Sorry I couldn’t ride in this video, but below are some previous video of riding both bikes on and off road. - XR150L - ruclips.net/video/04BqooInCR4/видео.html - CRF300L - ruclips.net/video/MdkaIPv2LKA/видео.html
I am in my eighties now. I rode two wheelers of all kinds and configurations for many decades. In this time of my life I will be happy to have a small but responsive machine to drive around town. Probably all I'll ever do is ride to Walmart and the bank. No matter. I'll be happy. The 150 is perfect but I was interested in the 300 too. MPG? Since around town would not include much high gear time the mileage will be less than advertised. I don't care much anymore about off road riding. Long ago I rode trials in Europe. We had CZs, some Russian make that I forget but because we were in Spain there were many Montessas in the field. Great 2 stroke machines. Trials is slow and deliberate, precise rather than brute force riding. That's where I learned off road skills. So off road now would find me poking alone instead of racing. The 150cc promises good performance at street speeds. That is what I am looking for. Considering other things the 300cc would be superior. With it I could hit the freeway without too much concern. Going fast off road is of no importance to me though. The only off road biking I would do is at a twenty mile long wild (undeveloped) beach near my city where all sorts of vehicles, even horses, are allowed. But I would not want salt water all over my nice new bike. I would park it and watch others. This is what happens when you get to be 85. My first experience with Honda was in 1964 when I bought a new Dream 305cc new at a dealer in Oxnard, CA. I rode it for two years then sold it for what I paid before buying another, newer model. It performed perfectly. It would cruise on the southern CA freeways at 70 mph easily. Never once was I sorry I bought it. Not to worry about the fact of no gas gauge on the 150cc. I bought a new VW beetle in 1961. A fine, high quality, dependable little car for zipping around. It had no gas gauge either. One simply drove until it started missing indicating low fuel. Then with the right foot a little lever next to the gas petal was pushed to the side and the reserve immediately kicked in. Time to gas up. In those days we called gasoline "motion lotion". Cool eh? Thanks for the video...
It is simply THE best review we have on this topic anywhere. Thank you so much for your passion and inspiration. It gives viewers the ultimate information needed to make their objective choices.
Nice Review. I have a 2014 CRF250L and just took home a 2023 XR150L last Friday. Its really an apples to oranges comparison and you can't beat the fit and finish of the CRF250L. However even in 2014 dollars it was almost double the price of the XR150L. I am really pleasantly surprised on the XR150L. Its not fast but its geared properly and handles suburban riding very well and perhaps even a little better over my CRF250L. The XR150L is very flick able and the basic suspension does its job well. In the dirt the CRF250L is obviously the better choice and probably not going to break if you push it harder. Still for the price the XR150L is a pretty solid bargain and it is still a Honda. Its got that good Honda plastic etc. Also something about the 2.9 gallon gas tank and 90 MPG that is just awesome. I believe my 2014 CRF250L is only 1.9 gallons and only 65 to 70 MPG so pretty range limited. I would say obviously if you have it the CRF300LS is the far superior bike if you have the extra 3 grand but if not the XR150L won't disappoint unless you just hopped off a much bigger bike!
I think it all depends upon what you need the bike to do, and if it’s going to be your only bike. I’m getting the XR150 as a lightweight rural back road and light trail bike that I can easily carry on the hitch carrier on my pickup when going camping. I have a KLR650 that’s kitted out with ADV stuff, and reworked suspension, that I use for weekend exploration and long trips(it’s been to Deadhorse and back). As far as the low tech instruments go, I started riding in 1974, so I’m old school and don’t feel the need for it. A rider should know by feel and sound whether or not they’re in the right gear for the situation, and if you’re glancing down at the speedo, you should be seeing the trip meter, and know what your range is. I think it(digital gauge)detracts from the experience of riding, and moves the experience toward feeling like being in a car. Sorry to hear about your crash! Hope you recover quickly, and get back out there!
similar setup here, xt225 for solo camping-putting on forest roads, xr650 for big power aggressive riding, vstrom for adv travel..each bike has it's place..
I agree with you. I have 3 bikes and each has a specific function. My biggest bike is my '04 BMW GSA1150 and this is my general touring bike for long trips (both gravel & road). Then I have a BMW Dakar 650 which is my light all-rounder (shop & back bike/round-towner). I then have a little Honda XL 200 that I use mostly for trail riding and work on the farm. It's super light to manhandle through mud, ruts, rocks, etc, and runs forever on a tank of gas! It's ideal for farm work where speed and power are not a prerequisite.
As a car driver with 2 wheel aspirations, I want as many parallels between a car and a bike, so I appreciate the Car-like instruments of the CRF300L, but I also do like the honesty of the XR150L's basic gauges, and the much lower price
@@coastaku1954 I drive a modern plug in hybrid and ride an XR150L, trust me, having 2 opposite experiences is what you want. Getting on the XR and not having screens and buttons and controls and lights and nonsense that you don't really need is amazing, you can just ride and not think about all of it. It also makes me appreciate all of the convenience (and silence) of a modern car more when I do drive.
I've been riding for almost 50 years starting on RD250 then RD350 and many bikes since(all street bikes). I've primarily been a road racer however, the first bike I ever rode was a '76 XL250 Enduro(weren't called dual sports back then) where my friend said if you can start it you can ride it when we were at Indian Dunes. After years of getting faster bikes I went back to my roots and have only owned an RD400 for the last few years. As soon as I saw the XR150 and especially after watching several videos(mostly yours) I said I have to have one(my first Honda ever). I initially wanted the white one like apparently everyone else however, I also didn't want to be 3rd in line at my local dealer who had a black one sitting on the lot. After adding most of the mods you showed in a previous video I'm actually glad I got the black one. I am just hitting the 200 mile mark on mine and so far I really love it. I had been wanting to get the Trail 125 and actually glad I didn't jump on that immediately when they came out. I honestly did not want to jump over the 5K bracket to buy a bike just to put around with so the XR150 fit me perfectly. The DMV guy at the dealer gave me a dirty look when I declined the extended warranty and pre-paid service plan because I said it was a Honda that will probably outlive me and I didn't come here to buy a 5K bike. I paid with my credit card so I could use the miles to buy every mod I wanted and from here forward I will just enjoy it as much as possible. Get well soon.
I have a XR150L here in the Philippines and a HD Springer in the US. If was going to get another DS bike 8n the US, I'd get the DR650 hands down. Simple air-cooled 25 year + model with a ton of aftermarket. I motard'ed my XR while keeping the original wheelset. I love it..
At last a guy like me, he also likes a quiet bike. Very good video to answer that "what does this bike feel like?" question. Very sensible insights into both bikes.
Sorry to hear about your Tiger. Lost mine when a cager didn't see me. Loved loved loved that bike. Best wishes for a quick recovery. Thanks for the vids, they've been helpful.
Exactly the review i was looking for! You hit some great points. I’d have to take into account the price of those essential mods for the xr150. You got a new subscriber, get well soon
I`m 68 and got back into motorcycles after a 30 year hiatus with a XR 150 L. After 2 months with it I am looking to upgrade. Looking at the Honda CRF 300`s or possibly a Kawasaki XLR 300 version. I`m 6'1" , 175, and the XR is just a little cramped and the step in the seat sucks. Handle bar risers will help I believe, and maybe a gel seat pad. I do really like how nimble the XR is, just needs 5 more horsepower. Nice video, thanks.
