Honda CRF300L and CRF300 Rally gain updates for 2021

IF you are looking for the ability, stance and look of a big-bore enduro bike, without quite so much of the arm-wrenching speed – the CRF300L and CRF300 Rally are probably machines that should pique your interest.

Based heavily on the all-conquering CRF450 motocross bike, both options have been revised for 2021, growing in capacity and featuring revised internals, ratio changes and chassis updates.

2021 Honda CRF300L & CRF300 Rally

Engine

To help the CRF through the latest raft of Euro5 regulations, both bikes now sport a 286cc engine – up from 249cc of before. The extra engine size brings with it a rise in peak power, with the 2021 models both making 10% more power than before – 27bhp @ 8,500rpm. Joining the capacity increase is a revised intake and exhaust system, with the intake cam timing also being revised. The changes are claimed to be increasing mid-range torque and power, with shorter ratios from first to fifth gear helping to accentuate the improvements. Top gear is now taller, aiding open-road cruising.

The bikes also now feature an assisted slipper clutch helping to control the rear wheel under aggressive downshifts, with Honda claiming the lever is now 20% lighter than the previous model.

Chassis

The chassis of both bikes has also been under the surgeon’s knife, with the redesigned steel frame, aluminium swingarm, and new top and bottom yokes all contributing to a claimed 4kg overall weight loss compared to the previous model.

The frame has also been tweaked, and now features revised rigidity increasing feel and feedback, while the new steering geometry and longer travel suspension should aid all forms of adventure riding.

Design and ergonomics

The exterior of the bikes is also revised, and now features a slimmer tank and seat unit, while both versions of the CRF300 now include a new positive LCD instrument display. The riding position has also been altered to encourage the light steering manoeuvrability needed off-road and, although that is just as useful around town.

the handlebars are have been pulled back slightly, while the footrests have been lowered and also moved back, to make gear changes in heavy off-road boots easier. Seat height is increased 5mm, to 880mm, for a naturally upright ‘rider triangle’. The side stand too has been redesigned with a 10% larger area for its (new) folding footplate.

Honda CRF300L and CRF300 Rally specs