I rented this bike yesterday in Thailand. I owned a 250L for about 6 months and put about 5000 km on it. I rode 450 km on the 300L rental bike. Bike was fitted with stock suspension, stock intake and exhaust but factory wheels were swapped for 17/17 motard wheels. The 250L that I owned had 12,000 km when I sold it. The 300L had 1,100 km when I rented it. Engine: the 300L definitely has more power and it seems to have more torque in the lower ranges, 3000 rpm up to 6500 is noticeably better. The extra power above 6500 isn't so noticeable. This would make it a better bike for urban use and off road than the 250 version. Clutch has a very light feel and you could easily use this all day every day. Gearbox: 6 speed and easy to shift. I was surprised at the low first gear. It felt the same as my 250L (modified F/13 R/40); maybe the stock gearing was changed on this rental bike. I managed 152 kph on the straight (perhaps a slight downhill). No complaints at all. Seat height: On the Thai version it is quite low (don't have numbers) but for export versions it might be unchanged? It seemed even lower than my 250L (also a lowered Thai model). The Thai version is too low for my frame 6' (182 cm) and about a 33" (84 cm) inseam. I sat on the seat with my feet flat on the ground and had a distinct bend in the knees. Suspension: Still too soft for my weight. The front dives heavily under braking but perhaps not quite as bad as the stock 250L. The rear is also under damped and wallows quite badly in turns where the surface is less than perfect. The 300L, like it's smaller sibling will require suspension modifications both front and rear. If you are on a budget maybe just start with the front for the biggest bang for your buck. If you are heavier than me (70 kg or 155 lbs) you are definitely going require a full suspension upgrade front and rear so budget for that. Brakes: They were better than the 250L but the front brake is still too weak for road use in my opinion and dives far too much under braking. The rear brake seemed quite adequate and had a good feel. Handling: Didn't seem so very different from the 250L. TFT (instruments). The 300L has some extra information that the 250L is lacking. The new bike now has information like a gear indicator that is quite nice for on road use. There is a fuel economy calculator that I didn't look at too much with some facility to change the units. There is a flashing white light on the dash which I believe illuminates when in the non-economy zone. It was flashing most of the time for me (it was a rental bike after all). Of course it has a speedometer which is easy to read in any light and the tachometer which I don't think anybody uses once they get the feel for the bike's power band. Seat: It seemed tilted more forward and I expect this was due to the 17 inch front wheel. But it is comfortable enough for all day use IMHO. Overall: In my opinion the 300L is slightly better in a lot of areas, most noticeably in the engine. Having ridden both the 250 and 300 I can say that if you already own a 250, you might be disappointed if you trade up because you aren't exactly going to be launched in every gear. It is noticeable as I say but it's not such a great leap that I would be trading in my 250 tomorrow and that is especially true if you already have done some mods to you current bike. Now if you don't own a 250 already, then I can recommend the bike, and especially if you can budget for the required suspension changes. Happy riding.
@@alexandersupertramp1293 my choice would be Ohlins. Even though it is expensive, there is value in it and very good customer support. The YSS is much cheaper and feels good but my personal experience was not great - the seals on my Honda 500 leaked after about 15,000 km (road use of course).
I just picked up a KLX300 here in California. It's made in Thailand as well. I'm looking forward to gettin the bike out tomorrow. Great videos on the CRF300L!
Many many cars and bikes are made here. Thailand is the 5th biggest car manufacturing and exporting country in the world. All the smaller motorbikes are made here and all the big car makers build cars and trucks here, including Ford and Chevy. If you buy any form of powered transportation here, there is a 98% chance it was built here. The government has great incentives to draw companies here, the labor is dirt cheap and the Thais are good and reliable workers.
I own honda crf 150L here in the Philippines. Wish i could upgrade my crf to a higher engine displacement someday. Thanks for sharing this video. Ride safe bro.
Have 11,000 miles on a CRF250L and have been waiting for Honda to upgrade it. Your review and upgrades are more on-target than any others I have read. Impressed that you added rim locks. Can't believe Honda does not equip any of these with them. As a rider who has had a 'blow-out' in traffic returning from trails with a spun stock tube, get rim-locks and heavy duty tubes!
Nice one, thanks for the video. Great to see what's coming to the UK. The CRF300L's just arrived last week, I have a Rally coming not far behind them. We're in lockdown so it doesn't make that much difference but am itching to go out. It is entertaining reading the comments, particularly from those who knock it but haven't ridden it. Must be hard to tell from a keyboard! I was planning to try it stock, and then upgrade the suspension and exhaust as my use is very much as a dual sport, riding on road to get to the lanes and then home again. The lanes are shared with other non-powered users so the extra power would be wasted and the 300L service intervals are perfect! It does appear that they have addressed several of the shortcomings of the 250L, (gearing, weight, clutch, power etc.) so I'm sure it'll be a winner. All those complaining it's not a CRF450L, or a KTM Enduro bike, are right. It isn't, but I don't think it's supposed to be. Anyway, keep riding and enjoy it, not jealous at all that you can get out on the trails :)
Good video. You should aim your camera up higher when riding. My buddy and I mount the GoPros to the mouth piece of the helmet. Takes away a lot of the vibration and the camera swivels with your head.
