One advantage this bike has is that it is very comfortable on the disastrous UK roads, which pretty much essentially ARE off roads = the numerous pot holes and imperfections on the roads, it takes them easy and you don't feel them as you would on any road bike
I like the versatility of going almost anywhere and I do now retired in Portugal. I take 1 to 3 hour trips. To me it feels it's the right bike to go exploring with. Love the moments
Best all round value bike on the market (IMO), capable of genuine round the world travel without breaking into a sweat. (The rally version). Love to see a review of the Honda ADV350 adventure scooter when it reaches the showrooms. Just ordered one off spec and delivery not till April. It could be the biggest selling bike this year. (Its bigger brother the ADV750 was hondas biggest seller last year, mainly in southern europe. I love your channel as you appreciate all bikes regardless of make and size.
@@thulsadoom544 lol I’ve got big bikes too. Not gonna learn a thing about riding in the dirt on the AT, which is probably the worst big adv on the market
Love my 250 rally, for a small single the mileages people have put on them are amazing, no reason to think the 300 will not be the same and as you say that bit of extra power shall always be welcome in a small engined bike
I've bought the 300 Rally to replace my 19 plate 250L, the improvement figures seem miniscule on paper, but in the real world Honda have made a very good improvement in grunt for both off road, 2nd is now awesome, and road, 6th will now actually pull well and will maintain 70-75 with ease, I really enjoy this bike and am very pleased with it. Some times makers do terrible updates, Honda have done a great job with this update !!
Ironically, this test is next up after I just finished watching the latest video from Itchy Boots, riding her CRF300 Rally through Panama (fantastic series, by the way). Nice review. Sometimes the little bolides can be even more fun to thrash than the big 'uns. 😎
Great little bike, light, small capacity, not very powerful but still managing to be a serious motorbike. Good to see the bike we've watched Norally ride over perilous ravines and intrepid mountain tracks, ridden on the hazardous challenges of Southern England.
This is crazy! I am in Australia and I am doing my motorcycle learners next weekend. I am 54 born in London and immigrated with my parents when I was 5yrs old. I’ve been looking at this bike for the last 2 weeks trying to decide if this is the bike I’m going to buy. Today in my UA-cam feed your video just came up. This has convinced me to get this bike, my name is Nicholas Missenden! Fate….
Put some slightly more road orientated tyres (and much stickier) like I have on my 250L- Avon Trailriders, and it transforms the bike when used for tearing around country lanes, and can still be used for light green laning.
Would love a traillie around that sort of capacity as a second bike. They were absolute staples when I started riding. Top fun! Shame the UK market doesn't seem interested, but maybe that will change as fuel prices increase. Bring back the XT500!
Hi Rick, in my opion, the UK market has always been interested in this type of bike, it`s the manufacturers that don`t seem interested, due to lack of profit on a less valuable machine. The major manufacturers employ very successful marketing men to "sell us what they want us to buy", and they do that by manipulation of facts to divert your attention away from what we really want because they can`t make so much profit on such bikes, they cost proportionally more to develope for cc than big bikes, and then they claim they can`t sell them economically. Again, that`s my opinion, but based on decades of eperience and dissatisfaction.
Hi Rick, Me too! I started out on an XL 125 and then an MTX 200. I used to love the XT's as well. The CRL would be great parked next to the GS :) and its great value for money as TMF says!
Its crazy why no manufacturers make a 40hp single 400cc, ultralight adventure bike (140kg or less), with 8 k service intervals that you can ride all day on road or track, for £7k or less.
@@olddirtbiker5088 not available in uk, impressive machine but looking at specs, says 1200 mile service intervals? and that seat looks a bit too extreme for an adventure bike with no wind protection. Im thinking a slimmed down crf300 rally with 400-450cc single, decent suspension and comfortable enough for all day riding. Needs minimum 6k miles between services as noone wants to bother with servicing on a long trip. Maybe £7k is dreaming, but should be able to deliver that for under £8k. Sub $11k US. The more people i speak to the more i think this would be a best seller. The closest is the KTM390 Adventure but at 158kg is a little heavy and ergonomics not off road orientated enough. (TMF has reviewed) A Honda CRF450 rally is the bike we all want.
I had missed this review. I actually came onboard your channel just because I was interested in buying a CRF and you had one. I did buy one but choose the more road going version which was also offered at the time, the CRF250M. I still own that bike and absolutely love it as a commuting machine. Use it every day. I was hoping that Honda would bring out an SM version of the L so that I could upgrade to that for a bit more power and some peace of mind in having a new bike. Sadly they still didn’t bring out a 17” wheel version. Some people have done their own conversion but I’d like to buy a standard factory one. Fingers cross they do one and I’ll bd a very happy man.
Very interesting Andy once again thanks. I've just purchased a Voge 300 rally here in Spain a very similar bike pick it up next week. I've now had my voge 500ds for two years and I can't fault it. I'm hoping the 300 is as good. Will let you know . Lewis and Gill.
