Honda CRF450L vs KTM 500 EXC-F Light Adventure Bike Shootout

[@rmatvmc]

Invest in the best and achieve outstanding results with our top-rated products and durable tools, all just a click away. www.rockymountainatvmc.com/? Click Here to Get Our Favorite Parts for 2019 Honda CRF450L! www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/2019-honda-crf450l? Click Here to Get Our Favorite Parts for the KTM 500 EXC-F! www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/2018-ktm-500-exc-f?

[@chekando666]

Prefer this to the scripted stuff. Nice job.

[@sadiehatton17]

Agreed

[@brapptv44]

it is scripted didnt you see the script on the drz tank? 🤣

[@chiblydeetz]

I have something to sell you if you think this isn’t scripted 😂

[@marcochavanne]

I went with the CRF300l Rally because I didnt want to deal with the maintenance of the larger bikes. Wish they made a detuned 450 that could go 6,000 miles between oil changes

[@tomgruner]

I'm not an adventure rider, but I love watching these videos. Great video, great format. Maybe something about planning, finding and follwing trails next? GPS systems, APPs, mounts, online communities.

[@hectorrivera9894]

I do prefer the luggage rack on the 450. That luggage rack could also serve as a grab handle to push or pull out of a mud hole. Great video guys. I also loved that you showed the real life experiences of falling, clutch problems getting worn out and having to take breaks. Often times all you see on videos is the smooth and good times of riding.

[@Sutherlinite]

"We gotta get up in the mountains and get going." Music to the ears.

[@samtoshner8002]

Bud you need a bungee cargo net on top of that rolley setup for your shoes. No problem strapping em on with that.

[@rmatvmc]

That is a very simple and almost obvious solution now that you say that! I should have came to you first! Ha thanks for the pro tip Sam! - Josh

[@BigWurm10]

Enjoying the recent videos. Like that you're telling a story and incorporating your products. This and the roached bike series were both really good.

[@texlee1640]

I bought the Honda, I got it for $9100, I then added the Vortex ECU and full FMF exhaust and now it is a rabid beast. It can be adjusted/modified to be every bit of the off-road monster than the KTM and Husky are while still retaining it's great on-road characteristics and comfort. We just got back from riding for 5 days in the Rockies and both 450L's worked flawlessly alongside of a KTM 450 and Beta 390. In stock form the 450L needs a little polishing, but with a few accessories the bike really comes alive and becomes an equal in every way to the European bikes. I am very happy with the 450L and I love that I am not on the same orange bike as everyone else.

[@ronjon2149]

I have had the exact same experience with the Honda. Vortex/FMF and a diet make this bike just as capable as any KTM dual sport I have owned or ridden.

[@tsh7090]

'19 FE501 owner. Because I'm way more dirt focused. Excellent video! Thank you. Really liked that you guys set the two bikes up differently. This gave me an opportunity to look at two different setups from two different rider perspectives. Currently it would be very difficult for me to do a multi-day ride. I could do a 4 a.m to 10 p.m. one day ride though. That still requires something better than a camel back stuffed with tools and cliff bars. It looks like both your setups can start small, and then build up. So that was very cool to see. Would also be cool to know your GPS setups. Looks like both bikes had electrical switching added. That would be a nice video too. If you do a night ride video, it would be cool to add helmet lighting to the mix. Since I own an FE501... Bring on the light adventure build... lol Keep up the great work!

[@rmatvmc]

Thanks for the feedback and ideas! Where do you primarily ride your FE501? - Josh

[@tsh7090]

Hi Josh, Mostly west of Heber, but I've moved up Weber Canyon, So will be exploring this area, and around Mirror Lake (off 150).

[@diraltmcallister3523]

I dunno if you've looked into it, but IMS makes a 4.5 gallon tank for the FE501S. And the dirtbike models. But it looked like a good tank for that stuff. How do you like it on the road? I've been looking at getting a 501 or 701, not sure which one. I'm wanting to do more dirt so that's why I want to trade in my KLR.

[@nishgriff1]

I know this is two years old but I like this style and I like that you’re riding like most of us are, not like super fast pros. Thanks guys.

[@motomac8392]

I like the realism of the video, the problems you have, the trails being harder than expected. great comparison you guys did awesome. love to see more videos with these bikes or this type of content.

