Every Issue I've Found As An Owner: HONDA CRF300L

[@francismark5027]

I just picked one up. For a rider that only weighs 130lbs I find the "soft" suspension glorious. All of my other bikes were built before 1973 so I find everything about the bike almost too smooth and precise. If anyone wants to complain about poor braking and 5k engine rattle come join me in the world of vintage British motorcycles

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Well said

[@theresafeldhaus5718]

Me too

[@Saltyshaka]

People need to realize that they are buying a $5,000 USD motorcycle . And they are trying to compare it to a 12k-13k Ktm or husky . The cost of the bike makes it great for any entry level individual that wants to make it into the sport . YOU PAY TO PLAY . Depending what level of play you’re looking for then you need to cough up the extra bucks .

[@andrewwilliamhorton789]

I understand your input but $12k is ridiculous for a bike. Maybe if everyone was making $100k a year lol

[@markkotishion2379]

The maintenance on a Husky 501 is four times that of the Honda. I am a beginner, even if I won the powerball I would still buy the Honda for now.

[@sandytraveller85]

I honestly wouldn't don't like the weight and size of those 12k bikes for anything bush related. Give me 2 of these and some accessories instead😂

[@markblankenship5788]

So many people are saying this could be better that could be better, you have to remember that they’re also trying to bring a product that EVERYBODY can afford. You start adding better brakes, braided lines as you said…….better suspension it’s going to drive that price up. I think they did a great job, heck people are buying them up. Plus by not do these “upgrades “ it give you something to make your own.

[@TwoFeetDown92]

Just got my 2024 a month ago, solid bike. Hard to get most places because dealers can't keep them in stock.

[@bbaz6729]

People who purchase a Honda 300L or 300 Rally thinking they are Japanese Hondas will be sorely disappointed. They are made in Thailand. Not Japan, as in days of old. Checking to see if the XR650L is made in Japan still. (Update - It is. It's one of the few Japanese Hondas left)

[@motorbikeglobetrotter]

Nice video. I've got mine for one year now. Put 40 000 kilometers on it. One time valve adjustment (1 shim). And the other problem, the neck bearing. But otherwise than those, that bike is reliable.

[@alangaffney7186]

Iv had my 300l about 2 months now couldn't be happier with it thanks to your uploads really new what I was getting before it arrived 👍👍

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Congrats Alan, glad the vids helped out.

[@Kawasakisforlife]

i picked up a 2024 crf300l and just got out of the first break in nothing bad so far gonna use it to travel 1000 miles north of where i am

[@andrewcannon587]

a WR300-400R would be a perfect bike to fill the 300-450cc DS void. A revamp of DRZ400 would also be nice if it come

[@leslieaustin151]

Beware of rerouting the brake line if it is braided, and especially don’t fix it down at one spot which puts all the bending in that one place. The earlier RE Himalayans seem to have had a problem with that where the bending stress caused the braiding to crack and cause issues. That loop looks to me like it’s meant to distribute the bending stresses across a longer length of the line and keep those stresses lower. Les in UK

[@jimperry4420]

Jake the garden snake has an excellent video about that issue.

[@sillyoldman8965]

In Thailand Honda CRF300L MSRP =148,000 THB(4,353US$) Kawasaki KLX300 MSRP=240,500THB(7,074US$) . To upgrade CRF300L we have to pay 3,850THB(113US$) for MX 30 compression adjustable rear shocks , 5,800(166US$) for Ohlins front spring kit , 6,500THB(191US$) for 301cc performance kit . Total cost to build CRF300L to equal(or slightly better) with KLX300 is 164,150THB(4,828US$) .

[@MsSjaakvaak]

Great advice! I'll be travelling Thailand soon. Would you know where to get that MX 30 rear shock and what's the brand? Thanks!

