Honda CRF300L Rally 1 Year Review: There's NOTHING Else Like It...

Рет қаралды 147,875

Күн бұрын

I've owned and ridden this Honda CRF300L Rally for over a year now. I've gone motocamping on it, ridden it in the snow, on the highway, and just last weekend did over 500 miles riding the 300L Rally all over Death Valley.
Some people (myself included) spend thousands of dollars in pursuit of the ultimate "light adventure bike" dream, building up their dual sport motorcycles by adding bigger fuel tanks, better seats, fairings, windscreens and the like....but there's only one true light adventure bike that comes that way from the factory, and that's the Honda CRF300L Rally.
My Honda CRF300L Rally review is incredibly positive because I've enjoyed riding and owning it and because it's a truly unique bike that bridges the gap between dual sport and adventure motorcycle.
Honda CRF300L Rally Mods List:
(affiliate links where possible)
Tusk Fender Eliminator Kit: bit.ly/3Sw7smL
Tusk Accessory Dash Panel: bit.ly/3umDB8r
Tusk Bar Risers: bit.ly/49ruxOl
TrailTech Voyager Pro: bit.ly/3UwMoPR
Tusk Aluminum ⅞” Handlebar: bit.ly/3waOz1m
Tusk D Sport Tires: bit.ly/350Wn8e
ProTaper Pillow Top Grips: bit.ly/2MVmQLV
Seat Concepts Comfort XL Seat: seatconcepts.com/products/pre...
Giant Loop ZigZag Handlebar Bag: www.giantloopmoto.com/product...
Graves Full Stainless Exhaust: www.gravesport.com/products/h...
Outback Mototrek Crash Bars: east.outbackmotortek.us/produ...
Tusk D-Flex Handguards: bit.ly/3eJZsMV
Doubletake Mirrors:bit.ly/3F1lxkT
Quad Lock Motorcycle Handlebar Mount: amzn.to/3cFOUvI
Quad Lock Vibration Dampener: www.quadlockcase.com/collecti...
Giant Loop Mojavi Saddlebags:www.giantloopmoto.com/product...
Honda CRF300L Rally Review Chapters:
Intro (a True Light Adventure Bike): 00:00
Honda 300L Rally Specs and Stats: 01:26
Honda CRF300L Rally Pros: 02:06
Honda CRF300L Rally Cons: 06:25
Final Conclusion: 11:05
Outro: 16:10
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Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Please consider using these affiliate links:
Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq
Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z
Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/4eMdJZ
MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork
Giant Loop: www.giantloopmoto.com/?ref=dork
Thank you for supporting the channel by clicking on the affiliate links in this description.
FULL DISCLOSURE: MotoCamp Nerd pays me to create content for his KZfaq channel. This isn't a "sponsorship" per se, but it does mean I use their products exclusively and may impact my opinions about camping gear. Fortunately their stuff is good so I'm happy to recommend it, but just FYI.
Disclaimer for reasons: I am not a professional journalist, expert motorcycle rider, or a mechanic. These videos are for entertainment purposes and represent my personal opinions and experiences. I'm just a dude who isn't even good at riding or making videos, so be smart and don't risk life or limb trying to follow my example or advice.

Пікірлер: 637

@DorkintheRoad 3 ай бұрын

Want to support the channel when you buy your dual sport or ADV gear and mods? Please consider using these affiliate links: Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/3tYzpXq Amazon: amzn.to/3aDkk4z Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/4eMdJZ MotoCamp Nerd: motocampnerd.com/?ref=dork Giant Loop: www.giantloopmoto.com/?ref=dork

@johnrolavs6794 8 күн бұрын

Hey brother, looking for a light dual sport bike for about 70% dirt road, 30% on, no highway. I'm 6'5 210 lbs, my gal is 4'10 85 lbs. New rider and I'll wait til I have the skills to take my lady. Would this do the trick? Thank you for the advice 👍

@BigRockMoto 3 ай бұрын

The self ejecting windscreen is a great feature, the bike gets lighter as you ride, who else has that?

@markdawson5215 3 ай бұрын

😂🤣😅

@LAKE_NERD 2 ай бұрын

@BigRockMoto have you seen the 300 Rally that Shonky Production has with the 550 Performance big bore kit? It’s faster than a a stock 450l… Hopefully he keeps it on his channel long to give us feedback on the reliability etc.

@tomsweeney8433 2 ай бұрын

How much

@Ozark221 2 ай бұрын

+1 have been hit in the face by a honda well nut windshield

@dogmandan79 Ай бұрын

Until it comes to a self electing seat. lol.

@AdvBrewery 3 ай бұрын

A trend I've noticed with adv riders. Many people start on these types of bikes, get "good" and sell it. Get an expensive/higher maintenance bike and absolutely regret getting rid of the low strung/low maintenance/fun easy bike and sell.. again.. and buy again the smaller bikes like this one. I'm certainly in that group. You can go 80% as fast and have 100% the fun with 30% the work/wrenching. Excellent review. Fun factor on these bikes is such a thing. I think the Internet encourages a competitive part of ourselves, not necessarily a bad thing, but I believe it has sold more bikes than we would like to admit.

@randomOAS7 3 ай бұрын

I couldn't even estimate the number of times I've heard owners of DR650s who sold them talk about regretting selling it.

@DorkintheRoad 3 ай бұрын

Totally agree. I see this often, as well.

@monsterboomer8051 3 ай бұрын

@@randomOAS7Now imagine selling gems like Yamaha WR250 R when you can't buy new or even used one here in EU.