[@sam-ww1wk]

Throttle response on my 501 was abrupt, too, until I tossed a 7oz clutch weight on. Super smooth now. For light adv, I don't waste money on an aftermarket seats, just slap some sheep skin on there for the long rides...way mo comfy.

[@CommieHunter7]

LOOOVE that overgrown two track. I need more of that in my life.

[@orical2832]

I have a similar Honda CRF450L build, absolutely love it. For me, it does everything i want a bike to do. Decent enough on the road, hugely capable off road and the oil changes are not even that much of an issue with an eazy change tool.

[@Skizz38]

Seriously one of the best videos of seen on Light ADV. Great job explaining your wants and needs for each bike, then also how well they worked. I would take both in a heartbeat but the 500 with the wolfman setup is cherry for sure. Keep it up!

[@FlightDirector]

I’m seriously leaning towards the CRF450L. I’ve heard the Yoshimura single can exhaust and a power commander make a night and day difference on the CRF. The rumor is it’s still pretty quite but opens the bike up a lot. The power commander really smooths out the throttle response and makes the power much more manageable. I’d love to see a good review on what it can do.

[@peteh8077]

Nothing like buying a Honda and having to put 2k in it.

[@petebusch9069]

@@peteh8077 You can say that about any street bike, they all come plugged up.

[@BraaapoholicBob]

Really well done video guys...people want "real riders" reviewing product in "actual riding conditions"...not just on the bench. It was a pleasure to watch and I shared it with a group of my riding buddies...all had positive comments. Great job!

[@rmatvmc]

DR-Z for the win? - Wes

[@bradl45]

DRZ had its day, and the DRZ ROCKED!!!!!!!!!! I did the TAT on a DRZ400, if I did the TAT again, my first choice would be a 1090, lol, 2nd choice would be the 450L(good updated DRZ, especially in the suspension dept.)

[@zig-zagman5073]

Rode a drz for 10 years, just got my 2021 500 and there’s no comparison

[@fitzyfamilyadventures8289]

I’ve owned both a 2015 500exc and a now my current bike is a 2019 450L, the ktm is a great bike for aggressive trail riding and the 450L is a great all around bike it’s good in open desert it’s a good trail bike and it’s great on the street both of these bikes are amazing would love to own both but for my riding style the 450L will be in my garage for along time! Only thing I miss about the ktm is how nimble it is but having single tracked a 650r BRP for like 8 years, the 450L additional weight I usually laugh at the guys complaining about that 😂 pick your poison both are great bikes it gets old seeing all the banter in the comments from brand loyal crap talkers lol!

[@MacawAviculture]

Great video! The 'adventure bike' choice is difficult, especially if you prefer moderate to technical off-road riding as opposed to long paved road adventures. Since most adventure bikes are too heavy for serious off-road riding, it almost makes sense to have one bike for paved adventures and another for off-road adventures. The Honda CRF450L does seem like the closest to the best dual sport bike if you prefer more dirt than street. I live in the desert of Colorado, and my favorite off-road trails are 10 minutes from my garage, so my dual sport bike of choice is a 2018 KTM 350 EXC-F, super light, awesome suspension, and with a Vortex ECU, an FMF exhaust, removing the reeds from the air box, the bike will go as fast as I want to. Motorcycles truly offer humans the possibility of ecstasy no matter what bike you choose or what type of riding that excites you most. Thanks again for the awesome video!

[@AJourneyOfYourSoul]

Awesome video guys. Thanks for putting this out. More of these type of videos. The real world experience, pros and cons of trying different gear/bikes/setup, even camp setups, is what I liked about it.

[@rmatvmc]

Glad to hear it! We're planning on more for you guys. Thanks for your feedback! - Josh

[@justinpeterson8754]

I’ve ridden the first trail on a CRF250X. It’s not easy. I’m impressed you did it with all that weight and gear. Nice riding!

[@rmatvmc]

Much tougher than we thought, but having a solid dirt background definitely came in handy. As long as no-one is getting hurt and you are making good memories. Worth it! Cameras never do it justice lol - Wes

[@rmatvmc]

Trust me, there were many times on that DRZ that i wished I was on a dirt bike in that section! Glad we made it out mostly unscathed. Sometimes the rougher it is, the more memorable it is afterwards! - Josh

[@trailblazeratv6306]

How long before the engine needs maintenance? Or rebuild ? Valves adjusted?

