I feel like you stoled my story. This is the review I needed 6 months ago and now your explaining exactly how I feel about this bike. You did a great job on this review. I too am a beginner. At 66 years old, 6’ and 240 lbs this bike has filled all my expectations and love of riding. I did take a motorcycle safety class which I think is a must for beginners. Can’t say much more about this bike. You nailed it 100%. It’s not a bike you can criticize if its used the way it was meant to be used. If you want to go fast and jump off cliffs get a different bike. I was confused and disappointed in most of the reviews I watched from all different country’s. Your also right about the price. You can’t beat it. Sure you can change shocks, sprockets, seat cushion, etc and have a few thousand dollars more in it. You might as well just gone and bought a $15k bike then. I was refreshing to watch your video knowing there is someone out there that shares my feelings about the Honda 250 Rally. Well done! Oh, and yes, I have the same color and it is an attention getter even at my age.
I'm from Germany and almost everybody here is riding around with fancy BMW R1250GS and KTM 690 or 790 Adventure. For a long time I felt little desperate because of not being able to afford such a bike since I'm a student. Yesterday I had a test ride with the 250 Rally and I'm super excited - and almost shy about comparing it to other bikes. It just felt so right and confident. That's the point of your video that's picking me up the most: buying a bike and having fun without loosing it in any of the important categories. Guess who's checking the financial situation now? Keep the great work up. Thanks!
Having had larger adventure bikes in the past and struggling with them off-road . I purchased one of these this past spring .I now have 3000k on it doing gravel roads , train lines and small secondary paved roads . Seems like a decent bike for mild exploration and I always leaves me with a smile on my face .
I don't know why people call this a beginner's bike. I've been riding off-road motorcycles for 45 years (licensed for 42) and I'm *loving* mine. I started on the farm (G4TRD, TC185) then got my own 6 year old '74 XL350, then used '80 XR250, '86 XR600 (had that one right through the 90s) and in parallel '85 CBX550F2, '86 K100RT, '95 R1100RT (from new, still use it). Four months ago I got a brand new 2019 Rally for CAN$6400 on the road. Loving it. It's great in town, great on NZ's rural 2-lanes, and very capable off-road. It really reminds me of my ancient XR250. It's a little heavier, but far more comfortable on-road (though I used to take that 300 km between my parents and uni for vacations). The Rally's engine is very soft and mild below 5500 RPM but actually gets some real urgency after 6000 and then revs seemingly forever (10500 RPM, though you'd usually want to change up by 9000 or so). No problems at all pulling out into or keeping up with traffic. I'm 178 cm (5'10") and 130 kg (285 lb) and performance is fine -- even the suspension, with the rear on maximum preload setting. I'm interested in exploring places not racing. Everything is stock so far, but I'm putting a set of D606 tyres on next week, which should be a lot better in mud and sand and on slick wet clay (all of which are plentiful around here), and hopefully no worse on road.
Bruce Hoult Agreed 100% Bruce. I think some people see 250cc and just automatically equate it to “beginner rider” when it’s all about using the right tool for the right job. When it comes to off road exploration with comfortable road riding in between, the Rally is good clean(and dirty) fun 👍
@@matto29 a few more comments. 1) don't judge the engine until you've done 1000 miles / 1500 km. 2) torque in the lower half of the rev range seems to be helped by putting in fuel with a higher octane rating than is strictly necessary. It uses so little of it that any cost difference is trivial. 3) I think the overall gearing is about perfect stock. 1st is very low and can idle around in all kinds of gnarly stuff without stalling or needing the clutch (and still more if you do use the clutch). 6th is spot-on for road cruising. It *just* pulls hard enough at 80 - 100 km/h to accelerate reasonably or climb gentle hills without changing down. At 110 it's near maximum torque and accelerates and climbs even better. At anything over 120 the torque is already not keeping up with the additional wind resistance. The biggest annoyance is there is a very large gap between 1st and 2nd making 2nd hard to use on hills that are both steep and technical off road. No overall gearing change can change that. Sometimes you just need to rev it near redline in 1st (40 to 45 km/h) in order to be near max torque after you change into 2nd. It's doable. But a slightly smaller gap would have been nice.
Great video man, i was pleasantly surprised by the production quality. Its good to see some more mature and well rounded people doing motorcycle reviews on YT.
I second those comments! So tired of watching these videos with these immature idiots. They cant afford to buy the KTM they want. So they buy an entry level dual sport and bag how sucky it is!! Unless I'm mistaken the video looks like it was shot up in "Greater Sudbury?" It was just called Sudbury when I lived there!! Keep up the great work
Hi this is a lovely refreshing review i am 59 years old been looking at reviews for ages looking at this review mirrors what I have been feeling all along if you feel you need to upgrade lots of parts your buying the wrong bike back in the eighties I had a honda xl 185 and I loved it never judged it just rode it and enjoyed it all the best to you for a sensible review love from the uk
I own a G650GS Sertao! Found your video after researching the CRF300 Rally. I love the Sertao, it's just bigger than I can wrangle in the off-road department. As a fellow newb, I appreciate the honesty.
Matto great review brother! I've been looking at a different kind of bike after owning Cruisers, tourers, sport tourers , Adventure bikes. Really digging the Dual Sport. I'm nearly 50, why not? Try everything I say! I like your honesty and how forthcoming you are with your beginner status and how you've taken to enjoy riding it so much. Very refreshing, and very mature. Excellent video quality as well.