@DualSportDoug 3 ай бұрын

I’m in the same group, sort of. The difference is that have been smart and kept my DRZ that I’ve had since 2006. During the time I’ve owned it, I’ve had a new 2012 KTM 500 EXC. I sold it two years later. I bought a 2007 KLR in 2012, did two big mostly pavement adventure rides and a few other rides and finally sold it in 2020 because I didn’t ride it for at least two years, so it made no sense to keep it. 2019 I bought a 450 EXC-F, which I still have, but the DRZ is a better all day fire road bike. 2022 I bought a T7. 2023 I broke my wrist. 2024, T7 is for sale. I have just come to the realization that as I’m getting older, I’m going to stick to 300 ish lb and smaller bikes. If someone is shopping for a T7, I’m in Washington.

@randywilliams4325 3 ай бұрын

About 20 years ago I built a Honda xr650r into an adv bike . I put a lot of miles on it . Engine had a cam and a pipe . I miss that bike . Life got in the way and I sold it . Probably will end up building another 1.

@cnyjody9650 2 ай бұрын

I'm 65, and I own an Ultra Classic. Got sick of being a "fair weather" rider. I just bought a new 300 Rally and I love it. Took it out for its first 100 mile ride, freaking cold out, seasonal roads that still had snow on them. Motored right through it. This thing rocks!

@ArbitraryLifestyle 2 ай бұрын

Woooooo hells yea!! This is the most fun bike I've owned :D

@pamelafakkeldy1533 2 ай бұрын

Well done cody

@cnyjody9650 2 ай бұрын

@@pamelafakkeldy1533 Who is Cody?

@TraveladvRajanSRai 19 күн бұрын

KLR BETTER OR DR

@cnyjody9650 19 күн бұрын

@@TraveladvRajanSRai No, they are not better.

@nicknameunavailable1298 3 ай бұрын

I've owned several hundred bikes and this video is spot on. I just traded a modded 701 for the KLX 300 . I bought a new Rally in 2021, Rally raid suspension and SRC moto accessories. My Rally is better than the KLX in every way with the suspension upgrade. 63 and 175 lbs. I ride out of Quartzsite AZ. I can ride with KTM's and Huskys all day. This is a home run for Honda. Not as exciting as a KTM with massive power but at the end of the day my smile pushes away any doubts. The only person I have to impress is me, and this bike impresses me with every ride.

@patriot1182 3 ай бұрын

Yes, I love my Honda CRF 300L! 67 years old here!

@kengoold7157 2 ай бұрын

also 67 mate, own a GS1200, but love my 300 R

@airadaimagery692 3 ай бұрын

Believe it or not, when you upgrade the rear sprocket on this bike from a 40T to a 42T, you don’t lose any of your top end speed for the highway, and you gain an incredible amount of low end torque for the technical stuff, going up hills, and overtaking vehicles. Not to mention that you can still use the stock chain. I didn’t believe that you wouldn’t lose any top end speed, so I was hesitant to do it for two years, but woodsman adventure talked me into it, and I’m so glad I listened to him. The combination of the stock improved ECU tune, and the 42T sprocket, completely changed this bike into something much more enjoyable and fun to ride. I can actually pop wheelies now, and still top out at 81mph. I weigh 205lbs.

@orangelion03 3 ай бұрын

Good to know! Thanks!

@travisbrown9267 3 ай бұрын

That’s an idea I might try as I do long distance highway kms on it. And commute to work during the week. So 42t but with the ecu tune?

@airadaimagery692 3 ай бұрын

@@travisbrown9267 I had my ECU flashed about 6 months before I added the new sprocket. It was a big improvement in itself. I gained 9% more power, and 4% more torque. But I wasn’t searching for more power, I was trying to achieve more linear acceleration through the rev range, and smoother throttle response, which is what you get with a stock improved tune. Additionally, the bike runs a little cooler. The fan doesn’t kick on and off quite as much. The bike runs a little lean from the factory. The ECU tune richens the mixture ever so slightly which causes the bike to run cooler, and ultimately should last even longer. I think everyone should do it. But that’s just my opinion. You might want to do your own research. I chose just the stock improved tune, with a simple air box mod. I could have chosen the stage 1 tune, which provides an increase 18% power and 12% in torque, but that would require an aftermarket exhaust, and I just wasn’t ready for the additional noise at the time. But it would had added even more power and torque, by providing more efficient airflow. I will most likely upgrade to a stage 1 tune in the future. That’s what’s good about 550 Performance. Once you have them flash your ECU, they will flash it again in the future for free, I just pay the shipping. If I were you, I would go on 550 Performance’s website, and choose a tune, and try that out first. There are 8 different tunes to choose from. You might be happy with those results alone. But that’s just me. I like making incremental upgrades, and see how the bike reacts to each modification, before moving on to the next upgrade. Most people do everything at once. But they couldn’t tell you how the bike would respond with one modifications without another. I only chose to do a sprocket upgrade because I was seeking even more lower end torque for the more technical trail riding stuff, because I ride off rode more than I do on road. It just so happened that I didn’t lose any top end speed, which is a win win in my book. And I still have the stage 1 tune to look forward to. Possibly even a stage 3, but that will require a Big Bore kit, so that is in the distant future. Maybe next year.

@Jefestephens 3 ай бұрын

81??? Iv heard these a 60 mph bikes

@airadaimagery692 3 ай бұрын

@@Jefestephens kzfaq.info/get/bejne/nr6ZksllnKzaqo0.htmlsi=7gCblSRX_nZn9U5j

@PanetMaster 2 ай бұрын

I just finished riding my 250 Rally from Seattle to Patagonia over the past year, and I really couldn’t have asked for a better companion on the journey. I sold the bike a week ago in Chile and fought back tears as I watched the new owner ride away. The bike never failed me after nearly 30k miles of hard riding, including a crash in Baja Mexico that shredded the plastic faring on the right side of the bike into four separate pieces, and numerous drops since. I’d love a more powerful version one day, like a 450/500 rally, but you’ve got to respect what Honda has accomplished with these already. These bikes simply won’t quit and will take you where you want to go as faithfully as any other motorcycle ever made, as far as I’m concerned.