[@starlordstarlordman8489]

Fantastic video. I watch tons of motorcycle content on KZbin. It is really rare for the presentation to be so balanced "if you like this, then you will be fine, if you like that you may want to do XYZ". That is so informative to someone who doesn't have the bike. I have a Himalayan at the moment which I love. I can tell that when things get more gnarly and technical I may have to go with a lighter bike, and so I'm looking to the future of it as to what that would be. This has been really helpful. Thanks again.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks mate, I try to keep it balanced 🙂

[@henrywarnell7694]

I’m lucky. I’m Mr Average in most departments except level of satisfaction. Would have bought the 300L in a heartbeat if l wasn’t so delighted in the 250L. Have put 25,000 miles on my 2018 model.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Great little bikes the 250L. For what its worth my mates on their 250L's go everywhere I go with no fuss 👍

[@dennisossianderrmplmtcst2053]

Wow, that is an amazing amount of miles on a 250 L. Quick question, are you commuting as well or are you retired? I bought a 2018 250 L, but I only get to ride it about once a week and have about 5000 miles on it. A lot of those miles are in first gear on highly technical trail riding so not a lot of highway or back roads. Thanks for the comment and best wishes! Kindly, Dennis

[@henrywarnell7694]

@@dennisossianderrmplmtcst2053 Hello Dennis, l am in the fortunate position of being a “gentleman of leisure”.😉. In the first 2 years of ownership, my mileage was relatively modest as big trips were done on a Suzuki V-Strom 1,000 (2 up). This last year most riding has been solo so to cut down on the fuel bill, my main steed has been the 250L. The over 14,000 miles this year has been day trips, touring and as much off road as opportunity presents. Apart from oil changes, new tyres and a valve check there has been nothing to do. The bike has never let me down. What (mild) criticisms were being levelled at the model were addressed by Honda in 2017.

[@dennisossianderrmplmtcst2053]

@@henrywarnell7694 Wow, that is really, really extraordinary! I am very curious, are you in North America, Europe or elsewhere? Thanks again, best wishes and safe travels! Gratefully, Dennis

[@ThinkBeforeYouSheep]

I put a deposit down on one two days ago and I will be getting it next week around Wednesday, from my observations and research a common problem people are having is with the front suspension seals going out due to dirt and sand getting into the seals, I'm going to get some universal boots to cover my suspension to prevent that from happening.

[@EricBanner571]

Many of your grips with the CRF are not an issue on the DRZ400E. Suspension, vibration at 5000 RPM, on / off throttle, brakes, heat issues, sub-frame are all better on the DRZ. Yes, the DRZ is not perfect by any means but not bad for a 20 year old platform.

[@JohannesDalenMC]

I'm enjoying mine a lot!

[@sic04250f]

I guess this 300 has injection and 6 speed box over the DRZ. Probably get a ripper used Suzi for half the price of this 300 though.

[@Bushcadi]

Well. One of the greatest improvement i've done is to put an FMF tune pipe, so i lost 8 pounds doing so, and also runns the engine cooler, Adding to the pipe, i had installed an 550 performance ECU, stage 1 : MAJOR change i felt. Smooth throttle responds, and better over torque and much useable low gear performance. Then i had installed some warp 9 super motar wheels. Then i had to go to a 38 th rear sproket, and then i went back to the 40 th but i put a 15 th in front, good change the front sproket so my 6 th gear is less rpm for cruising have to remoove the little metal guard to the front to suit the E bay 15 thoot ordered. of course, my preload is at maximum, rear defenitly to smooth. Also bought a small wind shield , super helpfull, no more chess fighting against the wind. Also installed a shim under the foot rest. And of course, had installed a tiny tail license plate. Yesss, also have remoove the complete stupid tool box, again save some weight and no use to this small tool kit. And i have solved this issue of having this front brake hose in the face, by rerouting it under the handle bar, just turn the fitting backward and reroute it, just perfect fit now. That it for now. My bike is super nice looking with this white rims and the 160 rear tire. Love it.

[@blancolirio]

Not enough preload adjustment on the stock rear shock to make much of a difference. Upgraded suspension significantly improves this bike.

[@SW-MOTO]

Thanks for good review and summary. I am 98kg with 189cm of heigh. I am riding 1250 GSA (including off-road. Last year I did full Costa Rica off road 3300km on small Honday 300cc and I need to say this was just fantastic. I could not imagine goes with GS there especially I was alone in then jungle for like 2 weeks. Definitely I am going to get some small gladiator for me next year for off road trips. Greetings from 🇨🇭

[@garyc7464]

I've had my 300L 1 year and 3 months now, love it and agree with all your points, never heard the 5k rattle, suspension is soft but I increased pre load on the rear and it will do for now. Worst thing about this bike is the useless toolkit, no tools to remove or adjust either wheels...