Exactly! I had two road bikes, both 600cc, and now, near 50 years, i take the litle Crf250l and i just love it! Power? Enough to get fun, no need more 100hp😉
I keep hearing people say the bike is too heavy, I don’t feel it on mine. Of course I don’t crash and have to pick mine up mine up all the time. It’s a great D/S bike. Bought mine 2 years ago after taking a 27 year break from riding bikes and I love mine. Use it for what it was designed to do, and it’s a great bike. Thanks for the review!
Nicely done! Representing the northerners beautifully. My 13th bike and 50th year riding and can honestly say this little Rally does all I can ask for at this point in my riding life. Ride safe and bonnechance :).
What a great video. I got introduced to dirt bikes when I was a young teen. We had to push them a few city blocks to get access to "the hills" with lots of dirt road and trails. I didn't realize how good I had it until I moved away from home. I haven't been in another place with riding like I grew up with, but your situation seems very close. I used to have headaches as a kid and going for a dirt bike ride always cured them. Such a great experience. At 60 I dream of getting another dirt bike but I live in a crappy riding place and I worry about getting my short leg over the seat. I dream though.
Hey go for it! At 66 I said I’m not getting any younger and didn’t listen to anyone’s negative feedback. I too worried about getting my leg over with a replaced left knee and right hip. I do the John Wayne mount. (Stand on the left peg and through my right leg over) it works good! I ride my bike on the roads to off-road areas no problem. Sometime 100 miles in a day. I have a Honda 250 Rally also and love it.
Humble description. A nice change from all the 'experts' with 20 years experience, dissecting everything up to the weight and composition of every nuts & bolts. Thanks. + I like your type of humor. Keep 'em coming.
Great review! You really nailed it! I always owned big street bikes, also BMW 1150 GS Adventure, BMW1200 GS. Now I have the small CRF Rally, I never had so much fun with a bike as this one. Doing the trails here in Thailand, love it!
Somewhere around......, aaah $30 I think? Fantastic! Excellent video! Thank you for taking the time to produce it. I’ve been looking at this model for sometime now. Great sage wisdom here!
Great review of the rally. Getting mine tomorrow after a lot of searching and patience. I am new to riding and this bike always appealed to me for a new rider. Cheers to you and the adventures to come. Thanks man.
Great vid man. Being a KTM rider most of my life and now aging past riding with my hair on fire I will order the new 300 rally. Your review was a big help because uou made it real and identifiable. Thanks.
Now in my fifties with a lifetimes experience riding some pretty brutal dirtbikes I recently bought a 250 rally same color as yours. Love the thing. I really enjoy what it offers and...likewise what it does not...expense, high maintenance, unreliable and demanding to ride. It's a blast on the road, does a great job on freeways for what it is, reasonable on dirt, light, flickable, reliable as hell and extremely cheap to buy, own and run. I have no regrets...bought it over the phone before ever having ridden one. Loved it in the first five minutes. I d just add, the DR-Z400 isn't really lighter, not by the time you bolt on some adventure goodies, and in no way feels lighter to ride, particularly off road. That was my most recent bike and I sold it because I just got tired of the top heavy feel, lack of modern features, etc. Great bike 20 years ago, but gimme EFI and ABS anyday. The Rally is so much nicer in almost every way...albeit with less grunt.
Spot on! I have a BMW R1200 GSA and even though I still love it, I found I was way over my head trying to do some of the off road riding I wanted to do. I got a CRF250 Rally and wow, it is very forgiving off road and I am having a blast. All of your comments are great and at 56 I needed something capable but matched to my skill level but would allow me to increase my abilities. As far as comfort the best thing I did was get a Seat Concepts seat and it is pricey but worth it. I adjusted my back shock and it helped a little but is is very soft and with my 230lb weight it compresses a lot but I only remember bottoming out the shocks once and I go over some very rocky terrain. I wish I could justify upgrading the rear shocks but the price is not worth it to me. I still have the stock tires do I will upgrade sometime to more aggressive tires next time. I plan to shave off some pounds with a Lithium battery. Thanks for your excellent video. It validates all that I love about this bike.
Matthew Fearing thanks for the excellent comment, Matthew. Glad you’re having enjoying the Rally as much as I do. I’ve also put a lithium battery in mine and love it.
Seriously, one of the best videos in general. You did an amazing job with it all. Thanks so much for the information and the entertainment. Still loving the bike?
Dresden very much appreciate the kind words. I am indeed loving the bike. Looking forward to fall riding season, haven’t been out as much in the hot weather.
I enjoyed your review. I bought an Africa Twin and I kinda wish it wasn't so scary off road for me. I'm short 5'4" and old 65. My last bike was a Road King which I owned for 10 years. I'm new to this segment of the market. I want to explore places that I'd never go on my Road King. The production value of your review was excellent.
Hey Matt, I'm happy to be your 400th subscriber. Love your humor, editing style and content. I'm a 250 Rally noobie as well and bought mine for all the same reasons: best balance of offroad/onroad, style, reliability & price... and one other thing that you didn't really talk about: its extremely low maintenance schedule (Oil: 600, 8k, 16k, 24k, Valves: 600, 24k, etc).
Avis On the Road Yes! So true, the maintenance schedule is painless. Very happy to have you, if I had bigger budget I send you a 400th Subscriber t-shirt but I just used that money to buy some new motorcycle boots ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Thanks for great comment, Rally on brother 💪
Great review. Liked the balance of useful facts about the bike, ring content and who cares just get out and enjoy the ride without being pretentious and judgemental of other bikes or rider preferences. Been looking at all the bikes you mentioned (also thought the BMW 650 was THE bike when younger) but as a new ‘not so young’ rider I do think the Honda 250 Rally may well be the best balance for what I want to get out of riding. Thanks for the video!
