Problems with the Honda CRF300L...

I've had the Honda CRF 300L for a while now, and put about 1600 miles on it.
So I thought I would share all the problems, issues and criticisms I have with the bike so far, for those of you thinking about buying this bike, some of these 'faults' maybe worth knowing about in advance.

[@biscuitsalive]

To explain this video- it is NOT a review, I’ve done a previous video talking about what I use the bike for and what it is suited for. This vid is focused on all the weak points with the bike, and any problems I have had in the last few months of ownership. And it’s for anyone about to buy one that wants to know the potential down sides, and don’t want a glowing review that avoids any negatives. Hopefully that helps put my comments into context. :) I still love the bike. But mike EVERY bike. It has weaknesses and is a compromise.

[@Dudeitzmimi]

This bike definitely has problems, with suspension being the biggest, but i still love this bike and don't regret buying it

[@1990-t1j]

I'm going to buy one simply for Chiang Rai city and the countryside's backroads and the occasional very light off-road. There is nowhere you can safely go fast. I also have a couple of bigger bikes. YYS? Do you mean YSS? They are Thai. Great stuff and cheap over here in Thailand. The OE setup will be okay for what I want to do. The wheel: the bike is built in Thailand, so this doesn't particularly surprise me. Never powerwash a motorcycle. The CRF is about 3,200 GBP here. What a deal! You live in a stunning part of the world. Excellent, informative video. Nick

[@impalaSS65]

The cut-out is reported from owners of the CRF450L aswell. Might be a rushed Honda emissions mapping, that needs some time and effort to fill out real life white spots on the fuel map. Thhe OEM fuelmap is according to those who usually ar wellinformed, an average and only real goal to pass emissions. Honda should sell the service of remapping. The fuel injection bikes I have tried, had cutting out when I was doing "standing-still-tricky-turns" and then giving gas quickly. I'm so far not a fan of fuel injection on bikes. Carbed bikes have fuel in the fuel bowl that have the pressure of its liquid pillar assuring that fuel is delivered from slow air flow, faster air flow, slow air flow again - closed throttle, slighty open, wide open throttle.

[@dodo19923]

I've heard somewhere as well that the cutting out can also be from the kickstand. There's a switch so if it goes goes the bike cuts out (anecdotal obviously). Apparently it's remedied with a better kickstand as the oem is poor afaik. They're great bikes with work put in but people have to bear in mind they're "budget" which imo leaves room for mods. Buy a ktm/husky for nearly 10 grand or a 300l for nigh on half the price and have money left over to solve any issues that might arise.

[@Unfunny_Username_389]

RE the cut out issue - my KLX250 is a bit prone to this. Very annoying when tackling something a bit tricky, green laning. Just when you need it - not there. The problem became terrible when I swapped the stock exhaust for something lighter. I put the OEM can back on and this cured it but not completely. Someone else I spoke to said put a new plug in, this cured theirs.

[@changkoyingan-eng1925]

sir what the bew plug in?

[@Unfunny_Username_389]

@@changkoyingan-eng1925 a new spark plug

[@wfthkttn]

I've had a cut-out issue when I installed additional air filter that didn't pass enough air. Issue looked exactly the same.

[@kevinsalinas9829]

I had the same experience when I overfilled my bike with gasoline as well. It didn’t want to really start at first / kept cutting out but eventually it kicked back on and rode like nothing had happened.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep I’m aware it’s a thing. But mine was doing this before I had ever taken it off road or dropped it. So don’t think that’s the cause on mine.

[@phuketbungalowinfo2757]

13 STONE 🤣🤣😇😎 damn where are u living 15th century? The only problem i am having with my 300L is the heat. Its just REALLY too hot when riding in FlipFlops, living in SE-Asia and we are not always using warm gear like in Europe here. I had the same issue on my CRF250L when it was brand new in 2012 but i got used to it, the 300L is much MUCH warmer on my right foot. Had the Rally too for 6 month, sold it, too heavy but never had the same there. Someone an idea? Except wearing boots....its not always funny on shorter trips in +40Celsius good Video btw, cheers to Cornwall, would love to ride there someday

[@westcountrystormtrooper749]

There are too many glowing reviews these days, nice to hear the bad side too now and again to put things into perspective.

[@deltoid77-nick]

Good to know about the wheel alignment haven't heard about that quality control issues before. I already knew about the cutoff issues and a lot of people are seemingly concluding it's overfilling the gas tank and the suspension is a known quantity but for the price it's incredible value with great mileage to the gallon. If sold in my area at MSRP(and it is) it's cheaper than some mopeds. Will be a great first commuter bike!