I got the XR for it's price and simplicity. I don't need a dealer for anything other then a few parts that third parties don't have. No computer no liquid cooling I am doing all the wrenching on it. Not willing to pay twice the price for a bike thats harder to work on( This is my first go doing all the wrenching ) sweet spot of price and easy maintenance
Love this review! Very thorough - you gave more details than I found on Honda's website about the CRF300LS. I'm sold. Honda should pay you for this review. Looking forward to getting one of these. Thank you! Oh and I hope you have made a full recovery! 😊
Awesome videos. I picked up the the 150l. Just got back on a bike after 10 yrs of city life. It’s awesome my friends say I treat it like a classic car. Use it for running errands and cruising around town no more then 45 mph and it great on fire and horse back trails Nobody complains around my area about the noise. My neighbor has a Harley. I guess the 300 is more like the civic for doing everything. 😂
Very best reviewer of these two DualSport small displacement motorcycles. You checked every box I need to make a very informed decision other than Hondas official site. A hearty thank you!
One of the bikes I have owned was the most fun, it was a Honda SL125 stripped down all street stuff removed and weighed less than 200 lbs, it was years ago but great off road fun for weekend riding
I have a new 300LS and love it. Fantastic little machine and it's nice to finally be able to flat-foot on a dual-sport (I'm only 5'9" with 32" inseam).
Good thorough analysis or these two Hondas. Honda's CFR line are clearly aimed at advanced off-road enthusiasts who can handle more power and more weight, and will pay for the higher build quality and advanced features. Personally, I'm not there yet, probably will never get there (too old!), and happy to go for the XR 150. I can build skills with it, get out there inna woods, and maybe do the Evil Knievel over a couple of small jumps. For me it's all about getting wherever I want to go, and I want to go into remote areas. Dirt country and mountain roads are my favorite. I think the XR will fit the bill nicely, and it's a good value for the money. I dig your videos. You have a good personality for it and present well.
I’m old school and have no love for tall bikes with narrow 2x4 seats. I think the designers are more into looks than function. I’m living in the Philippines and most bikes are 150cc. Even with sidecars. They have many motorcycles over here that are inexpensive because people have big families and low pay. So a motorcycle is the family transport. The usual family motorcycle here has a low seat , long and level. Comfortable. A quiet exhaust. Big gas tank and basic carb. Some weld and add extensions so they can haul 4 people on the seat.
Hope you have healed up well. You do a fantastic job framing your reviews with real world context and considerations. Good stuff. Thanks to your reviews on the XR I ended up picking one up for my wife yesterday. Happy to say it was for MSRP and not over as one of my local dealerships was asking $5,700 for them claiming that was MSRP. Anyway, rode it a bit yesterday and your assessment is pretty spot on. We live in a rural area, on a farm bordering a national forest and a close national park. Combined with a bunch of state forest nearby we have pretty much endless dirt road, trail, and rural paved roads to cruise around on. This XR150 is so approachable and easy to ride it’s going to be great for sight seeing, exploring, and riding with our three kids. The pegs, the bars, adding a skid plate, and some hand guards then boom, we are just going to run it. I was skeptical of the tires but am going to give them a fair chance based on how positive you are about them. I grew up racing motocross, hare scrambles and a few super crosses even but have been away from riding for decades for the most part. My wife rode a WR450F living in the mountains of Wyoming, but having broken both femurs in a ski crash and a bunch of other ski related injuries plus three kids and 12 years since she has thrown a leg over a bike, we both feel like it’s time to just enjoy the scenery and like you stated, not take a bunch of unneeded risks. We were considering picking up a TW200 for the role but this 150 is such a great value I think it suits the role even better. Hoping next year to pick up a crf300, not sure which yet but to be my specific bike but one she could still ride when she wants to spice it up a bit more. Seems like both of these bikes offer a great value to performance on road yet trail ride ability to ride with kiddos. Appreciate your thoughts on these specific bikes. Hope to see more 300 content in the future. Cheers!
Glad I found your video. Owned a 2018 CRF250L rally since new and want another bike for a remote vacation home I just bought. For something only ridden 2-3 visits a year, the XR150L seems ideal. I don’t need to hit the highway, just around town and quick grocery runs. Mount a little box on the back and be happy with a cheap, simple bike. Thanks!
Excellent presentation, love the honesty! Icing on the cake was the fact that you shared the decision of selling the 150, brilliant surprise! A short person's ideal comparison would be an owner's head to head between the 300 LS and XT 250 😅 Hook us up!
Glad to see you were able to walk away from the crash. Check out that Husq Norden Expedition.....but I really liked that Tiger. ...remember, there are only 2 types of motorcycle riders ...those who have crashed and those who are going too
That was a great comparison video! I really want a DR 650, but that XR 150 seems perfect for around town f'ing around. I have a couple of cruisers, but living a bit country a dual sport is right down my alley.
I love my DR650, but if you aren’t prepared for it the weight can make it difficult to tackle single track at times. I love mine but a DRZ400 would Have been a better choice if you don’t need to do 70+mph for long periods. Just my thoughts. Regardless if you have the patience and time, the Bush pig will go anywhere.
IF I could have found a 300L (anything) that would have been my choice. Been riding for 40 years and my last DS was a 650L. It's just too tall of a bike for me at 54 to have much fun off-road. My dealer is saying that there will be a boat-load of 300L's (all models) showing up in dealerships pretty soon. Looking forward to being in your position and owning a 300LS. Speedy recovery to you!
Pray for your speedy recovery for your ankle. Glad you are not hurt more severely. I enjoy your videos and you seemlime such a nice gentleman. Wish you 150 was white I'd love to buy it. Can't find them anywhere. I guess the dealerships only get allocated a certain amount of each model so other dealership's can't then in turn buy a bunch of one model and mark up the price and then the other dealer gets none.
Thanks for this great comparison. I really like the look of the LS. I was thinking of getting a 300L but I hate red. And won't buy a red bike. I guess I am just stubborn. So I was thinking of getting the LS. I don't need a shorter bike, but I just prefer the color much better. I am 5'10 with a 32in inseam. Sounds like you are a little taller, with similar inseam. This bike isn't too small for you? Not to cramped when sitting? Thanks again for the great video.
If the price difference is 100 per cent, it might be an option to go for the 300. However, I live in the Philippines now, and one brand new XR150L I can pick up at the dealer and take it home for 92 000 pesos today (1700 USD). The updated price for the newest models is 98000 pesos, but there are still some of those bikes who have a couple of years resting at the dealerships. A CRF300L is 260 000 pesos for the cheapest version (4790 USD), so then my choice is simple. I rode my XR150L for 3 years, and with the 183cc big bore cylinder and a 27mm carb, it did whatever I needed to do. I put some cheaper but more knobby tires on it when the original ones were worn out. However I love those original tires! I sold my XR a few months ago due to going abroad, but we miss it dearly. I am thinking of getting another XR150L, and install a big bore cylinder, this time a 197cc, I got with me the 27mm carburetor so I can put than on a new bike, and I will probably also change to a racing camshaft if I am going for another XR. I agree with people who love the low noise coming from this bike, so I will probably leave the exhaust system in stock version, as I did with my first XR. But since I am rather heavy, I do love to have some extra power. Not so much for the top speed, as for the torque that will help pull me up the steepest hills, even with a passenger in the back. By the way, the seat on the XR is fantastic, even for the passenger. I recommend to downsize the engine sprocket in order to get more torque out of it. These bikes are built on decades of experience, and if something works just fine, why would we be messing with it? Who needs fuel gauges, gear indicator and RPM meter on a bike like this? Simplicity is king!