Great review . I grew up riding and racing dirt bikes as a boy many decades ago . Recently decided I need to go play in the dirt again , it’s been far too long and was looking heavily at the Rally for my situation . Your review told me every thing I needed to know . Sold . Cut the guy a cheque Honda 👍
eddiebrown192 I spent a solid 7 hours out in the dirt today, big dumb grin on my face pretty much the whole time. Glad to help, hope you have as much fun as I do 👍
I just sat on one in the dealership today, that was heavenly. I'm definitely getting the 300L rally...now that that's coming out this spring. I've already been riding a dirt bike and hooked on off-road/adventure style riding.
I have done lots of research into which bike I should get as my very first bike ever. * No need super fast, (can't go over speed limit without trouble anyway) * Absolutely need to go off road with no issues * Low noise pollution, (I'm offroad for the nature not the motor) * Should be able to do everything well. (Im not interested in having many different kind of bikes) * No intimidating size and weight. * Least but not last, It needs to look F-ing cool! So after all, The Rally was winner. Will be getting one ASAP. If I can find a black one, will take all stickers off, and add some decor artfacts...
Grey Wings I think you’ll be happy with your decision! Being able to ride to a nice secluded spot and turn off the engine to enjoy a moment at peace is one of the great joys of having a bike I’d say.
Really great review mate. Love your sense of humour and your presentation style. You summed up well the challenge for new riders of looking at this bike and how we perceive it. You helped me make my mind up. Thanks a lot 👍
Great review, I'm looking for a bike like this to supplement my long term ride, a R1150GS which is too damn heavy to pick up when dropped on the green lanes!! The CRF250 is a superb looking bike in the flesh and this review has been very helpful - thanks Matt!
@@matto29 I too just stumbled across your CRF250 review. Been researching all the other bikes in this class. We are on the same wave length. I ride a 2017 1200 GS Rallye and love it for what it is. Now I'm looking for the 250 - 400 dual sport for some more serious 'beginner' off road riding as a second bike. With the 250L Rally 2021 300 just announced, I may have to wait for it. :) Great video btw and really liked your presentation.
Thanks for the videos, I’ve enjoyed this and the weight savings one. I just picked up a new 2019 Rally and am still breaking it in. Ordered a tusk rack and have removed the restriction plate thingy from the air filter. 👍👍 Joe from Tampa
I have the identical bike ... I added a small windshield extension (approximately 4” x 8” @ $28 ) on top of stock windscreen ... makes the wind at 50mph feel like a bicycle ride ... also, I found Double Take adventure mirrors great addition for traffic negotiation ... it’s about riding , I.e . doing it
I totally agree with you. This motorcycle is easy to drive, it is inexpensive to buy and maintain, there are spare parts and workshops all over the world, it is a durable and reliable engine. Are there things to improve? Yes, the fuel tank could be at least 12 or 14 liters. The suspensions could be harder, the seat could be more comfortable, the tail bag rack could be fitted as standard, etc. but all this can be improved with little money.. Thanks for the video and take care.
Man this was a funny review, the minivan mom was too much... haha. But more importantly was a great review of the bike, very good points. I'm in the market for a 250L. Great job, thanks!
I couldn't agree more with your final thoughts. What's the point of getting a big new ADV if you will only use a fraction of its potential? When I see all those fancy GS's covered in a shit ton of accessories, I know for a fact that they do ride them. On the other hand, I am not gonna tell anyone how to spend their money. I loved the video, I loved the humor. Honda pay this guy for the love of god!
Awesome review!!! I've totally been doing what you described, that is shopping all the bikes you mentioned. Still about to purchase. Was leaning toward the KTM 390, but I think I'll go with the Honda CRF 250 Rally. I found a 2019 at a great price new. Thanks for the review.
GARY BURLESON the KTM looks like a great bike that would definitely have some perks over the Rally but as far as I can tell if dirt riding will be a priority the Rally wins.
Having had bigger adventure bikes which as you say are a pain in the ass and cheque book when you drop them I’m thinking about one of these mainly because comparatively speaking they are super light. Great vid really appreciate it. Those soccer moms.... meh.. they are always so preoccupied
Not a beginner but wanted a long lasting low priced adv with Honda quality. Thoughtful and funny vid, two years later i wonder, do you still have and ride it? The upgrade bug is dangerous when confidence grows 😂, then things can get real expensive!
I'm thinking of a crf300 rally. I have a drz400e which is great but I want something more road focused for longer adv trips. EFI and 6th gear plus the 400km tank range on the 300 rally are all very attractive. Ohlins suspension upgrade and I think it will be a nice bike for doing longer trips but still be light enough for the dirt sections.
Bought a Rally 14 months ago as my first motorcycle. I live in an area with VERY few trails and so it ends up being used mostly as a lightweight ADV tourer rather than a dual-sport (especially since I have it on road-biased Shinko 705s), but das OK. Took me a couple months to get used to the seat height, especially since I've only got a 31.5" inseam, but by now I daily it even as a commuter since it gets 3 times better gas mileage than my car!
