News Update 11 May 2021 - CRF300L/Rally Suspension Special

[@stephtraveler7378]

Excellent summation. The 300l is a beginner bike that has attracted very experienced riders back to pure simplicity and reliability in a light weight package. That former, gets overwhelmed by suspension talk.... Its worth noting that any rear shock/spring combination, like the KTech Razor, is an easy DIY install for anyone with any mechanical skills. Whereas changing only the spring, is a complicated project. Thus, if a new rider wants to drastically improve their ride, get the rear cassette as a unit. Its so easy to install.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

100% and yes, this should be an easy DIY job for anyone.

[@angryviking4496]

At 62 years old, I'll probably keep my 300L stock. Maybe a bash plate and seat concepts low profile seat and a bong holder. ✌

[@PeakMotorcycles]

You crazy youngsters! 🤣 Does the bong holder come with a shock mount? If not, can you get a 'camel bong' backpack!? ✌

[@josephsaia5527]

It’s 4/20 somewhere!🤷🏼

[@nickg2431]

LOL jeep man good one!

[@adamintheoutdoors2119]

If/when I happen to purchase a 300l rally, a seat will be almost mandatory at my height

[@ianbray3580]

Cool I'm not the only one. I placed an order on one I'm 61 years old just ordered a bash plate and rear rack to go with it then will fit the heated grips!

[@2012theraven]

just had my suspension redone for my riding weight and style. the forks were revalved and re sprung with a ktech spring and installed a ohlins rear shock. it's like a new bike now, almost seems faster, no more nose dive when braking and no bouncing from the rear. i went through adrenaline engineering they are a dealer for ohlins, ktech and race tech. kyle the owner was great to work with. had my forks revalved and re sprung and shipped back to me in a week. the ohlins rear shock is apparently the same model that fits the 2017-2020 250l rally. ho703 is the model.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Good work! It’s amazing what a difference it makes and just that extra bit of confidence makes everything easier. Did you get the Ohlins shortened at all? The stock 250 shock is 420mm long, 5mm longer than the 300 shock. I guess it doesn’t make that much difference perhaps lifting the bike and extra 10-15mm. Then again, if they are an Ohlins dealer, they probably have the tools to adjust it to the right size. Enjoy the ride!

[@heynow3788]

Great video 👍 I know what it's like to spend hours trying to find the right suspension options for your bike. I went through a similar process for my 250L and settled on an Ohlins rear shock and a the heavier Ktech fork spring with a change to 15w oil in the cartridge side of the fork. What an incredible difference these things made in the way my bike handles offroad... Just awesome.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

It’s also one of those things where you don’t get to try all the options, you just have to pick one (or not!) and hope. Sounds like a useful combination you picked. Thanks

[@ptz0n]

Öhlins now have a shock for the back and spring for the fork available.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

For a while they only had the HO129 which is the length for the Asia spec bike. It’s great if you want to lower the suspension of the international spec bike, but you do lose ground clearance. www.ohlins.com/product-item/63990/ Quite a lot of people fitted that. I see that now they also have a full length version too HO213 (and the fork springs in both lengths that you mentioned.) which is good that they caught up! www.ohlins.com/product-item/64343/

[@alelectric2767]

It’s an entry level bike. It gets you a bike and then when you can afford to, you can up grade the components. If Honda put all the options on the bike it would be priced like everything else in this category. See price for a WR.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Yup. 100%. It’s been a fun first 650 miles in stock form. We’ve not had WR R’s in the UK for ten years. (I think). With the upgraded suspension I’m hoping it makes it better off and on road, and still costs less than a more advanced bike that does things I don’t need! It is entry level, but there’s not much competition in the dual sport market in the UK.

[@alelectric2767]

@@PeakMotorcycles I have the 250 Rally only 300 km so far. Had a WR 250X before and it’s a stiff bike. More then I needed but wasn’t for off road. Anyway enjoying your channel and hope to get some incite from your up grades. Thanks.

[@イエンスヨハンセン]

All those people who grumble about suspension on this bike, don't forget these are made in thailand for a market that is basically... everywhere in the world, of which (like it or not) the UK, US, Canada and Australasia is only a small part of that market. Like it or not, for this bike, we are a niche market of heavier than average people. And now for something completely different -- i own every set on that Lego poster behind you... Well... my kids do now...

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks, and it’s not a grumble as such, it’s under sprung for me, but I’d much rather it came with a cheap suspension that I could choose to replace, than they added £1000 to the price of the bike and it still wasn’t right! Even with the suspension upgrades, it’s still less than anything else I could get as a dual sport in the UK with a similar spec! The Lego poster is a canvas of a 1980 Technic ad! I’ve acquired them all over the last year. As a child, the car chassis was the thing everyone wanted and no one had. A few years later they came out with the black/red/blue chassis, which also no one had! ‘For the kids’ yup. Nice one 🤣. I have the Lego R1200GS and Panigale V4. We’ve had 3 lockdowns in the UK and they have helped to fill the time!

[@イエンスヨハンセン]

@@PeakMotorcycles to be clear(er) the grumblers I’m talking about are those blaming Honda for making poor suspension for the price. You’re not a grumbler - you’ve accepted our niche market lot in crf life and done your best to fix it. That makes you the best sort in my book.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

@@イエンスヨハンセン thanks! And yes. Those people 🤣. I’ve quite enjoyed my 650 miles on stock suspension. I’ve got up and down all sorts of trails. I’m fortunate that I can afford the upgrades, I’m sure thousands of them will remain stock and their riders will still have a lot of fun! The best bike is the one you’re riding!

