- CRF300L
- CRF300L ABS
- CRF300LS
The CRF300L platform has long been the motorcycle industry’s top-selling dual-sport model, and for 2023, it’s an option for even more riders, thanks to a new version with a shorter seat height—the CRF300LS. The LS version is equipped with ABS, while the returning normal-seat-height CRF300L is offered in standard and ABS versions; all deliver unparalleled value and reliability, providing low-cost transportation and making the adventure of dual-sport riding amazingly accessible.
STYLING
Through its bodywork and red, white, black and blue graphics, the CRF300L and CRF300L ABS versions are designed to mimic the look of the CRF Performance line, including the Baja-dominating CRF450X. The CRF300LS version has an appealing Swift Gray color.
Riding Position
With all three versions, the riding position enables good rider input and vehicle maneuverability. Handlebar sweep allows a natural elbow position and light steering, and handlebar weights reduce vibration. The rear and middle of the seat are relatively wide for comfort, while the front area is slim, making it easy for the rider to touch the ground when stopped. Making that even easier is the CRF300LS version, which has a 32.7-inch seat height (2 inches lower than the standard CRF300L). Passenger pegs are provided.
Meter
The meter features black characters on a white background, and characters are large for good visibility. In addition to speed, clock and rpm readings, functions include gear position, fuel mileage and fuel consumption.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
The liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke power plant, has bore-and-stroke figures of 76.0mm and 63.0mm, respectively, for a 286cc displacement. Power output is particularly strong in the rev range’s lower and middle areas, which are used often in both city riding and off-road going.
A large, 38mm throttle body helps to achieve rider-friendly throttle control, especially at low rpm, and the exhaust system delivers low sound output while keeping vibrations to a minimum. The engine features a valve train with a rocker-arm design, enabling a compact cylinder head, while the counterbalancer provides smooth running.
Transmission
The six-speed gearbox features close spacing in the lower gears and wide spacing in the higher gears, enabling optimum gear selection while still allowing comfortable high-speed cruising—a great balance between suitability for city, long-distance and off-road applications.
Clutch
The CRF300L has a very light clutch-lever pull, thanks in part to an assist/slipper clutch that also provides good performance during aggressive downshifting.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
Overall vehicle weight is low, thanks to careful selection of components. For example, the lower triple clamp is constructed from aluminum instead of steel, minimizing steering effort and keeping the center of gravity low.
Frame / Swingarm
Through optimization of its main components, the frame’s weight is minimized, while optimized lateral rigidity allows maneuverability and good rider feel. Diameter of the cradle tubes is 25.4mm. In addition, ground clearance is a considerable 11.2 inches, reducing the chance of interference during riding in rough off-road conditions. Similarly, the swingarm’s lateral and torsional rigidity are optimized, and its overall cross section is designed to deliver a uniform distribution of twist, resulting in good feel and predictable handling. The swingarm’s weight is low, minimizing sprung weight for excellent suspension action.
Suspension
A 43mm inverted Showa fork is paired with a Pro-Link® single-shock rear system. The standard and ABS versions of the CRF300L feature 10.2 inches of front and rear suspension travel for excellent performance (particularly during off-road riding), while the CRF300LS has 9.3 and 9.0 inches of front and rear travel, respectively.
Wheels / Brakes
As with high-performance off-road machines, the wheel sizes are 21 inches at the front and 18 inches rear, enabling smooth rolling over rough terrain. The black aluminum rims have been polished, resulting in a glossy appearance and easy cleaning. The rear axle is hollow to minimize unsprung weight.
Hydraulic brakes are used front and rear, with 256 and 220mm rotors, respectively. The CRF300LS is equipped with ABS for smooth, controlled stops in varying conditions, while the standard-seat-height version is available with or without ABS. (Conveniently, ABS can be turned off at the rear, providing a different riding feel in off-road conditions.) The rear-brake master cylinder incorporates the reservoir, similar to the design used on the CRF Performance line, for a simple, clean design.
ACCESSORIES
A number of Honda Accessories are offered, including hand guards, a skid plate, an electrical socket, wider foot pegs, a top box, a rack and more.
- Meets current EPA and CARB standards
- California version differs slightly due to emissions equipment
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