The footage of the motorcycle driving on the dirt road is fantastic and thrilling. I'm honored to be your best channel friend. Have a nice day. 👍👍👍🤙🤙🤙👌
Interesting review, thank you. It's a pity Honda didn't take the opportunity to increase the fuel tank capacity like they did with the new Rally. The little 7.8L tank on the L is frustrating!
In the comments section, you should put the names (Brand and model/part #) of ALL the parts you added to the bike. That would help us! Good video & Thanks!
Yeah I also would love a parts list. When I go searching for parts it says 300l parts are still in development. I'm assuming these parts are for the 250l and just put in place until 30pl mods become available.
I'm surprised that you haven't gotten rid of Honda's ridiculously spongy "all rubber" front brake line, and upgraded to a stainless steel braided line. Far better braking power and feel. They are a MUST upgrade for ALL Honda rubber front brake lines! Also installing/swapping your carby for a Keihin FCR flat slide carburetor (plenty 2nd hand for cheap), in say a 37mm, would turn your bike into a super responsive WEAPON! I rode XR 250s & 280s for years before upgrading to my current KTM 450EXC. JMO!
@@galactics1108Was 1st downpayment at a "powerhouse" dealership who said around March 31. Supposedly Powerhouse dealers get the first batch of bikes. I'm 62 years old and haven't had a dual sport in 43 years. 1975 Honda XL250... some kids never grow up.
Hi mate love the vids just wondering if the fmf was made for a 250l because I'm just wondering if a 250l pipe would fit on my 300l im from Australia so there no 300l pipes been made for them yet
I like squishy myself I use my 25L for commuting to work,but occasionally I take it into the woods and I do mean THE WOODS. I live in the ozarks . Stock it goes up bluffs and over downed trees and through creek beds. The 300 should give me a little more highway speed and that's what is getting me interested in this bike.
That's a load of money to have to add to a bike you'd think was already supposed to be ready for dirt. Thank you. Maybe the KLX300 is a little tougher out of the box. Cheers.
Thanks paddy for posting this really useful video.I can see you have a practical approach(like myself) to working out problems -like the brake pedal!!! I ride off road a lot in Greece .May i ask a few questions? Why so many crfs-did you just trade them in??Also do you not find the superior "function "of a proper enduro bike something you miss?The four strokes are pretty reliable.What problems with the husky.If i ever come to thailand love to go out riding.Good Travels!!
I watched you great and honest video because i was about to buy a new CRFL300 but no more! In my country CRFL 300 costs 5.950 Euros (6.000 with license plate) and the mods it needs costs about 2.000 Euros and i wanted to make them before i saw this video. It is better to find something else .....
Hi Paddy, was just wondering if you have ever ridden a Yamaha wr250r and how you would compare it to the crf300l both stock. I currently have a 2015 wr250r and wondering if the 300 will be an upgrade. I know the wr250r has better suspension and is lighter.
missive thanks for the information ive been whiting for a vid like this getting one for the uk soon as possable just one question is there a noticeable difference between the 250 and 300? subscribed! keep it coming
Paddy McKenna 2 days ago Gearing is different as i had the others on 12/48 (i think), but there is much more power and the gears are much better set up: seem shorter in 1st and 2nd and longer in 5/6th 1 Pete Webb Pete Webb 1 day ago (edited) @Paddy McKenna care to throw a percentage estimate on (seat of the pants) power increase inbetween the crf250l and the crf300l? Better torque coming in lower in the rev range most difference? 1 Paddy McKenna Paddy McKenna 1 day ago @Pete Webb probably 20% think a shift between lame duck and useable dirt bike. 2 Pete Webb Pete Webb 1 day ago @Paddy McKenna good to hear it. Thanks for your response thanks
Great bike and upgrades bro. I used to have the 250L here in OZ. It was fine but nothing special, bit of a pig, but did the job. Now have a Yamaha WR250R and it is so much better than the Honda. Also in the garage a DRZ400 SM that is superb in the suburbs, perfect to cut through the traffic, and even hitting some trails on it, with the freshly mounted Metzeler Karo3s.. Keep up the vids!
Hey paddy just waiting on delivery of my 21 crf300L enjoyed your take on the bike ,a quick question when you fitted the ''fmf' exhaust did you have to do any mods to suit in regards to retuning thanks again
Really like the look of that bike and it sounds like Honda have made improvements all across the bike. It's a shame that the LED headlight and indicators are not going to be fitted to the UK spec bikes as they look smart. How much are they in Thailand, would love to buy one out there and ride it back. That would be a great way to run it in and enjoy an adventure but I'm guessing that would be very complicated paperwork/export wise? Thanks for a great review😉👍👍
145,600 TB. A bit less than 4k GBP @ current rate of exchange. Riding one back home on Thai plates should be doable, but the bike would have to be in your name. Maybe. Possibly.
when the crf250 first came out I got to test ride one and I could not get off it fast enough. I would like to see the difference if its not a gutless lump.
Good review Paddy. I'm up in BKK and have almost the exact same mods on the 250L (along with acerbis tank/ejk) and plan on buying a 2nd hand 300l in the next year or so and swapping everything over. 1 question, how is the power in comparison to the 250L? I had a big bore in the 250l that went pop but prior to popping it was decent power it made.
