Honda arguably changed the dual-purpose motorcycle game back in the 1970s with the launch of the iconic XL250S. This was followed by a successful range of XL single-cylinder four-stroke engine bikes that were affordable, useful, and fun to ride. A true global off-road machine.
2012 saw the launch of the CRF250L, a trail-ready bike powered by a frugal 250cc engine on a chassis with a broad and capable range (and, of course, the legendary Africa Twin, which received a significant overhaul for 2020).
But the CRF250L needed to be ramped up, and that’s where the new 2021 CRF300L comes in, ushering in the next generation of a proven bike. It is a lighter, more powerful machine with added details than its predecessor. Or, as Honda puts it, “is every bit the do-it-all, dual-purpose motorcycle the CRF250L was, just more so.”
Price: In the US, the 2021 CRF300L will start at $5,249 MSRP; and the CRF300L ABS at $5,549. In Canada, the CRF300LRA (Rally ABS) will start at C$7,499.
The new CRF300L builds on the outgoing CRF250L’s success and features
The 2021 Honda CRF300L sees significant upgrades over its predecessor, starting with a new 286cc engine that delivers 10% more peak power and 18% more peak torque. The engine displacement has increased from 250cc to 286cc, with a longer 63mm stroke than the previous 55mm, improving overall performance. Additionally, the revised gear ratios—shorter in gears 1-5 and a taller 6th gear—enhance responsiveness and efficiency.
Thanks to a redesigned steel frame, aluminum swingarm, and bottom yoke, the Honda bike is now 5 kg lighter, at 152 kg. The slimmer tank and seat, which are 10mm lower, contribute to a more comfortable riding position, while the new assist/slipper clutch reduces lever load by 20%. These changes make the CRF300L more agile and easier to handle both on and off-road.
Further refinements include a redesigned air filter, exhaust downpipe, muffler, and ignition timing, all contributing to improved low—to mid-range response. Lighter, slimmer bodywork makes possible a new, larger 12.8L fuel tank, and the updated LCD instrument display is designed to be more readable, providing riders with clear and concise information at a glance.
2021 Honda CRF300L Specs
- Engine: Liquid-cooled, single-cylinder DOHC, 286 cc
- Carburation: PGM-FI electronic fuel injection
- Fuel capacity: 12.8L
- Clutch: Wet multi-plate, assist/slipper clutch
- Transmission type: 6-speed
- Final drive: chain
- Frame: Steel semi-double-cradle
- Chassis dimensions (LxWxH): 2230 x 920 x 1415 mm
- Seat height: 885 mm
- Ground clearance: 275 mm
- Front suspension: 43 mm Showa inverted forks; 260 mm (10.2 in) travel
- Rear suspension: Pro-Link Showa single shock; 260 mm (10.2 in) travel
- Front wheels: 80/100-21M/C 51P
- Rear wheels: 120/80-18M/C 62P
- ABS brakes: 2 channel ABS w/ ability to turn off ABS to rear wheel
- Front brakes: 296 mm x 3.5mm disc with two-piston caliper
- Rear brakes: 220 mm x 4.5mm disc with single-piston caliper