Exactly what I'm looking at but almost $10,000 Aud Australia and they just announced a 300 rally. I want now not in 3/4 months (dilemma). I'm also 5 10" and rally did look tall for me. Awesome video bro. 👍👍
Jamesgeorgevella Vella glad you enjoyed it. I agree the 300 looks very enticing: A little bit lighter and more powerful, I’m looking forward to trying one out. Maybe Honda will let me review it ;)
I hate all Japanese manufacturers for not making 250 cc dual sport weigh under 250 lbs wet. If they do it will sell out quick! Btw I bought 2017 xt250 and do like it but it is still heavy for such small motorcycle. Looking to upgrade to klx250, wr250, klx230 or crf250l in the future. What I want is a ktm but since I can't afford ktm 350 excf and the seat height is nuts since I'm really short. Great review btw. xt is my first dirt bike as well and never rode dirt bike before. Cheers fellow dirt bike noob.
Yeah there are some nice European dual sports that look like they would shred in the dirt. At one point I thought about buying a used husky TE310 I found at a good price but apparently the road manners are sketchy and they’re expensive to service and by sounds of it not super reliable compared to Japanese. My brother has a sweet Italian dirt bike that’s an absolute rocket but he’s also had to push it 3 miles out of the bush because it broke on him. It’s all about trade offs
@@matto29 Yeah, that's good points about trades off. Yeah, pushing three miles or ride out 300 lbs bike.....riding still better than pushing. But if I have to push I rather push 220 lbs. lol. Cheers,
Want to convert this to super Moto for 100% street use but concerned about heavy weight. 350 lbs is no laughing matter. What are my options to decrease weight by swapping out for lighter aftermarket parts (exhaust, etc)? How would this ride on street tires, full time?
grumpysquid my understanding is weight reduction is best accomplished by: -After market exhaust -lithium ion battery -tail tidy kit I think I’ve seen a few Rally’s set up for supermoto but have zero idea how well they operate
Befor this video I wasnt sure if Id go for it but after watching this video i was like FUCK IT. Picked it up yesterday. Thanks for being informative much love from B.C. 🤟🤟🤟
Connor McCarthy thanks dude, nothing fancy just some cheapie I picked up from some store in the mall a few years back. Store’s closed now, Covid put it out of business 👎🏼
Chappie777 thanks! I uploaded a video where I talk about my tire choices and do a bit of riding. Haven’t had time to ride much lately and it’s been hot as hell too. Much more riding planned for late summer/fall. Thanks for watching
@@matto29 thanks 👍 Keep up with the videos they are fun and interesting. I have michelin Anakee Wilds on my Rally at the moment and find them excellent both on and off road. I have done 5000 km on them and still at least another 5000 on them.
I just picked up a CRF250L Rally as my first bike here in Alberta. Excited to learn this summer. Entertaining channel, bro. Subbed.
I feel like you stoled my story. This is the review I needed 6 months ago and now your explaining exactly how I feel about this bike. You did a great job on this review. I too am a beginner. At 66 years old, 6’ and 240 lbs this bike has filled all my expectations and love of riding. I did take a motorcycle safety class which I think is a must for beginners. Can’t say much more about this bike. You nailed it 100%. It’s not a bike you can criticize if its used the way it was meant to be used. If you want to go fast and jump off cliffs get a different bike. I was confused and disappointed in most of the reviews I watched from all different country’s. Your also right about the price. You can’t beat it. Sure you can change shocks, sprockets, seat cushion, etc and have a few thousand dollars more in it. You might as well just gone and bought a $15k bike then. I was refreshing to watch your video knowing there is someone out there that shares my feelings about the Honda 250 Rally. Well done! Oh, and yes, I have the same color and it is an attention getter even at my age.
Ed Page Really appreciate the kind words Ed and I’m happier to hear that you’re takin life by the horns and enjoying your bike. Ride on brother 💪
good to know, I'm also 6' and 66 but 250#. I was wondering how it would be for a guy my size, considering this bike for running around town
I'm from Germany and almost everybody here is riding around with fancy BMW R1250GS and KTM 690 or 790 Adventure. For a long time I felt little desperate because of not being able to afford such a bike since I'm a student. Yesterday I had a test ride with the 250 Rally and I'm super excited - and almost shy about comparing it to other bikes. It just felt so right and confident. That's the point of your video that's picking me up the most: buying a bike and having fun without loosing it in any of the important categories. Guess who's checking the financial situation now? Keep the great work up. Thanks!
Great to hear, hope you get yourself a bike you really love, it’s been an amazing addition to my life and hope it is for you too brother 💪
Having had larger adventure bikes in the past and struggling with them off-road . I purchased one of these this past spring .I now have 3000k on it doing gravel roads , train lines and small secondary paved roads . Seems like a decent bike for mild exploration and I always leaves me with a smile on my face .
I don't know why people call this a beginner's bike. I've been riding off-road motorcycles for 45 years (licensed for 42) and I'm *loving* mine. I started on the farm (G4TRD, TC185) then got my own 6 year old '74 XL350, then used '80 XR250, '86 XR600 (had that one right through the 90s) and in parallel '85 CBX550F2, '86 K100RT, '95 R1100RT (from new, still use it). Four months ago I got a brand new 2019 Rally for CAN$6400 on the road. Loving it. It's great in town, great on NZ's rural 2-lanes, and very capable off-road. It really reminds me of my ancient XR250. It's a little heavier, but far more comfortable on-road (though I used to take that 300 km between my parents and uni for vacations). The Rally's engine is very soft and mild below 5500 RPM but actually gets some real urgency after 6000 and then revs seemingly forever (10500 RPM, though you'd usually want to change up by 9000 or so). No problems at all pulling out into or keeping up with traffic. I'm 178 cm (5'10") and 130 kg (285 lb) and performance is fine -- even the suspension, with the rear on maximum preload setting. I'm interested in exploring places not racing. Everything is stock so far, but I'm putting a set of D606 tyres on next week, which should be a lot better in mud and sand and on slick wet clay (all of which are plentiful around here), and hopefully no worse on road.