@johnpagejr.7628 3 ай бұрын

You nailed it Ben! This is John Page Jr from Chelan WA at 72 years old and weighing in at 153 lb and riding my 2021 CRF300L Rally also. For the lighter riders out there I have been able to maintain 65 mph loaded down with camping gear but do not expect much more out of this bike in stock form. I like Ben love this bike and agree with Ben about every thing he said about this bike and thank you Ben for putting this review out there. I will also back Ben up about the soft suspension on this bike. Even though I am a light guy I have already put on a better shock and a new spring for my weight. If you are not into going fast the suspension is fine but if you plan on using it as a light ADV bike just know that you are going to want to at least change the springs to match your weight when you are suited up in all your gear and for sure if you are carrying any amount of camping gear. All thumbs up from me on this motorcycle. I love it!

@robluce6334 3 ай бұрын

Every time I watch Noraly struggle with Alaska, I keep thinking there's gotta be a better motorcycle for that type of riding. The better than a CRF300L Rally Light Adventure Motorcycle. There really isn't when you factor everything in. It's either heavier, or much more expensive, or more questionable reliability and parts availability, or shorter distance. You can confidently get on a 300 Rally and just go anywhere on the planet and know you've got the best chance to make that trip without problems of any motorcycle produced.

@iz723 3 ай бұрын

To be fair, hers is heavily modified

@robluce6334 3 ай бұрын

@@iz723 She did modify the suspension, the mirrors, the seat, added a bunch of bags and handlebar mounts... But the frame and the drive train on Alaska is stock (and has been rebuilt several times at this point). That means everything important is stock except the suspension (which failed after it was installed and had to be rebuilt). I would say the bare minimum has been done to Alaska, hardly anything has been modified. That being said, the statement misses the point. The CRF300L Rally is still the best "Light ADV" for that type of travel, modified or not. But, I think it would be fairly easy to improve on it, but no one really has.

@randombuilds8336 3 ай бұрын

I would argue the DRZ400S would be a good alternative to have similar weight with a little more power and a HUGE parts selection. Biggest downside to the DRZ is its still got a carb. But you can almost double the power and not loose reliability, mine's still getting about 55mpg as a cammed ported big bore stroker with a fcr41. The extra quart of oil compared to some other bikes helps extend the changes too. And they hold their value pretty well. If not beat they sell regularly for $4k.

@russellborn515 3 ай бұрын

@@randombuilds8336 Yeah, I added a windscreen and luggage to mine-and a seat- and it's not a bad tourer. Runs rough on a cold morning at altitude, until it warms up,, but that's really my only complaint. Nice to have a bit more power than that 300.

@appymarley 3 ай бұрын

Yes when I watch noraly I realize the little Honda is pretty much the do it all bike she seems to manage to ride thousands of miles with very few problems.. people keep talking about unicorns they are a mythical creature created to entertain little children ..so maybe just buy a bike and learn to ride it

@advmike 3 ай бұрын

Well said. I feel similarly about my Himalayan. Especially: "By the time you outgrow this bike, skills wise, you'll know whether you want a true ADV bike or a more capable dual-sport."

@groverw7507 2 ай бұрын

Wise approach. The Himalayan seems to have a lot to offer in this category also.

@jasonzerbini2375 2 ай бұрын

Bought a 23 and currently at 3700 miles. I found this 1 year review to be spot-on. The first time I took it off road I was thrilled at how easy it was to handle in tight north eastern rough rut and root infested single tracks and didn't want to stop. I've never had a bike that made me want to ride in the cold but I've ridden it off and all all winter. Price of admission is so reasonable I had money left to buy proper high quality gear. At 62 I've had bigger bikes and the 300 Rally seems so much more common sense practical. If I rode with a competition focus it would be different but when I ride its not a race. I slow down a bit so there is time to take in the scenery. I've even ridden it two up on and off road and other than the rear sagging, was amazed at how well it did on hills. To top it off the bike is very easy on the eyes just oozes class, style and masculine beauty. Peace!

@K7EFW 3 ай бұрын

Picked up my CRF300L today. I hope I have half as much fun as you do on these vids. Thanks for sharing, and for the inspiration!

@user-bq3nx6gs8h 3 ай бұрын

I bought a 250 Rally in 2017 when they first came out to get back into dirt bikes after many years of bicycling. I spend summers in Vermont and have ridden in much of the state (around 10,000 mi now), mostly dirt roads (there are 9000 miles of them in VT) but some Class 4 and trails. The Rally is a perfect bike, economical (80+mpg), handles well, inexpensive, and nice looking. I've installed heavier springs. The views, old cemeteries, and colonial buildings make every ride an adventure. Did I mention I'm 77?

@jamesbellucci1356 3 күн бұрын

💪

@ronaldpennington3127 3 ай бұрын

Just got a new 2023 rally a few weeks ago and absolutely love it.Watched a lot of your videos on the rally and it was helpful in helping me make my decision.Keep up the great videos!!!

@cidgrad130 3 ай бұрын

My '22 Rally/ABS and I both agree with your analysis...it has earned it's use of valuable garage real estate and will continue to do so for some time - love the content!

@marcusvaldes 3 ай бұрын

I just bought mine last week. 100 miles in and so far I love it.

@martincyr7259 3 ай бұрын

Great revue. I agree with all the pros & cons that you mention about the Rally. I own one myself and have ridden around 12k miles last summer with it, dirt roads, highways, etc. around my province (Quebec) and even did the MABDR. Just a great fun and capable bike that can do anything you throw at it. 👍

@ggs0605 3 ай бұрын

Thank you for the content and especially for all the links in the description!