[@pacopaez04]

I'm looking at the CRF 300L (or LS if it ever shows up at the Dealers) not as a starter but as a 75 year old rider coming from a WR450 (too tall for me but I dealt with it)

[@PeakMotorcycles]

There’s a lot more lowering options out there now from shorter shocks, to smaller wheel sets to lowered seats. I’m sure you’ll be able to find something that suits you.

[@user-se7vt5ow4e]

I am 70 coming off a WR450 and have had the 300 for a month. It is very disappointing in the suspension department. If Yamaha still made the WR250R I would have bought that.

[@pacopaez04]

I found an used LS with 24 miles only, no need to lower 140 lbs. short.

[@gregweeks4980]

Oh yes, the trusty sidestand spring. I have trouble with the mini motorcycle springs. I can't even imagine a center stand spring. Your coins look like roughly the size of an American dime. That was fun watching you do that. I have never tried shimming the spring to install it on the motorcycle. I've been doing this a long time and I thought that was pretty genius. The exact reverse of a spring compressor, brilliant. Texas

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks Greg. It seems from some of the other comments on that video that there’s a dozen better ways too… dimes/5p’s work too, even if to provide entertainment 🤣. Nice place Texas! (I lived there on and off ‘97-03)

[@jackloganbill605]

Great video, greatly appreciate all of your CRF300 videos. Also, your "more info" is no longer current. Racetech, olins, etc. now have CRF300 options... Thanks again!!!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Yup, I need to do an update. A lot has changed since May. It’s on the list of things to do. Though I don’t think Ohlins have a shock other than the one for the Asia market. Has that changed? I know some folks have fitted a 250 shock but it’s longer than the 300 shock and not listed as a 300 part?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

@chris edmondson The live chat cut off before I could answer your seat question. There's not much (anything?) available yet, though I was going to wait and see if the bike is raised significantly with the new suspension. If it is, then perhaps I'll look at a low Seat Concepts seat. If I'm still fine with getting on and off, I'll keep stock, or at least look for a new stock height seat. I don't mind it too much. I'm also not sure if it's different between the L and the Rally. They look the same, not sure if one is softer than another.

[@enduromotorradtouren]

What an extensive research, Andre. And I like your sound, down-to-earth judgement of suspension. After initial settings I only change little, depending on season/temperatures. Looking forward to hear about your first test ride. Günter from Nürnberg/Germany

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks Gunter. I’ll let you know.

[@augustbrante8117]

Here in Medellin Colombia, we don't have the 300 Rally instead we have XRE Rally which doesn't have reversed forks. This is one of the bikes I am looking to buy for off-road trips which would be about 70/30 of highway and dirt riding! But I have heard about suspension problems so look at this for something that if I go in the Honda direction will probably need to do. Thanks for doing the work for me!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

You are welcome. Medellin is an amazing place. I visited in May for a very short visit, and I rented an AKT TTR200 from Moto Ride Medellin and did a day’s ride out to Guatape. I even survived the ride back through rush hour traffic! I think I’ll be back in a couple of weeks visiting friends so will rent a bike again and go exploring. Ride safe!

[@YauteAdventure]

Thank you Andre for this video, that really was everything I was looking for. Good news, Onlins does front and rear for the rally :-). I’ll probably go for those.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

You’re welcome! This video is a couple of years old now, so I’m sure there’s plenty more options available these days.

[@riggers7480]

Was this episode ever updated as suggested? I'm thinking of upgrading my Rally. Great videos for me 👍

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi, it wasn’t I’m afraid. I did try to collate what’s out last year but there’s so many options now. Not only that, there’s local options for Asia, North America, Europe and local suspension shops with tune up kits. I’m still happy with my Andreani fork cartridges and Nitron rear, but I know that the Rally Raid setup is also highly recommended by many.

[@riggers7480]

Thanks for the response: I'm still on the standard setup, but I'm heavy. I'm doing the ABR, so hope to see some options there. Keep up the great videos! 👍

[@BIG-K]

Thank you for that very helpful and comprehensive coverage!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks. It's a shame that there's not much out there for the Rally at the moment, but it's still early days, and at least some are in development. I'm delighted to be getting the first Andreani forks, even though it means my bike is off the road for a few weeks...

[@clivebarber]

Good stuff, thanks for making the not inconsiderable effort. Looking forward to the update.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I was thinking 11th November. Six months on there should be some changes. I think the Wilbers shock is out. Also an Ohlins L shock for the Asian market. Still no Tractive units from Rally Raid and no Ohlins for the European, US or Oz 300’s. K-Tech don’t have cartridge kits yet despite selling them since May, though I think there are some revalve kits out there now. I’ll find out what I can and do an update.

[@Michael_Mears]

23:00 spring rates on the YSS. The au site is showing 75-95kg and 95-115kg as the two choices.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks! Sounds like a more useful range for the, er, “healthier” rider. We don’t get those in the UK. This is a shame. We seem to have the same ranges as the Thai YSS shocks.

