After Honda’s announcement of the CRF300L and CRF300 Rally in Asia last fall, many North American riders have been waiting with bated breath to learn whether or not the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer would release the new models in the U.S. and Canada, as well.
At long last, the wait is over … Anyone looking for the happy medium between the Honda CRF250 bikes and the CRF450 bikes: the CRF300L and CRF300 Rally have officially landed on Honda’s U.S. and Canadian websites.
Image: Powersports.honda.com
The CRF300L and CRF300 Rally boast a 286cc single-cylinder engine with a counter-balancer to ensure a smoother ride. Both bikes have six-speed transmissions and the Rally features a slip-assist clutch for easier shifting. The front and rear suspension of both models will offer 10.2 inches of travel.
READ MORE: HOW TO START OVERLANDING
The ground clearance for the CRF300s starts at 10.9 inches. Modifications made to the chassis, such as a cast aluminum swing-arm, mean these models are lighter and more flexible than the CRF250s they are replacing this year.
Image: Powersports.honda.com
At 309 pounds, the CRF300L may be the perfect fit for an overlander looking to haul a capable off-road, street-legal motorcycle on the back of a big-rig. But the unique features of the CRF300 Rally will make it a seriously appealing option to consider for the overland motorcyclist.
Weighing in at 333 pounds, with a 3.4-gallon fuel tank, the range of the Rally is expected to be between 200 and 250 miles per fill-up. With a reasonably tall stock windscreen, hand guards, rubberized foot pegs, and a substantial fairing that will increase protection from the elements, the Rally appears to be ready for an adventure.
The Honda CRF300L base price is $5,249 and the CRF300 Rally base price is $5,9999.
Header Image: Powersports.honda.com