[@janporkpie]

I don't ride a CRF250/300 off road as I have a CRF230 for trail riding. I bought a 300 Rally in March 2022 (but kept my 250L in the shed in case). The engine was much rougher than the 250 - the vibration was too intrusive. There is 3 cm less leg room on the 300 Rally compared with the 250L - measured from the seat strap to the footrest. The screen sent all the air pressure onto my head, I added a screen extender - which didn't help. Helmet buffeting was unpleasant and very noisy, I tried 3 different helmets - all the same, noisy and rough. The new steering geometry made it harder than the 250L to turn into bends. The changes to gear ratios will be better off road but as I don't use the bike off road the gap between 4th and 5th is a nuisance. To get the bike to turn in I had to use the throttle and rear brake to trail brake - as I had to do on my XT660R. I've sold the 300 Rally and pulled the 250L out of the shed - it handles so much better. Yesterday I bought another 250L - very low mileage - it will replace my current 250L next March (2023) when my current bike hits 30k miles.

[@jordanh9210]

For the ABS cable, just route it through the gap in the front fairing. Works great im amazed nobody else seems to have done this. The cables rest's on a rounded corner if you do this and is only at a very slight angle so there's no issues with wear or bending. Im 100% sure the 5k rattle is just the engine hitting the power band and the muffler being to restrictive, if you lower the rpm the engine gets quieter and if you raise it the noise moves to the rear and you get the good exhaust noises. On my bike i found the front engine mount was extremely loose (like 2cm wiggle room it was barely even on), idk if this is a common issue but you should all check your engine mounts because my dealer sure didnt check anything. In regards to the suspension, its not that its bad but thats its unbalanced. The rear shock is not still enough compared to the front and the rebound is crazy when you hit a bump or jump, it would be fine if both front and rear where the same but i think honda put all the money into the front and expect people who need it to just replace the rear. Idk about others but i havent been able to adjust the rear pre-load at all on my bike because from the factory the locking nut is extremely tight and even using a many hard blows from a mallet i couldnt break it loose.

[@damacknificent151]

Get a long screw driver and dead blow hammer and hit it hard a few times. Just be careful not to scratch anything. It took me about 7 good hits and came loose.

[@bobbygreen9106]

5k rattle is still present with aftermarket exhaust so that's not it. Honda came out with a statement saying that noise is just inherent to the engine design.

[@longkeithdiablo8812]

I love your videos but I would advise against rerouting your brake cables. The front cable will always loop up on bikes with loooong suspension travel. It's the best solution for least deflection 👍

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Great point mate, did not know that was the reason 👍

[@MrCarlos2869]

Tha cable, would you upload a video showing how is done or just showing it, thanks in advance.

[@gwdrew86]

Mate, I live part time between Australia and Thailand. In Australia I have a 250l. In Thailand last December I bought a new 300l. Done 12000ks on it. Right away I was unhappy with the snatchy Throttle compared to the 250. Did some reseach and ordered a throttle tamer from the US.Back to Thailand next week so I hope it helps. The 300 is ideal for northern Thailand great loops.

[@ur_cowboy]

for anyone wondering i have a 2022 crf300l im 200lbs 6 foot, 1 year riding experience with a dirtbike an old harley and 2022crf300 and i dont even notice the soft suspension on road, its been smooth and a great ride for city use

[@unicycle227]

"Unless Yamaha come to the table, and I sure hope they do". you and me both!

[@greatwhitenorthoverland]

I am 6’ 195lbs. I have a 2023 Honda 300L and I find the suspension perfect. If you want to jump the bike then buy a bike for jumping. This bike is amazing to hop on ride on the highway; or any sweet trail.

[@SethJayson]

your videos helped me (returning rider, geezer) decide to put a deposit on a 300l rally. Going to be a summer cabin bike, so smaller roads, gravel, moderate double and single track. Dealer close by sealed the deal. Seems like a perfect little bike to do many things pretty well.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Congrats Seth, hope she serves you well👍

[@spynles7947]

My biggest issue is those yellow handguards, my ocd can't handle them on that bike...

[@marcochavane3124]

I have an out of round wheel on my brand new CRF300L Rally. Bounces like mad from 40-50mph. Lifted it up off the ground and used a laser I attached to the fork tube and saw the wheel itself oscillating up and down. Previously owning 5 Yamahas this was my first Honda purchase and I'm very disappointed in the QC.