[@Michael_Mears]

@@PeakMotorcycles I'm tempted to go straight for the 95-115kg, because I'll want to carry some luggage 10-15kg, and I weigh 85kg (I try not to be too healthy) plus riding gear, so I think this is what I'll get. Thanks for the video.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

If only you had the UK spec 85-105kg spring it’d be perfect 🤣. I’m sure there’s someone over here, with 10kg more ‘health’ than you wishing that there was a 95-115 for them and luggage! That said yours is near enough, may it make the bike even more fun to ride.

[@0HARE]

Quite a comprehensive review, and well done. I’m hoping that my light weight, 68 kilos, will absolve me from having to change the suspension on my Rally. Will re-evaluate after I ride it for a while. Happy Trails

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Yup. I think so. For you it might be the damping that would be the improvement. It’s definitely set up more for you than it is for me!

[@joost6921]

Great video! I'm curious to know if you still choice your current setup or would rather select another brand with the options available right now. Maybe interesting for a new video?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi Joost, good question… a lot has changed in 15 months (including that I’ve lost 20kg!) I probably would choose differently now that there’s a lot more to choose from. I probably won’t change, but if starting again, I’d probably go for a fork revalve kit and a YSS 105kg or Hagon rear shock, or if I wanted to spend a bit more the Rally Raid fork and rear. I should do another video, so perhaps 2022 season 2 (starting in a few weeks). I’m on a break at the moment but will start putting things up again fairly soon.

[@bartoszpajak2285]

Whether you need to upgrade or not will mostly depend on your weight. If you're below 80kg it will be fine. If you 90 or more, the shock will struggle offroad (yes, the preload can be adjusted, but once you do that you will be awfully underdamped and the bike turns into a trampoline). I'm 6"1 and 90 kg. I've fitted my CRF300L with a K-Tech shock purchased from Brook and it works pretty well for me. I haven't touched the front end so far, but most probably I will replace the springs and the fork oil. In my opinion, the cartridges are a bit of an overkill.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Yup. Agreed with all of that. I’m 125kg in gear and the bike will be carrying 140-145kg with luggage, so yes, I’m definitely out of the ‘below 80’ range. I find the front end quite bouncy, and though stiffer springs would help with the bottoming out, I think heavier oil, and maybe even a revalue also helps with the damping. Not sure how springs + oil + revalve + fitting compares with cartridges price wise, bit I suspect the cartridges are still more, though you do get the benefit of adjustable damping, and preload. The latter is probably not much use on an L, unless you occasionally carry a pillion but if you’re on a Rally and have luggage or not, I think it’s asking a lot of new springs. Each to their own, and I’m sure anything is better than stock for those heavier riders. Good luck with your choices and ride safe.

[@rrAinierr]

Phenomenal video, so much useful information, and such a variety of options. Really helpful for both 250l and 300l users with no prior knowledge about suspension for dual sports. 🤠👍

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks Rainier. Though it’s been nearly a year now, so I should probably do an update. Rally Raid have their Tractive based units, there’s an Ohlins (Asia only) and a whole host of fork respring/revalve options. Perhaps in May 😁

[@MrCODEmaster00]

​@@PeakMotorcycles I looked through your videos, did you make an update? I'm just wondering.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

@@MrCODEmaster00 Hi, I haven't but I think it's about time... now there's the Rally Raid, Ohlins (Asia spec only), Wilbers and various fork valve kits so perhaps I should. I have a bit of time off coming up, so I'll email round the manufacturers for the latest and then perhaps record that. I know this video was pretty short, but it took a while to compile the data, and I guess I've been putting off the update due to that! Thanks for the nudge.

[@jamesgeorgevellavella1961]

I ended selling mine (normal 300La Abs) 7500km and I lost $2000 Aud but I’m including $800 reg in that and both rims were buckled from hard hit. For me it was not good off road (faster riding) and she was pig heavy. I’m not in a position to spend more cash so a used enduro is what I’m trying next. I had from first batch and no parts were available when I needed and didn’t help with trying to like or gel with her. Suspension went to throw me over the bars a few times. WR is $14000+ crf300 was $8700 12mth on roads including

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Good luck with the enduro. It sounds a better fit for what you need.

[@davidroberts7490]

Very complete and interesting video ! Good news to hear you chose the Andreani suspension for the front, as I live in Italy. 🙂

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I didn’t have that much choice, and I’m also sad that my forks get to go on holiday to Italy and I don’t!

[@davidroberts7490]

@@PeakMotorcycles 😄

[@walterconn5637]

I'm enjoying your channel. I learned about some companies that I have never heard of. It is good to know a place to send the suspension to get serviced as well. The suspension options will be so plentiful for the CRF300 that it will be difficult to research them all. I am going to use the stock suspension for at least a year since I am a new rider. It will help me remember to ride slower offroad. Thanks

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi Walter, Stock for a while sounds ideal. I did that for the first 500-600 miles (I think) to work out what, if anything, I’d need to change. And you’re welcome about the channel! I was thinking of doing an update to this video though as it’s been over a year now and there’s a few more choices now out there including Rally Raid, Ohlins (Asia spec only), Race Tech and valve kits from K-Tech and others.

