Why the Honda CRF450L is superior and better vs the KTM 500 EXCF

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[@Twistedmetallic]

I have Exc 500 with 40.000 km, no rebulid and no valve adjust. Seatconcept make the comfort.

[@gt7500]

98% of KTM fans haven't owned or even rode a CRF450RL/L. THE Honda has superior bottom end power, closed cartridge Showa forks, LED lights all around, meets Honda reliability standards for street bikes and is giving me something for the extra weight it carries. The 500 EXC-F also has its merits too. Depends on what you want to do. For me, the Honda is a true dual purpose motorcycle!

[@aaronhicks6714]

Another fine video Will... keep up provided content!

[@dougstand8828]

comfort wise, the 450L is way better than the ktm500. for dualsport purposes and yet a capable gnarly offroad bike the crf450L is better than the ktm. im a ktm rider myself but I only do single track 90% of the time. if I can own 2 bikes 1 for exploring and one for gnar, it would be crf450L and a KTM 300 2 stroke. but as a 1 bike owner with single track mostly in mind ktm 350 or ktm 500 is idea, but you are 100% right the crf450L is a hell of a dualsport with capabilities for the ganr. good video Will!

[@JRodSMX]

I sold my ktm 500 for my crf450l. Zero regrets. The crf suits me better than all of my ktms did.

[@mxracingunlimitedltd7784]

What kind of riding? Open areas or not really?

[@JRodSMX]

@@mxracingunlimitedltd7784 I live in SoCal. Not many tight technical spots to ride. It’s allot of fast desert and flowing single track so mostly open areas and track use. If you do more of a enduro style of ride, then a crf450 probably isn’t going to be great. The crf wants to rev not lug. It thrives in open areas where you can let it rip.

[@francismayer108]

@@JRodSMX Totally agree. This is the perfect SoCal bike in many ways.

[@joey011582]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3qtlWeIpMtlidk

[@joey011582]

Must only ride dirt roads lol

[@chrisblanchard4938]

I just did sections 4-8 of the NEBDR route on a 2020 ktm 500 exc-f with 180 plus miles each day and was very comfortable. I didn’t have any issues with the bike either.

[@captainamerica9353]

Impressive, but the real pro's wheelie GSA 1250's on BDR's!

[@Insaiyanrider]

How would the 450 do on the highway and canyons ? Vs the 500 I wanna do both exploring/trail and street

[@marksomma2352]

I really enjoyed the video and your opinions. But I have to admit that it was a little strange that you were basically doing a review on a CRF450L and KTM500 while riding a DRZ. Just seemed strange to me but nicely done.

[@RWWRENTAL]

Thanks! Its just I did not have enough footage of both bikes. So kinda had to share what I remembered. I remember the KTM500 being a much more fun bike for sure, and powerful, but the crf450L seemed way smoother

[@MrCrs911]

I have both and for me the KTM is the better bike all around. The CRF isn't a bad bike at all. When it comes to working on it the KTM is engineered way better for us at home mechs. The ride is equal to me. Reliability is pretty much a wash anymore. I like the lighter bike to do a wide variety of things easier on the rider. To each there own. Safe riding!!

[@Alaska_MD]

what mapping app are you using on your phone on the Husqy?

[@bearcanuck2916]

Awesome! You make great points!

[@quinnpacker9219]

I think that in terms of engine power and performance, the ktm will take the cake any day of the week. But the suspension is something that isn’t always talked about between these two bikes, and from what I’ve seen, the Honda’s got the ktm beat in that category. That with the twin spar aluminum frame adds some noticeable rigidity. Again, both amazing bikes and they have their strengths and weaknesses of course!

[@Blocanbentlyyahu]

Dude ktm chassis and suspension is better than Honda

[@Mxbdt]

I agree with alot of what you got to say but remember what part of the country you are in. The single track in the desert is way different than the single track you will find on the east coast. But you are definitely right you really didn't need the ktm 500 but I also think you would be fine with that style or riding on a Hawke pro 250.

[@DesertVetRider]

I ride tight desert single track on a KTM 300EXC. I used to race moto on a CRF450. I love my KTM. However, I would probably purchase the Honda 450L for one of the reasons you stated. I would be riding it alone the majority of the time. Unlike when I take my KTM, and therefore, I wouldn't risk riding the same hard technical stuff as I would if I were with friends. For me, it would be more for exploring and just scratching the itch when I didn't feel like loading up the bike in the back of the truck. Good video.