[@kevingoza]

More of this! Real world comparison in some beautiful Utah scenery!!

[@maverickranger9474]

Thanks for the great video and sharing your thoughts and ideas. I think it would be more helpful next time to compare the bikes with the same luggage set up.

[@stephenmiller5023]

As I have owned my 1999 Yamaha WR-400 F with Baja Designs street legal Kit for almost 20 years now ( bought it used in 2003) , all I can say is you guys are riding my kind of terrain 👍👍. Love the Local mountains here in Southern California where I live , trails from my home in San Diego up through local mountains and all the way down to the Anza Borrego Desert are very much like what you are doing in this video. There’s NOTHING like some Two -up or Three-up trail riding with your buddies!! Enjoyed seeing how the new bikes compared to us “ Old -Schoolers “😉👍. See you out on the trails…. 🤞

[@jessegarrett7215]

Cool video. I like this style of video & it gives a more broad range of real world information rather than sticking to the power/weight of the bikes

[@davidpoffenbarger3686]

Great video guys. Also, loved the DRZ part. I just sold my DRZ in favor of the KTM500 and while the DRZ was fine in the easier 2 track, the KTM rules when it gets tough. Maybe a better rider would be fine on both, but I need all the help I can get!! Also, really liked the luggage comparison info. I'm using Wolfman Enduro bags but not doing overnight trips off the bike. Always doing big loops from the truck or out and backs to a motel. Envious of both Utah and Colorado riders that have so much cool terrain to ride.

[@PeakandAbyss]

How 's the KTM 500 on the road and highway in comparison with the DRZ? I' ve heard that the KTM not only has 6 gears in comparison with 5 gears on the DRZ, but the KTM has a really wide gear box and cushing on the clutch that help with the highway.

[@davidpoffenbarger3686]

@@PeakandAbyss the KTM holds highway speeds a lot better without feeling like you're over revving the motor. That said, it's a lighter bike and taller so you get blown around more than on the DRZ if there's other traffic to deal with.

[@glossblack1098]

Great Video thanks. Both incredible bikes, but both have pretty high service intervals for an adventure bike doing multi-day trips. I think Honda recommends 1000 km oil changes for the 450L and KTM recommends 15 hour oil changes for the 500F? Do you guys stretch those intervals out a bit further, to avoid taking oil on a multi-day trip??

[@jamesfairmind2247]

One guy ( I think called RTW Paul )rode a KTM500 RTW for over 90,000 Kms without an engine rebuild changing the oil on average 2,000 Km. 15 hours is racing not trail riding.

[@toothasaurus]

I love that’s it’s not old guys on giant bikes. I have a 500 and it’s hard to find guys to adv ride that are younger than 60

[@rmatvmc]

Don't give up! There is a younger and younger generation that are slowly realizing the bad-assery of DS and ADV. 🤘🏻- Wes

[@deanminiken]

Thanks guys, this is an excellent format. It reminds me of the KZbin content that Ari and Zack used to produce, so please keep it up. I was sort of interested in the bikes, but more here for the overall adventure. So adventure story telling with bikes and kit as opposed to bikes and kit with a little bit of adventure. (Subbed)

[@rmatvmc]

Thanks Dean! We are fans of Ari and Zack over here, so that is a great compliment! We're working on more like this, so stay tuned! - Josh

[@captainamerica9353]

@@rmatvmc , curious what the rock music is at 00:58 and 34:04 ? It sounds like a guitar running through a synthesizer to sound like a foghorn. Very weird.

[@socaladventuresdavidt2557]

Had a new 2017 500EXC got stolen in 3days but in those 3 days I rode it and was amazing off road! Then I got a KTM 690R Enduro which I liked better for my needs. Also new in 2017 rode itn until 6k miles but the problem is after 65mph it gets speed wobbles since no weight over front tire. Love the 2017 analog tach and the stock power commander under the seat 1-10 kept it on 5....loved the 690R but since they don't make a big gas tank for it I sold it and kept my BRP XR650L also got same time in 2017....me and my dad rode a good amount but the uncorked XR650L ITS AMAZING ON ROAD AND OFF!