@303carbonboy 3 ай бұрын

Awesome review! People don’t understand, but I’m glad you do. Between you and Adventure Daily(running 300L) you guys confined to me to get the 300L Rally

@Michael_Shay 3 ай бұрын

I started on a CRF250l Rally, moved to the DR650, and then now I'm on a 701 enduro that I'm building into my unicorn. I don't think I'd say I miss my rally. Although I had some beautiful graphics on it that really made it stand out. I do respect the rally for what it is and I would feel more than comfortable recommending it to people. If there is one thing I've learned throughout my ownership, especially now that I'm on the 701. It cannot be overstated how big of a difference good suspension makes. New springs are the bare minimum for the Rally. A beginner probably wouldn't notice for a while but I'd be willing to make the argument that it's almost a safety issue. It's incredibly easy to out-ride the stock suspension on the Rally, even for a beginner. I put the hyperpro progressive spring kit in my rally and I think it costed me like $350. A great option for anyone wondering about suspension for their Rally but doesn't have the cash to shell out for a brand new setup. I took off the rear shock myself and brought it to a dirtbike shop and they switched the spring out for like $15. I was able to do the forks myself with the help of a friend.

@Walkeranz 3 ай бұрын

It is a safety issue

@travisbrown9267 3 ай бұрын

Great review! As a fellow rally owner I agree. Great bike. Gday from Australia 🇦🇺

@BrandonD.-ld3zi 3 ай бұрын

I haven't ridden in a few decades, last bike was a Yamaha R1. I wanted to get back into riding and more off the beaten path. Bought the Rally, in part to your videos, and I am loving the Rally. The previous owner bought it for the same reason I did but only put 1500 miles on. I have almost doubled that in a two months. Got my wife the Kawasaki KLX230S ABS because she is short and has never driven a motorcycle, only ridden as a passenger. The bikes fit us perfectly. I like the idea of ABS for both of us as novice riders. These bikes are far more capable than our skills. Thanks for the vids!

@Naptime1953 2 ай бұрын

Didier is a trooper! I love his armor. Stunning drone shots of a beautiful country.

@jaygrafton3048 3 ай бұрын

I am still running a 2018 CRF250 Rally with upgraded suspension and I love it. It is light enough for off-road trails but capable enough to ride from Southern Illinois to Northwest Arkansas with camping gear and then trail ride. One of the best bikes I ever purchased.

@takumisato7126 Ай бұрын

How was it on the highway? I was considering a regular crf300l but now on the fence, would be nice to have an off road capable bike with the option of doing the highway if I ever needed to

@leeinwis 26 күн бұрын

@@takumisato7126 Regular highway no problem , interstate highway would be sketchy .I have the same bike, 18' 250 rally .

@KeViNMCMXXCIX 2 ай бұрын

If I were to get a Dual Sport this one is/was definitely already on my radar. Useful video!

@BFreeODAdvs 3 ай бұрын

Well said. I have a 2020 250L Rally. Picked up used about 6 mos. ago w/200 miles on her. Now i have about 1K miles on her. Love the bike, just have to know her limits. I also have a '09 KLX250 that I gave to my son so we can experience life together off road. Thanks for the review.

@mr.q7943 2 күн бұрын

I bought a 2023 Rally last year and so far it has been great....hauls the wife and I on all kinds of adventures BUT....I would never even think of going a whole year before changing the oil. Mine has just over 4200 kms on it right now and I have changed the oil 3 times already. Once after break-in, then whenever it gets black...that's my reminder to change oil!

@metalmystic6214 9 күн бұрын

Thanks in large part to all your Rally content, I just purchased my own 300L Rally. Never ridden off road so will be learning with this bike. Really wanting to get into light adventure stuff.

@mitchellbowman4393 3 ай бұрын

I got my rally in 2021. I absolutely loved it. I put 21,000 miles on it in just over 2 years. Zero problems...checked the valves at 18k and they were still in spec. At 240 lbs, I was very rough on it. Sold it and my old goldwing to get a transalp. Love the transalp, but another rally will be in my future.

@shanek447 3 ай бұрын

Thank you for a great review that's educational and you keep it entertaining.

@stevewalker2397 Күн бұрын

I just bought one. Planning on doing the TAT in 2025. Riding a 2016 Africa Twin right now on the great Ohio adventure trail. Dropped it at camp. Could not get it up without a ratchet winch. The rally I have no problem. The AT is a great bike on and off road but the difficulty for me to pick it up lead me to something much lighter. Rackless luggage to save weight is a game changer.

@mutstang66 2 ай бұрын

Got my 2023 CRF300L about a month ago. Havent put many miles on ot but i love it so far. Great videos. Came across them recently. Makes me jealous. I love in new jersey not many places to ride.

@StephenFull-xb9gn 3 ай бұрын

Nailed it. A true do it all bike; precisely why I purchased and still own mine.

@0HARE 3 ай бұрын

Your assessment of this bike lines up pretty much with mine. I’m 140lbs soaking wet, so the CRF300 Rally is the perfect all around lightweight adventure bike for me. I bought a new one in ‘21, but haven’t actually ridden it much. In my dense urban setting it’s a long ride to anything like what you and Big Rock Moto are doing. I take mine with me on camping trips, loaded up in the truck. It’s easy to load & unload, and a joy to ride in Big Bend, NM, CO, etc.

@whiskeychief16 2 ай бұрын

Dude i dont even ride, but I’ve been watching your videos for over a year. You just have entertaining content!

@brewster84067 3 ай бұрын

Yep. Spot on Ben. Took me about 4 bikes to figure this out and recently bought a 300L base model. Just sold my KTM 890 and had plenty of money left over to add some mods - suspension, bigger tank, header and pipe, and a few things to accommodate my short inseam. I'm still under $7k. I'm about 160 lbs and 85% offroad. It is now what I consider the perfect bike for me. One of the biggest pros? I can pick it up ALL BY MYSELF when I dump it, no problem. Keep up the great content. Love your vids.

@twowheelRoz 3 ай бұрын

Good review, agree with you 99%. I have already 3k mi on my 2024. Im 6'3" 230lbs and have hit 91mph and easy hit 70-80. My new favorite bike!