I really enjoyed this episode. I found your channel 2 years ago when I bought my 2017 CRF250L. The new 300L offers some nice upgrades including more power, the ABS, and the gear indicator. I like the black wheels. Thanks TMF
Now then Andy, long time no UA-cam chat. Just getting back to wanting to get our bikes back out and about. Couldn’t help watch this one straight off. Still want one of these after your old 250L videos. Hope you and yours are all well. Looking forward to watching more of your biking videos. All the best Richard
You mentioned it had more poke compared to your old 250L which had the stage 2 mods same as mine. I pick up my new 300L on 1st March - decided to go for it to get increase in performance but keep it OEM. I only get 52mpg on the 250L with mods & have an aftermarket tank - hoping I get same range on 300L stock. Here's hoping!
I've been looking forward to your take on the 300L. I bought my 250L before Honda announced the new model, but I did get a bargain as a result and some of the cosmetic changes are incorporated on the last of the 250Ls. These CRFs are fabulous particularly when you consider that even if you do a little green laning you will actually spend 80% of the time getting to and from the trails so their road manners are very relevant. For most people a dedicated off road machine probably wouldn't suit as well so Honda have got it absolutely right 🙂
Yes Ive been waiting for a test of the new model as I did enjoy the riding and all the mods that u went through with the development of the crf 250 , u much improved it. Ive been thinking about some light green lane enjoyment although I do have a Yam DT 250 back from when I bought it in 1975 , its a bit precious but when its running again I do hope to get out on it for the first time in many years
Got one of these recently - superb bike. I was lucky to find one due to a cancelled order. Otherwise you may find a long waiting list as they are such sought after machines in the UK.
Great review as always.. I've ridden " big bikes" fireblades, Sp1. Blackbirds. Tigers. Gsxr's for the past 25 years.I Deicided to try downsizing to a little 300. After lots of research I took a gamble and bought a zontes 310zt. And wow. Its fantastic. What with speed cameras and dash cans I feel the days of ripping around back roads are numbered. Plus cheap insurance and tax and 90mpg! Is a massive upside. I'd love to see you do a review. The zontes brand really have upped the game when it comes to Chinese bikes and most bikers opinions on them..
Same, used to ride 600s went up to 800cc, but something was always missing..... fun! Smaller bikes are much more fun, especially in bad weather, you can get the back end out in the rain, you can ring their little necks and not worry about your license and you can carve up bigger bikes quite easily, had a versus 300x, a Himalayan (urgh) and now on the cb300r, just need a bit more power. The mt03 and ktms are spot on the money for weight and power imo.
Nice review. Your incidental and esoteric comments about riding are very important for us new riders. Observations about road conditions, weather, intersection obstacles, etc are very valuable. Keep talking! And, oh yes, thank you for bringing back “hey, kids…”. We all,appreciate it.
I have a CRF250L Rally and a CRF300L, the 300 is far better on power and fuel economy is unreal, long distances I can get 102mpg, on the trails in portugal it drops to 85mpg.
Hope you're well Andy, Hey kids is part of you channel and your own unique stamp. Always an informed video and a good watch, can't wait for your summer stuff, take care buddy
Great little bike for here in the western cape, South Africa. We have some of the world's best mountain passes and thousands of kms of gravel roads... An offroad bikers heaven..
Been waiting for this one Andy, I have to use 30 minutes of motorway on my "special" route and ask for your thoughts using this bike. Love the "Noraly" engine noise! 👌
Years ago i used to green lane on a Honda CRM250 2 stroke and watching this makes me miss that little bike and I think this would be perfect to get for a little light green lane fun or maybe a secondhand 250. Great review as always
Bought a 250L brand new and loved it but at 6’ and a pretty heavy guy it was a bit punishing. Wonderful bike though, highly recommend one for anyone. It’s such a great bargain on a bike with a great reputation for reliability
Great video. Funny everyone with the 300L seems to own and love their 250L. Me included, although my 250L is a 1993. The slipper clutch works both ways. Slips one way, grabs the other way. That's how they got the clutch pull so light. There is a video explaining the slipper clutch. Very cool bike. 10.2" suspension travel. Same as my '93 250L. The 300L has 5 more HP than my old 1983 XR350R that I thought was quite powerful and would pull third gear power wheelies. I love my new CRF300L and it inspired my new channel that I'm trying to grow so I can join in on the fun and UA-cam motorcycle community. Liked and subscribed! 🙂
Had my 300l on order for about a month now, still not due til May but the more I watch, the more I think it'll be worth it. The dealer has got the Honda sump guard, tail tidy and Renthal bars ordered ready to fit. Hoping late March may be do able, fingers crossed.
Quality review mate as always, how funny…..a few weeks ago i added the CRF 300 rally version to my collection. Totally agree, a lovely vibrant machine, a lot of fun for the money and a looker too. Kind regards Beans.
