This is probably the most comprehensive and logical comparison between these two bikes that I've seen on KZfaq; Especially since it's focused on the average rider.

As the owner of a 300 rally I was expecting this video to rip into how shit they are and I’m pleasantly surprised it’s an honest assessment. I needed a bike for the UKs green lanes (unpaved roads out in the sticks) but don’t want to suffer to much on the way there. The bigger fuel tank, the led lights and the screen fit my usage spot on 👍

“Slow and pathetic pace, with not much skill and falling off a bit”… well that sums it up for me. Great comparo review, Solid!

The mental part is paramount. I have had a BMW GS for 15+ years now, and still it looks like a monster to me. Climbing on it is a task - and I am 182 cm. This is why I am now considering one of these two Hondas!

I bought a 300 Rally today. I initially wanted a 300L, but these things are so hard to get your hands on, I snatched a Rally that came up for sale instead. But I think I made a better choice when picking the Rally instead of the 300L. The riders I usually go off-roading with have adventure bikes like Yamaha T7, KTM 890 Adventure R, Tiger 900 Rally. Some even have bigger bikes than those. I rode a 250L with this group, and while I had no problem keeping pace on the road, it didn't feel very stable at high speeds and I did end up running short on petrol way before everyone else. While not massive drawbacks, the Rally addresses these issues and makes it more into a bike I can live with. Range is something I'd rather not have to worry about too much. Off-road, the L is of course lighter and more nimble than the Rally. But only a bit. The Rally is a _lot_ more nimble and lighter than a Yamaha T7, though. So all in all, I think the Rally suits me better actually.

My choice in early 2021 was Rally and I don't regret it. Those few kilos are nothing compared to advantages of bigger tank, lights, navigation mounting and a windshield, which actually doesn't get in your field of view when in difficult terrain, because 99% you don't ride it sitting. You can wheelie over the logs easily. It feels very light and manoeuvrable! If you're into racing, you won't buy any of these bikes, so that's why I bought Beta RR300 as my competition bike. The only con for Rally was a rear shock, so I got me a custom one from Hagon. Can't way to test it.

I bought the rally as it was all they had and had only just arrived. Glad I didn’t have a choice as I’d still be deliberating and someone else would have bought it. Fantastic bike (and this is a fantastic video, thanks).

Thanks Solid, this review has confirmed my decision to buy a Rally. I've recently sold my 2017 Africa Twin and still want open road traveling capability to get to dirt roads, not single track. Off to the local dealer tomorrow, cheers from NZ.

Thanks Solid, you answered many of my questions in this clip. You are absolutely correct about the fact no-one talks about the amount of confidence a bike offers mentally. Particularly in the more tricky terrain. You must have in your head 'This bike can get me through this section.' Mental confidence is a joy and is the key to add even more enjoyment to our sport. Cheers.

Choice was clear for me. Rally plus drop protection. Better seat, wind protection, about the same weight feel when on both, better suspension wth higher ground clearance, better headlights, & a much nicer looking bike.

Now the most important part for me to consider (that I hadn't even factored in as a beginner) was everything you said about the confidence the bike gives you. Cheers mate!! 👍

They’re both awesome, both fully capable. i got to ride both of them, and finally chose the Rally. Just personal preference.

Still have the Rally on order from June. In the meantime bought a 2016 MT-07 Tracer that I set up for touring on dirt (not single track). It's bigger and heavier than the Rally (650 vs 300), but has much less ground clearance and suspension travel, as well as 17"ers. Its been a great experience to play around with tyres, suspension and fitting bash plates etc and riding this platform to its limits. Riding the Rally after this will feel so light and nimble. Still excited for it.

I appreciate the humility. This very well may influence my decision!

This was a great video. I think you did an awesome job of presenting very valid points of comparison that will help folks make the best choice.

Where I live the difference in price between L and Rally is 1300 euros, around 2000 AUD, which I do not see justifiable. For 3/4 of that price difference with CRF300L I can fit new better aftermarket rear shock, new better front fork spring, and make it a blast on trails. For me it would be mostly off-road use, and only max 1- 1.5h to get to the trails using paved roads.

Great review. Appreciate the down to earth honesty in your comparisons. You say it like it is, just as a regular person and not a superhero or a know-it-all. I think your explanation fits perfectly for most of us who aren't experts but who just want to ride and have a little fun. Thank you from the cold and snowy NE US.

Great comparison, valuable, balanced, and interesting content as always. Such a fun channel to watch. 300l ordered! Love the music 👍

Rally front brake has a floating rotor as well. Thanks for the great videos as always!