@artlambert3217 9 күн бұрын

Great review. I have the non-rally ABS model and love it. After spending a little on upgrades, the bike does everything I ask of it. Sold a T7 to get this bike and have never regretted it.

@Cal-dt3fl 3 ай бұрын

Hey Ben, I have a ‘22 rally … I really like this bike it does everything I expect it to… mostly gravel roads for me and flat hiway.. I find it refreshing to just drive this bike without worry.. no range problem, mud, gravel, pavement … this bike is like have a really good set of all season tires!!! You get piece of mind that no matter what one way or another I’ll get where I’m going!

@ricatiman 2 ай бұрын

I have also been following Itchy Boots for years, and now that she has hit 50,000 kms on her 300L Rally, riding some of the most difficult and treacherous roads from South America to Africa and across deserts, mountains, and swamps. She has never been let down by that bike. I have owned many bikes, and I agree with you - this 300L rally is the only one that can last the distance. My KTM's have been far less than confidence inspiring to own. Itchy Boots, and people like yourself, have really proven the Honda completely. Anyone considering a different make in this category is nuts!

@nickg2431 2 ай бұрын

You are correct about KTM,s.The main models assume a certain level of skill before you buy one. They are race bikes at the end of the day and the learning curve is a lot steeper. I have one and also a CRF300L. I can say categorically that the CRF (with modified suspension) is a far easier and more relaxed ride than my KTM 500. However the KTM will tackle far more difficult terrain than the Honda I will excite you for more. It's like a thoroughbred horse v your favourite horse that you love taking out for days.I am out three times per week on both bikes and have covered thousands of km . They are both great bikes to own and serve different purposes.

@tarjas 2 ай бұрын

The only thing nuts is inexperienced riders falling for hype that a 286cc plastic bike is the best do it all. A DR650 is just getting broken in at 50k and only weighs a small amount more. Btw Norally has had major issues with her rally (she does ride it hard but weighs half what most riders do). Do not recommend at all. 0:03

@maxflight777 2 ай бұрын

Nope ! They aren’t nuts ! The 300 Rally is a bit .. “cardigan man” My own Husqvarna 701 weighs less, has way more power. It’s a totally different level of ability both on and off road.

@laius6047 Ай бұрын

Honda was always considered reliable manufacturer. It didn't just happen in past few years.

@Raketemensch42 27 күн бұрын

Sadly, she broke before the bike did :]

@billcotton1551 3 ай бұрын

I own a 2023 Rally and love it! At 160 lbs, I have not had a lot of problems with the suspension.

@davidbrooks1971 3 ай бұрын

Great review! I smashed most of the Con's you mentioned by upgrading front and rear suspension to Ktech, and gained some ponies by fitting a Yoshimura exhaust and a 550 Performance ECU flash. A bit of crash protection and better handguards and all is fine. Im 6'4" and 110kg so not small and my Rally will go 85 on the flat - but is happier at 65-70. One thing you didn't mention is that these great little bikes sip fuel and i get over 90mpg (imperial Gallon - not your short version!). With the tank size you can get a real long way on a tankful. I did however run out once on the way to work and a little old man let me steal the fuel from his lawnmower so i could get to the next town. Dropped him off a bottle of wine on the way home and we are now mates as he made me drink it with him!

@SecondHalfofLife 3 ай бұрын

"Not great at any one thing, but good/competent at everything" is a highly underrated quality in the online motorcycle community. Glad to see you stand up for that point. It sounds like if you dumped $1000 into the suspension, and maybe added a few power upgrades (assuming those exist) this would be a really formidable contender.

@yukonpeter 3 ай бұрын

Awesome video Ben! I'm 64 year old T7 owner and am taking possession of a CRF300 Rally sometime in April / May. I've had my T7 for 3 years and it is awesome and I will not sell it, but off road, when it gets a wee bit technical, I get scared. It is just too heavy. Where I live (Yukon) we have some really nasty and rugged roads into very remote corners of the Territory and having a lighter bike is going to make things much more fun and SAFE. But now I will have to come up with next level excuses, to the lady, to explain the plethora of boxes that are gong to be arriving at my house as I build out the CRF300 Rally for adventure riding! Every summer I see dudes coming up the Alaska Highway on huge GS' piled high with gear that just blows me away. I pray for them as they head for Tuk, that the Dempster Highway doesn't turn into a friction-less, snot-filled, mud bog when it inevitably rains. Just say no to heavy bikes!

@m.m3893 3 ай бұрын

The Best All around bike for me, im from Cebu Philippines. Great Review!💯💯💯

@ericashwell1392 3 ай бұрын

Hi Ben. You've seen the light! My son wisely directed me to the Rally 3 years ago when I (a new DS rider wanted a T7... after I saw some internet advertising lies, lol.) My son's dirtbike intuitions was spot on, and after 2 years of building my skills, confidence, and making the bike my own with motocampjng and trail mods, a distracted driver totalled me out while I was at a stop sign. I got a good settlement and had enough experience to upgrade to the Transalp on the showroom floor. Guess what I bought... another Rally! 😊😊 Thanks for sharing all your trips!

@Archetype123 3 ай бұрын

Love my 300L. Slapped the bigger Acerbis tank on it, and a K Tech rear shock and front spring. Fun little commuter for me in the warmer months, and have it all setup with the Kriega OS packs for motocamping.

@giorgosfrantzeskakis5892 3 ай бұрын

Absolutely excellent presentation!

@grantg7454 3 ай бұрын

I had a smile every time I rode my 300. The lack of power on the hills exactly as you mention, was the reason I sold it. I thought long and hard about engine upgrades and decided it was purpose built. It just seemed to costly for everything it needed. Ultimately I chose the 690 and am very glad I did.

@Nullenvoid1 3 ай бұрын

I would use it for family trips. Thanks for the videos!