I do miss the old CRF250 videos! I think you said you had exhausted all the green lanes in your area, which was one reason it was time to say goodbye to the 250! If I had a second bike it would definitely be a dual sport, I don’t think there are any places to really ride round here though, not legally anyway!! Ace vid as always!
Thanks for another fun review. Over here in the colonies, supply is severely limited on these bikes. I wanted one and couldn’t find anybody to take my money for one. I lucked out and picked up a 2020 Yamaha WR250R for the gravel roads, double track, and sing,e-track trails. (Not sure where “green lanes” fit into a that lexicon…)
Oh I enjoyed that and I hope we have more to come before you hand it back. I have the 250L and there is not enough in the 300 for me to upgrade. Cracking looking bike though. I am considering getting the 300 to run alongside the 250, now that would be heaven. Cheers Flyer.
I would prefer the Rally 300 version myself ,if I was to put another 250 - 500 cc capacity bike in my garage ..Most of the time a small capacity bike is just as capable as larger bike & more suitable . Unless riding down long boring motorways plodding speeds of 40 - 60 mph with a top speed of around 80 mph + is plenty of power ..Good review Mr Flyer .
Watching again. Well. After having a fantastic day at Mick Extance Experiance day… I after lots of reviews decided to get one of these. I was thinking of the same bike at M,E which is a Beta X Trianer 300cc 2stroke. But with that I thought for on the road wouldn’t be adequate. They do have a 300RR model but reviews says it lacks power. So then there is a race edition, that I can’t seem to find any road registered. So yes. I Decided this HONDA CRF300L would be the better choice for light off roading. After all, I do have a slipped disk. Where as I thought on my Africa Twin the bike is capable. But I wasn’t. But oh the Crf 300l I think I might be. Tough if I’m not 😂 I’ll have it for four years 😂
Great review again TMF. Really enjoy your reviews of the smaller capacity bikes. How about reviewing some small second-hand bikes? I would be interested in your views of old two stroke 250s.
Cheers for this super vid. I ordered one of these in November, will it arrive in March? These are very popular and Honda can’t make enough of them! So I may have to be even more patient…. Safe riding…
Nice review of a decent bike. Looks a fun bike that anyone could buy & enjoy. I tend to prefer smaller capacity bikes as you can use most of the performance most of the time, they're also lighter & of course cheaper too so win win.
Within 2 years the price goes from £5199 to £5799....anyway I'm still going to buy one at the age of 58 despite my disgruntled wife taking a very dim view of anything 2 wheels and motorised...great vid.
Nice little bike for just having fun I would imagine, and just shooting off up a lane or track without too much trouble. Also, more versatile as it looks, tank bag, back pack, and a whole weekend of fun to be had. Although lil old me would need steps to get on it lol.
Nice review sir. Very well done. I'm looking into the availability of this bike in my area. If I can find one, I may buy it as a second bike. ( I've got a 1200 Sportster ) Would like this bike as a downtown commuter bike to run errands on. Save gas! Thanks for the review.
Great review TMF I’m seriously considering one for fun got a. GSA but not taking that proper green laneing I do like the looks of this and the Rally 6k for the Rally I think is a great price 🏍🎉👍👍
Nothing to do with this video whatsoever tmf but I've just ordered a new z900rs 50th anniversary today I'm so excited I need to tell you and everyone lol. Chow
The usual top quality review on a cracking little bike. Never ridden one but I imagine it would be great fun!! Out of interest is the extra 30mm travel due to the frame alone or has it got smaller wheels?
Great video as usual. Thought you might of risked a bit of off road around the back of Whiteleaf. Your not that far from the Ridgeway at Chinnor, I used to take the KMX to it but that was in the 90s. Not sure your allowed to do this nowadays. If anyone wants more info on Green Laneing contact the Trial Riders Federation, they used to be very helpful.
Don't think the 300s have a bolt on sub frame like the 250s had. Only really relevant though if the bike has a particularly hard life or it carries a lot of luggage where the sub frame might get damaged. (e.g. Noraly's sub frame collapsed when she took part in the Kalahari Rally in October '21.)
Top vid again. However if you changed the tyres to decent on road only rubber would it make a decent back road bike, or would the suspension be too soft? I'm not talking super moto style just a small cc back road machine.
Many others have shown how capable the bike is before , by riding around the world, maybe look up the name Steph Jeavons, blows Itchy into the weeds......
Have you bought it? My 250 which is languishing in my farm barn is awesome, but in the wrong place...haha In Thailand, this bike brand new, cost £3,300 pounds, it also comes in black and white colour.. It is my next purchase. There is so much off roading here, with no worries of byways, dog walkers and horses!!!!! Nice review/comparison.
Unless you are using off-road techniques that need ABS off then you are best to leave it switched on. Early ABS was pretty bad and no good for off-road but that doesn't apply anymore. No matter how good you are you're always going to stop quicker with ABS on low traction surfaces.