I bought it here in Asia. However I am interested in doing sales to the USA. I guess a 63,5 mm / 183cc kit will cost around 180 USD sent to the US.@@thomaskitlica5572
Im a novice rider, Ive had a honda cub, a trail 125, and a Magna 700 - then i had a family and those went away. but mow im an empty nestor and am thinking about it again... the XR150L is sounding sweet to me.
Great video, thank you. My wife is thinking of joining the biking community on two wheels. She is short ( under 5 feet ) and therefore tried a Ryker for a year. Now she has a Giorno scooter from Honda but is thinking of a bike. The XR might be a choice and if not, I could add it to my Kawasaki W800. Thanks for the great review.
...300L [maybe Rally maybe LS] is next for me....running now a BMW RT + a 250L. Want to do another long road trip or 2 with the RT....then just get the 300. Have a receiver hitch carrier and then will just haul out from central TX to NM/CO/UT/Big Bend etc etc wherever....and then day ride out and back from camp or hotel. And the 300 will satisfy if want to do day rides from home....I like your way of usin bikes....we are same style.
You’re the man. Comparison aside, I don’t want to do anything with poison ivy let alone recovering from a crash. Wishing you a speedy recovery. PS...love my cr150l!
I’ve been looking to get my first bike other than a true dirt bike for a long time. I was obsessed with the 300l then the 150l came out and now im so torn on what to get. But now the the 350ls has come out it’s made it even more difficult! The value with the 150 is great but I think I might “out grow it” quickly and realize I still want the 350! Opinions?
From someone who has been riding dual-sports from the late '70s and currently has quite a few ranging from a Yamaha XTX125 to a BMW F800GS, including a 2015 XR150, here in South Africa, I'd say as an only bike, get the 300LS if you can afford it. The XR150 is a great little, economical commuter and very capable for non-aggressive off-road fun riding but it's going to feel half as powerful as the 300 on hills and in windy conditions. I wouldn't hesitate to take the 300 on the equivalent of our interstates, as I even take my 150 on short sections thereof.
Thanks for the video. I mostly watched it for the XR150L review, however I would love to be able to upgrade to the CRF300LS. I'm from the U.S. but I'm living in the Philippines for an indefinite amount of time. The Honda dealership has both of the models here and it was nice to hear about the features on both models. Thanks again.
A crf150 rally is coming, its already out in Asia. It has fuel injection, all disc breaks, better suspension but costs $4.5k vs $3k xr150. The xr150 & crf150 line are good for light weight , hitch carry travel on a vehicle, small space and high mpg. They compete more with the yamaha xt250, tw200
I traded off my 2019 250L for a Honda Side by side for both me and my wife (She can't ride a bike because of her knees). I loved the 250L but it was just a bit tall for me. And at 65 YOA, I went with the SBS. Now I am thinking that I would like the 150L mainly because of the seat height, and I don;t need the power of a 300L anymore. I am going to go try one out soon. Thanks for the review.
Both bikes have their place. A 150 is never going to be a freeway bike since they don't have enough power, but it beats the heck out of a scooter for getting around town, and you can take it off road. If Honda offered a street legal version of their CR250F I'd be tempted to get one. It's still light, and nimble, but a 250 handles highway speeds a lot better than a 150. 75 MPH is still a stretch, but at least you are in the ballpark. The bulletproof air cooled engine is also a plus in my book. As for the 300... I can stand flat footed over the regular CRF300, but as I get older it gets harder to swing a leg over something that tall. I'd definitely consider the LS version, but I haven't even seen one yet. They grey color is kinda nice too. If they offered a street legal version of their old XR400 but with fuel injection, I'd probably sell my street bike so I could get that.
I like the simplicity of the 150. I like the analog instruments and the carburetor. If I needed more speed I would probably look at a Yamaha XT250 but I really am not fond of the electronics.
Who knew techne rides lol? I never would have guessed you ride. Sorry to hear you wrecked. I'm impressed w the xr150 and the price. I had a hawk dlx 250 and it was a cool bike. It can Def take a whooping and is fuel injected. My first bike was a grom clone I swapped a 190cc 5 speed into 4 yrs ago. It went 85 mph and was a blast. Since then I've owned multiple Harleys, ktm, hawk, and currently looking for my next ride. My favorite was the 450 husaberg I turned into a supermoto. My next was my fatbob. I do prefer the dual sports though that's for sure. I do believe a company called orion has a 190cc bike as well. Best part it's cheap as well. The 190 is alot of fun. I think I'm going to get a ct70 and 190 swap it. I want another little bike to have fun on. I'll prob put some dirt tires on it as well. Take care and ride safe buddy.
If you don't want to coke bottle the throttle keep your wrist aimed underneath the throttle. It's a good guide to remind yourself if you're too much on top of the throttle.
Ye the extra price is worth it the extra power is good I love the hight I’m a short rider I’m an older rider I just do trails and a bit of camping for a few days ,I like to just plod along and take in the views ,so that ls is perfect for me ,being older I could pick it up im usually by my self most of the time ,I’m going to buy one ,my old Honda is old and tiered, thanks for the review mate old jimmy Australia
I am horizontally challenged and need the seat on my 2023 XR150L to be 1.5"-2" lower. Do you know if the seat pans on the 150 and 300 are the same, for mounting??
Just bought a 150L. Felt like it was the best fit for the short stumpy legs. Have never had an issue controlling the power of bigger machines but stop signs, red lights, tight trails and obstacles have always been an issue with taller machines. Let's face it, they typically don't design these machines for short folks. Thanks Honda. You've never done me wrong.
What about the Suzuk DR200? It may be a little taller though, I'm not sure. But it does have decent power is capable of higher speeds than the 150 (not the point of these bikes I know. Lol)
Sad to say but I’m thinking of the 300LS. I’ve been on KTM 690/Husqvarna 701s since 2013 but I’ve become old and handling a tall bike is difficult. I’m 74, when I get into my 80s I’ll consider the 150.
I'm thinking of getting the CRF300LS. The one question I have is if it will be a good fit for me at only 5'4", 155lbs. I had an XT250 was getting use to it but the fuel pump gave out so I gave the bike away. Biggest mistake I made but not interested in getting another one as the bike has not been updated in forever.
If you want to ride your XR150L on more technical trails or more rocky, muddy, etc., then I know you can get an IRC knobby for a 19" wheel. Because my DRZ125L came with the IRC motocross tires and they are superb off-road for a variety of terrain types, and they have amazing bite. But I'm not sure if you can find them in a 17" for the rear. The DRZ has a 16" rear wheel so they're easy to find in that size, but maybe not in 17". But anyway, if you could find them, they are incredibly good off-road.
How do you know when it is time to refuel if you don't have a fuel gauge? Please don't say open the tank lid and look at it every once in a while. By the way, beginner here. Just got my MSF certificate, now I am waiting for the M license before I can buy my first bike. I want to buy a XR 150L, but worried about this detail.
Come to Southeast Asia and try out a CRF150L.. first it will blow your mind.. especially when it's less expensive than a XR150L.. and if you convert to supermoto or ADV (for pennies on the dollar) you'll be pissed how cheap and awesome it is in comparison.