[@biophillie]

the jerky throttle and flame out must be fixed if you want to enjoy riding it. AIM or GET ECU and custom ramped throttle grip almost eliminate those issues. Flywheel weight addition helps a little. Then its fun to just ride around, or rip arse. Great bike with mods. Magura hydraulic clutch is nice too.

[@miketrevino-5084]

Mine seemed to break in and become smoother unless I just got better but when new it was tight and very sensitive

[@stevecarmack6267]

I’m selling my 690R and considering the 500 mainly due to weight . At 66 some of the dual sport rides I do and some areas of the TAT I believe would be more fun on a lighter bike. Like you, I ride a 2 stroke for my single track fun and the 500 is very close in weight as my 300.

[@MrDavidfuchser]

No flameouts?

[@mxgryan]

It's a better fit for you, but thats where the "superior" part ends bro. Good video though.

[@billyarsenault1970]

Lol. I’m a Honda guy but I hear ya. Right on.

[@pets4489]

That's not entirely true. Plastics are much better on the 450L. Less likely to break and fade. The sub frame is sturdier. The tail assembly is sturdier. The LED lights are significantly better. The bike is overall significantly quieter. PDS v Linkage (opinion) Service intervals significantly longer.

[@geraltofrivia4651]

@@pets4489 you missed the VIBRATION on the bars difference

[@jodychapall6421]

450rl all the way yes it’s heavier but that build quality is amazing

[@davidsalo8397]

KTM takes too many shortcuts making the exc models. It's like an afterthought when they make a dirt bike street legal.

[@kurthedgecock6313]

Great video! You make a good point about the reliability of the Honda. It was built to be more than a dirt bike with lights and a license plate.

[@davidsalo8397]

I got tired of hauling my KTM exc to the repair shop. I now own a Honda 450 RL and love it. I love to explore.

[@captainamerica9353]

@@davidsalo8397 , KTM and repair shop has to equal lots of $$$$ ! I'm curious about the trouble you had. Also wondering what your oil change intervals were (miles / hours), did it need a top end, etc?

[@davidsalo8397]

Owned 2 KTM exc scoots. A 530 and a 350. Here's a short list of issues: Oil seals go out. Both bikes vibrated horribly on the road. Kickstands are fragile. Electrical problems with the wiring. Goofy computer display. I took the 350 through a creek, slightly less than knee deep, and the engine took on water. That cost $4k for a new top end. Ouch. I also found the controls (horn, blinkers, lights) problematic on the KTMs. When I sold the 350, I told myself I will never buy another KTM. Or any other European bike. Now that my 450 RL is set up the way I like, it's the ultimate dual sport in my book. Hard core riders may disagree, and I'm fine with that! 😸

[@thorgeirnable]

Im curious about 2 things when it comes to longevity. The KTMs have higher compression ratios, and Im not sure theres a way to get around that TOO much. Not saying you cant mitigate it. Also what about the factory tune being extremely lean? I imagine that doesnt help much running on atoms for 10000 miles

[@jctoth]

Great video! I agree completely. I just picked up a 2022 CRF450RL and I do the same type of riding as you. I can blast down the highway to get to the trailhead and then enjoy the trails. The Honda is the swiss army knife of dual sports. It can do it all. And with just a little tweaking it can become very good in a specific role ie supermoto, light adventure, enduro, rally, etc. etc. Also, let’s keep in mind that the Honda is $2000 less than the KTM! Keep up the good work.

[@FAFO_24]

Does your 450RL die a lot at low speeds?

[@jctoth]

@@FAFO_24 With the factory ECU it would flame out at low speed. I installed the Vortex ECU and it’s perfect now. If you only do one mod to the bike it has to be the ECU.

[@LichaelMewis]

@@jctoth if you feather to clutch does it still stall at low speeds with the factory ECU?

[@jctoth]

@@LichaelMewis I don't run the factory ECU nor would I recommend anyone running it. I run the Vortex ECU and it never stalls.