Paddy, Ron Smith and all...good info regarding the new release. FYI...the Honda CRF250/300L bikes are ALL Thai made. For the whole globe. The only differences are simply in area specific ECU changes to meet environmental poo. I love my 2015. It outperforms, (modified) the new 300 easily. (Setup for street/adventure/sea to OMG altitudes) Paddy put up the Honda claim of 31 hp. That is engine dyno and paper engineering data. My 250L puts up just over 28 RWHP., but had only 18.1 on the dyno in OEM fashion. Mind you, it is a great adventure bike stock. It is now and never was a dirt bike.
I had a 2013 crf250l since new and sold it last year. I loved that bike. I now miss the trails. This looks enticing but I am mystified. Honda specs say the 300l increases hp by 10% over the 250l. You said it generates 31 hp and I've seen that spec'd by reviewers. 31 hp though is WAY more of an increase than the 10% Honda claims. So I am wondering!
Hello Paddy, I have been trying to look up the parts that you have recommended changing but struggling to find any for the CRF300L. Are the parts you have replaced on yours for the previous CRF250L? Could you please pass on the details of the FMF exhaust? Thank you for uploading the video. Very detailed and informative 😎
Hey Adam, I have been looking for parts as well and I was told parts will be available mid this year. Cool website called CRF’s only has lots of parts for 250L and should get 300L mid year.
Hallo from Greece!!! Great video, an honesty review!!! My question is if the cables was ok for taller bar... the other one is always answered if stock is better than 250!!!
So stock for stock is it better than the CRF250L? Also do you have a place that I could order that LED headlight and have it shipped to the U.S. ? Nice video!
@@paddymoo Yea the U.S. Model wil be halogen headlight exactly like the 250L. So I want to find a place in Thailand where I can order stock OEM psrts like the LED headlight and LED turn signals.
@@fitzroy2338 I plan to buy a CRF300L and in the U.S. we wont get the LEDs lights. I want to put the LED lights on it like the Thailand model has on it
great video. im on the east coast of the u.s and the waiting list is months out. but having had a 2016 250l, i look forward to this. the 250 was great for me as i weigh 140lbs...but having also owned a 2001 xr650l, i do want something that is at least a little more in the middle. the higher cc, as well as the other few smaller upgrades, as well as the aftermarkets i would add, seem to be very much what i wanted out of the 250, according to your review here. the downside i suppose is still the weight which can only be reasonably brought down a small amount. but again, my weight helps that out to a degree...my 250 had shorter gearing, and offroad tires. handled well. but still had me wishing 5th and 6th gear would pull more...for sure. shorter gearing on the 300 would likely bring about the change i wanted. hope to have one within a couple months!!!
Front brake cable. Not sure why it is so long, certainly doesnt need it for suspension travel. Doesnt bother you on the trails though except when squeezing under trees.
@@jeremycubs8331 the 450L is a little maintenance-heavy. I would love if Honda made something like the DRZ 400. Long maintenance intervals, a little less power than the 450L. I have had 2 XR400’s over the years. A fuel injected, Liquid cooled 400 would be perfect for me.
Cost me $8600 aud 12month reg but still waiting. Now told July and klx 300 failed compliance here so only other choice is klx 230 but only $1500 lower Fk that air cooled $$$ if lower would have been perfect
Thanks for the video!! I put A deposit on mine so it should be coming sometime March! So excited to get the 300L! What brand did you use for the fork and suspension upgrades? I would like to get exact. I’ll be doing mostly easy trail riding and some street riding. Thanks!! Kenny R.
I want to upgrade the front suspension (can't afford the rear right now). I was looking at YSS suspension. Can you just swap out the springs or does a shop need to tune it? I would prefer doing it myself.
Did you put a 250 ohlins on the back or do they offer a 300 shock in thailand? I was told there was not a 300 shock available yet because there were slight differences to it vs the 250. More travel too if I'm not mistaken
There are a lot of 50 till 65 kg girls that will sweep the floor down with you. Expecially in Thailand. So be very carefull about saying such things. The 65 kg girls and less are very quick offended.😬 I love those bad ass girls.👊👊
Nice video, was curious as to why you sit down so much going over rough inclines? Seems like your weight is seriously hampering the suspensions ability to move properly. Just an observation..cheers!
@@alanbehnke9615 Sitting down over bumps could lead to spine compression and actually causing a crash, but I am old and have many MX racing injuries so I hear you on the old man excuse.😉🙂🙏
Paddy, I guess what we all want to know is how does it compare to your CRF250L's? I have a 250L with normal: full FMF & Powerbomb, K&N and EJK and airbox mods. It runs well but I'm trying to work out if the 300 is worth trading up to.
I put my wife's 4 year old 250L on up for sale and had it sold for $5,000 in two hours. Same as what we paid for it new. Sat down after they left and saw a local dealer that was not taking deposits just got 3 bikes delivered. I called and two were sold. I pick it up tomorrow. It's the rally to boot. They slammed me for + $1000. Hummm..... Well I did sell the 250 for about $1000 more than it should have sold for. Strange times. I looked for 3 weeks online nation wide and only found one. It was about 3000 mikes from home.
Holy shit this may be the "use it abuse it" true dual sport I've been looking for! Thank you for the video :) Do you think the crf300 rally is the way to go for more offroad competence?
NO! rally is havier and has more unnecessary plastics on it which will break when you drop it, Rally is better on highway or for longer riding but not ofroad trail.
Can you link what shock suspension you upgraded to? It'd be great to do some jumps. I am curious if that suspension would also work for my 2021 crf250f. Thank you!