I'm 5' 11'' but closer to 6'. The 300L was too tall for me. I'm used to Harleys so I did not like not being able to flat foot on anything other than completely level ground and most of the time i would be on my tippy toes. Forget backing it up unless you're on completely level ground also. Another thing is that I could not come to a complete stop off road unless I was on a slope or I would drop the bike which happened more often that I thought it would . I do not have short legs either. My dad could not even attempt to get on the 300 because of the seat height and I didn't like that at all. I have a deposit down on the LS but it'll probably take 2 years to get it.
You don’t ride a dual sport like a Harley. I’m 5’10 and ride a 450RL. You have to flat foot only 1 of your feet. Generally when coming to a stop you would use your left floor to keep yourself up. Keep your right foot on the rear brake until you take off again.
Are the headlights the same unit? I do find it a little annoying that they didn't ship the CRF300L with the LED headlight outside Asia, thought it was a waste of money for them to keep building the reflector unit, but understand it a little more if they're also making that unit to also go into the XR150 and might increase their profits slightly using it on the CRF, but i would have paid an extra 100 if the Asia LED headlight unit was available as an option
In the Philippines, there is a CRF150L. I took the XR150L cause it is Php 40,000+ cheaper and does 80% of what a CRF150L can. It is a pretty solid bike, the XR.
While this is a kinda mis-matched pair to compare....Umm, you got them in the garage so might as well take a look. Honda has been making the little 150 long enough that she's a proven ride in S.American/Asian countries. That said, since it is rock solid I think Honda is going after the "Amazon Cycle" marketshare. Chinese bikes are evidentially doing enough bucks that Honda is throwing this one in the mix... lmao, they've got nothing to loose & bikes like the Hawk250 might be cheaper but I'd take Honda over that everytime! No one's said this was Honda's target but Chinese bikes have gone thru the roof. TY for the video, I hope you are better now........ peace
I'm conflicted now As soon as heard a motorcycle was coming to US with a MSRP of less than three grand I was excited and wanted to get one since i'll be a new rider. Now I might be able to afford the CRF300LS though its questionable but I know i can afford the XR150L Want to make a note here and that is it'll be mostly for commuter use just to work and back, highest speed limit in my area is 55. So yeah I'm split now, maybe to be safe i'll get the XR150L
I have a 150l and it’s fun. with 200 miles it will just do 55 at full throttle, However i am now looking at something bigger probably leaning towards a 300
Smaller is better for me. Long ago I owned an XL250S. It was fast enough for the 55 mph national speed limits. It was enjoyable. Many years later I rode a 49 cc scooter around town. It weighed 176 pounds. It was always fun to ride. Even when commuting it brought joy. The main reason was because it was so light that it disappeared; meaning that it was so easy to handle and move that no thoughts were needed to operate it. If I were to buy another dual sport motorcycle and didn't need to ride on Interstate highways, I would get the lighter XR150L. It would be more fun on the trails than the bigger heavier motorcycle. Trail riding would be much more fun. I've never seen a video where a person who rode a Grom didn't think that it was one of the most fun motorcycle experiences that they have ever had. The XR150L is a bit bigger. It won't give one a Grom experience but its small size will contribute to the fun.
No doubt the 300 is the better bike, except for the higher price. Because I already have a nice street bike, the larger engine isn't as important to me. I live in Northern Nevada with endless miles of BLM Lands. I'm leaning towards the 150, because of cost and lighter weight. Speed isn't important to me and all the local roads to reach the BLM Lands are maximum 45 MPH or lower. The exception is Highway 50, where the maximum speed limit is 70 MPH.
Crf300ls and crf300l has the exactly seat…..the difference is in the front and back suspension that makes Crf300 LS lower……at least here in Asia where the lower version sells better
Wish that I could get the crf300l But the honda xr 150 is by far the cheapest duel sport bike in my area . And it's the only bike that I can afford rn so I don't know if I should save up more money and get the 300l
@@adventureundone I'm only goings to use the bike in my town not really going to use it that much on the roads want to use it on normal gravel roads and up hill nothing exstream. I'm my country the bike is more than double the price. Even the yamaha xt250 is like double the price. And my grandfather is getting Mr the bike. I have extra money in my savings account. But I'm not sure If it's 100% worth it in my scenario.
I just wish that I could get the tech on the honda I don't mind the performance. I just wish there was a option to get a fuel gage and a gear indicator
@@adventureundone I'm still 19 so I'm not really sure I'm 6ft and I'm like 70kg. So I'm not sure if there is a bike like the xr150 out there that's affordable with that tech
Sorry I couldn’t ride in this video, but below are some previous video of riding both bikes on and off road.
- XR150L - ruclips.net/video/04BqooInCR4/видео.html
- CRF300L - ruclips.net/video/MdkaIPv2LKA/видео.html
can i please buy your crf300LS :D?
How tall are you? Inseam?
@@Eli_From_LALOL
Your review is so thorough! I really like how you compared each of these bikes so in-depth.
@@jonaha5202 than you so much
I am in my eighties now. I rode two wheelers of all kinds and configurations for many decades. In this time of my life I will be happy to have a small but responsive machine to drive around town. Probably all I'll ever do is ride to Walmart and the bank. No matter. I'll be happy. The 150 is perfect but I was interested in the 300 too. MPG? Since around town would not include much high gear time the mileage will be less than advertised. I don't care much anymore about off road riding. Long ago I rode trials in Europe. We had CZs, some Russian make that I forget but because we were in Spain there were many Montessas in the field. Great 2 stroke machines. Trials is slow and deliberate, precise rather than brute force riding. That's where I learned off road skills. So off road now would find me poking alone instead of racing.
The 150cc promises good performance at street speeds. That is what I am looking for. Considering other things the 300cc would be superior. With it I could hit the freeway without too much concern. Going fast off road is of no importance to me though. The only off road biking I would do is at a twenty mile long wild (undeveloped) beach near my city where all sorts of vehicles, even horses, are allowed. But I would not want salt water all over my nice new bike. I would park it and watch others. This is what happens when you get to be 85.
My first experience with Honda was in 1964 when I bought a new Dream 305cc new at a dealer in Oxnard, CA. I rode it for two years then sold it for what I paid before buying another, newer model. It performed perfectly. It would cruise on the southern CA freeways at 70 mph easily. Never once was I sorry I bought it.
Not to worry about the fact of no gas gauge on the 150cc. I bought a new VW beetle in 1961. A fine, high quality, dependable little car for zipping around. It had no gas gauge either. One simply drove until it started missing indicating low fuel. Then with the right foot a little lever next to the gas petal was pushed to the side and the reserve immediately kicked in. Time to gas up. In those days we called gasoline "motion lotion". Cool eh?
Thanks for the video...
I enjoyed your stories and hope you’re doing well brother!
300L gets 70MPG
So incredible to still be riding in your eighties! Thanks for sharing your stories fellow XR150L rider. Wishing you good health.
I’m 67 and bought the 150L for all the reasons you mentioned.
Riding motorcycle is really the great way to keep you young no matter how old you are.
It is simply THE best review we have on this topic anywhere.
Thank you so much for your passion and inspiration. It gives viewers the ultimate information needed to make their objective choices.