Bruce Hoult Agreed 100% Bruce. I think some people see 250cc and just automatically equate it to “beginner rider” when it’s all about using the right tool for the right job. When it comes to off road exploration with comfortable road riding in between, the Rally is good clean(and dirty) fun 👍
@@matto29 a few more comments. 1) don't judge the engine until you've done 1000 miles / 1500 km. 2) torque in the lower half of the rev range seems to be helped by putting in fuel with a higher octane rating than is strictly necessary. It uses so little of it that any cost difference is trivial. 3) I think the overall gearing is about perfect stock. 1st is very low and can idle around in all kinds of gnarly stuff without stalling or needing the clutch (and still more if you do use the clutch). 6th is spot-on for road cruising. It *just* pulls hard enough at 80 - 100 km/h to accelerate reasonably or climb gentle hills without changing down. At 110 it's near maximum torque and accelerates and climbs even better. At anything over 120 the torque is already not keeping up with the additional wind resistance. The biggest annoyance is there is a very large gap between 1st and 2nd making 2nd hard to use on hills that are both steep and technical off road. No overall gearing change can change that. Sometimes you just need to rev it near redline in 1st (40 to 45 km/h) in order to be near max torque after you change into 2nd. It's doable. But a slightly smaller gap would have been nice.
Here from Reddit, nice review man. Crisp editing with language I can understand. Subbed
Isaac JPG glad to have you, brother. Appreciate the feedback
Great video man, i was pleasantly surprised by the production quality. Its good to see some more mature and well rounded people doing motorcycle reviews on YT.
Nutz kun very much appreciate the feedback my friend. Thank you
I second those comments! So tired of watching these videos with these immature idiots. They cant afford to buy the KTM they want. So they buy
an entry level dual sport and bag how sucky it is!!
Unless I'm mistaken the video looks like it was shot up in "Greater Sudbury?" It was just called Sudbury when I lived there!!
Keep up the great work
Hi this is a lovely refreshing review i am 59 years old been looking at reviews for ages looking at this review mirrors what I have been feeling all along if you feel you need to upgrade lots of parts your buying the wrong bike back in the eighties I had a honda xl 185 and I loved it never judged it just rode it and enjoyed it all the best to you for a sensible review love from the uk
I own a G650GS Sertao!
Found your video after researching the CRF300 Rally. I love the Sertao, it's just bigger than I can wrangle in the off-road department. As a fellow newb, I appreciate the honesty.
Matto great review brother! I've been looking at a different kind of bike after owning Cruisers, tourers, sport tourers , Adventure bikes. Really digging the Dual Sport. I'm nearly 50, why not? Try everything I say! I like your honesty and how forthcoming you are with your beginner status and how you've taken to enjoy riding it so much. Very refreshing, and very mature. Excellent video quality as well.
Darrell V really appreciate the great comment, my friend. Ride on!
Exactly! I had two road bikes, both 600cc, and now, near 50 years, i take the litle Crf250l and i just love it! Power? Enough to get fun, no need more 100hp😉
I keep hearing people say the bike is too heavy, I don’t feel it on mine. Of course I don’t crash and have to pick mine up mine up all the time. It’s a great D/S bike. Bought mine 2 years ago after taking a 27 year break from riding bikes and I love mine. Use it for what it was designed to do, and it’s a great bike. Thanks for the review!
Nicely done! Representing the northerners beautifully. My 13th bike and 50th year riding and can honestly say this little Rally does all I can ask for at this point in my riding life. Ride safe and bonnechance :).
Jeffrey I MacDonald glad you’re enjoying bike as much as I am. It’s right at home up north 👍
What a great video. I got introduced to dirt bikes when I was a young teen. We had to push them a few city blocks to get access to "the hills" with lots of dirt road and trails. I didn't realize how good I had it until I moved away from home. I haven't been in another place with riding like I grew up with, but your situation seems very close. I used to have headaches as a kid and going for a dirt bike ride always cured them. Such a great experience. At 60 I dream of getting another dirt bike but I live in a crappy riding place and I worry about getting my short leg over the seat. I dream though.
Hey go for it! At 66 I said I’m not getting any younger and didn’t listen to anyone’s negative feedback. I too worried about getting my leg over with a replaced left knee and right hip. I do the John Wayne mount. (Stand on the left peg and through my right leg over) it works good! I ride my bike on the roads to off-road areas no problem. Sometime 100 miles in a day. I have a Honda 250 Rally also and love it.
Humble description. A nice change from all the 'experts' with 20 years experience, dissecting everything up to the weight and composition of every nuts & bolts. Thanks. + I like your type of humor. Keep 'em coming.
Great review! You really nailed it! I always owned big street bikes, also BMW 1150 GS Adventure, BMW1200 GS. Now I have the small CRF Rally, I never had so much fun with a bike as this one. Doing the trails here in Thailand, love it!
Somewhere around......, aaah $30 I think? Fantastic! Excellent video! Thank you for taking the time to produce it. I’ve been looking at this model for sometime now. Great sage wisdom here!
Great review of the rally. Getting mine tomorrow after a lot of searching and patience. I am new to riding and this bike always appealed to me for a new rider. Cheers to you and the adventures to come. Thanks man.