[@butterytoast4836]

My 2022 has only ever stalled out on me once at low speeds. It was my 2nd time riding it and I was down shifting from 2nd to first. It was still warming up as it happened when I turned the corner off of my street. Hasn’t happened since. I don’t even have the idle set to high. Still running stock ECU.

[@jimmys3983]

After 1500km on my 450L, with the ECU changed to Vortex and the FMF pipe fitted, the Honda still randomly flamed out. I was a devoted Honda man, and was devastated in my purchase with Honda`s consistent reliability crushed. I`m considering the KTM 500.

[@79gsonethousand]

Drz for Life!!!🤙

[@314adv]

Understand !! I own a DR650 and a CRF450RL / I thought the 450 would replace my 650 as I am mostly back roads, fire roads, and limited single track and a few multi day moto camping (I have to ride an hour to get to any gravel). The DR could do most of it - but was 60lbs heavier, carb jetting for out west trips, and not quite punchy enough just to often. I find I end up doing more difficult off road on the 450, and taking the 650 for longer pavement and wide gravel roads now. I almost went 501 husky / but chose the 450 for dealer support and subframe. All that said, I recently road a beta 430 / and the wow - this is the only bike that has made me wonder if it might just be my next swap.

[@tankeater]

LMFFFAAAOOO the fact you and him compared a 2000s model Kawi, to justify why you have a 450L compared to a 500 exc is ignorantly hilarious to me 😂🤦‍♂️

[@314adv]

@@tankeater- ​​⁠- you realize only 35 seconds in to the video he commented he was giving up his 701 for a 450 and then goes on to say he would choose the 450 as his only bike. And compares the DR400 for comparison too. I was commenting on this aspect of his video - but hey / super stoked it may you 😂. // oh - and I sold the DR and have over 20,000 miles of riding like he describes on it.

[@tankeater]

@@314adv - - you realize that has nothing to do with my statement. You then go on to one of your several ramblings, and say that's the aspect you're referring to. Then why did you bring up your 650 Kawasaki, if you where only referring to a 701 and 450??????? LMFFFAAAOOO 🤦‍♂️

[@314adv]

@@tankeater - you win

[@tankeater]

@@314adv win??? LMFFFAAAOOO... Wow

[@Edward-rg8mh]

Great video. I like the logical way you stepped through your points to reach a reasonable verdict. I had to laugh though at something no one picked up on. To prove your points, you used the reliable dependable mule, the Suzuki DRZ400S. Which begs the question, why not choose a DRZ400S over the Honda 450 or the KTM 500? 🤣

[@chrisdenett7593]

please mr suzuki give us a 6th gear

[@biophillie]

I like the sturdy subframe

[@texlee1640]

I have owned both, I currently have the 500. Here are my thoughts after thousands of miles combined on dual sport, light weight adventure bike trips and multiple BDR's. The Honda is the better high speed bike, if you're going to be riding open country at speeds in excess of 50 mph then I'd take the 450L/RL. Its heavier weight, better 'stock' suspension and aluminum frame make for a better handling and more stable bike at speed. The motor in the Honda makes better power on the top end especially when uncorked with a ECU and proper exhaust. Beware the flame-out issue is a real thing but there are multiple solutions to improve upon that. The KTM is the better single track/two-track enduro focused bike, think woods riding and speeds under 50 mph average. IMHO, the 500 makes better bottom end power of the two and that's more usable at slower speeds and in technical terrain. It's the lighter bike and by quite a bit. The 500 has the better brakes and clutch, no debate there. I don't find much difference in way of comfort from an ergos POV, I ran Seat Concepts seats on both bikes. The only real noticeable difference here is in regards to the vibrations felt, the Honda is the clear winner there as the 500 is a vibey SOB. I found no difference in terms of reliability, both bikes have small little nags but they are both very reliable and dependable. The dealer network might be slightly better for the Honda but the aftermarket is much better for the KTM. Resale on the Honda is pretty bad, there are tons of '21-23 MY lightly used bikes with less than a 1,000 miles on them sitting for sale for months at $8K where the 500 from 10 years ago still brings $5-8K with 10K+ on the clock. If you want to spend very little on aftermarket accessories and upgrades then the Honda is the better out of the box bike, it simply needs less. If you like to farkle your bike and don't mind dumping some money into it to make it better for you personally and to take it to the next level then the 500 transforms into the better bike overall. But stock vs. stock the Honda is the better purchase for those that want to simply swap tires, slap on some bags and go adventuring. The subframe on the Honda helps immensely in this department as it can handle more weight on the tail safely. At the end of the day these are the two best bikes in the class and you can't go wrong with either one. That said, the 500 is still the king but the Honda is definitely a very, very close second that is more readily available and cheaper overall to purchase and maintain. I'd be happy to have either one in my garage but the 500 takes the cake for me personally and that's why the 450L is gone.