[@findingneutral]

Thats good information to know for prospective buyers. Thanks

[@stephtraveler7378]

Calibrate the throttle. There's a procedure that is very simple and it really helps with low speed flame outs and hesitation. Ktech front and rear suspension for the WIN! stickers do suck, but an entire plastics kit is only $199 and there are numerous aftermarket sticker designs you can get... That's the good thing about the crappy stickers. Get a handlebar bag and ditch that tank bag.

[@mylifeinthailand8751]

I’m put off by the CRF300 for the same reasons you mentioned, in Thailand where I’ve been living the bike seat height is a crap 830 mm and ground clearance is an equally worse 244 mm. I’m back in England for a while and intend to buy the Fantic XEF 250 Trail Enduro which is a far better option with great suspension and comes in at £5,299

[@Permitmon]

I got one. It’s far exceeded my expectations for reliability; and fun factor. Fantastic machine, but maybe not for everyone. What is?

[@allsearpw3829]

Hi , I really enjoy your frank speaking .

[@MADTASS]

Cut Out Issue is not Fuel Related as Far as i'm Aware, there are Forums all over the Web with Regards this Problem with the CBR and CRF, my CBR 250R which has Basically the Same Engine was doing it on a Regular Basis but hasn't done it for a while for some reason but it is a Problem which Honda needs to sort, one Fix mentioned was to Increase the Idle RPM but that would have to be done at a Honda Dealership as it is all ECU Related.

[@janqueskijanqueski327]

Hi, do you still experience engine cut out? did you find out what was the issue? I have same problem.

[@antonisloizou3356]

Thank you!

[@twincam88br]

It's not a highway bike but I knew that going in. Put a full yoshi, zip tied the cable out of the way, and cranked up the preload on the shock. The kickstand is 2 inches too short and that does suck when getting off the bike. Besides that it's a great commuter

[@biscuitsalive]

I mainly use it for green laning and the Trans Euro Trail. It’s great for that. This wasn’t a review this was focusing on all weak points on the bike. Just to keep folks informed who maybe looking to buy one and have only heard glowing reviews.

[@motocache6645]

Careful with ziptying brake and thottle cables. Jake The Garden Snake has a good video specifically on the 300L and how to safely reroute the brake cables.

[@twincam88br]

@@motocache6645 oh yeah I've watched Jake and almost every other vid on the bike. I have a garage full of dirtbikes and only ride the 300 on the street. The tie is very loose and the forks never get compressed more than about an inch. Thank you for the heads up

[@tommac215]

Ever since Honda stopped making the XR range they have just gone down hill and I would never touch one again. Those air-cooled XRS where the best. Thanks for this video.

[@user-se7vt5ow4e]

I would take an XR400 or 250R over this 300 fluff bike.

[@metalsadman]

650s still available in the us.

[@billcope7434]

I have owned XR600, XR400, XR350 and a couple XR250's, one with a 285 kit in it. The XRs all had better stock suspension. Not that they had really good suspension just better. The CRF300l reminds me of the XR285 and with the Ktech suspension installed, the suspension is much improved. It's still not modern race bike suspension but it suits me at my age.

[@muckytrails323]

It’s a 5 grand bike every one compares it to a Ktm drop two grand on it same price as Wr 250r get a lot of upgrades for two grand 😊😊

[@Ringwolf1]

It's very disappointing that Honda builds a bike with so many issues.

[@biscuitsalive]

I agree. But I think overall it’s very reliable and dependable. I’ve done nearly 5000 miles on it now, after getting someone to true front wheel, and only using E5 (lower ethanol fuel). I’ve had zero other issues.

[@TheZakkmylde]

Anyone experience issues with the 300 rally where if it stalls by accident it won’t start for a good 10 to 15 minutes or more it just cranks over and over and doesn’t start so we sit around and wait for a while and then it always starts. This is in the case of riding single track trails in the forest but this never happens on the open road so makes me think it may be overheating or some sort of fuel issue I don’t know

[@biscuitsalive]

Did you try lower ethanol fuel like I did for my cut out issue?

[@TheZakkmylde]

@@biscuitsalive I belive my brother is running premium so maybe it’s 91 octane. I suggested it will have to see. In Canada so I know it’s not evap canisters issues as we don’t have them. What octane are you using now? 89 ish?

[@biscuitsalive]

@@TheZakkmylde e5 is 97 octane I believe. That’s the more expensive option in UK that has lower ethanol than the standard E10. And the e5 stuff is what I find the 300l prefers.

