Honda CRF300L Dirt Bike Review [Top Speed, Specs and Features]

The CRF300L is a delight to ride and is one of the fastest available dirt bikes. Honda’s small-displacement dual-sport series, advanced with the 2021 release of the CRF300L.

It features wide rear tires that suck up the terrain and play well with it. Depending on the terrain, you can reach up to 80 MPH speeds. You can increase your range and braking power by using dual disc brakes. Furthermore, the sporty ergonomics make it a bike to consider.

If you are already interested in the Honda CRF300L, go through this review attentively to get an in-depth review of the top speed, specs, and features.

Honda CRF300L Overview

This CRF300L model is a predecessor to the CRF250L model, the first model in the CRF series. Between 1970 and 2017, there have been a lot of changes. In response to the public’s overwhelming desire, it was brought back in 2021 with several significant enhancements.

The CRF300L is an all-terrain dual sports bike with 27 horsepower that delivers exceptional performance on both on-road and off-road courses. Honda upgraded the off-road capability of its dual-sport CRF300L basic model and Rally variant in 2021 with a significant 15% increase in displacement, a simultaneous 10% rise in power, reduced weight, and many other distinctive features.

The normal CRF300L is 12 pounds lighter than its predecessor— the 250cc variant. The new frame was designed to bring about improvements in movement and feel while also reducing the width of the bike and increasing its ground clearance.

The CRF300L also comes in a version called the Rally version. Riders who want to do some trailblazing expeditions or globetrotting on their rally machine will benefit from the addition of the Ricky Brabec-inspired equipment kit, which boosts their off-road power even further.

Honda CRF300L Specs and Features

Features and performance are the most important aspects of any bike, and in the following sections, we will examine some of the features that set the CRF300L apart from other bikes.

Engine

A single-cylinder 4-stroke DOHC 286cc liquid-cooled engine powers the all-new Honda CRF300L. It comes with a  higher top gear for better acceleration and efficiency. The bore measures 76mm in length and has a stroke of 63mm. The fuel capacity is 7.8 liters, and the compression ratio is 10.7:1.

Ignition

The Honda CRF300L features a complete transistor digital ignition with an electric advance. This fully computer-controlled ignition system ensures you never run out of electricity during your rides.

Drivetrain

Manual transmission with six different gears comes standard with the engine. In 2021, the six-speed gearbox was redesigned to have closer, lower gear spacing and wider higher gear spacing. As a result, you can choose the best gear while traveling smoothly at high speeds.

Brakes

The bike’s front and rear have been equipped with high-performance hydraulic brakes. Additionally, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) ensures a smooth braking experience regardless of the terrain. You can turn off the ABS in the back, providing a fresh riding experience during off-road rides.

Suspension

The front suspension features a non-adjustable Showa 43mm telescopic USD forks, and the rear suspension utilizes a Pro-Link single shock with spring. Both suspensions are rare. The front and rear suspensions each have 10.2 inches of travel, resulting in a safe and pleasant ride, even over rough terrain. In addition, the rear sprocket has been made thinner in certain areas and is attached with fewer bolts than before, which has led to a total weight reduction of 0.04 pounds. Because it is now hollow, the rear axle is now 0.03 pounds less.

Wheels and Tires

The front wheels are 21 inches, while the rear wheels measure 18 inches. This wheel setup, comparable to high-performance off-road motorbikes, enables smooth rolling over rough terrain. The Black metal rims have also been polished, which gives them a glossy finish and makes them easier to clean.

Dimensions

The Honda CRF300L has an overall length of 87.8 inches, a width of 32.2 inches, and a height of 47.3 inches. It has a ground clearance of 11.2 inches and a wheelbase of 57.2 inches. It is one of the lightweight dual-sport bikes on the market, with a seat that is 57.2 inches high and a curb weight of only about 309 pounds, making it one of the lightest options available.

Exterior

This bike features a modified exhaust, a swing arm, a triple clamp, and a steel frame constructed from twin tubes. The redesigned frame contributes significantly to the mobility feel, the reduction in the width of the bike, and the increase in ground clearance. In addition, the kickstand is modified to prevent bending, and the footplate has been lengthened by 10% to improve the vehicle’s stability when parked.

How to Improve the CRF300L Top Speed

Sometimes you might not be able to get your CRF300L to go as fast as it can, or you might want to try it out at a higher speed. It is possible to boost the speed of your bike by yourself. The following are practical suggestions for increasing the top speed of your CRF300L.