Nice Review. I have a 2014 CRF250L and just took home a 2023 XR150L last Friday. Its really an apples to oranges comparison and you can't beat the fit and finish of the CRF250L. However even in 2014 dollars it was almost double the price of the XR150L. I am really pleasantly surprised on the XR150L. Its not fast but its geared properly and handles suburban riding very well and perhaps even a little better over my CRF250L. The XR150L is very flick able and the basic suspension does its job well. In the dirt the CRF250L is obviously the better choice and probably not going to break if you push it harder. Still for the price the XR150L is a pretty solid bargain and it is still a Honda. Its got that good Honda plastic etc. Also something about the 2.9 gallon gas tank and 90 MPG that is just awesome. I believe my 2014 CRF250L is only 1.9 gallons and only 65 to 70 MPG so pretty range limited. I would say obviously if you have it the CRF300LS is the far superior bike if you have the extra 3 grand but if not the XR150L won't disappoint unless you just hopped off a much bigger bike!
There is an acerbis tank for the CRF 300L, you can get 500km with that tank
Since you have both could you tell me whether the 250 or the 150 has the better seat when sitting riding back roads all day long? Thanks
I think I'd rather have 2 XR150's for riding trails with my kids than 1x 250L
I think it all depends upon what you need the bike to do, and if it’s going to be your only bike. I’m getting the XR150 as a lightweight rural back road and light trail bike that I can easily carry on the hitch carrier on my pickup when going camping. I have a KLR650 that’s kitted out with ADV stuff, and reworked suspension, that I use for weekend exploration and long trips(it’s been to Deadhorse and back). As far as the low tech instruments go, I started riding in 1974, so I’m old school and don’t feel the need for it. A rider should know by feel and sound whether or not they’re in the right gear for the situation, and if you’re glancing down at the speedo, you should be seeing the trip meter, and know what your range is. I think it(digital gauge)detracts from the experience of riding, and moves the experience toward feeling like being in a car. Sorry to hear about your crash! Hope you recover quickly, and get back out there!
similar setup here, xt225 for solo camping-putting on forest roads, xr650 for big power aggressive riding, vstrom for adv travel..each bike has it's place..
I agree with you. I have 3 bikes and each has a specific function. My biggest bike is my '04 BMW GSA1150 and this is my general touring bike for long trips (both gravel & road). Then I have a BMW Dakar 650 which is my light all-rounder (shop & back bike/round-towner). I then have a little Honda XL 200 that I use mostly for trail riding and work on the farm. It's super light to manhandle through mud, ruts, rocks, etc, and runs forever on a tank of gas! It's ideal for farm work where speed and power are not a prerequisite.
As a car driver with 2 wheel aspirations, I want as many parallels between a car and a bike, so I appreciate the Car-like instruments of the CRF300L, but I also do like the honesty of the XR150L's basic gauges, and the much lower price
Perfect bike for that.
@@coastaku1954 I drive a modern plug in hybrid and ride an XR150L, trust me, having 2 opposite experiences is what you want. Getting on the XR and not having screens and buttons and controls and lights and nonsense that you don't really need is amazing, you can just ride and not think about all of it. It also makes me appreciate all of the convenience (and silence) of a modern car more when I do drive.
I've been riding for almost 50 years starting on RD250 then RD350 and many bikes since(all street bikes). I've primarily been a road racer however, the first bike I ever rode was a '76 XL250 Enduro(weren't called dual sports back then) where my friend said if you can start it you can ride it when we were at Indian Dunes. After years of getting faster bikes I went back to my roots and have only owned an RD400 for the last few years. As soon as I saw the XR150 and especially after watching several videos(mostly yours) I said I have to have one(my first Honda ever). I initially wanted the white one like apparently everyone else however, I also didn't want to be 3rd in line at my local dealer who had a black one sitting on the lot. After adding most of the mods you showed in a previous video I'm actually glad I got the black one. I am just hitting the 200 mile mark on mine and so far I really love it. I had been wanting to get the Trail 125 and actually glad I didn't jump on that immediately when they came out. I honestly did not want to jump over the 5K bracket to buy a bike just to put around with so the XR150 fit me perfectly. The DMV guy at the dealer gave me a dirty look when I declined the extended warranty and pre-paid service plan because I said it was a Honda that will probably outlive me and I didn't come here to buy a 5K bike. I paid with my credit card so I could use the miles to buy every mod I wanted and from here forward I will just enjoy it as much as possible. Get well soon.
I have a XR150L here in the Philippines and a HD Springer in the US. If was going to get another DS bike 8n the US, I'd get the DR650 hands down. Simple air-cooled 25 year + model with a ton of aftermarket.
I motard'ed my XR while keeping the original wheelset. I love it..
At last a guy like me, he also likes a quiet bike. Very good video to answer that "what does this bike feel like?" question. Very sensible insights into both bikes.
Sorry to hear about your Tiger. Lost mine when a cager didn't see me. Loved loved loved that bike. Best wishes for a quick recovery. Thanks for the vids, they've been helpful.
Exactly the review i was looking for! You hit some great points. I’d have to take into account the price of those essential mods for the xr150. You got a new subscriber, get well soon
I`m 68 and got back into motorcycles after a 30 year hiatus with a XR 150 L. After 2 months with it I am looking to upgrade. Looking at the Honda CRF 300`s or possibly a Kawasaki XLR 300 version. I`m 6'1" , 175, and the XR is just a little cramped and the step in the seat sucks. Handle bar risers will help I believe, and maybe a gel seat pad. I do really like how nimble the XR is, just needs 5 more horsepower. Nice video, thanks.
I got the XR for it's price and simplicity. I don't need a dealer for anything other then a few parts that third parties don't have. No computer no liquid cooling I am doing all the wrenching on it. Not willing to pay twice the price for a bike thats harder to work on( This is my first go doing all the wrenching ) sweet spot of price and easy maintenance
Sorry to hear about the accident man hope the recovery is quick!
Thank u
Love this review! Very thorough - you gave more details than I found on Honda's website about the CRF300LS. I'm sold. Honda should pay you for this review. Looking forward to getting one of these. Thank you! Oh and I hope you have made a full recovery! 😊
Awesome videos. I picked up the the 150l. Just got back on a bike after 10 yrs of city life. It’s awesome my friends say I treat it like a classic car. Use it for running errands and cruising around town no more then 45 mph and it great on fire and horse back trails Nobody complains around my area about the noise. My neighbor has a Harley. I guess the 300 is more like the civic for doing everything. 😂
Very best reviewer of these two DualSport small displacement motorcycles. You checked every box I need to make a very informed decision other than Hondas official site. A hearty thank you!
thank you so much
I watching it from Mozambique.
I got a nice lessons from you and i appreciate it.
One of the bikes I have owned was the most fun, it was a Honda SL125 stripped down all street stuff removed and weighed less than 200 lbs, it was years ago but great off road fun for weekend riding
I have a new 300LS and love it. Fantastic little machine and it's nice to finally be able to flat-foot on a dual-sport (I'm only 5'9" with 32" inseam).
Same!
Good thorough analysis or these two Hondas. Honda's CFR line are clearly aimed at advanced off-road enthusiasts who can handle more power and more weight, and will pay for the higher build quality and advanced features. Personally, I'm not there yet, probably will never get there (too old!), and happy to go for the XR 150. I can build skills with it, get out there inna woods, and maybe do the Evil Knievel over a couple of small jumps. For me it's all about getting wherever I want to go, and I want to go into remote areas. Dirt country and mountain roads are my favorite. I think the XR will fit the bill nicely, and it's a good value for the money. I dig your videos. You have a good personality for it and present well.