[@TheZakkmylde]

@@biscuitsalive 97? Wow that’s crazy. I’ve never seen anything higher then 94 in Canada. So I think my bro is running 91. So not sure if it will help but worth a shot to try 87 octane. The only other thing maybe the valves need a look and it’s running too hot but he’s only got 6000 km on it or maybe the O2 sensor on the exhaust I don’t know what it is really know either

[@TheZakkmylde]

@@biscuitsalive let me get this correct if at the moment he’s running 91 are you suggesting he should go to the higher or lower to the 87?

[@berealistic]

Honda dropped the ball....not up to par...

[@user-se7vt5ow4e]

They definitely dropped the ball on the suspension and tires, everything else is solid. I ride 95% off road and find the bike to be very capable as a trail bike (after upgrading the suspension and tires) that you can ride to and from the trails. My last two bikes were a KTM300 and a WR450 you can’t expect the CRF to compete with those bikes but the same trails I rode on those bikes I now ride the CRF on, just slower and with a little more planning on the bigger , rutted out hills.

[@biscuitsalive]

Update! I had the front wheel rebuilt by a local chap, and it’s MUCH smoother. Only cost me £24. Recommend you check your bikes wheels when you pick it up, get Honda to sort it before you take it home ideally. (It’s a pain to remove wheel to fix things Honda should have done on the production line.)

[@pixpaper]

I wish I've seen this video before my own experience with the front wheel "situation". Same as you described, same frustration about quality control regarding the front wheel. Dealer insisted I was the one who probably hit the rim... But no, not the case. Somehow I managed to convince the dealer it's just the way they gave it to me and in September I receive another front wheel. But it's daaamnn frustrating. Anyways, great bike and keep posting! Ride safe there

[@OFFroadOFFcourse]

I have 5 CRFs 300L (offroad tour business) and i agree 100% with all your comments. I have experienced the exact same problems/quirks 😂

[@biscuitsalive]

Not just me then. Good to know my vid reflects general info useful for any new buyer.

[@AceCarleton]

My wife's Crf300l had the egg shaped front wheel as well. Right from new. Honda must have gotten a bad batch of rims

[@biscuitsalive]

Poor show though isn’t it.

[@AceCarleton]

Yeah, poor quality control.

[@rdrg7362]

Foul batches of front wheels in many countries. Deserves a replacement under warranty.

[@AceCarleton]

@@rdrg7362 yeah i agree, But my local dealership wasnt any help. Got a new wheel set laced up by Woodys Wheel Works.

[@user-se7vt5ow4e]

You are absolutely correct about the linkage being dry also my steering stem bearings were dry. I had a bad rattling sound going on. Traced the rattle to that stupid plastic chain guard. In the garbage it went , no more rattle.

[@markkus1134]

I’ll take my WR 250r over this bike! Which is made in Japan quality control is much better

[@biscuitsalive]

You just don’t see those in UK. No doubt a few around. But never seen one for sale when I’ve looked.

[@owlteachereducation]

Really good video. Ethanol is a killer for carbed bikes if they're left to sit for too long. Didn't know it creates problems for EFI bikes as well.

[@owlteachereducation]

Thanks for the reply Richy - confirms what I've read about ethanol: it's hydrophilic, corrosive, emulsifies over time and dries out rubber components in fuel systems. Nasty stuff for any bike.@@Richy_T

[@t_c5266]

Add $500 to $1000 for every "fix" from factory. More power? Bigger or more aggressive engine. Decreasing the service intervals and increasing engine cost. Better manufacturing? More expensive labor from a different country. Better suspension? More expensive material cost and manufacturing. Cutting out is understandable and fixable in design. However the other complaints are ones that would take this from a $5400 bike to a $8000-$9000 bike. The market for this is the $5400 market and that's the bike you're getting. If you'd like to fix the suspension expect about $1000-1500 for it. More power from an exhaust and a tune is about $1000. So the 2 big things right there and you're already at 8 grand.

[@neilchapman5145]

Xr400 called and said “do you miss me yet?”

[@charlesludwig9173]

Cheap suspension? Only for fat boys.

[@Picklerides]

The cut out issue is usually due to overfilling. Since this bike has a non vented cap, the need to vent it around the filler neck so If you go over the steel bars in the tank, the fuel will enter the vents and go into charcoal canister. Never fill higher than the steel bars and you wont have any issues. I knew about this before getting the bike so I never filled up more than the bars and never had any cut out issue.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yes I was aware of that. And mention it in the vid. But I never overfilled. When I swapped to E5 fuel I didn’t have that issue again. So that was my solution.

[@Permitmon]

What is E5 gas, please? I live in the US. Thanks.