[@fuhrparkoptimierung9676]

Basic question to spring characteristic of following alternative manufacturer and articles: I try to decide between wilbers 640 (linear spring) an hyperpro suspension "EMULSION SHOCK" both items without compression adjustment, both cover by "ABE" for street legal use and lowering option of 30 mm. In view of current experience I hope to get help for decision. I use the bike mainly on street, unpaved ways and smart off road (this bike is and will never be a hard enduro). What kind of spring (linear or progressiv) is recommaned by user expierience ? I would like to note that the used HONDA „ProLink“ System having already a progressive characteristic. All basic opinions, expiriences and thoughts on the two manufacturers and mentioned articles are welcome.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I haven’t tried both I’m afraid. I have a linear spring, and it works well for me. I recall a suspension specialist telling me that a progressive spring had a better characteristic for road riding where you’d control the loading up, especially at the extremes. If the Prolink already has a progressive characteristic then I would think a linear spring would be better to maintain that.

[@fuhrparkoptimierung9676]

@@PeakMotorcycles Thanks for reply.

[@WillPower46]

I ordered my YSS piggy back shock today...

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Nice! I’ve heard good things about them and I’m sure it’ll be an improvement.

[@seabumbb3067]

Really looking forward to your opinion when you get the suspension mods completed. Like you, I have found very little for the Rally. A company here in the US did give me a quote for the HyperPro 461 with hose-attached Hydraulic Preload Adjuster (HPA). I like this since I will be using the Rally for traveling to remote destinations, camping, riding without the panniers and camping kit, reloading, leaving for new destinations, riding highway and dirt, with luggage/gear and without, so this setup makes it much easier than breaking out the spanner every time I do a load change. I am not sure how or where the remote HPA would be fitted, but I like challenges. They also gave me a quote on their own fork "kit" using HyperPro progressive springs and K-Tech re-valve kit. I will probably go with their suggestions/kits but still considering continuing to hold out for the Andreani cartridge setup, like you are getting done now. The US company did tell me they could get something from Andreani but watching your video leaves me wondering if that is just hopeful and not certain, since your forks seem to be the product design platform for the Rally. As noted, this is not a high-end ADV bike so I am not worried about 30 levels of adjustment, I just want better suspension for my traveling needs across the Rocky Mountains, and then south as far as I can go.... All your information is great, thanks for helping us all out with this nice bike!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi, I think the Hyperpro is quality kit, especially if there is the remote preload adapter. If I could get one here (since Brexit, anything coming from Europe over £130 is a challenge...) then that would be ideal. Nitron do one, but not for the 300 Rally, or at least not yet. The K-Tech re-valve and fork springs sounds interesting. As with many things on the internet, if you ask a question, you get many opposing answers, and everyone is, of course, correct! I'd be interested to know their thinking of progressive springs vs linear for off-road. I think progressive makes a lot of sense on a road bike when you're only really testing it under the load of acceleration or braking where reaching the limits would benefit from some extra hardening. For offroad, where you're hitting rocks, I'm not sure if the progressive springs give you the same benefits. That said, I'm sure the suspension shop know what they're doing. Riding in the Rockies must be a blast, we come over (Covid permitting) to spend a few weeks in CO each January, so have hopes to return in '21. Not sure I'll get any riding in though. Good luck with your upgrade and ride safe!

[@seabumbb3067]

@@PeakMotorcycles Thanks for the quick response. I have to agree about the progressive springs on the forks and I have asked about this. Their answer was it is much better than the stock but not as good as the Andreani. They claim to have many happy customers that have done this setup on the CRF250 Rally, and since it is a big company, I am trusting them, yet we have call arranged tomorrow to discuss weights with and without camping gear as well as the progressive springs. I will let you know my opinion.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks! And yes, I expect they know more about it than me or the internet! Sounds like it’ll be a great setup and if they are a respectable company with happy customers, then why suggest anything that would cause unhappy customers. Good luck with it.

[@pierreblomdahl783]

Great video as always, thanks for doing the research and sharing it with the rest of us!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

You are very welcome. I should probably do another update soon, maybe when the Ohlins and Rally Raid units are out?

[@Andy-qj3js]

Stock shock on the CRF300L for the non-Thai market is 415mm in length, same as the Rally.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks. I’ll update.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Description updated. Thanks.

[@simon7123]

Good call .as I am only 78kg the yss shock and spring has worked out fine on my 300l And the front spring with 15 w oil seems to be spot on it's all personal choice Great Detailed video

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Excellent! I’m sure pretty much any upgrade will be better, and YSS have had more time than anyone to get it sorted. Thanks for the oil mention, I know this can make a big difference. Ride safe!

[@DaBinChe]

Great video! I just ordered RaceTech front valves and springs and rear shock for my 300 Rally. Will be here in about 4weeks.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Awesome. I think that’s probably the best value fork upgrade there is.

[@AA-wd2or]

Thank you for all your info . What you think are esential mods for safe riding Balkan TET, allot off road with Honda 300L Rally. My weight is 110kg height 180 cm what is best choise (shooks and forks) for me (kg range). Thank you !

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I haven’t ridden the Balkan TET I’m afraid, and I think it also depends on how you ride. If you’re coming from enduro bikes and will be riding rocky trails, then you’d be looking for something of a higher specification. Entry level is a YSS rear shock and a fork spring. They do two versions of the rear so get the 105kg one if you can. Beyond that, it is very much budget dependent. The Rally Raid kits are widely used and everyone seems to rate them. I have a Nitron Rear and Andreani forks and I’ve been very pleased with them, but there wasn’t a lot of choice back in spring 2021. If you have a local suspension shop, perhaps see what they can get? The rear shock is easy to replace. The fork internals need some more work with specialist tools (if you have them). You could always do the rear shock first and then consider how much more you need from the forks.