[@user-fn2sy4xy5i]

This is exactly the reason I replaced the 701 with a crf 450l. The CRF is a versatile motorcycle that knows how to do everything. Motocross, enduro, adventure trails and a comfortable road trip.

[@Dontortellini3]

have you noticed any differences in engine vibrations. Does the crf vibrate less?

[@davidsalo8397]

If you own a 450 RL, do the following mods to stay ahead of the KTMs 🤓: GET SX-1 ECU, exhaust system, smog removal, and remove air box lid. I honestly don't know what bike would win in a drag race. But with all the other advantages of a Honda, I'd choose it any day over a KTM. A personal choice.

[@noyzizi]

goddamn you. I watched 20+ videos on the KTM 500 and was sold on getting one then I watched your one video now I have to decide all over again! because you're absolutely right! damnit

[@jg5529]

I have a 450L and my starter failed at 1800 miles.

[@leanit5756]

I had a 19 EXC500F (stock), then a CRF450L (without and then with Vortex ECU and FMF quiet exhaust), and now a 22 EXC500F (stock). I find the fueling, smoothness of power delivery, and usefulness of the low end power way better on the EXC. Even after the Vortex and exhaust, the Honda always felt like it needed a ton more flywheel. As a trail bike, I think the suspension is vastly superior on the EXC. All three bikes had absurdly horrid seats, and vibrated to a ridiculous level. I like the see through fuel tank on the EXC and hate the rubber dingus on the CRFL rear sprocket that makes lubing the chain a PITA. I don't like the plastic cover that has has to be removed to reach the oil filter on the Honda either. I like the dash on the KTM, but all the street stuff (mirrors, key mechanism, etc) are obvious afterthoughts. The headlight output is a joke. Little things are annoying, like the front brake hand control set can only be rotated so far forward before the mirror starts pushing into the throttle cables which then push into the master cylinder. On the left hand control the adjustable clutch lever has little useable adjustment as the adjuster knob interferes with (hits) the turn signal switch assembly upon making adjustments. The Honda was obviously built to street legal to begin with, and is very superior on these types things. KTM provides rim locks but doesn't put them in the wheels which is absolutely ridiculous. It IS a dirt bike, period, and needs low tire pressure and therefore rim locks. Who wants to have to pull wheels off a brand new bike just to put in rim locks that came in a bag with the bike and that could have been installed at the factory? I don't remember about the Honda on this. The only thing I would really like to have on the EXC is bigger footpegs and a seat. On the Honda, it needed a seat, ECU, exhaust, and heavier flywheel. I don't remember about the pegs on the Honda.

[@chiboreache]

rim locks is a garbage, you should use tubeless

[@jamesnelson6381]

The tire that comes on the bike from factory is 80/20. If you are going to do serious off road you pull that tire and put something more aggressive on.

[@LichaelMewis]

Anyone experiencing the low speed stall issue on the 2022 450RL first hand? I want one of these bikes but trying to determine if this is legit or not. Is it people just not properly feathering the clutch at these low speeds?

[@billmauerman5113]

From my experience both bikes are absolutely great. Pick your favorite and go with it. They both have little things about them that a guy will want to replace or change, but they're still both great bikes. And yes everything you read about the Honda flame out issue is true. Either replace the ecu with a Vortex at about 800 bucks or with a ecu tuner from JD Jetting for about 250$, and it works better and it's easily adjustable. A flywheel weight is a good idea on the Honda too (my next purchase) and both absolutely need a better seat (are the factories even going to realize these aren't mx bikes and give us a nice comfortable seat?).

[@captainamerica9353]

@@billmauerman5113 , they could lower the seat heights, also, for those of us under 6 foot, and/or who are not MX stars. One of several reasons I have a Beta XT with a 35.8" seat height. But if I ever get a Beta RRS I'd have to lower it.