[@Picklerides]

@Permitmon E5 is the amount of ethanol in the gas. They use that in Europe. E5 is 5% ethanol while E10 is 10% ect... not sure how that works out in octane rating but here in Canada, Regular 87 has 10% ethanol, Plus 89 has 5% ethanol and super 91 has no ethanol. I know that europe octane ratings are higher than ours. Hope this helps

[@biscuitsalive]

@@Permitmon as someone else said. Yes e5 vs e10 are our two main petrol (gas) options in Europe. And e10 has more ethanol than e5 (e5 being more like the basic unleaded we had before. ) Higher ethanol levels should be fine for nearly all modern petrol engines. But can be problematic for older models. (Most notably it can attract moisture when vehicle stored, and cause rust inside tank/parts) But I certainly found e5 to cause less issues on my honda300

[@Ciganyfiu]

Glad I’ve seen this video. Just experienced the first cut out issue on my new CRF300 Rally. New , 3 weeks old with only 800km on the clock. Never been off-road other than light gravel for 30 minutes, not dropped or even leaned over too much, only used 98 and then 95octane fuel with no ethanol. All happened randomly when ABS light started flashing then hazard lights activated by themselves faintly, so I pulled over and whilst clutch pulled in the engine cut out. Switched it off, back on again and the ABS light went off. Thought it was all ok, but then less than 10 min further pulled up to traffic lights in 2nd gear, pulled in the clutch and engine cut out again. Yet to have the first service done. Anyone experienced the same? By the way it was not overfilled with fuel and nice sunny day, not overly hot.

[@biscuitsalive]

Does sound a bit different than mine. Worth getting them to look at when you get first service. Also worth wearing a gopro to try to catch it doing it. Intermittent issues are a bigger to get resolved under warranty if they don’t happen when mechanic test rides it. Also worth swapping fuel to Another option. Just to see. (That sorted mine)

[@Ciganyfiu]

Thanks for the advice, will definitely try, although here in Australia we seem to have a lot higher octane fuel. There is e10-the only ethanol mix, then pure 91, 95 and highest 98 octane. The first tank I used was 98 and more recently 95, so way higher and no ethanol at all. Anyway, I am going back to the dealership tomorrow and see what they think.

[@adaptableadventurerider]

I just wanna say thanks, I'm hoping to move to Cornwall soon an really enjoying the channel cool to see what's about I'm also looking at the 300 L an Rally for dad an I for a trip to Iceland so it's great to see both the good n the bad often people leave that side out an it's important to get a handle on that. Check out rally raid level one they do the level one upgrade while keeping the seat height. :)

[@biscuitsalive]

Noice. Yep bought stuff from Rally raid before and been happy with products. I know I can just put a YSS shock in it, correct weight, and then just put a lower link on it as well. But hoping for a middle ground. Little higher than now and stiffer. Doesn’t need to be pro level. I’m rarely doing anything close to a actual jump. XD

[@janporkpie]

I bought a 300 Rally in March 22 and sold it in April 22 with 875 miles on it. The screen buffeted my head about and made the air around my helmet very noisy - I tried 3 different helmets and a screen extender but they made no difference. There's a little less leg room (30 mm) compared with the 250L as the pegs have been moved up and back slightly. The 300 engine is much coarser than the 250, the vibration are intrusive. It didn't turn in as easily as my 250L, I had to trail brake it to get it to turn in - as I did my XT660R. I'd kept my 250L so that's what I'm back on now. The Rally version is harder to clean than the L because of the plastic body panels - but that's true for any faired bike.

[@biscuitsalive]

I hadn't thought of the cramped legs, but now you say it it does feel more cramped than the 250. I guess that's where the extra ground clearance comes from in part.

[@janporkpie]

@@biscuitsalive Probably made it a better trail bike but as I use my 250L as a road bike the foot peg changes on the 300 were unwelcome. I use a CRF230F as a trail bike.

[@biscuitsalive]

I wanted to try that adventure spec mini fairing. But heard it covers all your warning lights. So I was hoping they were going to do a new version soon

[@JohnnyBoy919]

@@janporkpie Did you try the 300 non rally version? I'm sure you would have liked that more coming from a 250l.

[@biscuitsalive]

@will M I think it is a bit more vibey than the 250. Makes sense as the stroke is longer so the piston has to accelerate and stop more aggressively. But I don’t find it too bad compared to some single pots.

[@PatchedBandit]

I have the same cutoff issue on mine. Doesn't happen a lot but I do suspect its from overfilling and/or getting the bike on it's side. It happens so rarely that it isn't a huge issue but it is annoying. Problem with E5 is like you said it rarely sold where I travel. In Finland it's everywhere but Honda is a low power dualsport that should run almost on anything.