[@chasecrutch]

Love these types of videos. Although if its going to be a "Versus" video I would run the same luggage and upgrades

[@billness2635]

KTM 500exc all the way! I have 9000 miles on mine. It’s so versatile and unbeatable IMO. I’ve done 2500 mile rides, Hare Scrambles, MX tracks, mountain and trails without a single issue. Love it more than my CRF 450R, my KTM 990 ADV and Yamaha WR450F. Did I say the 500exc is the best bike ever!

[@DaWafflenator27]

Loved this video. This is how all testing should be done.

[@corydumais2927]

Came for the review, stayed for that amazing dual track.

[@dnzordan]

I thought this video was great and a lot of fun to watch. Off the cuff is the way to go. As someone else mentioned it would be great to see you street legalize one of the manufacturers off road only trail bikes and compare it to something that already comes that way.

[@blakehuntington5612]

Great video, love seeing more 450L videos being a Honda guy however I do prefer more in depth reviews on the products.

[@GreatSouthernAussie]

Great video, really similar to the sort of riding I do. I'd like to see that 450L with the a go light approach to an overnighter vs a well setup DR650 sporting a lightweight setup too. Keep up the good work, really enjoyed this vid!

[@MHix63]

I remember being the age where I could eat fast food, and then go rip it up on a bike. Now my chest hurts (from said fast food) and I want to sleep.

[@ethanh1268]

my tradition is enduro day then go for big macs after lmao

[@MHix63]

@@ethanh1268 lol!! I can handle after...just not pregame!

[@dangrimes5078]

Hot weather and nasty food, perfect setup for getting sick

[@burddog0792]

Both great performance dual sports, but both come with the maintenance. Want Honda to come out with a revised 650.

[@trailblazeratv6306]

Burddog07 I would be happy with Honda 250 Rally

[@william6815]

Can you guys please do another video like this I watch it nearly every day need another one like this maybe include the husky and beta

[@sumporfuk]

That was an awesome video and a lot different than most of the other stuff that’s out there because it offered real life setups, with varied comparisons. There was’t anything flashy about it but really kept my interest from beginning to end. Please do more stuff like this.

[@jaredputman1685]

I just want to thank you for this video! I've literally been looking at both of these bikes and trying to decide, I'm definitely looking for something closer to dirtbike riding, I'd love to know how well it would do in sand. I'm also a utah riding and this is exactly what I needed! Thank you

[@gnarlybadger690]

Loving the lightweight adventure bike build and using these lightweight bikes for longer journeys would be great to see a similar setup on both and how using them for maybe a long weekend would work out thanks for sharing

[@tomclark4558]

This is a very helpful video because it's the type of ADV riding I do. I run a set of Mosko Moto Reckless 80's on my WR250R which like the luggage on the Honda, can add some weight. But when you're going to be out for a week or more, having the capacity is crucial. I've done similar mods on my WR to make it adventure-worthy. I've been considering more power for the same or less weight and both these bikes fit that category. The throttle response was interesting to hear, but it sounds like the bikes really are pretty evenly matched and comes down to personal riding characteristics as to which one a person would choose. Thanks for putting this one out.

[@azlong4596]

Keep this style and content. I think it is more to what the average dual sport/adv rider is interested in seeing to make a decision on what bike he or she is interested in.

[@distilledfreedom1840]

I love these trip videos. There was one when ya'll went out to Wendover NV which was even better. But it's hard to find on your channel. No playlist for them.

[@offroadtrailrider77]

Love the video. Please do more like it. I am doing the same thing to my 500 xcw.

[@drewkleinbach806]

even noting the gear each dude wore, no wonder you guys are awesome.

[@rmatvmc]

I had to show that my gear setup was superior! lol - Wes

[@rmatvmc]

↑↑↑ This guy SMH. A moto gear setup is way better in this type of riding! - Josh

[@dancarlson7257]

Just seeing the adventure is the best gear selling point. Having specs read out to me is unrelatable Go out have fun, crash, film it and share it. Great job guys and keep riding KTM!