[@quadlife6282]

I have been told to go with the crf I’ve been told to go KTM, I’ve looked at the crf 450 rl 2022 and I’m really torn between the 500 and the 450. I want a bike I can ride to and from work and then cruise some trails on the way home. My brother just got a cr250 and rides dirt bikes with his friends and they are always talking about riding single track. I live in a rocky mountainous area so I need something that can take come hills. What would be the better buy? Crf450 rl or KTM 500 exc-f?

[@morganlopez7922]

500 is the way to go if you riding anything technical

[@clayramsey019]

Ktm

[@willkelley7747]

Ktms are junk

[@uncletom1971]

For exploring you need a Kawasaki KLX 230, or a KLX 300. Narrow trails and tight turns between trees and bushes demands a nimble machine. The 450L is way to powerful for that, as is the 500 EXCF, though they roll well on roads and open ranges.

[@race8427]

Sorry I’m late. I ride the same type of Co terrain. Sold my 20 year old DRZ 400 for $100 more than I paid for it, rock solid mount. As you know, plates are required to ride many trails now.. I picked up a Beta 500 in mid 2022. Looked at Honda and KTM also, it came down to availability in the post C19 era. The pricing on these bikes are nuts for what you get. I mean almost 2 DR 650s for one of these. I outfitted mine this winter for lite ADV duty. Regarding unit longevity, Beta’s have a separated transmission oil sump to aid in keeping friction material out of crank sump oil, and to keep a hot clutch from over heating engine oil and Vice a versa. The KTM 500 has a built in Cush drive in the tranny. While good this may not extend life to the transmission output shaft splines. For extended service life I will be installing a Warp 9 Cush Drive. I love Honda’s well earned reputation for durability. The aluminum frame on the CRF 450 is a huge plus as is the steel rear subframe. Betas subframe is a thin molded plastic as is KTM. Looking forward to exploring and 2 BDRs this summer.

[@RWWRENTAL]

You being in Colorado knows exactly where I am coming from! This is where I try explaining and glad you understand. CO just has so many options as far as trails and exploring goes, from super gnar single track, to the open mountain roads that connect to 50in trails back to the highway where everyone drives 20+ over the speed limit. in all honesty, I feel you need 3 sets of motorcycles in Colorado to satisfy the kind of terrain Colorado has. I feel the Beta 500 is one hell of a bike too! I have not ridden it too much so cant tell how it does at high speeds but it did awesome on the trails.

[@StumpStunter95]

Ive rode a stock ktm500 with sumo wheels, and a ktm500 with sumo wheels, ecu, exhaust. Neither felt as good or snappy as my crf450L supermoto with the stage 2.

[@ml5955]

I think you make some good points, but the KTM is a better bike for more aggressive riding - like you said. The question is, why not the the less expensive DRZ over the Honda for the points you made. A modded DRZ with a FCR carb, or a converted E model ( if your state allows) , is an excellent alternative at a good price point. I’m really interested to hear your take on the DRZ v CRF-L, since you own both. I had a DRZ K model ( kick only enduro version), and thought it was an excellent trail bike, if not a little too heavy for off road racing.

[@Ammothief41]

I just wonder if it being carbureted will give it trouble going on adventure rides out here with lots of elevation change. Otherwise it seems pretty good.

[@hugobaert7737]

damn man im in a pickle between these bikes. I'm flying out to denver end of April and the plan is to ride some BDR, as much Offroad as possible in general and travel all the way through South America. I wonder will the CRF450 hold me back or will its comfort be much appreciated?

[@fynn8252]

There's no way the CRF will hold you back. The 450L and KTM500 can achieve the same tasks almost equally. Less weight is always better for technical situations. The KTM weighs ~30ish lbs less, is harder to stall and has better mapping for trail riding. The Honda has a slight edge in reliability, comfort and the ability to mount more luggage. For longer unsupported trips, the Honda would give me better peace of mind since they tend to have less quirks. But for pure off-road the KTM is nice.

[@bryanmathew2079]

I'm Considering These Bikes aLso..... Could You Give Me a Tip@ Which U Got, Not Sure I Want To Spend Like a $1000 More Aft....The Crf Purchase, I'm a Tight Wad, Lol.