Hola Paddy, me gustaria saber que desarrollo llevas, piñon y plato, originalmente es de 14/40, pero creo que para enduro es demasiado largo, cual recomiendas?
Wouldn't like the extra 40/50Kgs on the trails I ride, but for longer distance fire road / gravel adventures the DR would be much better. Maybe get both?
Is the shock the HO 703? I'm asking as there is nothing in the UK at the moment in respect of after market shocks. Is the exhaust an CRF250 system? again, nothing for the 300 in UK yet. Cheers!
@@paddymoo thanks Paddy, so that means its shorter than the stock 300 shock right? It would be helpful to know the eye to eye length of the stock 300 shock if you don't mind measuring it and letting me know. If the Thai LED is flat beam then I reckon you might get interest from US and UK owners if you could be bothered to send them. I know I'd be interested!
Could you give us a detailed review on the difference between the 250L and the 300L ( not the specifications or the aftermarket upgrades you have done ) Just your opinion on handling , torque , gearing , weight , fuel range ,acceleration etc etc ! The vision of you riding tells us nothing !
Ohlins have a prototype for the 300, but it isnt released yet. I know the guy making it here in thailand and he has tested the 300 with the 250 shock and says that it is 95% there. The new one will be better, but it wont be out for a couple of months.
I rented this bike yesterday in Thailand. I owned a 250L for about 6 months and put about 5000 km on it. I rode 450 km on the 300L rental bike. Bike was fitted with stock suspension, stock intake and exhaust but factory wheels were swapped for 17/17 motard wheels. The 250L that I owned had 12,000 km when I sold it. The 300L had 1,100 km when I rented it.
Engine: the 300L definitely has more power and it seems to have more torque in the lower ranges, 3000 rpm up to 6500 is noticeably better. The extra power above 6500 isn't so noticeable. This would make it a better bike for urban use and off road than the 250 version. Clutch has a very light feel and you could easily use this all day every day.
Gearbox: 6 speed and easy to shift. I was surprised at the low first gear. It felt the same as my 250L (modified F/13 R/40); maybe the stock gearing was changed on this rental bike. I managed 152 kph on the straight (perhaps a slight downhill). No complaints at all.
Seat height: On the Thai version it is quite low (don't have numbers) but for export versions it might be unchanged? It seemed even lower than my 250L (also a lowered Thai model). The Thai version is too low for my frame 6' (182 cm) and about a 33" (84 cm) inseam. I sat on the seat with my feet flat on the ground and had a distinct bend in the knees.
Suspension: Still too soft for my weight. The front dives heavily under braking but perhaps not quite as bad as the stock 250L. The rear is also under damped and wallows quite badly in turns where the surface is less than perfect. The 300L, like it's smaller sibling will require suspension modifications both front and rear. If you are on a budget maybe just start with the front for the biggest bang for your buck. If you are heavier than me (70 kg or 155 lbs) you are definitely going require a full suspension upgrade front and rear so budget for that.
Brakes: They were better than the 250L but the front brake is still too weak for road use in my opinion and dives far too much under braking.
The rear brake seemed quite adequate and had a good feel.
Handling: Didn't seem so very different from the 250L.
TFT (instruments). The 300L has some extra information that the 250L is lacking. The new bike now has information like a gear indicator that is quite nice for on road use. There is a fuel economy calculator that I didn't look at too much with some facility to change the units. There is a flashing white light on the dash which I believe illuminates when in the non-economy zone. It was flashing most of the time for me (it was a rental bike after all). Of course it has a speedometer which is easy to read in any light and the tachometer which I don't think anybody uses once they get the feel for the bike's power band.
Seat: It seemed tilted more forward and I expect this was due to the 17 inch front wheel. But it is comfortable enough for all day use IMHO.
Overall: In my opinion the 300L is slightly better in a lot of areas, most noticeably in the engine. Having ridden both the 250 and 300 I can say that if you already own a 250, you might be disappointed if you trade up because you aren't exactly going to be launched in every gear. It is noticeable as I say but it's not such a great leap that I would be trading in my 250 tomorrow and that is especially true if you already have done some mods to you current bike. Now if you don't own a 250 already, then I can recommend the bike, and especially if you can budget for the required suspension changes.
Happy riding.
Thanks
Thanks for the info-the small wheels would probably lower the seat height.
I think this says it all! Thanks for the review!
Excellent comparo, cheers.
@@alexandersupertramp1293 my choice would be Ohlins. Even though it is expensive, there is value in it and very good customer support. The YSS is much cheaper and feels good but my personal experience was not great - the seals on my Honda 500 leaked after about 15,000 km (road use of course).
Thanks for taking the time to make this, not many videos from owners out there at the moment.
Nice review. Thanks for not blaring music while you were talking. We clicked on your vid to hear what you have to say 👍
... I agree 10000% on not having any useless background music/noise.
. Jeff .
... 67 y/o CRF 300 Rally owner here in the USA, Maryland, mid-Atlantic. ... Love my Rally.
. Jeff .
finally a review of someone actually riding the 300L! Thanks for the information and mod recommendations!
Keep it up. You are only person actually riding how we really ride
I just picked up a KLX300 here in California. It's made in Thailand as well. I'm looking forward to gettin the bike out tomorrow.
Great videos on the CRF300L!