[@nakachinjah7240]

can someone please explain the difference between enduro, trail, motocross, dual sports??? i thought that all dirt bikes are the same, i live in a third world country, i wish someday i saw atleast on in real life, since i was three or four i was just so obssed with dirt bikes,,,

[@poo4731]

​@@nakachinjah7240 motocross is for motocross racing so high performance but lots of maintenance. trail is less performance but a lot less maintenance. now enduro is like motocross but it had lights,so you can ride on the road legally. and dual sports are like trail bikes with lights. dual sport is the best option if you're cheap like me.

[@nakachinjah7240]

@@poo4731 so can enduro travel long distances, enduro are like that bike that climb hills and insane things like that right??

[@poo4731]

@@nakachinjah7240 you could travel long distance but you'd have to change the oil very often. like the 450l you have to change the oil every 600 miles,while a dual sport like my klx300 you have to change the oil every 6000. Yes enduro bikes are the ones you see climbing crazy shit in compititions.

[@nakachinjah7240]

@@poo4731 imm, then what about that motorcycle that itchy boots ride , crf450l rally something like that, can that bike climbs hills, sorry if i;m bothering you, but i really want to understand the difference, even though there;s no way even if i live 100 yrs i won;t be able to afford it, i am just so interest in it, can enduro bikes be used as trial riding too, ??? i knew i sound stupid cause i am, i really don;t know anything about it, just obsessed with them

[@CommieHunter7]

The way this starts is one of my pet peeves. If you wanna go ride, I want to be gassing up and getting breakfast, then hitting the road. When folks start the ride AFTER lunch, you end up with such a short riding day. No problem with the review, just a thing soooo many people do.

[@rmatvmc]

I think that we all could agree to that! That morning turned into a busy one and we couldn't get away until early afternoon! Ideally we would've left first thing in the morning. We definitely could've used the extra daylight lol! Thanks for watching! - Wes

[@CommieHunter7]

@@rmatvmc I also understand, me prepping for a ride is different than you guys needing to meet at the shop and set up videography plans, etc. So nothing directly against you, just all the folks watching. We ride at dawn! 😁

[@BikerDarren24]

Would love to see a Honda CRF450 rally, would be just perfect

[@speedtoad6167]

Image they'd sell out before they hit dealerships.

[@stevenrencher4854]

I used to live in Spanish fork in the 90’s. My brother is still there. You turn at that tesoro to get into his neighborhood. I’ve rode some of these trails on his KLR 650. I’d love that Ktm 500. Utah has some great riding. Been in diamond fork a lot. I’ve done those trail up over from mapleton canyon to strawberry. Lots of fun. Thanks for the video.

[@GladiusJon]

This is truly a great vid. A lot of time went into it im sure.. Wondering how much weight The KTM's and Beta's can take as far as Luggage?

[@dcxplant]

How would the Honda do with the roll-on comparison if it were uncorked as well?

[@doobielawson702]

Love the 606s, I'm on my 3rd set on my 250L. Cool video gentlemen.

[@DS_Silverfox]

nice video, I think it was really good having all of it in there with crash , clutch issues, it shows what its really like and not everything working out as planned, keep up the great work!

[@27Zangle]

Excellent video! Lot's of fun while entertaining and informative.

[@gillesgenete9598]

Very detailed comparison, and clear conclusions on which bike fit which program. Now just wandering how would a 701/690 compare to the 450L. I recently rode my Africa Twin DCT in that kind of terrain, highway/road/double track/single track/slightly gnarly, and the high torque at low revs was a big advantage, but testing a 701 on same terrain, the light weight was a key advantage over the AT. So would the 701 be more versatile than the 450L?

[@rmatvmc]

Thanks for the comment. I don't know if I would say that the 701 is more versatile than the 450L, I would just say that it is slid up the scale more than the 450L. Depending on luggage setup the 450L is more than capable on those tighter single track trails all the way up to highway riding (not for long but worthy and comfy for connecting trails). The 701 is not quite as happy as a stripped down 450L on the single track and a bit more of a handful, but it is definitely more capable and stable at the higher speeds and on the pavement when compared to the Honda. It just goes to show that there is no "perfect" bike for everything out there. It all comes down to what works best for your application. We REALLY do love the 701/ 690 platform though! We call them the swiss army knife of ADV. - Wes

[@johnsandlin7474]

Would like to have seen some Mosko Moto luggage used. great stuff.