[@CoolEyeColorado]

That KTM 250 at 6:55 seconds is a good looking bike!

[@RWWRENTAL]

I wonder whos it is :D

[@701explorer3]

very good video and perfect point of view why the 450L is better. very similar to why I bought my 701. I was supposed to buy a 450L but everything was sold out. a bunch of my friends told me to get the ktm500 that it was the best of both worlds. I also have a 2 stroke for straight single track, but wanted something with more comfort for trail hopping and exploring when we are not doing ST and everyone said get the ktm 500. while yes its a good bike, it was way too buzzy for me and was no where near comfortable as a 450L. but in my case I got the 701 which is perfect for what I do in comfort since I dont do solo single track anyways

[@RWWRENTAL]

pretty much what you said, ktm 500 was just too uncomfortable for me when on pavement and longer stretches and the 450 can still do the harder single track if it comes to that

[@bryanmathew2079]

How U Still Like 701 , I'm Trying To Figure Which Bike? I'm Over 55 , Would Mostly Do Light Explore Woods.

[@timmoore6656]

The only good thing about the KTM500 is that it makes panties drop.

[@bentbars9366]

If you can find one

[@Impedancenetwork]

I had both. I prefer the KTM. I sold my Honda and kept the KTM. The price difference is notable. I spent $4K on the bike (KTM) after I bought it, so the KTM is a $17,000 dirt bike if you upgrade the ECU, exhaust, etc. That's pretty pricey. Most people are not ok with that.

[@Ammothief41]

The more I see riders going down from unexpected flame outs on these new bikes the more I wonder if the old clunky drz ain't the best all arounder. Take the damn money savings and buy a cushy seat for it and call it a day.

[@brianricoh3242]

76,000 miles on ktm 500 with tuned Vortex , will never sell only rebuild. Off the floor, the set up on japanese bikes have alittle more care with set up , ktms are more crude with off the floor set up, more an expert bike, to be set up. But I look at the amount of work it would take the 450l to get to ktm weight range, and I get Labor pains. I went right at 40,000 miles before the first motor failure, while all engine bearings have been replaced, water pump, a couple gears and pistons, still on original Crank, cylinder, stator and valve train.

[@roycemartin9068]

The claim to fame for anything Honda is “reliability”. The fact is, ktm/husqvarna is as reliable if not more. The ktm big bore 4stroke 450/500 motor is absolutely bulletproof. They’ve got it nailed dead nuts at this point. The 2 biggest factors that went into my decision to get a husqvarna fe450 is 1. Weight and 2. How easy it is to work on. Ktm mechanics built these bikes with “working on it” in mind no doubt. Just the perfect bike. Not saying the 450l sucks because it’s still a badass bike but for me it’s ktm/husky all day long.

[@chrisblanchard4938]

You will notice the weight difference between the 500 and 450L

[@stillbingrude]

I am a KTM diehard but I must be honest and share my experience. As much as I love my 2020 KTM 500...it seized at just about 25 hours. 3 months after I received it and KTM as well as the dealer refused to do anything about it. And before you ask, I'm not riding hard and last oil and filter was less than 20 hours before it seized. That being said...I'm still sticking to KTM

[@fynn8252]

Wow, I’m sorry to hear that. You must have gotten really unlucky. That’s definitely not normal especially for that bike and how new it is. I love KTM’s because they’re great for trail riding and don’t weigh much.

[@captainamerica9353]

RizlaRifle , sounds like you would have been justified to sue KTM, though it's easier said than done!

[@campland2880]

Thats a very rare circumstance, as you know. Most 500's comfortably go 20k before needing a top end refesh. Typcially exceptionally solid and reliable bikes...and so fun to ride! I hope your next one is treating you well. I suppose there's a lemon every now and again (something obviously went wrong).

[@canon6sexy990]

@@fynn8252I’m trying to figure out what bike I wanna get, the 2024 ktm 350 excf or the crf 450RL. I’ve ridden the ktm 500 and my dads Honda 450RL their both nice bikes. I’m gonna be riding it a lot and on and off road and doing some jumps. I just can’t decide on which one would be better. I’m 5’11. I’ve grown up racing motocross and well as riding sport bikes for 8 years

[@fynn8252]

@@canon6sexy990 That KTM 350 is better off-road, hands down. On-road, the Honda will be noticeably better. What trade off are you willing to make? I’d go with the 350 because you can do everything from gnarly singletrack to short stents of 55-65 mph pavement all without getting tired. Plus they handle so well!