[@richbrock9876]

I’ve had k-tech rear shock on a fazer 1000, was very good. I’m waiting for a 300 rally, Honda in Sheffield say probably November. I’ll probably be looking at firmer suspension for it by the sound of things. Can’t wait to find out!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

May it come round soon! I’m about halfway between viamoto in Sheffield and Hunts in Manchester, but was able to get my Rally from the latter. (They also did my CB1000R+ as they had a red non-plus and kindly switched the tank to my +, ordered a red cowl, and changed the V5 to say it was new). That said, I’ve always found ViaMoto to be really good, helpful and eager to please, so they do my servicing (and probably future bikes). Nice brewery next door top with perhaps the finest burgers and wings in Sheffield!

[@brianmccanonbmccanon1997]

How about checking on the 300LS as well

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi Brian, it’s a good idea, but these things take a lot of time to research and since lockdown ended, time has been harder to find (which is also why I’m behind in general for content). I’ll put it on the list, but I don’t know when I’d get to if. The LS market is quite small, and I suspect the answer for most shocks would be to have one made with a shorter length or an adjustable one. Prior to the LS most folks went for a lowering link with a standard shock (even though it didn’t really work in the same way). I’ll see what I can do, but I won’t be anytime soon I’m afraid.

[@ddacaro]

This past week I took a test ride on a KTM 500 EXC. It felt so precise and easy to maneuver compared to my stock CRF300L that I've been considering selling my beloved 300L. It's a life or death kinda decision, because I need a safest, surgically precise steering/maneuvering bike for treacherous, technical single track alone on steep mountains (I do nature photography). I assumed the precision and hence easier riding experience on the KTM was all about the weight difference of 43 lbs. But, now I'm wondering if it was actually more about the suspension. Have you ridden KTM 500 EXC for comparison to your upgraded suspension CRF300L, or can you speculate otherwise in how your 300L handles for slow technical single track after upgrading?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi, I haven’t I’m afraid, though the suspension upgrade did make a significant difference. Hoping that someone else has both upgraded their 300 and ridden a 500 and can comment here.

[@ddacaro]

@@PeakMotorcycles Ok, cool, thanks for the advice, good to hear about the improvement.

[@nickg2431]

I own a husky te450 ( similar to Ktm exc) and also a crf 300l and can categorically tell you they are like night and day . In every aspect of geometry/ suspension/ handling/ stiffness they are like night and day. The only things that might suit better on the crf is that you can pootle along easily at low speed and get your foot down if in difficulty.you should also budget for full body armour Mx style boots , quality knee protection and thigh protection shorts if you are serious. Hope this helps- nick

[@bartoszpajak2285]

IMPORTANT massage!!! There are misleading informations regarding the length of the rear shock for the CRF300L. The European / USA Version has a length of 413mm (I have replaced mine for a K-Tech counterpart and measured the stock part delivered with the bike). The 405mm shocks form YSS offered in several online shops are dedicated for the Asian market, where the CRFs come with a lowered suspension in stock form.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks, I’d added that to the description just after posting the video when the suspension shop mentioned it but thanks for adding for extra visibility. No one reads the description I guess!

[@Broxty]

No shit Sherlock...... you jumped onto something before reading lol.

[@bartoszpajak2285]

@@Broxty Yeah, no shit. I wrote this 1 year ago when the bike was brand new and there was a lot of confusion around the internet and even without the suppliers. When I ordered my K-Tech suspension the guys asked me to dismount my original shock and measure it, because they were not sure about the length...

[@RedC63AMG]

I’m pretty sure I saw a video that featured someone in Indonesia with a 300l that had an Ohlins rear shock with remote reservoir installed.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Yup. Some have done that, but it’s not an Ohlins 300L shock. A modified 250 shock perhaps, or one from another bike but so far Ohlins don’t make anything for the 300L or Rally

[@nickg2431]

really helpful video that saves an awful lot of work.Thank you!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

You are very welcome. I should do another but I’m waiting for Ohlins and Rally Raid to have theirs done. Otherwise not much has changed.

[@keesverhagen9227]

Thank you for your stock review.👍 I will buy the L or the Rally. Until now i am really leaning towards the Rally. Because i will use the bike for a very long trip. Leaving my KTM 1190 R at home.😬 I understand that Honda did this out of a budget point of view. But what Honda should have done is also make some bikes with a better shock. So the customer could have a better spring as an option. I am really sure that probably 70 percent of the sells would have been with the better suspension option. And in the end the customer will have spend less money. Probably there are a lot of optional customers who are really looking at these two bikes. But are not buying it in the end. Because when everything is add up they can also buy a bike that is better from stock. Maybe even a Tenere 700. Although it is in different weight category. In the past i have very good experiences with Hyperpro. They gave me a completely different bike in return. A way better handling bike. We who use a bike with luggage are almost always in the boat of putting an aftermarket shock on our bikes. It makes out all of the difference. While typing this Hyperpro has a shock set for the CRF300. A shock and progressive spring set. I think it will change the bike tremendously. I thought it was something around 500.00 Euro's. Hyperpro is a company that really know what they are doing. Out of experience.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hyperpro are brilliant, but with Brexit and the import duties, it was easier (and cheaper) to pick a UK company, and there's a few to choose from which helps. So far the Nitron rear is doing well. I have a R1250GS Rallye as well as my CRF, and as you say, they are very different bikes. I'd always choose my 1250 for a long road tour, on road (or 90/10) tyres. Though with that setup it's too heavy and the wrong tyres for off road. I'd like to do the NL, DE and DK sections of the TET so I think the CRF would be perfect for that. Just waiting for covid to clear up.... 2022 perhaps if not this year. Good luck with whatever you choose, I'm sure it'll be a blast!