[@bocaj628]

Really enjoyed this video. I like the off the cuff type or video. The highly edited videos are good too but it’s nice to see all ups and downs of the ride and feeling of the moment.

[@rmatvmc]

Thanks for the feedback and glad you liked it!

[@rmatvmc]

That's good to hear! We've got some more ideas for future videos like this that'll hopefully be even more down to earth a relatable, so make sure to stay tuned! - Josh

[@AUBREYTHOMAS1979]

I'm still torn between these two bikes...

[@N11kon]

i love dual sport motorcycles so much! i have a 2003 yamaha xt 600 and its my everything

[@onlyinaxj1421]

this is great content. Unplanned and entertaining.

[@ivanwilliams7679]

good video and comparison i have a 2019 350 excf with a more dirt oriented setup but the rack and luggage system on the ktm looks great

[@turnerrandolph4256]

I was kind of surprised by the weight of the Honda. Has the exhaust been swapped yet? I know that will drop a ton of weight and may help with that initial snap (with a tune). I would drop the side racks and go with a different luggage setup. I love my Giant Loop Coyote, I think it is a better compromise between the two setups you guys used this trip. Killer video! Hope that 400 has a new clutch by now.

[@AJourneyOfYourSoul]

Those tusk pannier racks are pretty heavy.

[@bradl45]

Giant Loop Coyote, traveling made so EASY!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@mitchhancock]

I ended up buying the CRF 450L from Rocky Mountain. It has been super fun!

[@ogmprod]

I love the different terrain you guys tackled it showed the bikes in a great way. Love the on board cameras too. The length of the vid was perfect more like this one!

[@snoorani1]

your reviews were real and perfect! thanks for making the time. you both rock!!!

[@rmatvmc]

Our pleasure! Thank you for watching the video!

[@ryantheentrepreneur4040]

Watching this makes me want to drop 10k on the Honda 😁

[@mechcavandy986]

Thanks for the video guys. It makes me miss the Rocky Mountains and my youth. I used to ride all over on my BMW R1100 GS. Yes, it was heavy. Now I’m an old guy on a Husqvarna Norden 901. Keep ‘em coming ! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Calikatoom]

I would love to see the 690/701 compared to both of these.

[@saiashish8802]

Please continue this style of video. Its awesome.

[@clivegreenall309]

I enjoy most of your videos, but this, for me, was some of the most enjoyable. It was good to see both bikes with luggage and not presented as a shootout, but a general comparison. I must say though that my preference leans towards the Honda. Ride Safe guys. Regards from S Africa Clive

[@rmatvmc]

Thanks Clive! We'll work hard to keep videos like this coming! That Honda is definitely a killer bike. Both of the bikes handled everything we threw at them, and both have their spots where they outshine the other. What aspects of the Honda do you like? - Josh

[@clivegreenall309]

I like their reliability. I had a CB750F when the came out in the 80's and loved it. A couple of bikes after that, but with a young family starting, life got in ths way for a while. I'm now riding a 2010 KLR650. It needs some TLC, but its simple and economical and within my techical ability to maintain. Thanks for your articles...keep them coming. Rgds from S Africa Clive

[@robertremington4659]

PERFECT PERFORMANCE … AWESOME TEST COURSE - - VIDEOS & EDITING ARE ABSOLUTELY THE BEST !! BOTH BIKES ARE HIGHLY DESIRABLE !!

[@not.enoughto.go.around6176]

After seeing "place beyond the pines" i want a dual sport. Maybe one day (:

[@homersimpson2963]

Great movie!

[@billhand9330]

Good shoot out boys, it would’ve been better if you included my 2018 Beta RR-S 390 with IMS 3gallon + Rotopax 1 gallon, the Kriega OS 36 system, Enduristan Tornado “M” tailbag. With tank bag and Moose front fender tool bag I’ve got a total of 75 liters of quick detach storage. My setup is for 4-5 days trip with maximum comfort in mind. Tent, ultralight cot, air matress, cigars, flask, Bluetooth speaker etc.