Arhh .. they look great 👍 fun! .. ive been an itchy boots fan (& you TMF!, plus a few u tubers 🌠) for a couple yrs now... its amazing just what the little Honda can do in the right hands! Another helpful review from you! I just got back from a chilly but fun, day out on the 790 (which your review added to my decision last month 😁✅️) .. if I could afford another bike these "green laners" seems like a good idea 💡 cheers 🌤💯
Again, here I am watching a video on a bike I have limited interest in but can’t miss the presentation. Unfortunately for me I don’t have ready access to off-road sections and living in a Baltimore suburb dual sports have a bit of stigma around them.
Hey TMF! Just watched this again as I’m in the market for a small capacity dual sport. Can you get the Voge 300 Rally in the UK? I’d be really interested to hear your thoughts about it as it looks like a direct copy of the CRF300L but substantially cheaper!
I just ordered one! 65 years old! Just for cruising back roads!
Cool!
One advantage this bike has is that it is very comfortable on the disastrous UK roads, which pretty much essentially ARE off roads = the numerous pot holes and imperfections on the roads, it takes them easy and you don't feel them as you would on any road bike
I like the versatility of going almost anywhere and I do now retired in Portugal. I take 1 to 3 hour trips. To me it feels it's the right bike to go exploring with. Love the moments
Is it a heavy or light bike mate?
Best all round value bike on the market (IMO), capable of genuine round the world travel without breaking into a sweat. (The rally version). Love to see a review of the Honda ADV350 adventure scooter when it reaches the showrooms. Just ordered one off spec and delivery not till April. It could be the biggest selling bike this year. (Its bigger brother the ADV750 was hondas biggest seller last year, mainly in southern europe. I love your channel as you appreciate all bikes regardless of make and size.
I loved my 250L. Used to aim for potholes and speed bumps without fear. Such a good bike.
Yes fun aren’t they!
Just brought my 300l home yesterday. Love it so far, can’t wait to work up my off-road skills on this little ripper
Have fun!
27 bhp naw I keep my Africa Twin
@@thulsadoom544 lol I’ve got big bikes too. Not gonna learn a thing about riding in the dirt on the AT, which is probably the worst big adv on the market
Love my 250 rally, for a small single the mileages people have put on them are amazing, no reason to think the 300 will not be the same and as you say that bit of extra power shall always be welcome in a small engined bike
….and it is surprisingly noticable
I've bought the 300 Rally to replace my 19 plate 250L, the improvement figures seem miniscule on paper, but in the real world Honda have made a very good improvement in grunt for both off road, 2nd is now awesome, and road, 6th will now actually pull well and will maintain 70-75 with ease, I really enjoy this bike and am very pleased with it. Some times makers do terrible updates, Honda have done a great job with this update !!
@@grays5112 what’s the top speed?
@@georgeyboy8186 87 indicated 79 real world on GPS
Ironically, this test is next up after I just finished watching the latest video from Itchy Boots, riding her CRF300 Rally through Panama (fantastic series, by the way). Nice review. Sometimes the little bolides can be even more fun to thrash than the big 'uns. 😎
Lovely bike.
Same as the KTMs .... don't forget to include security in your budget if buying one. They ain't only desirable to decent people.
Just picked up my 300l. Love it. Off-road was better than expected including grip. Rear shock will be my aim, it is soft, but I'm 18stone.
Yes I reckon a shock upgrade is the way to go - great bikes!
I was just having an Itchy boots moment there, nice bike, great video as usual
Cheers Ray
Noraly / Itchy Boots has certainly demonstrated the capability of the CRF platform.
I was so NOT having an Itchy boots moment. Can’t imagine he’d look too good with guyliner!
I would love an updated XR650 that looks like this.
Had my xr 250 for 11 yrs now .. I've owned cbrs and zzrs but nothing beats doing country twisties on the little 250 . Great fun these bikes .
They sure are - miss my 250L!
Amazed non of the other big, Japanese manufacturers make similar really. For example, no modern DRZ400?
Great bike.
Happy travels 👍
Yes odd given the popularity of the CRF
I have the KLX 300. Kawasaki stepped up their small dual sport right before Big Red.
@@pinkiewerewolf But not in Europe. Kawasaki are majorly missing a trick here.
A modern (but cheap) DRZ400 would be awesome, but no hope now I don't think, even Honda have dropped the CRF450L now
Restrictions prevent the klx300 from UK sale. I think this is down to the lack of abs...come Kawasaki...sort it out!
Great bike. I downsized from an Africa Twin. No regrets. More fun on and off road. Worth every penny. Thanks for the review Andy.
I agree and my pleasure!
Great little bike, light, small capacity, not very powerful but still managing to be a serious motorbike. Good to see the bike we've watched Norally ride over perilous ravines and intrepid mountain tracks, ridden on the hazardous challenges of Southern England.
It doesn’t come more perilous!
This is crazy! I am in Australia and I am doing my motorcycle learners next weekend. I am 54 born in London and immigrated with my parents when I was 5yrs old. I’ve been looking at this bike for the last 2 weeks trying to decide if this is the bike I’m going to buy. Today in my UA-cam feed your video just came up. This has convinced me to get this bike, my name is Nicholas Missenden! Fate….