You're realistic, straight to the point and honest. I like your videos; keep it up my, your contents are very worthy.

For me it's the Rally. My style of longer range open country riding just suits the "adventure" flavor Honda put into this model. Same bike but more suited to longer exploration. Oh and the plastics, smashed mine off first beach ride, so an angle grinder soon had the motor exposed and enjoying a cool breeze...lol Will be tough to sell my DR650 to purchase another one though...

This is one of the best comparison videos, on the two bikes, thanks for sharing mate , I went for the 300l for the same reason as you, although I do like the look of the rally a little bit more especially after the eliminating of the plastics surrounding the engine, but I don't need the larger tank or the windscreen, also I found a great deal on a pre owned 300l with the upgraded suspension, 550 performance ECU, full after market exhaust and a few other goodies

Such a great and direct review!

Perfect analysis.... For sure you made the right choice !!!! Me I found the rally version and I got it immediately, coming from a Tenere 700 is not an issue the more weight trough the L Version. Ciao Gianluca from Milano

Hi my name is Daniel ...and well I was enjoying this video and wel I have something to add ...I live here in Costa Rica my grandfather was one of the first motorcicle owners and not just that it took him 4 years to travel to each one of the roads of this country ...and well one thing he didnt knew (there where no motorcyclers in thouse days ) but as well today ...the weight of the "Kidneys" and the vibration on durt roads is never a good combination ...so standing up for a wile isnt good enough ....for long term durt roads we need special suspention seats ...humans are good and well built but the weight of the kidneys seems to be hellish when we become aware of the damage ...he ended in hospitals at the end of his life for this kidney reason ...this to share with you guys in grattitud for this videos ...have good ride and remember to take brakes during long trips ...and why not thry to fiend a solution for this seat suspention ...dificulty ...bye !!

Great upoad - thank you - I will be choosing the Rally and your video has helped - safe riding

Thanks for your reviews! Yours looks absolutely gorgeous. I love the yellow hand protectors too

Excellent comparison of the CRF300L and Rallye. Thank you.

Excellent review (therapy session) for those of us on the fence. I'm officially on the market for a Rally! Thank you!!!

This was a great break down between both bikes good job well done I’m much more clear on what I want from these bikes. Thank you oh. I’m taking the rally.

Thank you so much for spending this amount of time and effort (and considerable skill) in order to produce this film/tutorial. It was/is very useful. I've had a rally on order for seven months in the UK. I'm probably (closer every day) going to get a one year old 300 L - because I can. Then sell it if I like the Rally more than the 300 L (if it ever arrives). You live in the right part of the world... enjoy it. Thanks again, Mike

Excellent review! Very clear and objective!! Thanks!

Really like that last point you made. I am MUCH more confident off road than on it. Plus I already have an enduro style dirt bike for the more tricky rides and am after something for easier and longer adventure trail rides so I think the rally is for me.

Once again, great comparison and logical break down of the pro's and con's Solid. I've got a 250L Rally and am considering stepping up to the 300L Rally. Agree the plastics can be a real pain in the butt. I've done single track and have had the plastics break either from hitting a hidden log/stump or from dropping the bike in deep mud. I think the ability to cut the plastics from around the base and replace with the 300L bash plate is a great option as the shroud although great to keep the wind and rain off on the highway, like in my case got damaged pretty easily. It honestly doesn't bother me if it gets scratches etc as its all part of the adventure. The rally is heavier, however I find I do get range anxiety often so having the (350-400km) range is important, and can forgive the extra weight as its all about compromises. Suspension upgrades, bash plate and the akro slip on and you should be out for around 12K. All things considered gives you a very versatile, reliable and capable bike. I don't know if you ever saw Rozalyn Veersma adventure trip, but she took a 250L around Australia. Worth a look if you haven't watched it already. Keep up the great videos!

Very good explaination of the two bikes, I think you did a great job of dividing the two, it really helps decide which bike is best suited for what kind of riding you really want to do.👍

It's decided I'll go for the 300L, time to call my dealers for inventory. I've used the same dirt bike for nearly 20 years, finally sold it because it was showing its age. I had a '99 WR400F with many upgrades done to it and I miss it, but don't regret selling it.

Great review. I’m in the US and just picked up a 300L. Love it so far and can’t wait for the weather to get better to really get some seat time in.

Thanks. Very good review and excellent arguments for both.