[@MandM745]

The 5K rattle is real on my bike. You can't miss it. Ive been riding off road bikes since I was 7. It can take away from the ride

[@RRDfinland]

Balancer shaft? Or crank balance is not 100% correct

[@richhowell6874]

This is one of the best reviews of any motorcycle that I've ever read. It's complete and so very honest. I learned a lot and have confidence it what I heard.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Glad it was helpful 👍

[@Darkvisor]

What a great video. I didn't look for it but popped up on my home screen. The Honda 250 / 300 / 400/450? etc, I haven't been able to try yet to due dealers not having it in store basically. But always wanted to. This video is fast paced with all no dead talk in between and very useful info about the bike, not being too biased or vice versa. I ride a Yamaha T7 and though it's one of the best bikes I've tried so far as it fills all/most of my needs from a bike in general, being great for longer trips and still kicks äss off-road, I do feel a small need / push towards a lighter off-road bike. Not a big fan of a one cylinder bikes in general but the lower weight might "push me over". I could def see myself having one of these in the future and your video was very good as it answered many of my thoughts about the bike. Hopefully I get to try one next year.... Ride safe and I will hit that sub button so I don't miss any more stuff from your channel. //Dark Visor Motovlog 🇸🇪

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks mate, Test road the T7 and would love one in my garage next to the L👍

[@codypow2713]

Had to shop around bc the 300L is either impossible to find in stock or its marked up $1500 above msrp. Found one on order about to ship and saved a ton of money. Can't wait to get it in, it's my first bike.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Congrats Cody, enjoy 🎉

[@justgjt]

A G2 Throttle Tamer new cam profile on the throttle tube will help clean up the throttle snatch.

[@mjfalcon007]

Thanks for all your feedback and tips on this bike. I have watched a lot of your videos me I m convinced this is the bike for me as a beginner. I rode my fiends 2016 250L and had a lot of fun off-road. I like the benefits that come with the 300L so I’m keen to purchase it when I can afford one.

[@Farm2trailoffroad]

I just put the fully adjustable yss rear shock and front sping on my 300 rally. Amazing the difference, way more stable off road. I'm 250 lbs and the 105 kilo rated stuff is plenty stiff enough, lots of preload left.

[@JohnEmerich-y5t]

Great video’s on the CRF 300L, just got mine a couple of weeks ago and am loving it. It’s the perfect bike for what it is!

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Congrats🎉

[@1990-t1j]

Excellent review. Thinking of getting one.

[@masterofnone76]

I just got this bike first time riding it I noticed the louder engine noise between 4 and 5 thousand rpms. I'm glad others are noticing this and it's not just my ride. It isn't horrible but at 4800 rpms it sounds klacky. The sound reminds me of a loose heat shield bolt.

[@geraldburmeister9637]

I believe Honda used direct injection for this bike so I would consider doing some early oil samples as they had problems in their car engines with cylinder wash when they first used it. I think the 5k rattle is timing chain slap from a poorly designed tensioner. That 300 is a pretty handsome bike but my 250l only has 7500 miles so far and I'm pretty content with. Love the yellow hand guards👍!

[@ngmasson]

Per Honda’s website the bike has fuel injection, not direct injection.

[@geraldburmeister9637]

@@ngmasson you are correct, thanks for catching that. Can't remember where I read that.

[@tweetdezweet]

I just came across this video (kzbin.info/www/bejne/pp63nmVto9B9nsU) the pinned comment is someone claiming that 1 upping the oil weight solves the 5k rattle, have not tried it myself tbh

[@chrisallen5548]

I've not experienced the 5K rattle either. Really snatchy throttle in 1st and 2nd. I'd be interested in ways to improve the breaks too. I got some great frame guards from Rallyraid (UK). The bike has died on me twice, I was just riding along and the engine stopped like someone had hit the kill switch - weird. Also have a few gearbox issues where it won't go into second or third and sometimes block changing down just doesn't work at all and I have to go down through every single gear. Also it pops out of gear sometimes and goes into neutral.

[@mnmtrpin2793]

I had the gear shift problem on a Honda years ago. It was a soft spring on the shifter. Yours might be different but maybe worth a look.

[@neilpederson5212]

You mentioned the throttle there’s a reset that’s supposed to really help that. I personally don’t know I only ordered a 300 rally so I don’t have it yet. To reset: Turn the bike on then off then on and leave on. Turn the throttle from zero to full 3 times. Then turn the bike off. That is supposed to reset and make the throttle better.