[@keesverhagen9227]

@@PeakMotorcycles When your going to Holland give a sign. Maybe we could do a part of the Tet together. Wil put some different rubber under my 1190R.

[@samtheman1287]

Good setup! I really wanna see it perform in the track...

[@PeakMotorcycles]

We're a bit short of tracks round here. I'll see if I can find a trail. We definitely have those!

[@BossPredatorAcoustics]

Keep up the good work brother... well done!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks. It took a while to collate it, so thought I might as well share.

[@MandM745]

Thanks for the video. May be updating my suspension when it comes in.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I guess quite a few folks will that said. I think it is worth trying the stock suspension first to see how you get on. Spending 10-20% of the value of the bike from the off is no small undertaking.

[@gnarlybadger690]

Have you checked X-trig to see if they do a preload adjuster I put one on my 690 which I ride the TET on with luggage easy to adjust with an eight millimetre socket or T-bar just a thought

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I hadn’t but I will. Thanks! It looks interesting, but they appear to make it for the 250R/X and 450R but not the L’s of any flavour. I’ll ask them if they have any intention. That said, I’m not sure preload would help in most cases unless it’s done with a spring upgrade, and by then you’re not far off the cost of a replacement YSS or Hagon shock in which you’d also get better damping.

[@andrewpiper4131]

Another well presented and very informative video Andre. 👌🏻 Lots of food for thought. I did notice earlier on today An Ad appeared on eBay for CRF300l / Rally 2021 Ohlins caps kit and fork spring . From Italy . Thanks and keep doing what you are doing 👍👍

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Interesting. I called two Ohlins specialists in the UK, and they said there was nothing. Also nothing listed for the CRF300 on the Ohlins product catalogue. There is a spring kit (non-adjustable?) for the 250 I think. Perhaps they’ve modified one of those? www.ohlins.com/product-item/62964/

[@andrewpiper4131]

@@PeakMotorcycles just had a look, it’s an Italian company called WRS. The kit consists of fork top caps with spring preload adjuster and better springs. £220 + post. 🤔🤷‍♂️

[@PeakMotorcycles]

@@andrewpiper4131 part number is FSK159. Nothing with that on the Ohlins website. When I Google it, there’s a Facebook page in Thailand that lists it. Fancy trying it?! Mind you, if you have to pay VAT on import, it’s an expensive spring… if it’s like the 250 kit, you get two springs, with different spring rates but only use the one you need. If you do get one, please share. I’m sure many would like to know.

[@andrewpiper4131]

@@PeakMotorcycles think I would rather stick with a uk supplier if I’m honest. 😬

[@PeakMotorcycles]

@@andrewpiper4131 aye, I’m sure they will be here soon as the UK appears to be Honda’s 2nd market for the bike after Thailand.

[@anthonydendle4768]

Anymore updates or kits available now its been a few more months ❓ Cheers and keep up the great info and video's 👍

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi Anthony, not much I’m afraid; Wilbers have a shock out and there’s a few revalve kits. Ohlins have a shorter shock for Asia but not the international model. Rally Raid are still working on theirs too. I was thinking of doing an update next month, 11th November, 6 months on seemed about right, though with the current development, it might be a short one… will keep you posted.

[@anthonydendle4768]

@@PeakMotorcycles cheers and happy travels 👍

[@MrKdr500]

Being a budget bike is why the suspension is NON adjustable, it's not the reason Honda fucked it up...they could have got non adjustable suspension a lot closer to supporting the average rider weight than what they ended up with.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Yup, just a slightly stronger spring on the rear shock would have made the world of difference and would probably have cost the same. The bike was launched first in Thailand, so perhaps built for the average rider there rather than the average rider in the rest of the world, though they did manage to fit a different ECU for the European models and also filament bulbs instead of LED’s for the L, so they could have made changes for the overseas markets, but I guess they didn’t think of that. This is a shame.

[@tonysmith9524]

Hey Andre, great and very informative video. In fact, being a relatively new CRF 300 Rally owner, I have learnt a massive amount about and the bike and the various mods available for it, thanks to you and the videos you produce. As with most CRF owners, I have arrived at the point where I need to address the issue of the "spongy suspension". The prospect of replacement front/rear shocks appears to involve quite a financial outlay. With this in mind, I had a look on the web today to investigate "Progressive Springs", and in particular the combi pack (or individual units) available from Hyperpro. I wondered if you had any information or opinion about these products.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi Tony, I find progressive springs are better for road riding, but I prefer linear spring for trails. It wasn’t available when I did the suspension options, but now you can get revalve kits which I think is the best value for the forks. Coupled with a better rear shock (any!) YSS or Hagon are lower cost and fine, and you should be set.