Many many cars and bikes are made here. Thailand is the 5th biggest car manufacturing and exporting country in the world. All the smaller motorbikes are made here and all the big car makers build cars and trucks here, including Ford and Chevy. If you buy any form of powered transportation here, there is a 98% chance it was built here. The government has great incentives to draw companies here, the labor is dirt cheap and the Thais are good and reliable workers.
@@jameskeyes1131 Yep, no one said anything negative about Thailand.
I own honda crf 150L here in the Philippines. Wish i could upgrade my crf to a higher engine displacement someday. Thanks for sharing this video. Ride safe bro.
I wish we could get the LED headlight and the lower seat height here in the states. Thanks for the video! Looks like lots of fun!
Have 11,000 miles on a CRF250L and have been waiting for Honda to upgrade it. Your review
and upgrades are more on-target than any others I have read. Impressed that you added rim locks.
Can't believe Honda does not equip any of these with them. As a rider who has had a 'blow-out'
in traffic returning from trails with a spun stock tube, get rim-locks and heavy duty tubes!
Nice one, thanks for the video. Great to see what's coming to the UK. The CRF300L's just arrived last week, I have a Rally coming not far behind them. We're in lockdown so it doesn't make that much difference but am itching to go out. It is entertaining reading the comments, particularly from those who knock it but haven't ridden it. Must be hard to tell from a keyboard!
I was planning to try it stock, and then upgrade the suspension and exhaust as my use is very much as a dual sport, riding on road to get to the lanes and then home again. The lanes are shared with other non-powered users so the extra power would be wasted and the 300L service intervals are perfect! It does appear that they have addressed several of the shortcomings of the 250L, (gearing, weight, clutch, power etc.) so I'm sure it'll be a winner. All those complaining it's not a CRF450L, or a KTM Enduro bike, are right. It isn't, but I don't think it's supposed to be. Anyway, keep riding and enjoy it, not jealous at all that you can get out on the trails :)
It’s great to get an English review, I sat on one in my local Honda shop in Sakon Nakhon and flat footed it, also sat on the new Rally
Good video. You should aim your camera up higher when riding. My buddy and I mount the GoPros to the mouth piece of the helmet. Takes away a lot of the vibration and the camera swivels with your head.
Great video and good job on keeping music volume down. So, how do they lower the seat height there?
Ohlins, A CRFs best friend 👍🏽
Showa quality is better than Ohlins. All factory Honda guys winning on Showa. Ohlins for consumer, because the best Showa is unobtainium.....
The footage of the motorcycle driving on the dirt road is fantastic and thrilling.
I'm honored to be your best channel friend.
Have a nice day.
👍👍👍🤙🤙🤙👌
Interesting review, thank you. It's a pity Honda didn't take the opportunity to increase the fuel tank capacity like they did with the new Rally. The little 7.8L tank on the L is frustrating!
Last info I received from IMS is that they currently are not planning a safari tank for the 300L but they told me to ask again in a couple of months.
Much better than old Honda XL lineup.
Really loved the short answer. Totally agreed😊
Please do more vids man I want this bike and there's no vids since its not in an English country till march
Me too... cheers 🍻
In the comments section, you should put the names (Brand and model/part #) of ALL the parts you added to the bike. That would help us! Good video & Thanks!
Yeah I also would love a parts list. When I go searching for parts it says 300l parts are still in development. I'm assuming these parts are for the 250l and just put in place until 30pl mods become available.
I'm surprised that you haven't gotten rid of Honda's ridiculously spongy "all rubber" front brake line, and upgraded to a stainless steel braided line. Far better braking power and feel. They are a MUST upgrade for ALL Honda rubber front brake lines! Also installing/swapping your carby for a Keihin FCR flat slide carburetor (plenty 2nd hand for cheap), in say a 37mm, would turn your bike into a super responsive WEAPON! I rode XR 250s & 280s for years before upgrading to my current KTM 450EXC. JMO!
Love your 300L videos. Getting mine real soon. ✌ from Dixon Illinois USA...
When did they say it was coming in?
@@galactics1108Was 1st downpayment at a "powerhouse" dealership who said around March 31. Supposedly Powerhouse dealers get the first batch of bikes. I'm 62 years old and haven't had a dual sport in 43 years. 1975 Honda XL250... some kids never grow up.
Hi mate love the vids just wondering if the fmf was made for a 250l because I'm just wondering if a 250l pipe would fit on my 300l im from Australia so there no 300l pipes been made for them yet
I like squishy myself I use my 25L for commuting to work,but occasionally I take it into the woods and I do mean THE WOODS. I live in the ozarks . Stock it goes up bluffs and over downed trees and through creek beds. The 300 should give me a little more highway speed and that's what is getting me interested in this bike.
glad they changed the gas cap , are the rim locks factory ? think ill hang on to my 2018 250l
That's a load of money to have to add to a bike you'd think was already supposed to be ready for dirt. Thank you. Maybe the KLX300 is a little tougher out of the box. Cheers.
Lots of cheaper used bikes to mod and get more out of. Plus you don't void the warranty.
Not much money to have a bombproof go anywhere bike that can keep up with the Austrian bunch but not need any maintenance.
I cannot wait to get my hands on one of these but sadly my local dealer isnt getting any til July here in the States.
I'm waiting until May here.
I like this machine !
