise damages eardrums when one is listening using earbuds.

[@BrakeMagazine]

We use a lavalier Mic but unfortunately the recording failed as the mic broke. We were using a recorder for it and only found out after recording. it shouldn't happen again as we've no upgraded :)

[@wildone2163]

honda disappoints again, nothing to talk about. Very short maintenance interval, heavy and soft suspension compared to ktm equivalent. Trail bike with 7 liters tank??? LOL

[@olis790]

Seen the 7 litre comment posted everywhere WR250R is a trail bike and comes with a 7 litre tank

[@joshm9163]

Can't justify the price. We can get new old stock Africa Twins for 10k in the states. I know it's not the same, yadda yadda, but goddamn that price.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yeah, they got the price very wrong.

[@mt1885]

Aluminum FRAME is a big negative and makes the bike TOP Heavy/OVER-WEIGHT and WAY OVER-PRICED !!!

[@gregktm]

The market doesn't need another DRZ. They aren't selling. I think Honda knows what they're doing. But thanks!

[@sloan4764]

Then again, Honda classifies it as an enduro, not a dual sport

[@davidsalo8397]

I think the term "Enduro" is now outdated. Like at least 30 years ago.

[@materna5572]

Yamaha WR250r= more hp, longer service intervals, bulletproof , cheaper. Cheers.

[@matthewhoopes4440]

more hp? Umm, No

[@fcalin21]

It is a better bike then KTM or Husqvarna so it is not expensive.

[@BrakeMagazine]

I'm not sure I agree with that.

[@fcalin21]

@@BrakeMagazine Better quality , better road maners, better reliability, better suspensions, only slightly less off-road capability. Parts are cheaper.

[@davidsalo8397]

Agree. You just can't beat Honda reliability, fit and finish.

[@Griffin854]

Seat Height: 37.1 inches, sigh...

[@itsthebike6672]

Honda 450L vs KTM 350 EXC.... Now that would be a real world test. Both cost about the same $.

[@BrakeMagazine]

Kind of. The 450L is a lot more expensive here though. We have a 350 and 450 Husqvarna (similar to the KTM) as our personal bikes and the 450l is different. It's gentle and mellow where the 350 is a race weapon. 😊

[@waltc4925]

Dirt Bike Mag. just did a shootout ... kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3jFfmZ5jJqlfKc Honda, Ktm, Husky, Beta, and they picked the Beta. Same issue for me, Cost #1, parts availability.

[@davidsalo8397]

I just sold my 350 exc and bought a 450 RL. No more European dual sports for me.

[@adambatchelder4121]

That was funny, that sed it's a heavy overpriced pig. It's amazing that they where able to build such a heavy bike and try to sell it for nearly the price of a real bike.

[@ckenealy8]

I disagree with your entire statement but that's the great thing about a democracy

[@RicViperskylogs]

Pick one up used in 6 to 12 mos and save thousands

[@waltc4925]

This is exactly the plan we came up with. ...lol Now if Honda doesn't limit production ...might work !

[@suomiman100]

Complains about the price then questions why there is no hydraulic clutch....

[@BrakeMagazine]

Yup! It's more expensive with less equipment. That seems like it should be questioned..

[@ericmorris5903]

I’m pretty sure this guy never rode the L.

[@BrakeMagazine]

You know when you write a comment we see it right? 🤣

[@smsd777]

Husqvarna 701! Thats all......

[@fredricknilsson7]

Its a good bike, I got one 701a from 2019. Great power and one thing I like is the travel range, I can go 220 km on one tank before re-fuel. Great when taking trips in the forest.

[@mt1885]

For the money Buy a KTM/Husqvarna or EURO bike way better quality/fit/finish.

[@leslieaustin151]

Aris Torm ?? Really? Surely Honda is known for good quality and a long lasting machine. They are ALL out of my price range, so I’ll never know, but personally I’d rather buy a good workhorse than a tricked up racer that will break down on road use. Perhaps I have it totally wrong. “I’ve been wrong before..” Les in UK

[@davidsalo8397]

I rate the 450 RL way better in fit/finish/reliability category. Got tired of hauling my KTM 350 exc to the repair shop.

[@plotholedetective4166]

That bike IS NOT a trail bike it's a dual sport that's why it name ends in the letter L for legal as in street legal and why it comes with turn signals, engine noise damping covers, and all the Bells and whistles for road use...because thats what its for. Youz be a big stanky badumb dumb.... it's a supermoto waiting for wheel swap or an urban enduro or a dual sport... and if you fix your mapping it does 100mph on the freeway without thinking about it.

[@Lewiseyers]

Te300i easier better bike, less Agro... I had both