@curtishouser7173 3 ай бұрын

I have 3600 miles on my Rally since last Aug. I’m not skilled enough off road to push the bike to its limits. It does everything and has gone everywhere I was brave enough to go. I would buy it again. If anything, I would keep this as a light adventure and buy a KLX 300 also for strictly off road playing. Great video as always!

@neil_the_wheel3493 3 ай бұрын

The 300 Rally is truly a lightweight mini ADV bike, and nothing really compares to it. Until you ride one for a while it is hard to get this. It just does a whole range of riding with no drama and no issues. I have been up and down the displacement ladder and owned many motos but the 300 Rally is the best adventure bike I have owned IF you don't want to go really fast, carry a bunch of stuff, are willing to do a few simple upgrades and like to route plan on dirt and twisty 2 lane backcountry highways. I put the Rally Raid suspension on mine and that makes is so much more capable. Good review. Everyone should note the asterisk in the owners manual by 8,000 mile oil changes. Change oil more frequently for extreme riding and dirt riding for longest engine life.

@troypatterson5862 3 ай бұрын

Excellent review. All about compromises. Unicorn? Not sure about that but what a great bike. Keep up the good work.

@mr.2d749 3 ай бұрын

Excellent review

@robbee8019 3 ай бұрын

Love my 2017 250 rally, just leaves me smiling. Bought new

@J8zzy 3 ай бұрын

So fun bike to ride all year. Works also at winter with stud winter tyres on icy roads. After two winter and summer in Finland I am waiting for all the RALLY SEASONS. The winter season on snowy icy roads is maybe the most fun. Summertime on country roads and trails is something I am waiting now... Easy bike to ride and have FUN for all the seasons and trails.

@lucke1022 3 ай бұрын

Well, there is the Voge 300 Rally. Not in NA but pretty successful in Europe and SA, Asia and so on. I drove both and decided to buy the Voge, fits me better with 6"2, stiffer suspension, I like the look and sounds better. Of course saved 3000€ too. Been happy since. Would the Honda cost only 1k more I would buy the Honda simply because of resale value.

@thomasdoe6768 3 ай бұрын

I own the CRF and bought the Voge for my father in law and hell, I was surprised. There are some downsides ("mirrors" for example), but it sure is a nice bike and much cheaper.

@lostalien 19 күн бұрын

Thanks for the great and honest review.

@AdamOsPCT 2 ай бұрын

I took my 300 rally to touratech last year in Washington did some bdr on the way there and bdr on the way back still a lot of highway riding all the way back down to Baja. saw you you there great presentation by the way. Very capable bike. It's the go anywhere do anything without the fluff.

@mikesinor4695 3 ай бұрын

Love your channel and dig my 250 Ralley.

@anthonymalfino1 3 ай бұрын

Awesome vid broski

@elidirty-6er542 2 ай бұрын

Great honest review

@motojon76 2 ай бұрын

I built the "Ultimate" 300 Rally and it was great. At the end of the day, I have more experience and different desires for my setup, so I bought a KTM 500. I do sometimes wish I'd have kept the 300 for certain things. I'm fully convinced that if you would invest the (admittedly significant) money into a Rally Raid suspension setup for your weight it would make the 300 even more of a Unicorn than you already think it is. Glad you're having fun with it all and filing it for us!

@gerardcouture6539 3 ай бұрын

Great video. I also own a 2021 CRF300L Rally since new up here in Ontario Canada. Love the thing. Not considering selling it ever. It’s a Honda. My 2004 CBR1000RR (bought new as well) has 66,000 miles on it and I haven’t done a valve adjustment yet. Purrs like a kitten. I don’t abuse it but I take it up in the revs to redline often enough. To get back to the CRF, yes the suspension is a little soft but for me, 195 lbs and my beginner style of riding, it works absolutely fine. I love the plushness on the road compared to the CBR. I don’t intend to start racing off road with it. I bought it as a “do it all” bike. A nice easy going trail bike. Wind protection on road is nice. Bigger fuel tank great. I added auxiliary lights myself. Sidestand enlarger. A top box I made myself. Installed USB charger for phone on RAM mount. I take it out moto camping ⛺️ (the CBR as well 😛) I learnt to ride off road when I was a kid on a 1974 CB125S street bike. After the first year the suspension was gone but I rode it for 7 more years with the suspension shot. My folk did not have the money to by me a real dirt bike. I followed the other guys on real dirt bikes pretty good. Went where they went. No big jumps but … I reckon this suspension will work just fine for me. 😃 My opinion, don’t overlook this bike. It is very capable. Enjoy guys.

@DirtBikeCraig 3 ай бұрын

Great summary! It all depends on the type of riding. I was debating on a 300L, but I decided to buy the 250F and put a street legal kit on it and tires I like. So, it doesn't have stock 300L stuff, but I saved almost 50 pounds and I think that will benefit my riding the most. Cheers!

@grindlex9 3 ай бұрын

Love mine, it’s a blast every time I ride it!

@hungoverbear 3 ай бұрын

Great honest review. I plan on picking one up this spring if any of the dealerships have them in stock. There seems to be an issue in getting these bikes in the dealerships in my area.

@dcmphoto7437 3 ай бұрын

I got a 300L for commuting to work and because it's easy to put on a hitch carrier. Did a couple mods- bigger gas tank, windscreen and seat concepts seat. So far seems like a nice little bike and super cheap to operate. Huge aftermarket support too!

@sniperboi21 2 ай бұрын

Hey Dork! I haven't watched your channel since I had to sell my bike (too much heartache lol) but we're back and buying a new bike! Excited to see my favorite internet riding buddy again.

@MotoVania 3 ай бұрын

I also recently rode my 300L Rally through Death Valley, and I’ve put over 10K miles on it. Agree with everything you’ve said, it’s a not a speed demon, but it will just go and go, love mine!