It’s a really interesting bike for light traveling
This has to be the most anticipated bike since the T7
Thanks paddy for posting this really useful video.I can see you have a practical approach(like myself) to working out problems -like the brake pedal!!! I ride off road a lot in Greece .May i ask a few questions? Why so many crfs-did you just trade them in??Also do you not find the superior "function "of a proper enduro bike something you miss?The four strokes are pretty reliable.What problems with the husky.If i ever come to thailand love to go out riding.Good Travels!!
I like how the Engine works smooth and tracktabel but i dont like the high weight and low ground clearance.Because this i prefer the CRF230F plated.
I watched you great and honest video because i was about to buy a new CRFL300 but no more! In my country CRFL 300 costs 5.950 Euros (6.000 with license plate) and the mods it needs costs about 2.000 Euros and i wanted to make them before i saw this video. It is better to find something else .....
Hi Paddy, was just wondering if you have ever ridden a Yamaha wr250r and how you would compare it to the crf300l both stock. I currently have a 2015 wr250r and wondering if the 300 will be an upgrade. I know the wr250r has better suspension and is lighter.
300 is def better imo
@@jerryrocketandthegogogirls3517 Why do you say that?
Good video 👍 Do you live in Thailand? What do you do? Would love to live there, don't think there's much jobs market for physios though?
Yeah, live here - there is work for everyone!
@@paddymoo which part do you live in?
missive thanks for the information ive been whiting for a vid like this getting one for the uk soon as possable
just one question
is there a noticeable difference between the 250 and 300? subscribed! keep it coming
Paddy McKenna
2 days ago
Gearing is different as i had the others on 12/48 (i think), but there is much more power and the gears are much better set up: seem shorter in 1st and 2nd and longer in 5/6th
1
Pete Webb
Pete Webb
1 day ago (edited)
@Paddy McKenna care to throw a percentage estimate on (seat of the pants) power increase inbetween the crf250l and the crf300l? Better torque coming in lower in the rev range most difference?
1
Paddy McKenna
Paddy McKenna
1 day ago
@Pete Webb probably 20% think a shift between lame duck and useable dirt bike.
2
Pete Webb
Pete Webb
1 day ago
@Paddy McKenna good to hear it. Thanks for your response
thanks
Great bike and upgrades bro. I used to have the 250L here in OZ. It was fine but nothing special, bit of a pig, but did the job. Now have a Yamaha WR250R and it is so much better than the Honda. Also in the garage a DRZ400 SM that is superb in the suburbs, perfect to cut through the traffic, and even hitting some trails on it, with the freshly mounted Metzeler Karo3s..
Keep up the vids!
Hey paddy just waiting on delivery of my 21 crf300L enjoyed your take on the bike ,a quick question when you fitted the ''fmf' exhaust did you have to do any mods to suit in regards to retuning thanks again
Hey, glad you liked it. Didn't have to do any mods to anything. Bolted straight on. Might want an ejk fuel controller though
Really like the look of that bike and it sounds like Honda have made improvements all across the bike. It's a shame that the LED headlight and indicators are not going to be fitted to the UK spec bikes as they look smart. How much are they in Thailand, would love to buy one out there and ride it back. That would be a great way to run it in and enjoy an adventure but I'm guessing that would be very complicated paperwork/export wise? Thanks for a great review😉👍👍
145,600 TB. A bit less than 4k GBP @ current rate of exchange. Riding one back home on Thai plates should be doable, but the bike would have to be in your name. Maybe. Possibly.
when the crf250 first came out I got to test ride one and I could not get off it fast enough. I would like to see the difference if its not a gutless lump.
Really informative review. It's a shame Honda didn't improve the suspension as well as the engine - seems like simple mods make it much better.
Awsome did u have any problems with front sprocket like xr650l
Nice bike. Sweet. Ohlins shock! Subscribed!
Can’t wait till they release these in the states.
Good review Paddy. I'm up in BKK and have almost the exact same mods on the 250L (along with acerbis tank/ejk) and plan on buying a 2nd hand 300l in the next year or so and swapping everything over. 1 question, how is the power in comparison to the 250L? I had a big bore in the 250l that went pop but prior to popping it was decent power it made.
Thanks from Southern California. It's strange that you have to put 2k in upgrades on a 6k bike. But, it seems to work quite nicely. Thanks mate.
No worries! The bike was 4.5k though, and I added about 1k in bits
msrp is around $6000. i think its worth saving. its the perfect dual sport. and a huge upgrade from my honda grom
Paddy, Ron Smith and all...good info regarding the new release. FYI...the Honda CRF250/300L bikes are ALL Thai made. For the whole globe. The only differences are simply in area specific ECU changes to meet environmental poo. I love my 2015. It outperforms, (modified) the new 300 easily. (Setup for street/adventure/sea to OMG altitudes) Paddy put up the Honda claim of 31 hp. That is engine dyno and paper engineering data. My 250L puts up just over 28 RWHP., but had only 18.1 on the dyno in OEM fashion. Mind you, it is a great adventure bike stock. It is now and never was a dirt bike.
Good to see some owner feedback. Wish they would give an acceptable suspension. No chance I’d reward Honda for cutting costs on suspension.
I had a 2013 crf250l since new and sold it last year. I loved that bike. I now miss the trails. This looks enticing but I am mystified. Honda specs say the 300l increases hp by 10% over the 250l. You said it generates 31 hp and I've seen that spec'd by reviewers. 31 hp though is WAY more of an increase than the 10% Honda claims. So I am wondering!