[@florinadrian7957]

mine 300 l has same problem it came like that from the factory made in thailand !

[@marcochavane3124]

I picked up a 300L Rally last week with BAD wheel hop that I pronounced itself from 40-50mph after I left the dealership. Dropping it off next week. Hope they replace the wheel. Very annoying for my first Honda purchase after 5 Yamaha bikes that were flawless.

[@biscuitsalive]

Sad to hear. I got a local guy to rebuild my wheel. Took a couple of hours and was cheap. So easier than taking it to dealer.

[@Unfunny_Username_389]

That front wheel out of true is bad and would never have happened if it had've been Japanese built.

[@rodneybrown4304]

You get what you pay for. I have over 10k on mine and share some of the same opinions as you. But...with the price point where it is you get a great dependable bike that can take you just about anywhere you want to go. The bike has far more positives than negatives.

[@Jonas-kx6bz]

I had exactly the same problem with my front wheel on my brand new CRF300L Rally. It was jumping at higher speeds.

[@alangaffney7186]

You get what you pay for i bought one last year and couldn't be happier it's great crack of road will go anywhere

[@biscuitsalive]

Don’t disagree. But little things like wheels being round is expected. :)

[@findingneutral]

Thats good information to know for prospective buyers. Thanks

[@ellismatthews5906]

Cut out is probably cheap ignition system, I've seen other reviews and the said it is the ignition

[@davida.miller6624]

mine was cutting out also eventually it would not start it was the ignition coil

[@doccops]

Nice review, the "You expect the f---ing wheels to be round!" comment said a lot ha. I just wish there was an alternative with a bit more oomph, and not a chinese based thing.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep unless you can face more services/maintenance. There isn’t a lot. (Not new for simular price at least) I’m on a KTM 350excf now. That is a lot lighter, with more oomph, and better suspension etc. but oil changes every 500miles etc.

[@doccops]

I want to replace my ageing DR350, I also have a KTM-500 which is hell of a bike but not comfortable for long distances, and the short oil change intervals are a pain, like you say ;)

[@jimw7916]

the MORE ethanol....the HIGHER the octane......... Just correcting you on that mistake.

[@MADTASS]

Spot On, E5 = 5% Ethonol, E10 = 10%, Supposed to be Cleaner Emissions.

[@mamjack6134]

Funny how people will spend a good chunk money on gaining a few HP when cheapest and easiest thing to do is run the premium/super gas with 93 octane .

[@OriginalUsername9000]

Running higher octane in an engine that doesn't require it has no effect on HP output

[@mamjack6134]

@@OriginalUsername9000 irregardless of what youtube videos claim . after 35 years of driving I've had only 1 vehicle that didn't get better performance from running super. V8 or 6 cylinder you'll get better mpg . from 4cyl down to little pitbikes you'll have noticeable pep, pull through rpms faster , dont hae to down shift to maintain speed pulling hills/overpass, a extra 10 miles on a tank when before switching to reserve. I know, I know ..... You saw a video

[@OriginalUsername9000]

​@@mamjack6134 no, i trust a youtube comment from an illiterate boomer

[@123452315]

@@mamjack6134 A more expensive fuel may run cleaner/smoother with less issues if left for a couple of months in the tank.

[@clvrswine]

@@mamjack6134 irregardless is not a word.

[@planetpeckham1]

Thanks for this, helpful to someone like me who vaguely thinking of getting a small thumper for off-roading. Sounds like the re-springing is pretty much obligatory for the larger rider. Do you happen to know what sort of dough we’re talking to upgrade rear?

[@biscuitsalive]

Around £300 for a YSS shock. U can prob just get a spring but I haven’t looked into that.

[@jmo2752]

@@biscuitsalive just a spring isn't worth it - a stiffer spring will require more rebound damping and the stock shock is already poor in that regard. Put your money towards a decent replacement shock - and if you're concerned about any increase in the seat height, consider the Rally-Raid Products LEVEL 1 shock (210mm travel) which basically keeps the seat height as it is when you're sat on the bike with the standard shock, but with better support and damping throughout the remaining travel.

[@thealvaco]

Hyperpro makes a shock, I had it and it was very good. Completely new bike, that's how it felt. €450

[@planetpeckham1]

Thanks all. Really helpful.