Great vid man. Being a KTM rider most of my life and now aging past riding with my hair on fire I will order the new 300 rally. Your review was a big help because uou made it real and identifiable. Thanks.
Now in my fifties with a lifetimes experience riding some pretty brutal dirtbikes I recently bought a 250 rally same color as yours. Love the thing. I really enjoy what it offers and...likewise what it does not...expense, high maintenance, unreliable and demanding to ride. It's a blast on the road, does a great job on freeways for what it is, reasonable on dirt, light, flickable, reliable as hell and extremely cheap to buy, own and run. I have no regrets...bought it over the phone before ever having ridden one. Loved it in the first five minutes. I
d just add, the DR-Z400 isn't really lighter, not by the time you bolt on some adventure goodies, and in no way feels lighter to ride, particularly off road. That was my most recent bike and I sold it because I just got tired of the top heavy feel, lack of modern features, etc. Great bike 20 years ago, but gimme EFI and ABS anyday. The Rally is so much nicer in almost every way...albeit with less grunt.
Spot on! I have a BMW R1200 GSA and even though I still love it, I found I was way over my head trying to do some of the off road riding I wanted to do. I got a CRF250 Rally and wow, it is very forgiving off road and I am having a blast. All of your comments are great and at 56 I needed something capable but matched to my skill level but would allow me to increase my abilities. As far as comfort the best thing I did was get a Seat Concepts seat and it is pricey but worth it. I adjusted my back shock and it helped a little but is is very soft and with my 230lb weight it compresses a lot but I only remember bottoming out the shocks once and I go over some very rocky terrain. I wish I could justify upgrading the rear shocks but the price is not worth it to me. I still have the stock tires do I will upgrade sometime to more aggressive tires next time. I plan to shave off some pounds with a Lithium battery. Thanks for your excellent video. It validates all that I love about this bike.
Matthew Fearing thanks for the excellent comment, Matthew. Glad you’re having enjoying the Rally as much as I do. I’ve also put a lithium battery in mine and love it.
Seriously, one of the best videos in general. You did an amazing job with it all. Thanks so much for the information and the entertainment. Still loving the bike?
Dresden very much appreciate the kind words. I am indeed loving the bike. Looking forward to fall riding season, haven’t been out as much in the hot weather.
I enjoyed your review. I bought an Africa Twin and I kinda wish it wasn't so scary off road for me. I'm short 5'4" and old 65. My last bike was a Road King which I owned for 10 years. I'm new to this segment of the market. I want to explore places that I'd never go on my Road King. The production value of your review was excellent.
Thanks for watching, Gerald! I appreciate the comment
Hey Matt, I'm happy to be your 400th subscriber. Love your humor, editing style and content. I'm a 250 Rally noobie as well and bought mine for all the same reasons: best balance of offroad/onroad, style, reliability & price... and one other thing that you didn't really talk about: its extremely low maintenance schedule (Oil: 600, 8k, 16k, 24k, Valves: 600, 24k, etc).
Avis On the Road Yes! So true, the maintenance schedule is painless. Very happy to have you, if I had bigger budget I send you a 400th Subscriber t-shirt but I just used that money to buy some new motorcycle boots ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Thanks for great comment, Rally on brother 💪
Great review. Liked the balance of useful facts about the bike, ring content and who cares just get out and enjoy the ride without being pretentious and judgemental of other bikes or rider preferences. Been looking at all the bikes you mentioned (also thought the BMW 650 was THE bike when younger) but as a new ‘not so young’ rider I do think the Honda 250 Rally may well be the best balance for what I want to get out of riding. Thanks for the video!
Great review . I grew up riding and racing dirt bikes as a boy many decades ago . Recently decided I need to go play in the dirt again , it’s been far too long and was looking heavily at the Rally for my situation . Your review told me every thing I needed to know . Sold . Cut the guy a cheque Honda 👍
eddiebrown192 I spent a solid 7 hours out in the dirt today, big dumb grin on my face pretty much the whole time. Glad to help, hope you have as much fun as I do 👍
Nice video. I have my 250L for over 2 years. Very nice and feel-happy bike. Glad u are enjoying yours too. From South Africa. Keep well.
I just sat on one in the dealership today, that was heavenly. I'm definitely getting the 300L rally...now that that's coming out this spring. I've already been riding a dirt bike and hooked on off-road/adventure style riding.
The fact you are beginner and killin it in deep dirt. Freakin awesome!
I have done lots of research into which bike I should get as my very first bike ever.
* No need super fast, (can't go over speed limit without trouble anyway)
* Absolutely need to go off road with no issues
* Low noise pollution, (I'm offroad for the nature not the motor)
* Should be able to do everything well. (Im not interested in having many different kind of bikes)
* No intimidating size and weight.
* Least but not last, It needs to look F-ing cool!
So after all, The Rally was winner. Will be getting one ASAP. If I can find a black one, will take all stickers off, and add some decor artfacts...
Grey Wings I think you’ll be happy with your decision! Being able to ride to a nice secluded spot and turn off the engine to enjoy a moment at peace is one of the great joys of having a bike I’d say.
Really great review mate. Love your sense of humour and your presentation style. You summed up well the challenge for new riders of looking at this bike and how we perceive it. You helped me make my mind up. Thanks a lot 👍
Great review man, u had me laughing in the first 30 seconds! I’m eyeing up a rally right now wish me luck!!
Mussels Marinara You won’t regret it my friend! Get riding 💪
Awesome review and super entertaining!