Hello Paddy, I have been trying to look up the parts that you have recommended changing but struggling to find any for the CRF300L.
Are the parts you have replaced on yours for the previous CRF250L?
Could you please pass on the details of the FMF exhaust?
Thank you for uploading the video. Very detailed and informative 😎
He knows a guy ig
Hey Adam, I have been looking for parts as well and I was told parts will be available mid this year. Cool website called CRF’s only has lots of parts for 250L and should get 300L mid year.
Lots, but not all of the parts are interchangeable.. bars, risers, suspension(-ish), pegs levers etc
Hallo from Greece!!! Great video, an honesty review!!! My question is if the cables was ok for taller bar... the other one is always answered if stock is better than 250!!!
Yeah, cables were fine. Don't need to adjust... Definitely better than the 250! More noticeable than I though.
So stock for stock is it better than the CRF250L?
Also do you have a place that I could order that LED headlight and have it shipped to the U.S. ?
Nice video!
way better than then the old crf. the headlight is stock, so not sure where you could order from... S
*than*
@@paddymoo Yea the U.S. Model wil be halogen headlight exactly like the 250L. So I want to find a place in Thailand where I can order stock OEM psrts like the LED headlight and LED turn signals.
@@WOODZMAN Will you change the motorcycle? Greetings from Poland.
@@fitzroy2338 I plan to buy a CRF300L and in the U.S. we wont get the LEDs lights. I want to put the LED lights on it like the Thailand model has on it
Thanks for the video, I would have really appreciated your thoughts,
as compared to the 250 this bike replaces.
great video. im on the east coast of the u.s and the waiting list is months out. but having had a 2016 250l, i look forward to this. the 250 was great for me as i weigh 140lbs...but having also owned a 2001 xr650l, i do want something that is at least a little more in the middle. the higher cc, as well as the other few smaller upgrades, as well as the aftermarkets i would add, seem to be very much what i wanted out of the 250, according to your review here. the downside i suppose is still the weight which can only be reasonably brought down a small amount. but again, my weight helps that out to a degree...my 250 had shorter gearing, and offroad tires. handled well. but still had me wishing 5th and 6th gear would pull more...for sure. shorter gearing on the 300 would likely bring about the change i wanted. hope to have one within a couple months!!!
Great video
But that cable looped out like that is bizarre . What is that cable ?
Front brake cable. Not sure why it is so long, certainly doesnt need it for suspension travel. Doesnt bother you on the trails though except when squeezing under trees.
Hi Paddy, did you change the jetting with that exhaust? If no, how does it go with the stock fuelling? thank you.
Hi, not yet. Looking for an EJK in Thailand but have been busy. Apparently makes a good difference...
The RFX brake and gear I had on the 250 was a must. They folded back 9/10 times. The 250l didn't like rutts. Is the 300 as wide ? 450 chassis ?
Thanks for this nice review - let me know if you bring it to Chiang Mai!
Thanks for the review. I was hoping for a 400 from Honda, but I am interested in the 300L.
Why hope for a 400 when there's 450 already?
@@jeremycubs8331 the 450L is a little maintenance-heavy. I would love if Honda made something like the DRZ 400. Long maintenance intervals, a little less power than the 450L. I have had 2 XR400’s over the years. A fuel injected, Liquid cooled 400 would be perfect for me.
Cost me $8600 aud 12month reg but still waiting. Now told July and klx 300 failed compliance here so only other choice is klx 230 but only $1500 lower Fk that air cooled $$$ if lower would have been perfect
Nice one, I own four crfs too, wrote you on FB, well done but dyno tune it to E20 for 3500 baht, makes a big difference :)
what does mean E20 and how much hp u get? thanks
Thanks for the video!! I put A deposit on mine so it should be coming sometime March! So excited to get the 300L! What brand did you use for the fork and suspension upgrades? I would like to get exact. I’ll be doing mostly easy trail riding and some street riding. Thanks!! Kenny R.
Ohlins all the way!
Is there a specific size Ohlins? What about front shock? What would I get?
@@paddymoo for Ohlins back suspension does one size fit all? I have no idea what to get. And front fork, what should I use for upgrade? Thanks Paddy!
Did ur dealer say March?
Paddy,
What brand and where did you buy the bash plate and how much in Thai baht?
I live in Thailand.
Awesome video! And it sounds like you've practically build your own bike out of it 😉
I want to upgrade the front suspension (can't afford the rear right now). I was looking at YSS suspension. Can you just swap out the springs or does a shop need to tune it? I would prefer doing it myself.
The question is how much better is it than a crf250L with all those mods?
Thank you!
Did you put a 250 ohlins on the back or do they offer a 300 shock in thailand?
I was told there was not a 300 shock available yet because there were slight differences to it vs the 250. More travel too if I'm not mistaken
Yup, its a 250 shock. The longer 300 one is coming out shortly
Hi mate are you in chiang mai .... ive got a crm 250 in chiang mai in storage !!!!! ..... love to hook up next time i get out there
There are a lot of 50 till 65 kg girls that will sweep the floor down with you. Expecially in Thailand. So be very carefull about saying such things. The 65 kg girls and less are very quick offended.😬 I love those bad ass girls.👊👊
You can spot them by their Adam’s apple.