[@lukestringer2177]

anti pollution laws = carburation fuel/air VERY poor of FUEL...that's all the weight of thailand peoples are different ( europe or usa ) the springs and idraulic system of CRF300L , rear shock and fork are setted for 65 kg rider....that's all With little money you can resolve it . GREAT TRAIL-DUAL BIKE

[@clvrswine]

My 2023 Rally had it's first cut-out / stall. With only 400 miles on it, I was approaching a red turn signal. The bike shut off and did not restart for about 2 minutes. When it did start, it was very rough, like it was starved for fuel. The tank was at 1/4, so not over-filled. It was a little harrowing, as I had morning commute traffic behind me. Luckily, there was a slight down-hill and I was able to waddle out of the way. I honestly do not like the throttle control. Very jerky in 1st and 2nd. I went with an Upshift Magazine graphics kit from the start.

[@jimw7916]

These are typical complaints with Hondas lately ........ I recon they are losing their credibility. I know its not entirely their fault.... I put alot of the blame on Euro standards ..... less fuel usage .......less emissions ......engines must run at their peak limits to achieve these standards. eg: they all run EXTREMELY lean now (very bad for overheating and longevity)

[@aapa3732]

Just like the CRF250L was dumbed down from CBR250R 26hp spec to only 23hp. The 286cc of the CRF300L was dumbed down to only 26.5hp from the CBR300R 31 hp spec. Just use the CBR300R ECU with some stage one mods and enjoy about 33 hp at the crank. A low cost YSS rear shock with rebound damping adjustment can easily solve the comical noSHOWa rear suspension work.

[@e.l.9589]

Have you compared the torque curve on them?

[@aapa3732]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmS0dIp-ZrOHntEsi=7Rjdoham9C_eLu5f

[@aapa3732]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5arYYKKYrd2h7ssi=KBuyw_YZXlju8wmR

[@philippelabelle9988]

Spledid vid! Yoda level explanation quality!😊

[@Dustytrailzzz]

I had my first cut of issue when I removed my exhaust baffle, was rolling to a stop as I pulled in the clutch and gave it a bit of throttle it cut out. I panicked and went straight home to put it back on lol. Still waiting to see if it happens again.

[@derekne]

I loved this thanks for sharing!

[@OFFROADOVERDRIVE]

The cutting out issue is due to when you drop your bike gas will go into the charcoal cannister and the charcoal canister is connected to the air box and then the engine will get the fuel from the injectors and a ton of fuel from the fuel box flooding it , if you think that the cutting out issue is bad and you need to solve it you can do a charcoal cannister delete , if the cutting out is not such a big hassle don't do it because its not that simple

[@biscuitsalive]

I explain that in the vid. But as I said. I’ve only laid the bike down a couple of times. And the problem was happening before that.

[@OFFROADOVERDRIVE]

@@biscuitsalive charcoal absolves the gasoline and releases it now and again thats why its so random the cut outs

[@impalaSS65]

Are you suggesting the charcoal cannister is dumping raw fuel into the intake tract? If you mean fumes, then how are fumes going to cut out the engine?

[@OFFROADOVERDRIVE]

@@impalaSS65 when you drop your bike fuel will go through the charcoal cannister and into the tube connecting the air box into the engine , that's why modern street legal bikes when dropped don't start first try after falling , and then some of the fuel that got into the charcoal cannister gets absorbed by the charcoal and it slowly drains into the engine overtime and these bikes don't have a lot of cc so they get flooded really easily

[@biscuitsalive]

@@impalaSS65 I have heard this from several people. So don’t think it’s made up nonsense. But I don’t know the exact science behind what’s going on

[@Mjr1348]

Everything has something wrong with it.

[@biscuitsalive]

Just as I said at the end. Every bike has faults.

[@antonisloizou3356]

I believe that all fuel injected bikes with ecu are, especially the singles.

[@verktools731]

I had cut out once, it came right after fueling (topping it up). No ethanol.

[@pbesharah]

Greetings from Canada! Great Video. I like the word compromise. That's so true. I have a question and a comment. My 2022 CRF 300L is 2 weeks old. Have you had problems shifting from 2nd to 3rd gear. I'm missing that shift about 50% of the time. I thought it might have been my boot catching under the casing but it isn't. Last night I missed the shift and looked down, it seems the shift lever is not moving. I have to release the clutch and try again, usually works the 2nd try. Comment, I read an article a few years back in Scientific American about ethanol. Their conclusion was that ethanol was not as efficient as gas. Meaning that a blended gas would actually reduce your km/liter. That may be cause for the bike sputtering at times.

[@Permitmon]

Bummer, I’ve had mine for 4 months. No problems. Great machine for me and what I enjoy doing.

[@markkitching7469]

What jacket are you wearing.