[@ddacaro3625]

So if you check out the video by Itchy Boots that just came out called "I BROKE my Honda CRF250L into two pieces. Kalahari Rally - Final Stage 6.", at 13:30 she shows her broken CRF250L subframe. I'm also worried Solid because I too want to camp on multi day BDR trips and I want to carry a bunch of photo gear along with camping and food. She had a Rotopax gas can on the back plus many miles in S. Africa on that bike. I'm thinking about welding reinforcement bar somehow onto the high stress points. Also Solid, any thoughts on a bigger gas tank for the non-rally version? The Rally gas tank is sold as a part for $250 USD but I don't think you can put it on with the existing plastics on the standard 300L - but Acerbis and IMS are both apparently vague about when a 300L large tank will be made. Bummer for those of us wanting to do long trips between refills.

[@bccycle1]

I am finding my Beta 390 a good choice for dual sport

[@benjaminfrankliniii9857]

I am surprised you didn't go with a wr450f. I am a drz owner I test rode the wr and holy fuck what a beast. The suspension is keeps up with a motocross bike

[@jordesign]

If someone cares more about the cable aesthetics, than the way they function, I think they need to get out of dual sporting altogether. ALWAYS choose function over form when it comes to safety....

[@wayneh8767]

Good to see you again Solid, please include the odd wipe out footage like previous videos, keeps me reassured I'm not the only one making use of a skid lid regularly 😉! And it is free entertainment!

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks Wayne, rest assured I crash enough to always have ample footage at hand 😜

[@msims1250]

Excellent video. My 300L should hopefully be in next week. I’m excited to get it.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Congrats🎉

[@jamesgeorgevellavella1961]

I’ve sold mine and was thinking of getting another. Problem is it’s pig heavy when I try to push off road. If WR 250 wasn’t so expensive Id buy instead but beggars can’t be choosers lol. Love the vids and keep it up

[@snupermoto723]

Hard to believe in 2021 the latest and greatest dual purpose trail bike is essentially not even as good as a 20+ yr old DRZ.

[@bryananderson3772]

The drz is reliable and nothing else. There are plenty of better options

[@kennethcooley3445]

All of my Hondas have been a massive disappointment in the suspension area.

[@MinhVu-in9iz]

Yeah they need to improve by making the suspension adjustable!!!

[@Jimw82]

You think of your 150lbs it will still be bad?

[@Aengen]

Oh, that rattle is real my friend! Cam chain tensioner as I understand it.

[@chrisredfield3240]

I'm sure the xr250 even had that rattle

[@Aengen]

@@chrisredfield3240 Probably true, and I wouldn’t worry about it if still had my 300 Rally.

[@simondemetriou7750]

Very useful video as I am collecting my one soon! On my previous CRF250L I fitted frame guards which stops the paint being scratched by your MX boots (KTM enduro bikes have these fitted as standard)

[@dwest3761]

Perfect assessment. 100% spot on. I wasn't too bad years ago at enduro stuff but age and injuries, (and arthritis), have allowed me to slow down and smell the roses more. Well......maybe see them better and all the really cool sights to see that I wouldn't going a much faster pace. I am toying with suspension but the reality is, 95% of the time, its fine. That, I can live with. Great MPG but certainly would like see a larger fuel tank. Pretty easy to do 135-140 miles between gas stations. For now, I carry a few litters. They will be needed. (IMS does have one 1/2 gal larger....But that isn't quite enough extra). I have the L without the ABS here in the States. Very glad not to have that. Its very nice to be able to lock up either brake when I want to. Certainly not unheard of. The seat.............you know..........its pretty dang ok. As good as any aftermarket I have on other bikes. 3 months and 2000 miles into the bike, I never need to stand unless I want to on the trail. Never have needed to on the pavement. Thanks CoS

[@cgmtv]

I own a 2019 690 Enduro R and a CRF 300 L (in two different countries). I'm currently selling the 690 and I will buy the 300 Rally. I just have more fun in the 300. I consider myself an experienced rider. I reckon that if I was a big guy (180cm+) maybe I would think differently, but being 172cm "tall" doesn't allow me to tackle the hard enduro bits with ease as I do it in the 300. I think there are a lot of bike-snobs and for them, a 300cc bike will always be for the newbies...Overall, I think I ride as fast in the 300 as the 690, in all sorts of conditions. Riding alone, having a light bike is a great advantage!

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Agreed mate, I hear from the snobs all the time how 300cc is not enough. Plenty enough for my needs!

[@stavencapp]

Its kinda always been like that with me with dealerships. Living on the mid north coast NONE of the dealears EVER have ANY new bikes for demo. The only way to demo one if im looking to buy new is to look for people selling them second hand, then waste their time comming to look and test ride the bike, knowing full well Im buying it brand new.