[@rmatvmc]

Dang, that sounds like a legit set up! Where's some of your favorite places that you've taken that set up? - Josh

[@Jimbo4575]

Maintenance intervals are deal killers on both of these.

[@SkylarRace]

They're dual sports with similar engines and suspension to motocross bikes if you want longer intervals you have to settle for a drz xr or wr250 (All slow and/or heavy). For me i've always owned race bikes so it ain't nothing because the benefits outweigh the extra wrenching. If you're someone who can't change your own oil or check valve clearance I can see why it would be a deal breaker, service would get expensive.

[@Jimbo4575]

To each his own but when I think dual sport I think multiple day adventure like the Trans America trail. Can you image having to change oil every two to three days or having to do valve check every 1600 miles. These bikes are for people who want to go play for half a day.

[@brianh8484]

Jimbo4575 my 2012 Ktm 500 has over 5000 miles/200hrs. Never had to adjust the valves. I keep the filter clean and put gas in it. For trail/adventure riding you can go 40-50 hours between oil changes if you need to. Constant valve adjustment and oil changes are myths if you’re not racing

[@Jimbo4575]

Brian H I was talking about Honda specifically but it’s my understanding the KTM schedule is 500 mile oil change with valve check every other oil change. I’m not saying they can’t go a lot further or they are not awesome machines. I was just hoping for an updated DRZ type bike. (Fuel injected etc) These are more like street legal dirt bikes.

[@brianh8484]

Jimbo4575 also comes down to what performance you’re looking for too. For sure DR’s KLR’s etc will go the distance but they don’t put a smile on my face (I’m an old racer and fast paced trail rider) like my 500 does. Just saying People get hung up on service intervals per the manuals etc when it’s really not accurate if you’re spending your days cruising along trails and fire roads.

[@toddgardner3088]

I’m considering both bikes... I’l like to see a comparison on the bikes set up the way you have them but with no luggage

[@hooptydx]

Apparently drz400 is the real winner

[@skyusable]

Nothing like a 20 year old proven tractor lol

[@mattsloop2736]

Drz new is almost half the cost. Leaves lots of money for extras.

[@rmatvmc]

Lol it did pretty much everything that we asked. Just not quite as fast and easily as the other bikes. One thing is for sure! The ratio for smiles per dollar is higher on the DR-Z than the other bikes. Love that thing! - Wes

[@austindavis3420]

I Like this kind of video. Its nice to see how the different luggage systems can affect handling of the bikes.

[@barking.dog.productions1777]

Yeah you guys had life slap you in the face... much more entertaining that the regularly scheduled programming. lol

[@ramiretz]

i cant wait to get my SeatConcepts XL Comfort Seat for my 450L ... the stock seat is a pain and i like also to commute and travel some road on my bike

[@kylehardley]

Makes me want to go riding in Utah!!!

[@rmatvmc]

Utah definitely covers the gamut! We love it for off-road! -Wes

[@oldscoolharley]

I absolutely love my 21 ktm 500exc-f - i dont adventure ride but it’s awesome for dirt and not too much coming from a 250f!

[@davedonedis]

Love it! That’s more real dual sport riding! Now do the same trip with the CRF250L Rally and one those bikes. Maybe throw a KTM 790r in or R1250GS.

[@rmatvmc]

That's quite the wide range of bikes! So would you rather see a VS video of a wide range of bikes like that? Or comparing bikes that are closer to the same class? - Josh

[@davedonedis]

I think the major magazines do an over abundance of comparing the same bikes and nit picking a “winner”. I feel like you guys are in a unique position of comparing real world use. I loved the realization that the crf450l’s luggage setup wasn’t ideal for medium off-roading. Swap out the seat on the KTM for comfy one like on the Honda sounds like it would be the better setup. I find more and more conversation discussing the range of bikes. Hard to find comparisons between the cc’s. I find myself trying to figure out what I want. No one does 250 vs 500, or 250 vs 1250, or 500 vs 1250.. Maybe I’m looking for the great white buffalo “one bike for everything “

[@rmatvmc]

@@davedonedis Those are some great points and we'll definitely look into it! I think we're getting closer and closer to the great white buffalo of bikes. But I also think that there's too many opinions and skill levels for a unanimous vote on which bike is best! You just need to figure out what terrain and riding you like the best, and find a bike that fits your needs. It's nice that we're getting more and more options though! - Josh

[@brandonwells9384]

I went with the CRF250L because I just couldn't part with $10k. So far I have not hit a trail I can't climb. On the road it's a little weak on top end. I'd like to see the smaller bikes go up against the bigger ones to see how they do.