I’m old school and have no love for tall bikes with narrow 2x4 seats. I think the designers are more into looks than function. I’m living in the Philippines and most bikes are 150cc. Even with sidecars. They have many motorcycles over here that are inexpensive because people have big families and low pay. So a motorcycle is the family transport. The usual family motorcycle here has a low seat , long and level. Comfortable. A quiet exhaust. Big gas tank and basic carb. Some weld and add extensions so they can haul 4 people on the seat.
Hope you have healed up well. You do a fantastic job framing your reviews with real world context and considerations. Good stuff. Thanks to your reviews on the XR I ended up picking one up for my wife yesterday. Happy to say it was for MSRP and not over as one of my local dealerships was asking $5,700 for them claiming that was MSRP. Anyway, rode it a bit yesterday and your assessment is pretty spot on. We live in a rural area, on a farm bordering a national forest and a close national park. Combined with a bunch of state forest nearby we have pretty much endless dirt road, trail, and rural paved roads to cruise around on. This XR150 is so approachable and easy to ride it’s going to be great for sight seeing, exploring, and riding with our three kids. The pegs, the bars, adding a skid plate, and some hand guards then boom, we are just going to run it. I was skeptical of the tires but am going to give them a fair chance based on how positive you are about them. I grew up racing motocross, hare scrambles and a few super crosses even but have been away from riding for decades for the most part. My wife rode a WR450F living in the mountains of Wyoming, but having broken both femurs in a ski crash and a bunch of other ski related injuries plus three kids and 12 years since she has thrown a leg over a bike, we both feel like it’s time to just enjoy the scenery and like you stated, not take a bunch of unneeded risks. We were considering picking up a TW200 for the role but this 150 is such a great value I think it suits the role even better. Hoping next year to pick up a crf300, not sure which yet but to be my specific bike but one she could still ride when she wants to spice it up a bit more. Seems like both of these bikes offer a great value to performance on road yet trail ride ability to ride with kiddos. Appreciate your thoughts on these specific bikes. Hope to see more 300 content in the future. Cheers!
Glad I found your video. Owned a 2018 CRF250L rally since new and want another bike for a remote vacation home I just bought. For something only ridden 2-3 visits a year, the XR150L seems ideal. I don’t need to hit the highway, just around town and quick grocery runs. Mount a little box on the back and be happy with a cheap, simple bike. Thanks!
Excellent presentation, love the honesty! Icing on the cake was the fact that you shared the decision of selling the 150, brilliant surprise! A short person's ideal comparison would be an owner's head to head between the 300 LS and XT 250 😅 Hook us up!
Good to know the suspension compresses more on the 300. That sealed the deal for buying one for my wife. Thanks!
Glad to see you were able to walk away from the crash. Check out that Husq Norden Expedition.....but I really liked that Tiger. ...remember, there are only 2 types of motorcycle riders ...those who have crashed and those who are going too
That was a great comparison video! I really want a DR 650, but that XR 150 seems perfect for around town f'ing around. I have a couple of cruisers, but living a bit country a dual sport is right down my alley.
I love my DR650, but if you aren’t prepared for it the weight can make it difficult to tackle single track at times. I love mine but a DRZ400 would
Have been a better choice if you don’t need to do 70+mph for long periods. Just my thoughts. Regardless if you have the patience and time, the Bush pig will go anywhere.
IF I could have found a 300L (anything) that would have been my choice. Been riding for 40 years and my last DS was a 650L. It's just too tall of a bike for me at 54 to have much fun off-road. My dealer is saying that there will be a boat-load of 300L's (all models) showing up in dealerships pretty soon. Looking forward to being in your position and owning a 300LS. Speedy recovery to you!
Glad to see you healing and glad to see you back on camera.
Pray for your speedy recovery for your ankle. Glad you are not hurt more severely. I enjoy your videos and you seemlime such a nice gentleman. Wish you 150 was white I'd love to buy it. Can't find them anywhere. I guess the dealerships only get allocated a certain amount of each model so other dealership's can't then in turn buy a bunch of one model and mark up the price and then the other dealer gets none.
Thanks for this great comparison. I really like the look of the LS. I was thinking of getting a 300L but I hate red. And won't buy a red bike. I guess I am just stubborn. So I was thinking of getting the LS. I don't need a shorter bike, but I just prefer the color much better. I am 5'10 with a 32in inseam. Sounds like you are a little taller, with similar inseam. This bike isn't too small for you? Not to cramped when sitting? Thanks again for the great video.
Great video nice bikes, take it easy and heal.
If the price difference is 100 per cent, it might be an option to go for the 300.
However, I live in the Philippines now, and one brand new XR150L I can pick up at the dealer and take it home for 92 000 pesos today (1700 USD). The updated price for the newest models is 98000 pesos, but there are still some of those bikes who have a couple of years resting at the dealerships.
A CRF300L is 260 000 pesos for the cheapest version (4790 USD), so then my choice is simple.
I rode my XR150L for 3 years, and with the 183cc big bore cylinder and a 27mm carb, it did whatever I needed to do.
I put some cheaper but more knobby tires on it when the original ones were worn out. However I love those original tires!
I sold my XR a few months ago due to going abroad, but we miss it dearly.
I am thinking of getting another XR150L, and install a big bore cylinder, this time a 197cc, I got with me the 27mm carburetor so I can put than on a new bike, and I will probably also change to a racing camshaft if I am going for another XR.
I agree with people who love the low noise coming from this bike, so I will probably leave the exhaust system in stock version, as I did with my first XR.
But since I am rather heavy, I do love to have some extra power.
Not so much for the top speed, as for the torque that will help pull me up the steepest hills, even with a passenger in the back. By the way, the seat on the XR is fantastic, even for the passenger.
I recommend to downsize the engine sprocket in order to get more torque out of it.
These bikes are built on decades of experience, and if something works just fine, why would we be messing with it?
Who needs fuel gauges, gear indicator and RPM meter on a bike like this?
Simplicity is king!
How much is the bigger cylinder kit??
I bought it here in Asia. However I am interested in doing sales to the USA. I guess a 63,5 mm / 183cc kit will cost around 180 USD sent to the US.@@thomaskitlica5572
Here it's about $3300 or a bit more out the door for the 150 and about 6500 for the 300
Its just cool Honda offers both these bikes at a reasonable price and it's a bonus how good they look
Good video man!
Excellent job!! answered all my questions. Fast recovery for you.
Im a novice rider, Ive had a honda cub, a trail 125, and a Magna 700 - then i had a family and those went away. but mow im an empty nestor and am thinking about it again... the XR150L is sounding sweet to me.
Great video, thank you. My wife is thinking of joining the biking community on two wheels. She is short ( under 5 feet ) and therefore tried a Ryker for a year. Now she has a Giorno scooter from Honda but is thinking of a bike. The XR might be a choice and if not, I could add it to my Kawasaki W800. Thanks for the great review.
If she is under 5 feet, get her a Grom or a Monkey.
I just commited to the 300ls at my local dealer. Not sure about the wait but it'll be worth it!!
Waited 8 months for mine! Worth it!
...300L [maybe Rally maybe LS] is next for me....running now a BMW RT + a 250L. Want to do another long road trip or 2 with the RT....then just get the 300. Have a receiver hitch carrier and then will just haul out from central TX to NM/CO/UT/Big Bend etc etc wherever....and then day ride out and back from camp or hotel.