Cool - I wonder if there's some ancient link between where I am now and your name??
Just got one for myself 4 months ago and already out 5000km's on the clock!
Put some slightly more road orientated tyres (and much stickier) like I have on my 250L- Avon Trailriders, and it transforms the bike when used for tearing around country lanes, and can still be used for light green laning.
What kind of tyres do you use?
Would love a traillie around that sort of capacity as a second bike. They were absolute staples when I started riding. Top fun! Shame the UK market doesn't seem interested, but maybe that will change as fuel prices increase. Bring back the XT500!
Hi Rick, in my opion, the UK market has always been interested in this type of bike, it`s the manufacturers that don`t seem interested, due to lack of profit on a less valuable machine. The major manufacturers employ very successful marketing men to "sell us what they want us to buy", and they do that by manipulation of facts to divert your attention away from what we really want because they can`t make so much profit on such bikes, they cost proportionally more to develope for cc than big bikes, and then they claim they can`t sell them economically. Again, that`s my opinion, but based on decades of eperience and dissatisfaction.
Hi Rick, Me too! I started out on an XL 125 and then an MTX 200. I used to love the XT's as well. The CRL would be great parked next to the GS :) and its great value for money as TMF says!
Its crazy why no manufacturers make a 40hp single 400cc, ultralight adventure bike (140kg or less), with 8 k service intervals that you can ride all day on road or track, for £7k or less.
@@mysterybiker1717 In the US the Yamaha WR450F would exceed those specs, but not for that price new. Perhaps a used 2020 model.
@@olddirtbiker5088 not available in uk, impressive machine but looking at specs, says 1200 mile service intervals? and that seat looks a bit too extreme for an adventure bike with no wind protection. Im thinking a slimmed down crf300 rally with 400-450cc single, decent suspension and comfortable enough for all day riding. Needs minimum 6k miles between services as noone wants to bother with servicing on a long trip. Maybe £7k is dreaming, but should be able to deliver that for under £8k. Sub $11k US. The more people i speak to the more i think this would be a best seller. The closest is the KTM390 Adventure but at 158kg is a little heavy and ergonomics not off road orientated enough. (TMF has reviewed) A Honda CRF450 rally is the bike we all want.
Honda quality ensures peace of mine. Very important when going off road.
Agreed
I had missed this review. I actually came onboard your channel just because I was interested in buying a CRF and you had one. I did buy one but choose the more road going version which was also offered at the time, the CRF250M. I still own that bike and absolutely love it as a commuting machine. Use it every day. I was hoping that Honda would bring out an SM version of the L so that I could upgrade to that for a bit more power and some peace of mind in having a new bike. Sadly they still didn’t bring out a 17” wheel version. Some people have done their own conversion but I’d like to buy a standard factory one. Fingers cross they do one and I’ll bd a very happy man.
Very interesting Andy once again thanks. I've just purchased a Voge 300 rally here in Spain a very similar bike pick it up next week. I've now had my voge 500ds for two years and I can't fault it. I'm hoping the 300 is as good. Will let you know . Lewis and Gill.
I really enjoyed this episode. I found your channel 2 years ago when I bought my 2017 CRF250L. The new 300L offers some nice upgrades including more power, the ABS, and the gear indicator. I like the black wheels. Thanks TMF
My pleasure!
Now then Andy, long time no UA-cam chat. Just getting back to wanting to get our bikes back out and about.
Couldn’t help watch this one straight off.
Still want one of these after your old 250L videos.
Hope you and yours are all well.
Looking forward to watching more of your biking videos.
All the best
Richard
Great to hear from you again Richard! Where have you been??
Brilliant bike as you say Noraly is proving the point how good this bike is
Great review cheers Andy 👍🏍
Cheers Terry
You mentioned it had more poke compared to your old 250L which had the stage 2 mods same as mine. I pick up my new 300L on 1st March - decided to go for it to get increase in performance but keep it OEM. I only get 52mpg on the 250L with mods & have an aftermarket tank - hoping I get same range on 300L stock. Here's hoping!
Yes sounds like a good plan!
I've been looking forward to your take on the 300L. I bought my 250L before Honda announced the new model, but I did get a bargain as a result and some of the cosmetic changes are incorporated on the last of the 250Ls. These CRFs are fabulous particularly when you consider that even if you do a little green laning you will actually spend 80% of the time getting to and from the trails so their road manners are very relevant. For most people a dedicated off road machine probably wouldn't suit as well so Honda have got it absolutely right 🙂
Yes I agree Dave, a brilliant bike for laughs….and serious travel!
Yes Ive been waiting for a test of the new model as I did enjoy the riding and all the mods that u went through with the development of the crf 250 , u much improved it. Ive been thinking about some light green lane enjoyment although
I do have a Yam DT 250 back from when I bought it in 1975 , its a bit precious but when its running again I do hope to get out on it for the first time in many years
Morning Dave !