Enjoyed but I could never drive that fast! I've had my Yamaha 135. Several years and only use it for 7/11 beer Run
Nice video, was curious as to why you sit down so much going over rough inclines? Seems like your weight is seriously hampering the suspensions ability to move properly. Just an observation..cheers!
Because he's not a young kid anymore. Us older guys have to sit down a lot.
@@alanbehnke9615
Sitting down over bumps could lead to spine compression and actually causing a crash, but I am old and have many MX racing injuries so I hear you on the old man excuse.😉🙂🙏
What's the deal with that predominant front break line??
Did you install a fuel programmer when you install the exhaust, did you notice any difference in power?
Not yet - waiting to see which will work best on it. Had EJKs on the last couple...
@@paddymoo Thanks for replying, Did you feel the EJKs were worth using?
Great video, I have a fmf exhaust from my crf250l, will it fit my new 300l
Paddy, I guess what we all want to know is how does it compare to your CRF250L's? I have a 250L with normal: full FMF & Powerbomb, K&N and EJK and airbox mods. It runs well but I'm trying to work out if the 300 is worth trading up to.
I put my wife's 4 year old 250L on up for sale and had it sold for $5,000 in two hours. Same as what we paid for it new. Sat down after they left and saw a local dealer that was not taking deposits just got 3 bikes delivered. I called and two were sold. I pick it up tomorrow. It's the rally to boot. They slammed me for + $1000. Hummm..... Well I did sell the 250 for about $1000 more than it should have sold for. Strange times. I looked for 3 weeks online nation wide and only found one. It was about 3000 mikes from home.
id like to know what the stock 0-100 numbers are and the top speed (i live in australia and you can really open bikes up offroad)
Holy shit this may be the "use it abuse it" true dual sport I've been looking for! Thank you for the video :)
Do you think the crf300 rally is the way to go for more offroad competence?
NO! rally is havier and has more unnecessary plastics on it which will break when you drop it, Rally is better on highway or for longer riding but not ofroad trail.
Subscribed. Surin based. My next bike. Replacing the XR350R I had 26 years ago.
Man, keep the XR350 !
Can you link what shock suspension you upgraded to? It'd be great to do some jumps. I am curious if that suspension would also work for my 2021 crf250f. Thank you!
Is the FMF and Powerbomb the same as the CRF250L, would be good if I could change bike and just move my FMF accross.
Bear Grylls does dirt bike reviews now?
Hola Paddy, me gustaria saber que desarrollo llevas, piñon y plato, originalmente es de 14/40, pero creo que para enduro es demasiado largo, cual recomiendas?
I have my 300 on order. Due to arrive in UK this month. Have you managed to get a baseplate and if so, could you post a link to supplier. Thanks
I've been trying to decide between this bike and the DR650, your thoughts?
Wouldn't like the extra 40/50Kgs on the trails I ride, but for longer distance fire road / gravel adventures the DR would be much better. Maybe get both?
Dr400 would definitely be a closer comparison.
Hi thanks for this video ! May I ask you the make of your new exhaust ?
Does the crf 250 l skid plate fit the crf 300 l? Thanks for sharing your riding impressions
Great review thanx.
Possibly the first ww English review?
Question??? Did you replace the rear shock spring with an Ohlins spring? Or did you replace the entire shock and spring?
Do you think it would feel underpower and heavy compare to my 2020 crf 250 rx? Because i miss the street apsect of this bike.
Is the shock the HO 703? I'm asking as there is nothing in the UK at the moment in respect of after market shocks. Is the exhaust an CRF250 system? again, nothing for the 300 in UK yet. Cheers!
Same shock as the 250L from Ohlins. There is a new one coming out, but not for a little while.
@@paddymoo thanks Paddy, so that means its shorter than the stock 300 shock right?
It would be helpful to know the eye to eye length of the stock 300 shock if you don't mind measuring it and letting me know.
If the Thai LED is flat beam then I reckon you might get interest from US and UK owners if you could be bothered to send them. I know I'd be interested!
Great detail, what about hand guards ?
Not a big fan of them - should really get some though... Where are you based?
@@paddymoosmall village near Phayao
Soon I will buy this when it arrives here in Philippines
Could you give us a detailed review on the difference between the 250L and the 300L ( not the specifications or the aftermarket upgrades you have done ) Just your opinion on handling , torque , gearing , weight , fuel range ,acceleration etc etc ! The vision of you riding tells us nothing !
Yeah, I should do that. I didn't plan this video, just decided to do it whilst out on a ride.
Was hoping to get a review on the new CRF300L as opposed to a modified one. Ah well.
You did, kinda. He said stock it was underpowered, overgeared and had horrible suspension.
What he said!
Una buona moto, prenderò la Rally
HI, can you tell me if the bash plate is the same as the 250l. or have you got a link of where to buy one. thanks.
Do they do the 300 in an enduro version or just the trial and rally options?
Is the Ohlins shock the exact same one they make for the 250L? The HO 703 Adventure S46 Shock?
Ohlins have a prototype for the 300, but it isnt released yet. I know the guy making it here in thailand and he has tested the 300 with the 250 shock and says that it is 95% there. The new one will be better, but it wont be out for a couple of months.
So how did you get upgraded suspension if it's not released?
@@geoffpurdy1132 did you read the above comment? I used the 250 shock