And the 300 will satisfy if want to do day rides from home....I like your way of usin bikes....we are same style.
Thanks! I needed this!
You’re the man. Comparison aside, I don’t want to do anything with poison ivy let alone recovering from a crash. Wishing you a speedy recovery. PS...love my cr150l!
Awesome video. Because of you I’m only after a 300Ls just need to get rid of the monkey first. Preciate you taking the time @adventure undone
Great review. I hope the angle is doing great. I am very curious as to what your gas mileage was with each? Thank you.
Excellent! Thanks for the great info!
LCDs are hard to read in bright sunlight. So all those indicators are only good if you can read them.
I’ve been looking to get my first bike other than a true dirt bike for a long time. I was obsessed with the 300l then the 150l came out and now im so torn on what to get. But now the the 350ls has come out it’s made it even more difficult! The value with the 150 is great but I think I might “out grow it” quickly and realize I still want the 350! Opinions?
From someone who has been riding dual-sports from the late '70s and currently has quite a few ranging from a Yamaha XTX125 to a BMW F800GS, including a 2015 XR150, here in South Africa, I'd say as an only bike, get the 300LS if you can afford it. The XR150 is a great little, economical commuter and very capable for non-aggressive off-road fun riding but it's going to feel half as powerful as the 300 on hills and in windy conditions. I wouldn't hesitate to take the 300 on the equivalent of our interstates, as I even take my 150 on short sections thereof.
Thanks for the video. I mostly watched it for the XR150L review, however I would love to be able to upgrade to the CRF300LS. I'm from the U.S. but I'm living in the Philippines for an indefinite amount of time. The Honda dealership has both of the models here and it was nice to hear about the features on both models. Thanks again.
I have a Jeep Gladiator and I am considering these two bikes. Have you put one on a hitch carrier and taken it camping?
Good review! Praying for you to heal fast! Let me know how much you want for your XR 150.
It already sold
A crf150 rally is coming, its already out in Asia. It has fuel injection, all disc breaks, better suspension but costs $4.5k vs $3k xr150. The xr150 & crf150 line are good for light weight , hitch carry travel on a vehicle, small space and high mpg. They compete more with the yamaha xt250, tw200
wait Im used to watching you review Keyboards and stuff. Good to see your a bike rider.
I traded off my 2019 250L for a Honda Side by side for both me and my wife (She can't ride a bike because of her knees). I loved the 250L but it was just a bit tall for me. And at 65 YOA, I went with the SBS. Now I am thinking that I would like the 150L mainly because of the seat height, and I don;t need the power of a 300L anymore. I am going to go try one out soon. Thanks for the review.
Both bikes have their place. A 150 is never going to be a freeway bike since they don't have enough power, but it beats the heck out of a scooter for getting around town, and you can take it off road.
If Honda offered a street legal version of their CR250F I'd be tempted to get one. It's still light, and nimble, but a 250 handles highway speeds a lot better than a 150.
75 MPH is still a stretch, but at least you are in the ballpark. The bulletproof air cooled engine is also a plus in my book.
As for the 300... I can stand flat footed over the regular CRF300, but as I get older it gets harder to swing a leg over something that tall. I'd definitely consider the LS version, but I haven't even seen one yet. They grey color is kinda nice too.
If they offered a street legal version of their old XR400 but with fuel injection, I'd probably sell my street bike so I could get that.
Sick pair! I was buying one or the other now I want both! DAMMIT
I'd consider buying your XL.
What state are you in?
I like the simplicity of the 150. I like the analog instruments and the carburetor. If I needed more speed I would probably look at a Yamaha XT250 but I really am not fond of the electronics.
Who knew techne rides lol? I never would have guessed you ride. Sorry to hear you wrecked. I'm impressed w the xr150 and the price. I had a hawk dlx 250 and it was a cool bike. It can Def take a whooping and is fuel injected. My first bike was a grom clone I swapped a 190cc 5 speed into 4 yrs ago. It went 85 mph and was a blast. Since then I've owned multiple Harleys, ktm, hawk, and currently looking for my next ride. My favorite was the 450 husaberg I turned into a supermoto. My next was my fatbob. I do prefer the dual sports though that's for sure. I do believe a company called orion has a 190cc bike as well. Best part it's cheap as well. The 190 is alot of fun. I think I'm going to get a ct70 and 190 swap it. I want another little bike to have fun on. I'll prob put some dirt tires on it as well. Take care and ride safe buddy.
If you don't want to coke bottle the throttle keep your wrist aimed underneath the throttle. It's a good guide to remind yourself if you're too much on top of the throttle.
Ye the extra price is worth it the extra power is good I love the hight I’m a short rider I’m an older rider I just do trails and a bit of camping for a few days ,I like to just plod along and take in the views ,so that ls is perfect for me ,being older I could pick it up im usually by my self most of the time ,I’m going to buy one ,my old Honda is old and tiered, thanks for the review mate old jimmy Australia
Kinda funny everyone was knocking on the klx 300 for it's Old school looks but the crf300 ls has the same shape WOW but that's cool!!!
Superb presentation, especially as not even riding the bikes!
Thanks for the review 😊 the 150L was one of my choices. Hoping to at least sit on a 300LS here in Manila & feel the height, if there is any
Loved this review....I think the 150 XR would be great in Madagascar....
I am horizontally challenged and need the seat on my 2023 XR150L to be 1.5"-2" lower. Do you know if the seat pans on the 150 and 300 are the same, for mounting??
Just bought a 150L. Felt like it was the best fit for the short stumpy legs. Have never had an issue controlling the power of bigger machines but stop signs, red lights, tight trails and obstacles have always been an issue with taller machines. Let's face it, they typically don't design these machines for short folks. Thanks Honda. You've never done me wrong.
Short dude here, 5'6" and 29 inseam. What are your measurements? Thanks.
150L is a perfect first bike for beginner like me. I'm gonna give it another year or 2 before moving up. End goal is Africa Twin
What about the Suzuk DR200? It may be a little taller though, I'm not sure. But it does have decent power is capable of higher speeds than the 150 (not the point of these bikes I know. Lol)
Hey. I have a 28 inch inseamand am 5'4.Sorry took me so long to get back to you. Just saw this.@@samreh6156
Does Suzuki still make those? I would have been interested in one but the Honda price was too good to pass up and it was new.@@trevorjameson3213
Did you sell your 150 ? If you still have it what are you asking, I live in CT....
Sad to say but I’m thinking of the 300LS. I’ve been on KTM 690/Husqvarna 701s since 2013 but I’ve become old and handling a tall bike is difficult. I’m 74, when I get into my 80s I’ll consider the 150.
I'm thinking of getting the CRF300LS. The one question I have is if it will be a good fit for me at only 5'4", 155lbs. I had an XT250 was getting use to it but the fuel pump gave out so I gave the bike away. Biggest mistake I made but not interested in getting another one as the bike has not been updated in forever.
If you want to ride your XR150L on more technical trails or more rocky, muddy, etc., then I know you can get an IRC knobby for a 19" wheel. Because my DRZ125L came with the IRC motocross tires and they are superb off-road for a variety of terrain types, and they have amazing bite. But I'm not sure if you can find them in a 17" for the rear. The DRZ has a 16" rear wheel so they're easy to find in that size, but maybe not in 17". But anyway, if you could find them, they are incredibly good off-road.