[@biscuitsalive]

It was a fairly cheap amazon job. GearX storm jacket. About £45 I think. Not great quality. But seems ok for price.

[@markkitching7469]

@@biscuitsalive thank you and great video.

[@guzzidelgado]

good video !

[@DashRendar308]

Never use E10 if you not have to.

[@jimperry4420]

The reason I didn’t buy one is that it’s made in Thailand. My buddies paint on his frame rubbed off from his legs rubbing in two weeks. Etc. Etc.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep I put frame guards on mine straight away. Apart from front wheel not being round, and stickers not staying on, it seems well made.

[@willisbcteoh9840]

It's a l8ghtweight dual purpose bike ! Use it and treat it as so.

[@jasonb1614]

“You expect the fucking wheels to be round” 🤣 I do have that expectation as well. You aren’t asking too much on that.

[@biscuitsalive]

:D

[@keiannschyler]

have you had any experience the bike suddently turns off during cold start? idle is above 1k during cold which is normal.

[@biscuitsalive]

I chat about a cut out issue in the vid . I found switching fuel made that pretty much stop. But overfilling tank or laying bike down can cause the charcoal filter to get flooded with petrol which then sends vapours to engine. Which can cut out.

[@sebastianroman5294]

I had the same cut outs after they put new pgmfi no problems

[@gianlucabassi8853]

The main problem: It Is not a klx

[@Fishtaco415]

All bikes need 91 octane....

[@usernotfound1818]

not much power? so how much power did you expect from a 285cc bike?

[@biscuitsalive]

You could easily get more power out of a 125cc. There are many many older 250cc bikes with nearly twice the power of 300L. So yes. They could have easily got more power out of it if they wanted to.

[@usernotfound1818]

@@biscuitsalive if you are talking about racing bikes then they require some expensive maintenance

[@biscuitsalive]

@@usernotfound1818 I’m not. Most duel sports that are similar cc are significantly more powerful that the little Honda. (Look at Yamaha etc) The 300L is de-tuned a fair bit, which is absolute fine on the trails. But painfully breathless on the faster roads. No bike is perfect. Everything is a compromise. I’m happy with the 300L for now. But people should know what they are buying before they place an order. It is pretty gutless. Which makes it very easy to ride and stops you getting tired on long single track. But 23 horse power isn’t much at all on a bike of that weight. (That’s what it actually dyno’s at)

[@usernotfound1818]

@@biscuitsalive crf300l has 27hp not 23, it is a LITTLE less than wr250r but the crf has more torque than the wr. You are going to need that torque when you ride off road as you said above, while the hp is not so useful on the trails

[@biscuitsalive]

@@usernotfound1818 it has a max of 22.7 at 8400rpm according to dirt magazine that put it on the dyno. I’ve seen 3 different HP tests by independents. And they all came in well under 25HP Like all bike manufacturers, they mislead with official stats.

[@davidmallia628]

Curious what bike you would purchase which is a step up from the crf300l, that serves the same purpose, but just a bit more capably!?? Thanks for the sincere analysis.

[@biscuitsalive]

Probably a husqvarna 701. More serious bike. Better suspension. Much more power. And with service intervals not too far apart. (Not as good as Honda on that front, but much better than a enduro bike.) I may get one. But do have the feeling I will get into more trouble on one of those. Get tired quicker and make mistakes with all that power etc.

[@davidmallia628]

@@biscuitsalive quite a few notches up, but yes, a very serious choice.

[@biscuitsalive]

@@davidmallia628 there isn't much direct competition, price wise. not even seen a klx300 in uk yet. lots of second hand DRZ400, which has better power and suspension, but 5 gears and a carb, its very old tech now

[@davidmallia628]

@@biscuitsalive yes, I understand. I have a drz400sm at the moment. Just seems I want something a bit better. Fueling/throttle response is crude, 5 gears, as you say.

[@biscuitsalive]

@@davidmallia628 used my friends DRZ a few times. It’s still a solid choice. U may want to for a 701 if you want a proper upgrade. 300L is a great little bike. But it may feel like a step down in a couple of areas. (Lots of step ups too of course.) Get a test ride if u can. And remember it’s not too tricky or expensive to upgrade the suspension. But the power is the power. Not a huge amount u can do there. (Well there are things, but it’s lots of work and money for not a huge gain.)

[@hickokaviation2249]

You got the Flintstone wheels 😂😂

[@biscuitsalive]

XD Round wheels are overrated anyway.

[@carleddison7479]

...summary...

[@Heyletsfindout]

What microphone do you use?

[@biscuitsalive]

I think that was a rode smartlav into my phone.