Peace and love brother 👍🏻☮❤
Got one of these recently - superb bike. I was lucky to find one due to a cancelled order. Otherwise you may find a long waiting list as they are such sought after machines in the UK.
Yes Ive heard that
I just bought one of these to compliment my BMW R1200GS. Enjoying it.
Good call!
Great review as always.. I've ridden " big bikes" fireblades, Sp1. Blackbirds. Tigers. Gsxr's for the past 25 years.I Deicided to try downsizing to a little 300. After lots of research I took a gamble and bought a zontes 310zt. And wow. Its fantastic. What with speed cameras and dash cans I feel the days of ripping around back roads are numbered. Plus cheap insurance and tax and 90mpg! Is a massive upside. I'd love to see you do a review. The zontes brand really have upped the game when it comes to Chinese bikes and most bikers opinions on them..
Same, used to ride 600s went up to 800cc, but something was always missing..... fun! Smaller bikes are much more fun, especially in bad weather, you can get the back end out in the rain, you can ring their little necks and not worry about your license and you can carve up bigger bikes quite easily, had a versus 300x, a Himalayan (urgh) and now on the cb300r, just need a bit more power. The mt03 and ktms are spot on the money for weight and power imo.
Nice review. Your incidental and esoteric comments about riding are very important for us new riders. Observations about road conditions, weather, intersection obstacles, etc are very valuable. Keep talking! And, oh yes, thank you for bringing back “hey, kids…”. We all,appreciate it.
Thank you for the encouraging feedback! Appreciated!
Hi I had 250l until it was stolen 😭
But it did remind me of my first road bike the 125 XL and I loved both of them.
I have a CRF250L Rally and a CRF300L, the 300 is far better on power and fuel economy is unreal, long distances I can get 102mpg, on the trails in portugal it drops to 85mpg.
Brilliant! Thanks for the feedback…
The bike looks really good for a dual sport ( a little like a tiny Africa Twin). I think I want one although the camo KLX 300 looks pretty good too.
I've be saving for about 3 months now got another month to go but stuck be tween the klx300sm and a DRZ400SM
Hope you're well Andy, Hey kids is part of you channel and your own unique stamp. Always an informed video and a good watch, can't wait for your summer stuff, take care buddy
Thank you Jason!
Great little bike for here in the western cape, South Africa. We have some of the world's best mountain passes and thousands of kms of gravel roads... An offroad bikers heaven..
A fun review. Liked seeing Noraly’s cameo 😍.
👍
Hey kids 😀. Keep your intro 😀. Been watching Itchy Boots myself on her Honda, so it's good to see you out doing a review. Cheers Andy 😀
Yes “Hey Kids” is back for good!
Been waiting for this one Andy, I have to use 30 minutes of motorway on my "special" route and ask for your thoughts using this bike. Love the "Noraly" engine noise! 👌
Hmm, not sure it’s a great motorway machine….
Years ago i used to green lane on a Honda CRM250 2 stroke and watching this makes me miss that little bike and I think this would be perfect to get for a little light green lane fun or maybe a secondhand 250. Great review as always
Bought a 250L brand new and loved it but at 6’ and a pretty heavy guy it was a bit punishing. Wonderful bike though, highly recommend one for anyone. It’s such a great bargain on a bike with a great reputation for reliability
I agree - bullet proof
Thank you for the beautiful country tour . You have found Honda a good home .
Buying one next week if it's still in the showroom, thanks for the review on this, it's helped solidify my decision 😁😁😁
Glad I could help!
Great video. Funny everyone with the 300L seems to own and love their 250L. Me included, although my 250L is a 1993. The slipper clutch works both ways. Slips one way, grabs the other way. That's how they got the clutch pull so light. There is a video explaining the slipper clutch. Very cool bike. 10.2" suspension travel. Same as my '93 250L. The 300L has 5 more HP than my old 1983 XR350R that I thought was quite powerful and would pull third gear power wheelies.
I love my new CRF300L and it inspired my new channel that I'm trying to grow so I can join in on the fun and UA-cam motorcycle community. Liked and subscribed! 🙂
Usual high quality video we've come to expect from TMF.
Thank you!
It's a step in the right direction using Centergrade, all you have to do now is change over to riding on the right-hand side.
That ain’t going to happen!
And Roz veersma. In Australia . She has done 80.000 Kim’s on her crf 250 l Legendary you tuber as well.
Looks a great bike, its come a long way from the XL's of the 70's
Too right. I had a 1973 SL125 and used to brag “ I can fix anything on this bike” and it was a good thing: things needed fixing almost daily.
Had my 300l on order for about a month now, still not due til May but the more I watch, the more I think it'll be worth it. The dealer has got the Honda sump guard, tail tidy and Renthal bars ordered ready to fit. Hoping late March may be do able, fingers crossed.
Enjoy the new bike...when it comes! Let me know how you get on....