[@Gravelcruiser]

The 450L certainly has some strong points over the KTM. But there are some weak points as well. But truth be told, both bikes probably need an extra grand or two spent on suspension and possibly an ECU to run properly. Another consideration would be a Beta 500, or possibly a 390. Probably still needs a grand put into the suspension though.

[@RWWRENTAL]

I test road the beta390rr and that was also butter smooth sadly I didnt get to test it on the road so I am not sure how it is comfort wise but I loved it offroad

[@captainamerica9353]

The Beta's for 2023 have upgraded suspensions and don't need ECU's or pipes from what I understand. I have a plated Beta XT which is great for close trails but plan to get an RRS500 for longer rides.

[@abdulabdelrahman5785]

Both great bikes, own both 2021 CRF an 2022 KTM But weighting only 155 pounds, I can lift KTM easier Lol

[@johndaroza2987]

Nice 250 works and 300 too.

[@noeltimm246]

Honda, look at the tenere 700 and make a 500, sorted!

[@chrisblanchard4938]

I love my 2020 ktm 500exc-f. I would not trade it for a 450L

[@RWWRENTAL]

if I owned 1 bike, KTM500 or Beta 500 for sure if you are a single track hound. KTM 500 is by far awesome. but for someone looking for a bit more comfort and more into mellow rides, the crf450L is a better choice for them

[@vondrz1391]

All rider preferences. Ktm is worlds away in terms of quality of components.

[@morganlopez7922]

500 is the way to go if you riding anything technical , Also very fun to ride to work if you don’t have to carry a backpack full of power tools I always describe my experience riding the 500 like a mountain bike, I can literally go anywhere once I get my skills up lol

[@gt7500]

So what year CRF450L you had? Have you even rode one? ...uh huh.

[@campland2880]

@@gt7500 I rode one. . .it was a boring pig compared to the 500.. .in all ways.

[@gt7500]

@@campland2880 ...of course you have! But making noises in the showroom doesn't count.

[@campland2880]

@@gt7500 If you like heavier bikes with less power and crappier suspension, cool. . . put lipstick on it and ride that thing.

[@kevm9724]

No way I give up my uncorked KTM500EXC for even a free Honda or Suzuki. We may not be a world champions but its fun trying. Riding anything else just sucks....

[@ebhkkc1]

2022 450 RL ALL DAY...Japan built with quality and passion. They are built to last. I LOVE MINE.......check out my youtube video on the upgrades

[@rockyesterline7942]

My 2022 crf Honda 450 RL is as stiff as riding a steal pipe with Handel bars and steal tires ! I' all ready had my front and rear suspension reworked $1000 still the stiffest suspension on any bike on the planet and I have been riding since I was 10 so i know every bike ! I now have 4k in up grades pipe ECU supper cross tires license plate tucked way up under the fender low mirror air box gold o ring chain! but fine on the street !! so just figure it has the suspension of a old taco Mini bike

[@dwightbernheimer331]

How about the CRF 450 RL... Wouldn't THAT be a better comparison???... Just sayin' 50 or 60 lb in weight savings is a lot when you're my age, almost 80 LOL. Great stuff thanks for posting... Happy Holidays

[@fynn8252]

The 450L & 450RL are the exact same bike. The RL just has hand guards and new graphics.

[@hock4540]

What will the CRF450L do that the DRZ won't? You stated (if not in this video, but others) you don't really do highway or lightweight adventure touring since you trailer with your camper now. And you don't get much more reliable than a DR or lower maintenance intervals. And I have to imagine the DR is more comfortable than the CRF also.

[@charlesl2459]

I have the drz400 but many of my friends have the crf450L by where I live. mostly flat though... by far the crf450L is way better than the drz400 in terms of weight, handling and just overall operation. also the 6 gears help it tons to gear it slightly lower. I want a lower gear on my drz400 but cant since we do a lot of highway also at 70 mph at keep in mind it is 5 gears so I keep mine at 15/40 vs my friends crf450L have I think 13/46 and can still cruise 70mph and have that low end. it does have a good performance suspension and engine. I really want a 450 but its expensive. ACT gears is also expensive. Im hoping one day I can get the 450L. I think that is truly the perfect bike most of us are looking for. dont get me wrong, drz400 can do everything the crf450L can do, except when it comes to gearing and just overall smoothness and handeling. its just modern...