You just earned a new subscriber. Keep up the good work and remember to stay safe.
You are TOTALLY ON IT MAN, KEEP EM UPDATED.
Great review, I'm looking for a bike like this to supplement my long term ride, a R1150GS which is too damn heavy to pick up when dropped on the green lanes!! The CRF250 is a superb looking bike in the flesh and this review has been very helpful - thanks Matt!
The only thing better than owning a bike is owning two bikes. Glad to help, Dave!
@@matto29 I too just stumbled across your CRF250 review. Been researching all the other bikes in this class. We are on the same wave length. I ride a 2017 1200 GS Rallye and love it for what it is. Now I'm looking for the 250 - 400 dual sport for some more serious 'beginner' off road riding as a second bike. With the 250L Rally 2021 300 just announced, I may have to wait for it. :) Great video btw and really liked your presentation.
That white/silver colour on your bike is sick!
Wish I got that option available in my country on top of the black/red colour option here
Well done 👏 definitely taking a hard look at the new 300L! Subbed excited to watch your channel grow!
great review Sir, I just bought a CRF250L only because i like the look of the front light better than the Rally, FKN Awesome bike to cruise around on.
Dr Chan endless fun, good for the soul!
10:00 You got me with the built-in strudel-maker, not gonna lie.
Great review. You're funny and cover the important questions for a new rider.
Thanks for the videos, I’ve enjoyed this and the weight savings one. I just picked up a new 2019 Rally and am still breaking it in.
Ordered a tusk rack and have removed the restriction plate thingy from the air filter.
👍👍 Joe from Tampa
I have the identical bike ... I added a small windshield extension (approximately 4” x 8” @ $28 ) on top of stock windscreen ... makes the wind at 50mph feel like a bicycle ride ... also, I found Double Take adventure mirrors great addition for traffic negotiation ... it’s about riding , I.e . doing it
I’ve seen those and thought about trying them, might have to give one a go! 👍
Great honest review. I’m seriously thinking about buying one now. Subscribed. Keep up the adventures 😎 thank you for your positive outlook 👏🏻👍🏻
Great review. My new rider experience, exactly. And the harshest critics note the styling.
Best real-world review I've seen.
I totally agree with you. This motorcycle is easy to drive, it is inexpensive to buy and maintain, there are spare parts and workshops all over the world, it is a durable and reliable engine. Are there things to improve? Yes, the fuel tank could be at least 12 or 14 liters. The suspensions could be harder, the seat could be more comfortable, the tail bag rack could be fitted as standard, etc. but all this can be improved with little money.. Thanks for the video and take care.
Jesus Baltasar Muro Barroso very well said! Thanks for commenting
Nice style to your content and delivery. Great job!
Man this was a funny review, the minivan mom was too much... haha. But more importantly was a great review of the bike, very good points. I'm in the market for a 250L. Great job, thanks!
I couldn't agree more with your final thoughts. What's the point of getting a big new ADV if you will only use a fraction of its potential?
When I see all those fancy GS's covered in a shit ton of accessories, I know for a fact that they do ride them.
On the other hand, I am not gonna tell anyone how to spend their money.
I loved the video, I loved the humor. Honda pay this guy for the love of god!
Really good video. Just got a 250L too. Subscribed.
Awesome review!!! I've totally been doing what you described, that is shopping all the bikes you mentioned. Still about to purchase. Was leaning toward the KTM 390, but I think I'll go with the Honda CRF 250 Rally. I found a 2019 at a great price new. Thanks for the review.
GARY BURLESON the KTM looks like a great bike that would definitely have some perks over the Rally but as far as I can tell if dirt riding will be a priority the Rally wins.
I’m looking at getting into dual sport riding and will be doing the TAT next Aug. I may go with the CRF300 Rally. Great videos. Sub’d!!🤟🏼
Awesome video man! Got that subscription, keep 'em coming!
Great review! Made my decision...gonna go buy one this week
I highly doubt you’ll regret it and there’s a very strong chance it will put a very large smile on your face. Ride on, my friend 💪
Just watched this again, so well done 👏👏
Haha thanks! You get your Rally yet?
Very well.done review. I looked at this bike, though I eventually went with the vanilla CRF250L. Glad you are enjoying your choice.
Frank Cone Thanks, Frank!
Really awesome video very much enjoyed this as someone similar to others in the comments had the big huge adv1200 gsas total pain off road.
Liked and subscribed. Came here form r dualsport! Love from BC
Having had bigger adventure bikes which as you say are a pain in the ass and cheque book when you drop them I’m thinking about one of these mainly because comparatively speaking they are super light. Great vid really appreciate it. Those soccer moms.... meh.. they are always so preoccupied
great work here man.. looking forward to have my own Rally 250! :)
Not a beginner but wanted a long lasting low priced adv with Honda quality. Thoughtful and funny vid, two years later i wonder, do you still have and ride it? The upgrade bug is dangerous when confidence grows 😂, then things can get real expensive!
I'm thinking of a crf300 rally. I have a drz400e which is great but I want something more road focused for longer adv trips. EFI and 6th gear plus the 400km tank range on the 300 rally are all very attractive. Ohlins suspension upgrade and I think it will be a nice bike for doing longer trips but still be light enough for the dirt sections.
N|Z∆Mi yes I’m very interested to see how the 300 version performs both on and off road!
Love your review bro!!! Cheers, everything I wanted to know 👍😃
Nice video man, I have the same bike and I can relate well to what you said. Enjoy and ride safe!