[@thealvaco]

That's why I sold my 250L. I went more into technical enduro riding and the weight and suspension were a noticable problem. Tou can upgrade the brakes with the crf 250M rotor. It's bigger.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks for the tip

[@mgs.915]

I feel like the cons I head over and over of the crf250l and crf 300l as well as the klx is summarized in the fact it’s not a race bike and isn’t supposed to be. It’s a budget dual sport with long service intervals and reliability. Ever heard of a drag car that is reliable or a race car that doesn’t have issues? They aren’t the same thing and can’t be! Just further proof I need to upgrade from my dr200 to a 250 or maybe a 300 if I can get enough money!

[@posterlion]

What about early clutch wear? I've seen videos where replacement was needed at 3000 KM. People seem to favor replacing it with a non slipper clutch.

[@Thebowber]

All Hondas' subframes were welded on in the 80s, never a problem even if it got bent in a big off as you just heated it up and bent it straight, getting at the rear shock is harder but modern bike need so much crap removing before you can get at anything I don't think it'll make much difference.

[@luvbgrass]

My 2022 300 Rally doesn't really have a 5K rattle either. It has about 950 miles on it as of now. I do think its maybe a bit noisier around 5K but it doesn't concern me. From all I've read and watched it doesn't seem to be an issue anyone should worry about.

[@davidroberts7490]

Looking at photographs of the 300 subframe it would appear like Honda have made the 300 subframe stronger than the 250 L

[@DennisHutton62]

Looks perfect for a senior.

[@stitch3163]

Great review and rundown, Solid. “Who’s this bike for?” is a fine way to roll it all up at the end.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Cheers 👍

[@ark529]

great review... for the subframe check Ichy boots (rides a CRF 250 L) there you can see the limits

[@slakk5093]

Different bike, different subframe design. Also that bike was bought secondhand and the subframe condition is unknown

[@stephensmith7262]

Great video. I just bought a CRF300L last weekend. So far, I've only put break -in miles on it, but I'm so stoked about getting this out in the desert. It feels so much lighter than the CRF250L rally I used to have. I'm going to be bummed the first time I drop it... LOL.

[@spring9603]

The brake cable it's indeed an issue. It's not the esthetics, I couldn't care less for that. The problem is that it blocks visibility to the dash and I have to bow the head a little down if I want to check the screen which makes it dangerous while driving. I'm 6'3". I wouldn't wonder if there were accidents precisely because of it. The throttle jerkiness it's not nice at all. Makes riding at low speeds and low RPMs very difficult and an unpleasant experience. It's like a car would constantly bump you from the back. It starts disappearing from 3500rpm up so it encourage you to go with the engine a bit rev'ed up. Also, it's only noticeable while in 1st, 2nd and 3rd. And lastly, the seat. It is hard. For me, the biggest issue is the seat, I can ignore any other shortcomings that this bike has but when it comes to the seat, is probably the only thing that would determine me to sell it at some point. And I wouldn't want to sell it. I love it. I love the looks, I love the nimbleness, I love the low fuel consumption. I'm determine to do anything to find a solution for the seat. If I can solve this one problem, I'll probably never sell it. PS. I wouldn't recommend it for beginners because of the throttle jerkiness. It's not friendly.

[@philgoogle1535]

This is an excellent review. Thanks for posting.

[@PrimoStracciatella]

I would buy this bike because I like the light weight, the high seating position and the wide handle bar. It's fast enough for me and it's economocal. I like the looks, I'm bored by futuristic looking street bikes. I'd ride it in the city and in the counrtyside, I have no need to go faster than 130 km/h. I'd use this bike 90% street and 10% light off-road; not everybody wants to climb hills and cross rivers. That way the suspension should be fine. I'd take it over a CB300 any day. Had a CRF250M supermoto in Thailand for three years/30000 km, wish they'd make a CRF300M!

[@Broxty]

Just received my 2022 crf300L standard (no abs). I'm 30km into the bike and I don't see the issue with suspension at all! I maxed out the preload and it seems very rigid and smooth, I'm sure jumping this bike would bottom out but it isn't meant for that.... (I'm 6'2" 200lbs btw). One thing I instantly noticed is the BUZZ at 5k rpm.... 100% there but its just because it's a single cylinder, kinda annoying tho. First ride and I knew right away I needed to raise my handlebars.... if you're around 6' or taller it's absolutely required, I felt so awkward and leaning forward(even worse while standing!). Instantly went online and purchased protaper risers and fat bars. My biggest complaint right now is that ridiculous snappy throttle in first to third gear..... it's VERY annoying to be putting around the town and jerking that throttle. Might need to gear my bike down, it's getting tiresome. Thanks for the review!