[@mattmaffett5879]

Brandon Wells - try running this gearing setup on your 250: 14/42. Basically by adding just 2 teeth to the rear, 6th gear becomes usable

[@ricktrent275]

This would be my favorite format style, just for your pole.

[@homersimpson2963]

The service intervals for the Honda though... 😲

[@william6815]

They are better than the Ktm ?

[@homersimpson2963]

@@william6815 - I'm not sure about that. But the Honda is not the bike I was expecting. Service intervals by the hour and a HUGE price too!

[@william6815]

Homer Simpson yeah I am sure I own both the Honda didn’t need oil and filter for 1000 km we’re is the KTM needs it every 400-500 km you just can’t use the KTM on the road it uncomfortable and rough we’re is the Honda is smooth and heaps of power

[@loganscott9227]

This is the better format for sure I love the comparison/challenge videos

[@kennygiut5284]

That Honda will be passed down to your grandchildren, the KTM is a 5 season bike

[@chadb2077]

Kenny Giut wouldnt be youtube if someone didnt bring up ktms reliability

[@edwinkarani5593]

Kenny very true in terms of reliability you never go with Japanese bikes especially Honda.

[@kennygiut5284]

@@edwinkarani5593 haha

[@daviddemento367]

Kenny Giut Apparently Edwin has never owned a KTM. I have, the one and only I ever will.

[@jontetomte9271]

@@daviddemento367Don't say that you are the lucky one. We undertand that there are ktms that have close to 0 issues. But most batches turn up faulty later on.

[@waspmeat]

Dooooods, this was such a killer video with so much product and comparisons. Overnighting really starts changing the game on set ups and gear. You guys nailed it, nobody is doing stuff like this that i’ve seen. Keep on it ✊👨🏿‍🦰

[@ajr5195]

This is the shootout of my dreams. Thank for making this video!

[@rmatvmc]

Thanks for watching!

[@SnickterP]

THis was great! Ive been trying to decide between these two for over a year now. I think the Honda might win it for me.

[@SnickterP]

Update: the Honda won! Just brought it home the other day :)

[@nicholasvolovsek6814]

I like the candid approach. I do not like that one bike is modded and has less luggage and the other is stock and loaded down. Can't really compare the two bikes. Really just comparing accessories.

[@EvanHowardX]

Great Video, Do you like the Dunlop 606s or Tusk Dsports better ha ha 5 years after this video...ha ha. Just started setting up my Honda CRF 450L.

[@rmatvmc]

Both are solid tires. We still run Dsports on a lot of our light ADV/enduro bikes

[@roypaulcarter4654]

I would buy the Honda but I think I'll wait for the price to drop.

[@ncv4708]

Dealers have started to mark them down. I just picked up a 450L for 10K out the door.

[@mattmaffett5879]

I bought a 450l, today, for $8,999.00. All said and done: $9,871.28 out the door, tag and title. They trying to move the 19's to make room for the 2020's.

[@bigwestreviews4933]

You guys should really consider maintenance. For example where I live and in places like Wyoming, Montana, and some parts of Colorado or Utah. The drive distance from home to trail and back is longer than the maintenance oil change cycles require.

[@TommyNitro]

I’m so disappointed with the Honda. I was hoping for something with six gears, >400 cc, and long maintenance intervals. That would have fit a great niche. This seems like just a red ktm or husqvarna. Those bikes are great, but I was looking more for something like a true enduro, not just a plated dirt bike.

[@bradl45]

The 450L is a 6 speed, but I to wished for 2l plus in oil capacity(and WRR 20k valve checks, lol)

[@humzilla707]

Why they called it an L model I have no idea

[@K7134-i8f]

Ya the oil change seems short compared to old style dual sports but not really compared to other similar bikes like the 500exc the 450l has 100m more and people have strectched the service interval well over 1000m plus the market is already saturated with the kind of bike you seem to want