Change the Sprocket

You can increase your top speed by decreasing the size of your rear sprocket and increasing the size of your front sprocket. However, this will decrease your acceleration. Find out how many teeth the small sprocket has.

It is possible to determine how many teeth are on the large sprocket by multiplying the speed ratio by the number of teeth on the small sprocket. It has been suggested that the small sprocket should have more than 15 teeth, and the large sprocket should have no more than 120 teeth.

When the countershaft sprocket is increased, the gearing is increased, whereas increasing the size of the rear sprocket causes the gear to be decreased. Similarly, the gearing is decreased when the front sprocket is smaller and increased when the rear sprocket is smaller. For the Honda CRF300L, I suggest installing a sprocket on the countershaft.

Change tires

You can’t expect good performance and speed from your bike if you’ve been battering your way to top speed on old, worn-out tires. You won’t be able to reach your maximum speed with bad tires.

Therefore, it is time to purchase a new set of tires. You might want to purchase a set of Shinko E-804 or Heidenau K60 tires for your Honda CRF300L. They are the best out there.

Suspension Modifications

Your speed will decrease if the bike does not respond appropriately to the cues provided by your body and your weight. Therefore, it is time to change the suspension. You will need to buy and try out a new modified suspension.

Exhaust Modifications

Change the exhaust system, including the transaction, from the muffler to the headers. As a result, the speed of your bike will increase. Custom exhaust systems are usually lighter than stock options and produce more torque and power.

Honda CRF300L Review – Pros and Cons

The Honda CRF300L is a really good bike. However, there are benefits and drawbacks associated with it. Let us weigh all of the pros and cons.

Pros

• Easy Control: The Honda CRF300L weighs roughly 309 pounds, making it one of the lightest dual-sport bikes. This bike’s modest weight allows it to travel like a breeze on rough or smooth roads.
• Increased Speed: With the high-speed 286cc engine, you can reach a top speed of 80 mph. Furthermore, you can keep the engine running at the top of its power range, between 8,000 and 9,000 rpm. Third gear is suitable for narrower, twisty roads. You will have no issue handling the street’s more gentle turns.
• Smooth acceleration: Enhanced combustion chamber and intake efficiency led to a 10% boost in horsepower and an 18% rise in peak torque over earlier models. Honda narrowed the gap between the first and fifth gears to aid acceleration, making the sixth gear more of an overdrive gear. A brand-new slip-assist clutch with a 20% softer draw improves throttle response.

Cons

• Non-adjustable seat: The CRF300L’s seat height is not adjustable, which can be inconvenient for short riders. You’ll need to change the seat height with custom market parts, which can be costly.
• Low Fuel Capacity: This bike’s fuel capacity is only 7.8 liters, which is unusual for a bike of this size. The bike will require many refills during extended rides. On the CRF300L, we expected a somewhat larger fuel tank.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast is a 2021 Honda CRF300L?

The 2021 Honda CRF300L has a max speed of 81 mph on ordinary roads, ignoring winds and other considerations. On regular and off-road trips, the average speed will be around 75 mph.

How much horsepower does a CRF300L have?

The CRF300L has 27 horsepower at 8500rpm and 19.6 Newton-meters of torque at 6500 rpm. For a 286cc bike, the torque and horsepower are pretty amazing.

Is the CRF300L a good bike?

Due to its nimble and agile nature, the CRF300L frame is fun to ride. It’s net weight of 309 pounds goes unnoticed because it is neither thin nor broad.

How much is a new Honda CRF 300L?

The new 2021 Honda CRF300L costs $5200-$6000, depending on where you buy the bike. If you wish to buy used, you can even find cheaper options.

What are the height and weight of CRF300L?

The height and weight of the Honda CRF300L are 47.3 inches and 309 pounds, respectively.

Is the CRF300L fuel injected?

Yes, the CRF300L is fuel injected, which implies that it starts right up, even in cold weather. Compared to a carbureted bike, it helps minimize emissions while enhancing performance.

Conclusion

The Honda CRF300L is a bike that is considered among the most popular in dirt bike racing, and there are many different reasons why this is the case. Even in the most challenging terrains, it maintains a high level of performance, generating significant power and speed.

However, just like any other bike on the market, this one also has a few drawbacks. When everything is taken into account, I believe that the CRF300L is an excellent choice for riders looking for a bike with a 300CC range. However, before purchasing one for yourself, do proper research first.