[@shawnmoore4292]

Itchy Boots broke her subframe on her bike.

[@normananderson2583]

Well done review with excellent incites into a multitude of individual potential concerns. I think your comments on who this bike is ideal for are dead on. Will be interesting to see how you prepare the bike for extended adventures. Still no perfect Dual sport adventure bike!. I think a lot of potential riders don't realize how important bike weight is. It's a big deal if you have to pick the bike up yourself!

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Cheers Norman

[@HondaMonkeyMan]

'Bumping up the preload' isn't really possible on the OEM shock. The stock shock has 20mm max adjustability. I can't see this doing much. I'm a 90kg rider and opted for YSS before delivery. The YSS HAS well over 100mm preload adjustability, however to max this out would question your spring rate choice.

[@blockhead52]

Thanks a very good and comprehensive report.

[@MrCODEmaster00]

The Short List of Problems: 1. Soft Suspension if above 90kg or over 6 feet. 2. "Jerky" Throttle, C.o.S. mentions he doesn't think it's "jerky" as much as just a tad rough due to being single cylinder engine. 3. Welded Subframe, to those who can legally ride WITHOUT insurance.. well, you'll want to buy Motorcycle Insurance for this bike when/if the subframe breaks/cracks.

[@gregjetnikoff7124]

4 to 5k rom is the japanese noise test. Been a problem for years and often leaned it out in that range.

[@lukefish7562]

Good one! Thanks. About to trade mine in on a Husky 300i for woods/trails.

[@42micks42]

Hi Solid got the Rally a coupe of days ago. Awesome bike for the trails. been clos to freezing but racked up 250 miles on the old girl. Thanks for the review and I keep watching you reviews. Cheers Mick

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Congrats mate! 🎉

[@001dres]

Can’t get my head round the brake line routing from Honda on this one. That said, i’ve seen it on other bikes..

[@Magoo-li9pp]

DRZ 400E is still king of reliable, affordable dual sports in my humble opinion, lighter and way more power than CRF 300L . I think the CRF300L would be very underwhelming after owning the DRZ.

[@Largetalons]

Idk, some may appreciate the 6 speed, lower center of gravity, and fuel injection. Power isn't everything. Tw200 and xt250 sell well for that reason.

[@Mathew187187]

It a audible noise mine has had it since new you can make it do it on command it’s not metal noise it sound like harmonic noise but I’m not sure what it is but I assume if it ever creates a failure there will be enough it will be fixed on Hondas dime.

[@SuperLaplander]

Cheers Solid. You brought up good points. Im still hoping to be able to get one next spring, unless parts situation gets worse.

[@szajfus]

Great overwiew. Greetings from Poland.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Dzięki! Cześć from OZ 👍

[@rontaylor4235]

Great information. Thank you. Cheers

[@moto-rambler]

The klx300 has better suspension & more power yet when it comes to these farm bikes some peeps still go out & buy the crf.

[@joekaiser3033]

'22 KLR 650:The subframe is an integrally-welded part of the main frame now.

[@richielee5398]

Another great video. I have a crf450l at present with nearly every mod on the bike, however it's the fuel contamination of the oil that stops long multi day trips. So I have been looking at one of these, I do have a husky 701 as well. Great bike but feels so much heavier on the trails than the 450l. Now on paper the husky is about the same weight as the 300l but I think the higher centre of gravity of the bike just makes it feel less nimble, probably crank mass as well. I'm just not sure about the power output of the 300l. It will have enough power but would it be enough to give you a grin on the faster going. Such a tricky decision. I'm 58 now but ridden dirt bikes all my life up to expert level. Weight now is the big thing when you get stuck and have to push it or pick it up all the time.

[@maxflight777]

I’m 60, i have mny hours on KTM EXC 450 bikes. I considered the 300 L and Rallye… but in the end I chose something far lighter and far more exciting. The 2023 CRF 450RX I love it. Its superb .

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Put Castrol Reactive high performance brake fluid ( make a big difference ) if that still isn’t the best braided lines .