I absolutely agree on your choice, I had the 250 Rally and was concerned with the amount of plastics to break, you can get a crash bar but that’s even more weight to deal with. I think 450L headlight on the 300 is gorgeous

Great vid. Ditch that tank bag and put that GL bar bag on the shelf (over your head in the intro) to use. Makes riding so much better in the technical stuff.

Great comparison and the Tat is coming on a treat.

That was immensely helpful, thank you so much!

Another great video. Thanks Solid!

Very great explanation of difference, in my country I could only buy The 300L non rally version and I am very satisfied with the bike.

Great review, thank you. Fully agree with your opinions.

This was really helpful of me! "Solidified" me on the Rally. I've got a 250EXCF for my main dirt passion but I have Rally on the brain for doing some more dirt road day-trip adventure stuff which I used to do more of when I had my 250L.

Well said and a great honest review. Cheers mate

Thanks a lot ! The mental stuff is definitely a key aspect for me !

Great comparison, good work!

Great as always! One little correction (3:54): The L is not 4 kg, but 7.25 kg, lighter than the Rally when dry-11 kg - 3.25 kg of fuel (5 liters).

I think this video sums it all up pretty good. I got a 250l, that has a windscreen addon - and i do absolutely love that for my type of riding (except for the fact that its really ugly). It's easy to remove aswell, if you would want that. As you and others mentioned - If you are in to modification you could probably do alot of the mods "converting" the l into a "light rally" suited for your riding style for less money total then buying a rally in the first place

Great video. I feel like i could choose between the two if needed. Thanks. I love the duel sport bikes.more offroad than street. Not crazy about extra fairings.

Great review mate as I am going through the same dilemma with a decision on either. I think though for my use the L will also be my choice.

Very honest review, well done.

I chose the Rally and love it! No regrets here.

Is this a pro level vlog or what? The good gets better. Kudos homie!

Got the rally on order hoping for September can’t wait

Soft enduro is me too! Have the 300L too. Good video! 🏍💨

What's up solid, a fellow 300L KZfaqr here. I completely agree with everything you said I love how you broke it all down. I go for a similar format in my videos. I also went with the L but I should also have the rally as soon as my dealer gets it. So hopefully I can do a side by side as well. Watched the whole vid and subbed! Keep up the good work man.

Fantastic vlog & nice compilation 👍

love the video. im a beginner as well, and i find the rally perfect, but i hate the headlight. gonna be on the road more then the dirt. thanks for the video/guide

Great review. You had me all ears, through it all.

Great video, helpful a lot, thanks!

Just started researching getting a dual purpose bike and have been leaning toward a CRF300L or Rally and then found this video. Awesome info and thoughts, thank you. I live in Colorado and have a shit ton of trails near me that I want to ride. I'm only 5'9' and 155lbs, so weight is something that I need to consider as is relates to rider confidence, control, etc, as you nicely pointed out. However, on many of our mountain trails, you can ride for many miles from one old mountain town to another old mountain town, so the added fuel availability on the Rally would really be beneficial in that situation. Hmm...decisions?! Lol... The only other problem I have is there's none available anywhere around me right now anyway, so I guess I have time to figure it. Happy trails.

Very expressible explanation. Thanks from Russia. Good luck!

Torn between these two now, thanks!

Excellent video! Thank you. Cheers

Very honest report thank you

Thinking of buying a 300L as my first since riding an nsr 80 when I was a teenager. Can’t wait to get back into motorcycling

channel could also be called 'philosophy of solid'. awesome ideas, point all around. helped a lot. cheers

Thanks for this clear and clever explanation, i will order 300l and upgrade rear suspension...

Great summary!

The Rally headlight is one of the best standard lights I have ever seen.

Great video mate, exactly what I was looking for.

That's an excellent review mate......really helps with decision making.....cheers!!

That's a fair comparison! Cheers!

Itchyboots choose the Rally to travel from Ecuador to Alaska, raiding dirt roads when possible, and I think she had an excellent choice for raiding adventure.

I got the rally 250L & love it. I do more street riding. Both r nice depends on your riding style 👍👍💯%🆒 video solid

Great review. I think your analysis is great. But at the end of the day it is still a personal thing. I think we all know if we listen to our inner voice.

I went with the Rally for my riding in SW CO. I have pretty long (and awesome) road rides to get to the big passes and trails. My rides are really about linking a Mtn road with a Mtn pass and a few trails, back to a Mtn road to cruise back home. The Rally comfort on the open road was high on my priority list and eliminating the wind screen would frankly suck too bad. The distances out in SW CO are pretty big and the wind can be a factor as well. If I was riding mostly dirt and/or trailering the bike, I'd probably have gone with the L, but super happy with my decision.