[@felixorlandodiez6856]

Thank you very much for sharing the information. Excellent work. One question: on the YSS website, in the description of the shock absorbers there is an indication that I don't know what their meaning is: (20>) or (21>), do you know what that indication refers to?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I think it’s the year… model year 2020 or 2021.

[@felixorlandodiez6856]

@@PeakMotorcycles Ok. Thanks.

[@RonaiHenrik]

Absolutely amazing video, will definitely come back when I feel like the stock is getting in the way of my riding :) Thanks for the effort you are putting into these videos, I (and probably all of us) really appreciate it! One thing I know for sure is that I will look for proper shock professionals when fitting a new shock, I feel like the usual mechanic doesn't know enough about shocks and springs. A question though. If I change the rear shock (I'm thinking of the MZ YSS), should the front also be altered? I mean if I only change the rear the bike might tilt forward as the front is softer than the rear. No?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

I guess everyone has their own view, but for me, yes, I think both ends need to be done. When I first rode the bike I felt the back more, but as soon as I started doing rocky trails, I was bottoming out the fork and the rebound from the limit isn’t very well damped. That said, if you’re 80kg and need a bit more perhaps try the rear first and see how you get on. Rear and fork springs might be the way to go, and that in YSS would probably be economical

[@RonaiHenrik]

@@PeakMotorcycles yea the cheaper YSS seems like a good option for me as I'm medium heavy and pretty novice when it comes to off road, so the budget option should be enough. The subframe probably wouldn't like any tougher riding either.

[@jamieharley7015]

Yss are awesome just got one for my Yamaha Dt 125r 1998

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Good choice

[@skline1]

I really enjoyed your video! Nice job!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

You’re welcome.

[@timothydubber549]

Hello mate, good video as ever. Apologies for the essay below. I’ve had some experience with aftermarket shocks on a few bikes. Definitely not an expert! Had Tractive/RR on my old Rally Raid 310 (should never have sold it but that’s another story). Very, very good although not cheap. Near infinite levels of adjustability but certainly needs some knowledge of suspension to set up. In terms of build quality it was exceptional, felt like a quality item, very durable with a lovely finish. Had a Hagon shock on my old R1200GSA. It wasn’t set specifically for my weight but I wasn’t hugely impressed. Didn’t feel like an upgrade over the standard shock and in fairness to Hagon they’re more of an OEM alternative than an enhancement. Finish ok but nothing special. The only one I think you missed is Wilbers. Had the Wilbers type 540 (their ‘budget’ shock) on my old 2016 V Strom 1000 and again very impressed. Bought from Revs Racing in Birmingham who supplied me with a shock set up for my weight in kit and with luggage. Accurate to within 5kg or so. Literally fit to the bike and leave it alone! Also very impressed. A little firmer and sportier than the Tractive but made the bike handle beautifully on the road. Chose Wilbers over Ohlins as it was better value and the Ohlins alternative didn’t come set to rider weight.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks for that. Agreed re. Tractive, and I’ve never had a Hagon shock, but useful feedback. Wilbers was the 2nd one I mentioned after WP Suspension 😉! Mind you, it is quite long, so easy to miss bits. Wilbers said it’ll be 6 months before they have something for the CRF300L or Rally.

[@tonyeynon8994]

Hi mate, I ordered my rally last week so Im in research mode and loving your channel hahaa. Can I ask what you paid for it all roughly? Thanks mate :)

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Depends who’s asking! If it’s Dr. Peak Motorcycles, then £200! In the real world, rear shock was around £500, forks £700, risers £20, handlebar £70, all the H2C and Yamoto bits came from Bikerzbits, so the shipping makes more of a difference than the price of the item. I’ve probably spent £1400-1500 on top of the price of the bike, excluding luggage.

[@johnnyrebellion8672]

Buy the 300L and spend a bundle on suspension or buy the 450RL and spend $800.00 on a new Vortex ECU right out of the gate.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

That would be great, except we don’t get the CRF450RL in the UK, and the CRF450L, if you can find one, is still more than a 300+suspension, without the ECU. You guys are lucky, you have so much more choice! We don’t get the KLX’s neither, nor the DR’s or WR250R’s for more than 10 years.

[@sarahdell4042]

Insane oil change & valve check intervals. Not even remotely similar bikes.

[@David-x6e7n]

The mods on this bike made me buy something else . If I have to spend over 2k on parts just to make the bike more rideable then I’m out . Like the rally but is it and can you without the mods ?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Depends how much the bike was that you bought instead, and how much (if anything) you had to spend on mods. If I could buy a 155kg dual sport, with a 250 mile range, and good suspension, for £8k, I would. That doesn’t seem to exist though and for that money, you can get an enduro, or a 200kg middleweight adventure bike. May I ask what you bought instead?

[@David-x6e7n]

Well the mods I would do on the Honda would have to include bars,pipe,suspension front and rear plus a sat nav . The bike that has all this as standard is the Ajp Pr7 . Around 275 miles per tank, same weight as the Honda . Bit more than 8k but it doesn’t need anything to make it a good bike . I like the Honda , just not for me .

[@PeakMotorcycles]

@@David-x6e7n a fine choice! The PR7’s are brilliant. Enjoy the ride.

