- CRF300L
- CRF300L ABS
Improve upon the motorcycle industry's top-selling dual-sport model: That was Honda's mission with its smallest road-legal CRF, and the means was to increase power, reduce weight and improve off-road performance—all without sacrificing the value, reliability and styling that have played such a big part in the machine's popularity. Additional power and torque were obtained via a 15% displacement increase, while off-road performance was improved by adding suspension travel and ground clearance. Meanwhile, overall vehicle weight was reduced 11 lbs., primarily by optimizing plate thicknesses and tubing sizes on myriad components, following the careful application of Computer Aided Engineering analysis. Styling cues are carried over from Honda's CRF Performance line, while MSRP remains extremely competitive, so both the standard and ABS versions of the CRF300L are ready to provide low-cost transportation and true dual-sport adventure.
STYLING
Through its bodywork and red, white, black and blue graphics, the CRF300L is designed to mimic the look of the CRF Performance line, including the Baja-dominating CRF450X.
Riding Position
The riding position has been revised to enable improved rider input and vehicle maneuverability. Handlebar sweep is increased for a more natural elbow position and lighter steering, and handlebar weights were added to reduce vibration. While the widths of the seat's rear and middle areas are unchanged for comfort, the front area is slimmer for improved rider input via the thighs and knees. The foot pegs are also moved rearward, simplifying foot operation of the shifter and brake pedal, while the right swingarm-pivot cover is redesigned to reduce width. Passenger pegs are provided as well.
Meter
A new meter features black characters on a white background, and characters are 6 mm larger for improved visibility. In addition to speed, clock and rpm readings, new functions have been added, including gear position, fuel mileage and fuel consumption. The meter is also .01 pounds lighter.
ENGINE / DRIVETRAIN
Starting with the CRF250L, Honda revised the liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke power plant, increasing stroke by 8 mm (63.0 mm total), while leaving the 76.0 mm bore unchanged. This resulted in a 36cc displacement increase, for a total of 286cc, prompting a name change to CRF300L. The longer piston stroke delivers an increase in power and torque across the rev range.
In addition, the camshaft has revised lift and timing to increase output in the rev range's lower and middle areas, which are used often in both city riding and off-road going.
Intake / Exhaust
The air-cleaner design was revised, and the large, 38 mm throttle body has been retained, while a new exhaust system is incorporated, featuring a lighter header and muffler—this despite a reduction in sound output that was achieved by better controlling vibrations. In combination, these changes deliver improved throttle control, particularly at low rpm.
As before, 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 updated ratios for 2021, with closer spacing in the lower gears and wider 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
Already praised for its light clutch pull, the model gets even lighter pull for 2021 (approximately 20 percent), thanks to a new assist/slipper clutch that also provides improved performance during aggressive downshifting.
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
Despite the more powerful engine, overall vehicle weight has been reduced thanks to different construction of many components. For example, the lower triple clamp is now constructed from aluminum instead of steel, reducing weight by .1 pounds. This results in not only reduced steering effort but, because the weight drop occurs high on the vehicle, also a lower center of gravity.
Frame
Through optimization of its main components, the frame's weight has been reduced by .3 pounds, while lateral rigidity is reduced by 25 percent, improving maneuverability and rider feel: The down tube is 30 mm narrower; the down-tube gusset is smaller; the main pipe is 20 mm shorter; and diameter of the cradle tubes is down 3.2 mm, to 25.4 mm.
In addition, revisions to the frame and crankcase designs enable a 1.2 inch increase in ground clearance, reducing the chance of interference during riding in rough off-road conditions.
The kickstand is stronger to resist bending, and its foot plate is now 10 percent larger for improved vehicle stability while parked.
Swingarm
Similar to the frame, the swingarm's lateral and torsional rigidity have been reduced by 23 and 17 percent, respectively. Width near the pivot is reduced by 15 mm, and the component's overall cross section was revised to deliver a more uniform distribution of twist, resulting in better feel and more predictable handling. The swingarm's weight has also been reduced by .08 pounds—a reduction in sprung weight that in turn delivers improved suspension action.
Suspension
As before, suspension comprises a 43 mm inverted Showa fork and a Pro-Link single-shock rear system. However, suspension stroke has been extended, resulting 10.2 inches of wheel travel front and rear, an increase of .4 inches and .6 inches, respectively. Settings are also revised, and a new rear link and connecting rod are used. The combined result is improved suspension performance, particularly during off-road riding.
Brakes
Hydraulic brakes are used front and rear, with 256 and 220 mm rotors, respectively, and available ABS for smooth, controlled stops in varying conditions. A new rear-brake master cylinder incorporates the reservoir, similar to the design used on the CRF Performance line. This allows elimination of the hose that connected the remote reservoir with the previous design, for a cleaner appearance. Conveniently, ABS can be turned off at the rear, providing a different riding feel in off-road conditions.
Wheels
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. Compared to the 2020 model, the black aluminum rims have been polished, resulting in a glossy appearance and making them easier to clean.
The rear sprocket is thinner in certain areas and is attached with smaller bolts (M8 replacing M10), achieving a .04-pound combined weight savings. The rear axle is now hollow, shaving almost .03 pounds.
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