Quality review mate as always, how funny…..a few weeks ago i added the CRF 300 rally version to my collection. Totally agree, a lovely vibrant machine, a lot of fun for the money and a looker too. Kind regards Beans.
Good to hear from you again mate!
I want that bike so badly. I've looked everywhere in Tennessee and dealerships don't have them in stock. Ugh
Yes they do seem quite hard to get hold of at the moment...
I love the CRF. 300L I reviewed that and the Rally last week. Great bikes. I want one 😍
I do miss the old CRF250 videos! I think you said you had exhausted all the green lanes in your area, which was one reason it was time to say goodbye to the 250! If I had a second bike it would definitely be a dual sport, I don’t think there are any places to really ride round here though, not legally anyway!! Ace vid as always!
Yes that was the only reason I sold…
3 minutes into the video and you're looking into the curves as any good rider should.😉
Thanks for another fun review. Over here in the colonies, supply is severely limited on these bikes. I wanted one and couldn’t find anybody to take my money for one. I lucked out and picked up a 2020 Yamaha WR250R for the gravel roads, double track, and sing,e-track trails. (Not sure where “green lanes” fit into a that lexicon…)
Looks like the wheel rims are in black as well, I think better looking than it’s predecessor. Another great vid, cheers Andy. 😀👍
Yes I missed that!
Oh I enjoyed that and I hope we have more to come before you hand it back. I have the 250L and there is not enough in the 300 for me to upgrade. Cracking looking bike though. I am considering getting the 300 to run alongside the 250, now that would be heaven. Cheers Flyer.
Stay tuned - more to come!
Great little intro to the bike, I had briefly considered the 300 Rally, but changed plans.
Fair enough!
I would prefer the Rally 300 version myself ,if I was to put another 250 - 500 cc capacity bike in my garage ..Most of the time a small capacity bike is just as capable as larger bike & more suitable . Unless riding down long boring motorways plodding speeds of 40 - 60 mph with a top speed of around 80 mph + is plenty of power ..Good review Mr Flyer .
Thank you for watching!
Itchy Boots (Noraly) is mesmerizeing. I came here to get a better appreciation for the Honda CRF300L. Thx!
YES I have been waiting for this for so long I got to sit on one the other day love it only the suspension is a little soft
Watching again.
Well. After having a fantastic day at Mick Extance Experiance day…
I after lots of reviews decided to get one of these.
I was thinking of the same bike at M,E which is a Beta X Trianer 300cc 2stroke.
But with that I thought for on the road wouldn’t be adequate. They do have a 300RR model but reviews says it lacks power. So then there is a race edition, that I can’t seem to find any road registered.
So yes. I Decided this HONDA CRF300L would be the better choice for light off roading.
After all, I do have a slipped disk. Where as I thought on my Africa Twin the bike is capable. But I wasn’t.
But oh the Crf 300l I think I might be.
Tough if I’m not 😂 I’ll have it for four years 😂
I was waiting for the Noraly mention - and you delivered. Hello kids! Great to have that back now too, just adds character!
Thanks Scott - not everyone approves of “Hey Kids!” Alas!!!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yea, they might not approve - but what do they know anyway? Hey Kids! It's fun. We need fun in our lives.
Great review as always, I'm picking mine up March 1st !! ordered last June.. when are you getting one TMF !!!
Sounds like I’d have a long wait!!! Congratulations on your new bike….
Great review again TMF. Really enjoy your reviews of the smaller capacity bikes. How about reviewing some small second-hand bikes? I would be interested in your views of old two stroke 250s.
It's a logistics thing mainly - very difficult for me to get hold of them....
Morning Andy, my first bike was a CRF250L, I loved it , especially on the green lanes in North Yorkshire. Just wish the tank was bigger
Yes the small tank size is a pain - better on the Rally of course….
IMS are developing g a 13L tank, should be out by the end of the year.
I'd love to see a Dual Sport comparison between this, the WR250R and the KLX300S.
Cheers for this super vid. I ordered one of these in November, will it arrive in March? These are very popular and Honda can’t make enough of them! So I may have to be even more patient…. Safe riding…
Nice review of a decent bike. Looks a fun bike that anyone could buy & enjoy. I tend to prefer smaller capacity bikes as you can use most of the performance most of the time, they're also lighter & of course cheaper too so win win.
Yes I completely agree - I miss my CRF for that reason, just light basic fun….
@@TheMissendenFlyer Too many good bikes & not enough space!
Within 2 years the price goes from £5199 to £5799....anyway I'm still going to buy one at the age of 58 despite my disgruntled wife taking a very dim view of anything 2 wheels and motorised...great vid.
YOLO!
Sean at srk, "it's not what you're riding, it's where you're going". Looks like you can go somewhere on this kids.
Nice little bike for just having fun I would imagine, and just shooting off up a lane or track without too much trouble. Also, more versatile as it looks, tank bag, back pack, and a whole weekend of fun to be had. Although lil old me would need steps to get on it lol.