@Siggymund 2 ай бұрын

You played a role in me purchasing a 23' 300L Rally that I picked up last in November. I 100% agree with your review and feel I am one of the guys who falls right in the middle with this machine. Little over 2300mi on it as of today. Looking forward to just going to the places less people go with having to deal with all the places everyone goes as well. This bike has been so far really what I was looking for out of a motorcycle. The ability just do basically what ever I'm capable of doing on a bike, and some stuff that I have no reason for being there. I moved over from my 17' CB300F, first bike which I put 25k miles on, and am having a hard time getting back on it. The CRF handles my commute almost as well as my CB really only lacking a little bit in MPG and MPH on the interstates but, better in the wind protection so the 30's are tolerable now. Also, the versatility on gravel roads, trails, and even under the power lines makes up for it in a big way. Because now I am constantly scanning for a "I think I can get through there" trail or path Instead of just watching the GPS for a safe side road on the CB. This makes the ride that more enjoyable even if it just to take the long way home.

@bentravis99 2 ай бұрын

Such a great video, thank you!

@stevenkirkey9796 Ай бұрын

Just got a new 300 rally today Love it , last bike was a klr The 300 is so sweet

@leeinwis 26 күн бұрын

I have the 250 , after 1.5 yrs I learned to ride it on road like a sport bike zipping around like crazy lol.

@TripleB6036 3 ай бұрын

I have other more powerful bikes but I love my Rally. It’s perfect for adventure and exploring here in the Philippines. It’s simple to work on , fun to ride and having put a Rally Raid shock in it recently, that made all the difference to the ride. I’m going to be using mine to explore the islands here.

@paulvanhout9695 3 ай бұрын

Thorough and practical review for potential buyers. Great insights for your viewers👍. CFMoto Ibex 450 could be a player when available later this year.

@chukku2175 Ай бұрын

The CFmoto 450 is going to be quite a disappointment for all those who expect a lightweight ADV bike. It is a 425lbs bike, so not even close to being comparable to this Honda 300. It is basically the same size and weight category as a T7 or Tuareg, with half the power for half the prize. In Europe it does make sense for riders with an A2 license, but that's it.

@neilpederson5212 3 ай бұрын

I bought one this winter I put 12KM on it so far so can't say how I like it. But I cannot wait for the snow to leave and get out there on this bike!

@j-Photography 3 ай бұрын

Excellent review. I absolutely loved my 250 Rally, but living at 6k feet and riding to 14k feet the Rally just struggled in any hills to maintain 55-60mph. I sold it because it felt unsafe getting to the trail, otherwise, it was perfect in so many ways. I am 162lbs btw.

@scubarubanzaii 2 ай бұрын

My dad’s had a lot of the recent CRF lineup, 250F, 300L, 300L Rally, and 450X. The only drawback either of us found with the 300s was the suspension purely, it is never overstated how soft that stuff is. He also had a 1976 TL250 that was a lot harder to bottom out. Now though? He now has the Transalp and 250F (considering selling the 250) and I run a CB500X. The middleweight ADV bikes actually do the job we like to accomplish here in Northerm Utah.

@justinmeadows8446 3 ай бұрын

I bought the rally as my first dirt bike and adventure bike, so far I'm very happy with it. I did have to lower mine due to being short so the soft suspension is actually a plus for me.

@dstubby82 3 ай бұрын

I could be wrong, but it feels like there's a HUGE market for the casual "light adventure" category (300-500cc), but the industry is somehow missing the clues. 🙃😊

@alozborne 2 ай бұрын

True! I have a 2022 Honda CB500X that I enjoy, but it's not a great off pavement bike despite a Rally Raid rear shock upgrade and RR skidplate. It just needs a little more ground clearance and a better stock suspension. The 2025 Ibex 450 looks really intetesting though!

@leeinwis 26 күн бұрын

@@alozborne And it's heavy.

@alozborne 25 күн бұрын

@@leeinwis That's relative - it's light compared to most ADV bikes yet heavy versus true dual sports. Until you ride one, the CB500X is easy to dismiss but it's such a good all round ADV for the money spent.

@biophillie 3 ай бұрын

Great review - Thanks! (Wish I had known, you were in my backyard, Lone Pine - Ready to take the 450L out). See you around! Be safe.

@davidbethea7610 2 ай бұрын

I have a 2024 Honda Transalp and I love riding it . But when I getting ready to take off on one of my bikes I catch my self jumping on my 2023 Honda 300 Rally most of the time. For some reason it is just a joy to ride. It does have a Rally Raid suspension. Everything else is stock except the aluminum skid plate. It really is a great bike.

@howardbarker7768 3 ай бұрын

Done all the mods muffler shocks ecu 550 performance luggage rack foot pegs bark busters bash plate tyres all for $ 1500 US just such a low maintenance bike and it will go anywhere and you don’t have to carry a spare fuel pump. I weigh 100 kg and can pick it up no problem. Unlike my 2022 Africa twin which I ride on dirt roads an highway it’s horses for courses. Cheers for the content from New Zealand

@shockrocker976 3 ай бұрын

I rode mine for 3 or 4 months before selling it. I never liked it personally, but your perspective is very interesting.

@kevinim300 2 күн бұрын

Great Inspiiration for a change on yt. i too am lovin my CRF300L

@christopherwieland1196 Ай бұрын

I rode this bike around Columbia and it's an awesome bike!

@davidhancock2671 2 ай бұрын

Hey guys, just FYI I’m 165 pounds 5 11 and it’s top speed on flat ground is about 86 miles an hour maybe 90 with no wind. Going up steep hills it’ll cruise at 75. I start off at about 3200 feet above sea level and go all the way up to about 6000 feet.

@davidgiorlando4086 16 күн бұрын

I purchased on new when they came out in 2019 as a 250. I am a strong intermediate rider at 180 lbs. I put the race tech spring kit in the forks and installed Kenda Trakmasters front and rear. I went to Baja and did 600 miles with my buddies on their KTM 500's and did everything they did. it was a little more work but can easily do it. I imagine with the new suspension upgrades available for it these days and a little bigger motor it could be a fantastic bike. Almost tempted to build another!