[@johnpublic168]

racetech does front and rear did you check with Reiger great info thanks for all your research. now for your results.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks John. A lot has changed since May 2021, so I could only research what was available then. Since then Rally Raid, Ohlins, Racetech and others have joined the fray, so perhaps it’s time for an update? I’ll start collecting information and maybe do another in May ‘23 as a two year update. The only problem is that now there is a lot of choice!

[@andresgalleguillos8698]

My friend do you mind telling me what your weight is. Im 260 lbs and i really wanna get this bike . And i want to know if after the suspencion upgrade your bike was able to handle your weight better

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Hi, I’m around 115kg but between 120-125 in gear depending on how hot or cold it is! I had my suspension set to be able to take me +15kg luggage, so 140kg.

[@jimconradtee1684]

Did I hear it right good sir, that the L version has a 405mm rear suspension, and Im guessing that its the same here in asia, since only the looks differ from our respective regions, and parts are the same?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Unfortunately that turned out to not be the case. Both L and Rally outside Asia have a 415mm rear shock. Some folks here ordered upgrades from Asia and ended up with the 405mm version. It works well for some though, especially those shorter in the leg over here!

[@jimconradtee1684]

@@PeakMotorcycles thank you for your response. I really appreciate the way you make your vids its just so comprehensive, and I think you deserve more subs. Bless you good sir. Keep Safe.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

@@jimconradtee1684 thanks. I’m doing this for fun though, so I’m just fine if anyone watches them! I’m sure people will subscribe if they want to, though many just dip in for a few minutes of a ‘how to’ video in which case I’m happy to help. I’ll not give up my day job just yet; I quite enjoy that too! Ride safe.

[@westwater73]

I have a Honda 2005 fmx650 I've just ordered Hagon monoshock progressive front spring's pair of new stantions and a slinky glide fork rebuild kit for £720.. bargain!!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Nice work!

[@Allosaurus-B]

awesome work. thanks!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

You're welcome. It's a bit out of date now I'm afraid, but hopefully still a bit useful.

[@EmilSbaste]

So when you add the cost of an aftermarket suspension is CRF300L/Rally still the best option for the money?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

It is for me. But each to their own. We don’t have much choice for dual sports here, and I’d rather pay £6k for a Rally + £1k for suspension than £8k for a KTM enduro which might also need a suspension change + increased servicing. If Yamaha or Kawasaki bring out a euro6 compliant dual sport there would be more competition but for now, the Rally + upgrades is my choice.

[@iainharris8087]

Great video. Thanks for sharing all that research.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks. I’m sure I’ve missed some things (Aus appear to have different weight springs for YSS, lucky them!) but between what I could find and the comments from the collective wisdom, hopefully all the details for the different markets will be filled in

[@douglassfwilson]

Great information! Thanks!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Glad it was helpful!

[@acoustictie8907]

Good content man!

[@PeakMotorcycles]

It’s not the most engaging visually, but for 10 minutes of watching would save a few hours on the internet and phone.

[@chrisallen5548]

Really interesting and informative video. Thanks! Your setup should be great, looking forward to seeing what you think on your next ride.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thanks Chris, it’ll be a few weeks. The forks went to Andreani today, and should be back next week sometime. The Nitron shock might be a bit later, but I can do the forks first. I’m looking forward to getting it back!

[@Sertao2013]

Why are so many people saying because of the one piece frame that putting weight like luggage on the back of the frame could bend it because its so thin ? Is there a way to add a bar that connects to the bigger part of the frame and connect it to the thin part of the frame where the luggage rack goes ?

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Not sure. Mine has a sticker saying the maximum is 4kg on the rack. On the 250 the subframe was bolt on so worst case it bends and you get a new subframe. On the 300 it’s welded so not an easy swap out. I guess Honda are covering themselves in case someone takes a pillion and a load of luggage?

[@claretbuck1882]

🤘🏻

[@PeakMotorcycles]

🤘

[@sambowks]

7 minute and still nothing

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Not sure what you were expecting, but when this was recorded, nearly 3 years ago, there wasn’t much information available so to pull this together was a lot of emails and calls to manufacturers. I guess a lot has changed since 2021 so it’s less relevant than it was, but thank you anyway for watching.

[@hiltonmcconnell2563]

Look at this to see what is available not to hear you mouth about what is not available, Sorry but things like this piss me off when I want to know something I want to know what is not what is not.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

No need to be sorry, and you have my apologies. This was recorded in May 2021, based on information that was collected in April. The bike had only been out for a few weeks in the UK and even though I took the time to check in with all the manufactures, many couldn’t get a bike. The manufacturers I picked were based on requests. That’s why I put the date on it. I should do another, but perhaps if it’s annoying in shouldn’t bother. Thanks for the feedback.

[@ecopeland1321]

Wow. 7 minutes in and he finally gets to a shock , only to describe it very well and then say THEY DON'T MAKE IT FOR THE HONDA , SO BUY A KTM !!!!! Waist of time.

[@PeakMotorcycles]

Thank you for your comment. Many people had asked about WP Shocks when I mentioned in an earlier video that I would do this. So it was to address that really. I didn’t know that WP only made shocks for KTM, and perhaps others didn’t too. Hopefully some of the rest of it was useful, or were you just waiting for that one thing. I’m sorry to hear that was your only takeaway from the video. Good luck with your waist.