Excellent review! Really enjoyed it. Thanks...
the soccer mom part had me rolling xD
Great review, love the rally but bought the 250L as i thought replacing the plastics when i drop it would get expensive.
Nive vid man, .. New owner of The Standard, working to set it for out of concrete juncle, more off than on..your review is realistic..
Great Review! Beautiful editing!
Bought a Rally 14 months ago as my first motorcycle. I live in an area with VERY few trails and so it ends up being used mostly as a lightweight ADV tourer rather than a dual-sport (especially since I have it on road-biased Shinko 705s), but das OK. Took me a couple months to get used to the seat height, especially since I've only got a 31.5" inseam, but by now I daily it even as a commuter since it gets 3 times better gas mileage than my car!
😁..fuel..btw if you gonna keep the L, then add windshield, protection..
Nice!!! I started on a TW200. When you have shitty suspension you don’t even notice , until you ride a good one!
Cool video. Keep it up, man.
Diogo Ressurreição Appreciate it my friend, thank you
Your voice is godly btw :D boss!
Great video men!
if we were living in the same continent I would love to ride with you.
This was totally not boring and quite funny 😄 at the same time. I was completely entertained 👍🏾and this is coming from a 500 EXC guy 😂
Exactly what I'm looking at but almost $10,000 Aud Australia and they just announced a 300 rally. I want now not in 3/4 months (dilemma). I'm also 5 10" and rally did look tall for me. Awesome video bro. 👍👍
Jamesgeorgevella Vella glad you enjoyed it. I agree the 300 looks very enticing: A little bit lighter and more powerful, I’m looking forward to trying one out. Maybe Honda will let me review it ;)
underrated channel
I agree the bike is great for beginners. Well done.
Bro! Science! Great Vid!
I hate all Japanese manufacturers for not making 250 cc dual sport weigh under 250 lbs wet. If they do it will sell out quick! Btw I bought 2017 xt250 and do like it but it is still heavy for such small motorcycle. Looking to upgrade to klx250, wr250, klx230 or crf250l in the future. What I want is a ktm but since I can't afford ktm 350 excf and the seat height is nuts since I'm really short.
Great review btw. xt is my first dirt bike as well and never rode dirt bike before. Cheers fellow dirt bike noob.
Yeah there are some nice European dual sports that look like they would shred in the dirt. At one point I thought about buying a used husky TE310 I found at a good price but apparently the road manners are sketchy and they’re expensive to service and by sounds of it not super reliable compared to Japanese. My brother has a sweet Italian dirt bike that’s an absolute rocket but he’s also had to push it 3 miles out of the bush because it broke on him. It’s all about trade offs
@@matto29 Yeah, that's good points about trades off. Yeah, pushing three miles or ride out 300 lbs bike.....riding still better than pushing. But if I have to push I rather push 220 lbs. lol. Cheers,
hay great video man i think that will be my next bike
So tempted to get one of these...
Nicely done. Sweet bike!
Nice review. Where in Canada are you? I’m north of Toronto. Not enough gravel near me. 🇨🇦
wipperwil Sudbury! Not going to lie to you: the riding is pretty great up here until the snow flies
Want to convert this to super Moto for 100% street use but concerned about heavy weight.
350 lbs is no laughing matter. What are my options to decrease weight by swapping out for lighter aftermarket parts (exhaust, etc)?
How would this ride on street tires, full time?
grumpysquid my understanding is weight reduction is best accomplished by:
-After market exhaust
-lithium ion battery
-tail tidy kit
I think I’ve seen a few Rally’s set up for supermoto but have zero idea how well they operate
Awesome video
I own the same bike. I agree with you all.
Thanks
I have the 250 L and it’s a little heavy and under powered but I actually bought it for the Long service intervals
Befor this video I wasnt sure if Id go for it but after watching this video i was like FUCK IT. Picked it up yesterday. Thanks for being informative much love from B.C. 🤟🤟🤟
Daman Sabharwal Fuck yeah bud! Gonna be some killer riding out there 💪
Spot on. I have the Yamaha XT 660 Z for the exactly same reasons 👍🏻
Great vid and comments. Thanks !
Nice vid man. Just curious, what kind of jacket is that? It looks great.
Connor McCarthy thanks dude, nothing fancy just some cheapie I picked up from some store in the mall a few years back. Store’s closed now, Covid put it out of business 👎🏼
I like your style matto
Great video! Any new adventures or updates?
Chappie777 thanks! I uploaded a video where I talk about my tire choices and do a bit of riding. Haven’t had time to ride much lately and it’s been hot as hell too. Much more riding planned for late summer/fall. Thanks for watching
Great videos 👍
Great video. Thanks a lot! Really enjoyed it. Curious, if you also considered KLX250
Great review ! I have a Rally and love it.
Are those biker jeans with protection or just jeans ?
David Roberts yeah they have pads built into them, I bought them on amazon I love them
@@matto29 they look good.👍
Apparently us Rally owners have good taste.
Can you send me the link if possible. 🙂
David Roberts Rally Bros are Fashionable af www.amazon.ca/dp/B07W91KDZN?ref_=pe_3034960_443727830_E_301_dt_1
@@matto29 thanks 👍
Keep up with the videos they are fun and interesting.
I have michelin Anakee Wilds on my Rally at the moment and find them excellent both on and off road. I have done 5000 km on them and still at least another 5000 on them.
Just picked mine up!! Such a fun bike. What kind of pants are those?
“Built in strudel maker” lol
just update the springs and its a nice trail bike... the rally look is very nice.
Great review...funny too!👍