@tonyrdr7207 Ай бұрын

Great review spot on. It has saved me explaining to people why I think this is a real adventure bike. I will just refer them to your video. Like you I was very surprised with the capability of the 300 while quite aware of its limitations and now is my primary adventure bike.

@leeinwis 26 күн бұрын

Didn't Honda themselves call it a adventure bike when it first came out ?

@tonyrdr7207 26 күн бұрын

@@leeinwis I think so the rally and the L are ok dual sports with many other options out there. Where they excel is when used as an adventure bike. Nothing like them out there.

@NatePoeppel 3 ай бұрын

I owned a 2021 Rally for 1.5 years while traveling North America with a van. It was extremely reliable and I put almost 10,000 miles on it in that short amount of time. I ended up doing a full K-Tech build on the suspension and that made a huge difference. The power was really the only downside after the suspension was done. I've since then owned a 450L and now a Tenere. I missed how smooth the 300 was as a commuter when I had the 450, and I now miss how light the 300 felt compared to my Tenere. I'm a more experienced off-road rider and am glad I'm on a more powerful bike these days, especially when I'm traveling with my gf, but I would be just fine owning the 300 Rally still and it'd work well for my city commuting and weekly off-road adventures. Thanks for making this review. Glad you're enjoying the bike.

@NatePoeppel 3 ай бұрын

A video from my first few weeks with the 300 putting the stock suspension to work kzfaq.info/get/bejne/msyUncpe0KnDaKc.html&ab_channel=NatePoeppel

@DualSportDoug 3 ай бұрын

That 20 or so mile stretch between Stovepipe Wells and Panamint Springs is brutal, especially on the Panamint Springs side. I had my truck locked in first gear while going down hill hauling my truck camper and 6x12 cargo trailer, and I was still on the brakes trying to control my descent.

@zaethebarber9250 2 ай бұрын

I've been watching loads of videos about this bike...I'm convinced, I'll get one this year, see you on trails. The only sad part about it is that it barely gets to 70 miles if it gets there and I currently have a Chinese Sinnis apache 125 cc stock that goes up to 65 miles .

@paulskitt8930 6 күн бұрын

I agree with all your points about the Rally , two of my friends and myself bought one each about two years ago , we did all the recommended up grades and this is a very capable bike now ... We have so far completed the ACT of the Pyrenees and came back on the TET and in May of this year we completed the ACT of Portugal from top to bottom turned around and did it in reverse .... No issues at all with any of the bikes just great fun and we never felt that the bikes wouldn't be able to cope we the terrain .... We all have GSA 1250 BMWs on the road ......Once again great bikes ...(ACT Adventure Country Tracks ) ( TET Trans European Trails )

@Admirablevirus 2 ай бұрын

Exhaust, ecu tune and airbox has completely changed my rally, highly recommended.

@leeinwis 2 ай бұрын

links ?

@yamati150 2 ай бұрын

Thank you for the review!! I currently have a Super Tenere and an 02' KLR650 and the KLR is getting long in the tooth at a bit over 40k miles. Because I love riding BLM roads in the middle of nowhere in Wyoming, and cell service is practically non-existent I feel the need (not want) to upgrade to a newer steed for back country wandering with a camera and a fly rod. Mostly day trips, I think the Rally is a perfect compromise. Fast enough to get there and outrun a grizzly bear, but light enough to run Jeep trails. I'm only 25 miles away from the WY BDR, too. Again thanks!! I see a Rally in my future. 👍

@tylerhickernell3099 3 ай бұрын

I bought the 300 L to make it into a light adv bike. Added tusk handguards, a windshield, renthal bars and next on the list is suspension and the bigger tank. I won’t be selling it anytime soon. At my weight I can hit 70-75 on freeway with no issue as long as no headwind and sorta flat. Luv it.

@awatts222 3 ай бұрын

I sold my 300 rally, 2 years ago for a KTM 500 and I still miss it. I'll admit that the KTM did open me up to a whole new level of offroad riding, then my casual riding in the past. But I did do all the suspension upgrades and gearing. After the rally was sooo fun and tanky. Mine was unfortunately built on a Friday afternoon, it was beginning to rust and I never felt it was going to last in my hands. I broke many fairings and the air filter available at the time, was not up to par. So I had to part ways but I still think about my riding experience and I miss the 300L, it's honestly a great bike. Great style and one of a kind.

@Twinstarrider 3 ай бұрын

Long term owner here (250 rally) can vouch for this bikes greatness. Have had many bikes over the last 38 yrs and went the GSA route and came back thinking - I need a smaller, cheaper everyday bike that can handle some dirt (for real hardcore dirt I use a proper dirt bike) the CRF does everything I ever needed and more and it’s my go to bike for near everything except 2 up. Out of the box stock it’s well set up, but I did add a rack (needs to carry kit) and a rotopak style fuel cel (at a minimum I wanted 1:26 300k distances with out needing a gas station). Plastic is tough (a few drops and no noticeable damage) maint is a cinch and cheap. Stock tires are stock tires but happy I got 10k outta the rear. Some folks bitch about the suspension but I have no issue with it (195lbs) and the stock seat is a plank but again does the job. I barely use middle range throttle, either full on or off 😅 so you have to spin it up but this bike isn’t about gobs of power. There are others that do that so if that’s your thing be forewarned. Can’t fault it, Will ride it into the ground and buy another IF the time comes. Cheers

@JagLite 3 ай бұрын

Very nice review and your honest opinion based on actual experience. I just subscribed because of this video and I am interested in seeing what else you have done. I can't see replacing my DR650 with the 300 Rally but maybe my TW200? All bikes are fun, just need the right attitude!