[@RWWRENTAL]

drz400 does everything the crf450L can except the internal gearing at that 6 spd and efi. but in all honesty, for the price of a drz400 its prob a better deal depending on what you ride. As for me, I sometimes have no choice but to take high speed roads back from trail hoping. its not that I dont do highway, its I dont ride from my house anymore and trailer instead but I do have to take long roads back. on road the crf450L felt better than the drz400 but by a little. it was smoother, the braking was better. I havent taken the crf450L 70mph+ when I test road it, but when it becomes available ill def report it. as for the drz400 maintenance, without a doubt its maintenance free but i still change my oil every 4 or 5 rides anyways so wont bother me too much

[@jctoth]

6 speeds are a must if you’re going to do trails AND the highway

[@seancarr9907]

I agree with you. Yes the KTM Is better offroad. But the Honda is better on road. Just matter of what the individual is doing. I am getting the honda.

[@dh-flies]

Why Honda owners are delusional...Loved the video quality. There's nothing wrong with you liking the Honda...It just isn't the bike the 500 EXC-F is. It is probably the 2nd choice though....after the Husky of course.

[@johnscribb6731]

If you want a RELIABLE dual-sport buy a Yamaha XT250. If you want the BEST a dual-sport can offer, buy a Husqvarna FE501s. Then there's everything in between.

[@thecocooreo]

KTM > Honda

[@twilliamsusmc]

KTMs are trash. I had one of those oil burning spark plug fouling expensive pieces of junk. Sold it for a huge loss.

[@chasejiannalone8763]

I dont know why these vids seem to always pop up but the KTM haters continue to try and disparage the “reliability” . But concede the Weight, suspension fuel capacity and stall issues. Those are THE issues though and are the reason after everyone buys everything else they end up on. kTM 500 in the end. Now more than ever. By the tome you solve Honda’s performance issues you have exceed any cost differences and still cant stay with it it the nasty stuff.

[@RWWRENTAL]

Why these videos come up, a bit simple. Ad revenue from youtube. Kind of how the world goes from news stations, to them talking about Covid, to the killer hornet. whatever you can do to bring attention for ad revenue thats the secret...money. As to my own personal personal taste, both are awesome bikes, and both suit different kinds of riders. At the end, even a Harley with dualsport tires can haul on open trails, they are just 2 different styles of bikes is all In my rental fleet, KTM has been the most reliable.

[@thomasreid7674]

If you have to start a video out by saying"I'm going to get a lot of crap for this video" than you are clearly going to be wrong and say a lot of crap that will be completey biased. Trash. Ktm all the way!

[@roycemartin9068]

Couldn’t agree more. There’s a reason EVERY bike is compared to the almighty king(s) ktm/husqvarna

[@chrisvillarreal2752]

🤔 yeah no…. Brakes- ktm Suspension- ktm Clutch- ktm Weight- ktm Ergos- ktm Worst of all I’m a Honda fanboy…

[@RWWRENTAL]

yeah the KTM is better in every aspect except true dual sport riding. I rode both, but the honda crf450 was way more smoother and comfortable on wide/50in trails and on pavement vs the KTM500. But if I was a single track hound that needed to hop on the road a bit, ktm 500. For more "aggressive" dual sporting I think the crf450RL/L is a better choice

[@gt7500]

98% of KTM fans haven't owned or even rode a CRF450RL/L. THE Honda has superior bottom end power, closed cartridge Showa forks, LED lights all around, meets Honda reliability standards for street bikes and is giving me something for the extra weight it carries. The 500 EXC-F also has its merits too. Depends on what you want to do. For me, the Honda is a true dual purpose motorcycle!

[@tankeater]

He tested a 400 Kawi against the 450L... To justify why the crf450L is better then a ktm 500 exc 😂🤦‍♂️. I rode Honda my entire childhood, and I'll put my 2015 KTM against a brand new 450L. This guy contradicted himself every other sentence.