[@mnkybndit]

This was really informative. Thank you

[@jimperry4420]

So other than, squishy suspension, snatchy throttle, thin paint, excessive heat, motor rattle and a brake cable in front of the speedo, it’s a great bike?

[@anthonydendle4768]

Yes its a big fail on Honda's part not having stock as seeing video's and actually touching 1 is 2 different things , great seeing all the video's but really losing the need to buy 1 now and have been able to walk in and sit on many other brands so have now layed a deposit , also was harder to chase Honda dealers as nearest one was hours away hate calling and hearing no stock but can take a deposit and put you on a list of maybe it will be here next month or 3 , where all the others are within 5 minutes drive and can talk face to face.. You are doing well with your vids Solid keep up the great efforts 👍😊

[@khaccanhle1930]

Looks great. I found that the more I get into off road, the more I get used to harder suspension. I prefer my enduro to a dual sport because I find the soft springs make the bike wallow in acceleration and harder to control on rough ground. Then I try an mx bike and it feels like a rock.

[@brianmartindale2221]

Man, that's why I'm considering the SWM over the 300L now. Brakes and suspension alone won't need upgrading for a while for the mountain riding I do. I also felt "planted" on that bike. My bud's KTM made me feel like I had ten rockets up my ass, and I probably should shy away from that at this stage LOL

[@vernonhurley1300]

Just bought a new 300 rally. Has anyone else noticed the extreme heat from the exhaust? My wife and I ride together and definitely are getting baked! Also a nice rattle from the engine at about 3000 rpm? Thanks for any help.

[@anthonydendle4768]

From the scematics thats been shown theres lots of little valves to do with pollution control so wander if the rattles are to do with them ? As for heat you have both radiator and exhaust on the same side so double the heat , can you fit some insulator matting to the inside of the plastics on the right side to reduce heat soak from the plastics on your leg as this may help a little or make up some vent flaps to divert the heat elsewhere , good luck 👍

[@bryananderson3772]

Is that the hurricane bag on the gas tank?

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Giant Loop Diablo Pro

[@thefulldrivehotrockband5963]

Hi, I’ve heard rumors about the heat transmitted to the right leg from the radiator and the exhaust manifold near the cylinder. Have you noticed anything? Thanks for the video, it’s a great review!

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Yep, there is noticeable heat on my right knee. Never enough to be uncomfortable but it’s there. Due to the fan blowing heat right at your knee. Honda have moved the fan on the 2025 models which should help 👍

[@thefulldrivehotrockband5963]

@@chroniclesofsolid Thanks... I just bought the 2024 model and I still have to pick it up... but I only use the bike outside the city, so I hope the fan won't bother me... thanks... :)

[@sailor5026]

Thanks for your well thought out evaluation.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Glad it was helpful!

[@twowheeledadventures5615]

The main heat source is the catalytic converter in the stock exhaust. An after market exhaust does eliminate the main heat source, but opens up another can of worms (ECU upgrade, etc.).

[@matmiller5256]

Thanks for sharing your info... Appreciated

[@davidc1961utube]

It is good to see you so clearly enjoying your ride. Although it can be entertaining and informative watching people adapt rides to use cases they aren't designed for, I prefer to watch you make more minor adjustments to a bike that is already really close to what you need. Especially since your preferred riding and skill set are so close to my own. Cheers!

[@chroniclesofsolid]

Thanks David

[@tweetdezweet]

Does the L come with different gearing than the Rally? Just asking because I can do the slow stuff in 2nd gear, I even start in 2nd gear if I am stopped in mud for instance.

[@888jimmy]

So I’ve had word back from Honda Australia and my local Honda dealer. There is a shipment of CRF300L & Rally due April 2022. Now I need to decide if I am willing to trade up my CRF250L??? I am having trouble with seeing any real value between my 250 and the 300. Thoughts?

[@markcollins5026]

Man, probably not worth spending the extra cheese, I had a 2017 CRF250L fun bike !

[@888jimmy]

Although it would be nice, that’s what I’m thinking. With the changes I have made to my 2018 250L she’s a great little bike now.

[@chroniclesofsolid]

That's a hard one Jimmy, for what it is worth Dave the Navigator goes everywhere I go on his 250L. Let the moment arrive when its ready and enjoy the trails until then 👍

[@888jimmy]

👍 thanks Solid. Think I’ll stick with the 250L, for now. All setup and only 2500ks on the clock. Installed 12oclocklabs GPI the other week…