One thing you never mentioned but would be something I'd have to factor in as well would be the cost, in my country there is a $1000 price difference which is no small amount. I'd be happy with either version, seems like a great bike.

Another great video solid, I was wondering about which one would be most suitable for me. I think you've helped me separate them. I need both, curse you😛

Great review! I'm an older guy and new rider and just looking for something to putz around on the street and slow trail rides on occasion. May need to ride 20 miles to get to the trails and dirt roads. Rally would be perfect for me.

I have a 2012 Honda 450x and plan on putting the blinkers on it after I get the valves done 👀 should be fun to ride around on the road when I need to but I use it as a single track monster right now we have great places to ride down here in Texas 👍

Solid is absolutely right. I have a 300 Rally and my friend a 300L. We have ridden parts of the TET in the UK and been on a trip to Spain on the bikes. Both bikes coped wonderfully. My friend just preferred the fact that the L was easier to ride off road, less bulky and just for him more confidence building. I had a 250L a few years back and when the 300 Rally was announced, I just loved the look of it and the more adventure led style (coupled with a big engine improvement). So you could say one of us bought the L using their head and I was led by my heart. For this there is no logic!

Great video! Thanks

Some very good points here. I'm a new subscriber. Think I've seen 10 of your videos in the last 3 days. I like how they're very matter of fact and just honest. I'm just an okay rider that likes to look of a dual sport. My work commuter is a dr200. And my touring bike is an V-Strom 650. I don't think either are going away, but I feel like the 300 rally could cover both.

Great video totally agree I choose the L as I found a great. 2 hand one already upgraded not I will just fit a tank and happy days! Totally agree on fairing the less the better Wind at 50/60 m/h no issue

Everything you’ve said is 100% accurate solid (owner of 2016 Crf250l for 3 years and current owner of a cbr300r equiped 2017 Crf “300” rally.) Even when I had the rally I had both bikes for a year and took the 250L on more than 50% of rides (I had both available so could have taken either). I do about 70-80% off-road and it has probably taken me a year to take my rally everywhere I used to take the 250l - but now I am happy as I have a bike that does the road sections a little more comfortably. I can also ride with road riding mates and not be “totally left behind” I run d606 and mt21 and find it surprisingly capable in the twisties, of course when it comes to the straights, a 130hp sports bike will leave anything behind, but at least in the 40/60/80/90 Kph corners, the rally handles things pretty well and is still a more capable bike than its rider ;) I just love the fact you can do anything and go anywhere with this lightweight dual sport adventure category !! One really has to ride both they are different bikes but at the same time the same. I believe the extra wheel length and take make the rally a bit less twitchy..my advice - ride them both (even the older 250l and rally) and see which you prefer.

Another no-nonsense upload with plenty of food for thought for anyone thinking of the same. I chose the L for pretty much all the reasons you've outlined here. Respect to you for taking the time to put this together for everyone else out there: I can't be arsed to do that, but will make the enormous effort of adding my two cents here and say, "Yeah nice one mate, totally agree.'

Good note about rider confidence rating mate.

Great video. I'm really interested in the Honda CRF300L but it's really hard to find them used in Mongolia where I live. The CRF250 version is a better bet for used but, after your review, it sounds like the 300 would suit me better. The somewhat competitive Yamaha WR250R is also more widely available used but I prefer torquey than high-revving. My rides are 95% off-road as I actually live off-road but I occasionally need to go on-road for part of my rides. I'll keep my eye out for a used CRF300 this spring and summer.

Great review! I was a bit afraid that Rally would be a worse bike and that is why you didn't chose it. But it turned out it's just a perfect bike for me. Designed perfectly spend more time on the pawed road and do only light enduro

Good quick comparison.

Great vid. Going with the rally because fairings and windscreen. My location affords me the option to ride year round, but it gets 🥶

my big question is who in their right mind would add yellow hand guards to a CRF?

Very good video. Thank you.

Very usefull info on the bikes, good content ! Thanks for your opinion :)

I’m still unsure if I got the correct bike but after 7700kms in 4 months on the 300L (abs) I’d say I’m buying the standard version again. 110kmh speed limit and I could hit 154kmh. Fitted heated grips for cold nights and was perfect. I liked pushing off road & dropped 60+ times easily, so the rally plastics I doubt would have held up. If you can find one buy it

That’s best review, thanks