[@kristopherhowitt353]

You have a 1 year warranty on that bike. You should have taken it back to the dealership and either they would have fixed those problems, especially with the wheel or if it was right away, they would have replaced the bike.

[@biscuitsalive]

I did. They would have fixed the wheel for me. But it would have taken several weeks. Couldn’t be bothered to wait so Sorted it myself. The cut out issue isn’t a problem since I switched to E5 fuel. So I’m ok with that. The bike will run on E10. But it definitely prefers E5

[@AceCarleton]

My dealership refused to help with the front wheel issues.

[@user-se7vt5ow4e]

I have had numerous Hondas over the years and have never had a good dealer experience. If Yamaha still made the WR250R I would have bought that instead of the CRF.

[@kristopherhowitt353]

@@user-se7vt5ow4e I agree. I would have too

[@charlesludwig9173]

I bought a 2023 model 3 months ago and now with 1000 street miles on the bike no issues such as yours. Changing oil and filter however I got hard stops on bolts before getting even close to the torque spec thus for fear of breaking bolts I left the bolts at the hard stop condition and all is well, no leaks. I did re flash the throttle since it was jerky in first and second gear. Now it’s OK. I weigh 178 pounds and find the suspension to be ideal and while the bike tolerates 55 mph speed on the highway 45 mph is were the bike feels most stable in either 5th or 6th gear on flat road.

[@jackmarks2176]

Wow, you must have got a lemon, been watching Itchy Boots on KZbin. She got a new one three or four months ago and has over twelve thousand miles on it. Engine has been trouble free but has gone through a few sets of tyres and brakes as she rides two to three hundred miles a day. 95 percent is all back woods goat trails. She has put gas in it from the tip of South America to Central America with no problem. Hard tell what kind of gas she finds in those back country places, but it always runs. I've been riding for 54 years and would only use 93 octane or at least 91 octane in a bike, you will be glad you did in the end.

[@JohnnyBoy919]

If you put 91 or 93 octane in a bike that doesn't require it, you are throwing your money away.

[@biscuitsalive]

Yep I love her channel. I’ve posted on the Facebook groups about the cut out and deliverable people all piped up and said they had the same issue. So don’t think it’s a isolated thing. Could be UK fuel... I’m just not sure.

[@metalsadman]

my 150 does that from time time too, must be their fuel mapping.

[@dennisconrad6124]

I realize this is an old post. But Itchy Boots put up a video where her CRF300l was getting a total bottom end rebuild at 26,000 miles. Something wrong with that in my opinion.

[@davidmatthews3093]

Oh no, blaming E10! All Hondas have been built for E10 since the 1990s. I’ve been using E10 since 2009 with no problems. It’s new in the U.K. but it’s been in Europe for a very long time. I know it’s trendy to point the finger but please look elsewhere.

[@biscuitsalive]

Wasn’t my idea. Few other people said to use E5 and have to be honest it hasn’t cut out since I switched over. And that includes after I dropped bike on a hill. (In case it was the charcoal canister.) But as I say in vid, the blooming thing is meant to run fine on both types... so... :/

[@JohnnyBoy919]

@@biscuitsalive Here in the united states, atleast New York all gas is e10... I don't have a crf300l but I have other hondas and never had an issue. Maybe it's the quality of gas? Is top tier fuel a thing where you're from?

[@biscuitsalive]

@@JohnnyBoy919 I went to a shell Not one of the more independent stations, so you would think it’s fairly uniform in quality. I guess I will find out more when Honda has a look. Could be that charcoal canister after all.

[@impalaSS65]

the E10 adds several problems; taking it out of the mix is smart while figuring out whats going on. The E10, the E5 are both horrible ideas from the spectrum of the "ban all cars"-crowd.

[@94SexyStang]

Stalling is FLAT out unacceptable.......someone's going to get killed because of that. I've heard of many people almost getting seriously hurt on hills because of that.

[@Davidlouis3]

Was his fault what you on about

[@XXXCRSPL]

I was having issues with my 2021 trail riding and it would get boggy and it ended up being the charcoal canister delete and the air system.. Jake the Garden snake showed how to do the delete and it made a Huge difference on my bike

[@sexygogetter]

I was gonna get this bike because a first time rider but I went with the XR650L because I’m 6’-5” & 235 lbs. Fact that the XR650L hasn’t changed in nearly three decades & that it still sells was a big reason to. If you want a motorcycle to survive the apocalypse, that’s extremely reliable, easy to fix, can run on rank fuel,endless mods to customize to your liking, capable of taking you anywhere, best bang for your buck & is extremely fun when you get used to it……XR650L hands down