Yes it is a tall machine
The walk round is much better when it's done on the phone mate much better view of the bike 👍
Thanks for the feedback - I’ll try and do that from now on then….
@@TheMissendenFlyer no problem mate and thanks.im sure you done it that way before and the footage turned out great 👍
1:30 It's gone from a 249.6 to a 286, with about a 15% increase in HP.
15% is a pretty good increase.
Nice review sir. Very well done. I'm looking into the availability of this bike in my area. If I can find one, I may buy it as a second bike. ( I've got a 1200 Sportster ) Would like this bike as a downtown commuter bike to run errands on. Save gas! Thanks for the review.
My pleasure.....
Waiting for this test. It's the bike I'm looking to buy. Thanks
Stay tuned - more to come!
One thing I noticed was the subframe is now fixed to the mainframe, not ideal if it breaks, but they are a good little trail bike.
As previously mentioned, Itchy Boots is doing well on her new CRL to be fair.
Great review TMF I’m seriously considering one for fun got a. GSA but not taking that proper green laneing I do like the looks of this and the Rally 6k for the Rally I think is a great price 🏍🎉👍👍
Go for it!
Nothing to do with this video whatsoever tmf but I've just ordered a new z900rs 50th anniversary today I'm so excited I need to tell you and everyone lol. Chow
Congratulations! Great bike….
The usual top quality review on a cracking little bike. Never ridden one but I imagine it would be great fun!! Out of interest is the extra 30mm travel due to the frame alone or has it got smaller wheels?
I think it’s forks/frame
I’ve been toying with the idea of getting the CRF300 Rally since I saw Noraly’s.
Yes great bike
27 hp.i think my 250G5, had the same ,had a couple of them,last one i had was so reliable it was boring lol,anyway keep up the good work,tc
Great video as usual. Thought you might of risked a bit of off road around the back of Whiteleaf. Your not that far from the Ridgeway at Chinnor, I used to take the KMX to it but that was in the 90s. Not sure your allowed to do this nowadays.
If anyone wants more info on Green Laneing contact the Trial Riders Federation, they used to be very helpful.
Don't think the 300s have a bolt on sub frame like the 250s had. Only really relevant though if the bike has a particularly hard life or it carries a lot of luggage where the sub frame might get damaged. (e.g. Noraly's sub frame collapsed when she took part in the Kalahari Rally in October '21.)
Great video as always and I hopefully one day will own a 300l. What was up with the exhaust header pipe in the end? Was it loose?
I don’t know - I forgot to mention it - oops!!!
Top vid again. However if you changed the tyres to decent on road only rubber would it make a decent back road bike, or would the suspension be too soft? I'm not talking super moto style just a small cc back road machine.
It would be perfect!
Great video very nice bike , itchy brought a new one and is showing how capable it is
Many others have shown how capable the bike is before , by riding around the world, maybe look up the name Steph Jeavons, blows Itchy into the weeds......
Indeed…hence the cameo
Have you bought it? My 250 which is languishing in my farm barn is awesome, but in the wrong place...haha
In Thailand, this bike brand new, cost £3,300 pounds, it also comes in black and white colour.. It is my next purchase. There is so much off roading here, with no worries of byways, dog walkers and horses!!!!!
Nice review/comparison.
Bargain!
Unless you are using off-road techniques that need ABS off then you are best to leave it switched on. Early ABS was pretty bad and no good for off-road but that doesn't apply anymore. No matter how good you are you're always going to stop quicker with ABS on low traction surfaces.
Fair enough
Arhh .. they look great 👍 fun! .. ive been an itchy boots fan (& you TMF!, plus a few u tubers 🌠) for a couple yrs now... its amazing just what the little Honda can do in the right hands! Another helpful review from you! I just got back from a chilly but fun, day out on the 790 (which your review added to my decision last month 😁✅️) .. if I could afford another bike these "green laners" seems like a good idea 💡 cheers 🌤💯
Again, here I am watching a video on a bike I have limited interest in but can’t miss the presentation. Unfortunately for me I don’t have ready access to off-road sections and living in a Baltimore suburb dual sports have a bit of stigma around them.
Hey TMF! Just watched this again as I’m in the market for a small capacity dual sport. Can you get the Voge 300 Rally in the UK? I’d be really interested to hear your thoughts about it as it looks like a direct copy of the CRF300L but substantially cheaper!
Great review, makes me want another one!
Yes me too - if only i had the space!!
Would love one just not sure theres enough legal off road areas to ride in the uk
Nah there's certainly not in my neck of the woods - which is why I sold my 250L
I enjoyed this review. Have you driven the Yamaha WR 250F? I would love to here a comparison.
No I'm afraid I haven't
Great video and comparison with the 250 bike. Are you planning/ able to do an off-road or greenlane ride on the bike?
Yes - coming soon!
Great review. I thoroughly enjoyed it ..
Peace and love brother 👍🏻☮❤
Thanks!