Enduros are FUN bikes, whatever the size! :)
How do you know when it is time to refuel if you don't have a fuel gauge? Please don't say open the tank lid and look at it every once in a while. By the way, beginner here. Just got my MSF certificate, now I am waiting for the M license before I can buy my first bike. I want to buy a XR 150L, but worried about this detail.
Budget now means 3k is the same as 6k plus?
Are the headlight setup interchangeable? They look identical i need someone to please confirm..
excellent video!
Come to Southeast Asia and try out a CRF150L.. first it will blow your mind.. especially when it's less expensive than a XR150L.. and if you convert to supermoto or ADV (for pennies on the dollar) you'll be pissed how cheap and awesome it is in comparison.
FYI Tecnu works great for posion ivy & posion oak as a preventive and a treatment after you get it.
I'm 5' 11'' but closer to 6'. The 300L was too tall for me. I'm used to Harleys so I did not like not being able to flat foot on anything other than completely level ground and most of the time i would be on my tippy toes. Forget backing it up unless you're on completely level ground also. Another thing is that I could not come to a complete stop off road unless I was on a slope or I would drop the bike which happened more often that I thought it would . I do not have short legs either. My dad could not even attempt to get on the 300 because of the seat height and I didn't like that at all. I have a deposit down on the LS but it'll probably take 2 years to get it.
You don’t ride a dual sport like a Harley. I’m 5’10 and ride a 450RL. You have to flat foot only 1 of your feet. Generally when coming to a stop you would use your left floor to keep yourself up. Keep your right foot on the rear brake until you take off again.
How much did the dealership mark up the price of the XR150L?
Are the headlights the same unit? I do find it a little annoying that they didn't ship the CRF300L with the LED headlight outside Asia, thought it was a waste of money for them to keep building the reflector unit, but understand it a little more if they're also making that unit to also go into the XR150 and might increase their profits slightly using it on the CRF, but i would have paid an extra 100 if the Asia LED headlight unit was available as an option
In the Philippines, there is a CRF150L. I took the XR150L cause it is Php 40,000+ cheaper and does 80% of what a CRF150L can. It is a pretty solid bike, the XR.
Man what a trooper. Injured and still doing a review, but dude the shower shoes have got to go !!!! LOL
Lol, the are like pillow, and I couldn’t put a shoe on. But now I’m in a cast/boot :(
Well said 5 star thanks 😊
Skip? Is that you? Too soon? 😂 cool video
Dealer fees are probably going to be identical for both bikes...I'd opt for the CRF300.
In California they’re not, 300l otd is 8 grand, 150l brand new is about 43-4500, it’s about a 4 thousand dollar difference
Plus you crash the 300l you’re screwed since it’s liquid cooled, you’ll crack the radiator in a heart beat since it’s up front
While this is a kinda mis-matched pair to compare....Umm, you got them in the garage so might as well take a look. Honda has
been making the little 150 long enough that she's a proven ride in S.American/Asian countries. That said, since it is rock solid
I think Honda is going after the "Amazon Cycle" marketshare. Chinese bikes are evidentially doing enough bucks that Honda is
throwing this one in the mix... lmao, they've got nothing to loose & bikes like the Hawk250 might be cheaper but I'd take Honda
over that everytime! No one's said this was Honda's target but Chinese bikes have gone thru the roof. TY for the video, I hope
you are better now........ peace
Get well soon friend!
I looked at both of these bikes. Ended up ordering the 300L. The XR, being carb and analog speedo was a no deal for me.
I'm conflicted now
As soon as heard a motorcycle was coming to US with a MSRP of less than three grand I was excited and wanted to get one since i'll be a new rider.
Now I might be able to afford the CRF300LS though its questionable but I know i can afford the XR150L
Want to make a note here and that is it'll be mostly for commuter use just to work and back, highest speed limit in my area is 55.
So yeah I'm split now, maybe to be safe i'll get the XR150L
I have a 150l and it’s fun. with 200 miles it will just do 55 at full throttle,
However i am now looking at something bigger probably leaning towards a 300
@@wesleemiller I have switched to getting the CRF300LS instead. it is a little more but at the same time it will easily reach highway speeds
One thing I don’t like; there are more options between 150 to 300 outside the USA 🇺🇸
Like the 190, 200, 250
And in both models
Smaller is better for me. Long ago I owned an XL250S. It was fast enough for the 55 mph national speed limits. It was enjoyable. Many years later I rode a 49 cc scooter around town. It weighed 176 pounds. It was always fun to ride. Even when commuting it brought joy. The main reason was because it was so light that it disappeared; meaning that it was so easy to handle and move that no thoughts were needed to operate it.
If I were to buy another dual sport motorcycle and didn't need to ride on Interstate highways, I would get the lighter XR150L. It would be more fun on the trails than the bigger heavier motorcycle. Trail riding would be much more fun.
I've never seen a video where a person who rode a Grom didn't think that it was one of the most fun motorcycle experiences that they have ever had. The XR150L is a bit bigger. It won't give one a Grom experience but its small size will contribute to the fun.
No doubt the 300 is the better bike, except for the higher price. Because I already have a nice street bike, the larger engine isn't as important to me. I live in Northern Nevada with endless miles of BLM Lands. I'm leaning towards the 150, because of cost and lighter weight. Speed isn't important to me and all the local roads to reach the BLM Lands are maximum 45 MPH or lower. The exception is Highway 50, where the maximum speed limit is 70 MPH.
I have a 650 street bike and just want a 2nd knock around, non freeway bike but not a mini.
having owned two crf 250L and now a xr150L I would prefer a crf 300L
Wish they'd make a seat like the xr150 on a bigger bike.
Crf300ls and crf300l has the exactly seat…..the difference is in the front and back suspension that makes Crf300 LS lower……at least here in Asia where the lower version sells better
Also, here in the Rocky Mountain area the cheapest out the door price on a XR 150 I found was $3,700! Big markups unfortunately.
Not counting the 1k+ in fees and taxes
Just shop around. I found a dealer selling at MSRP plus the 300 shipping and normal taxes and tag and registration. 3449.00 out the door
That is a good price, I got mine for $3,750.@@greg042
cheapest I've found so far is 4570 OTD, so I'd call 3700 a win
Wouldn't call the 300 a budget bike maybe the klx230 as it's the closest in price to to 150 $3000usd vs 4700 on the klx230 everything else is 7k+
Thanks great video you helped me make a decision
I would compare the XR150L more with a Yamaha XT250
Wish that I could get the crf300l
But the honda xr 150 is by far the cheapest duel sport bike in my area . And it's the only bike that I can afford rn so I don't know if I should save up more money and get the 300l
I would say save up. U will be glad you did in the long run.
@@adventureundone I'm only goings to use the bike in my town not really going to use it that much on the roads want to use it on normal gravel roads and up hill nothing exstream. I'm my country the bike is more than double the price. Even the yamaha xt250 is like double the price. And my grandfather is getting Mr the bike. I have extra money in my savings account. But I'm not sure If it's 100% worth it in my scenario.
I just wish that I could get the tech on the honda I don't mind the performance. I just wish there was a option to get a fuel gage and a gear indicator
@@adventureundone I'm still 19 so I'm not really sure I'm 6ft and I'm like 70kg. So I'm not sure if there is a bike like the xr150 out there that's affordable with that tech