the scales at 333 pounds, the L
309 pounds (these are ready-to-
ride figures, tack on a few more
pounds for ABS).
The Rally cost more, too, at
$5999. The L sells for $5249.
Expect to pay approximately
$300 more for the ABS models.
ALL ABOARD
Honda provided us with an intro-
ductory single-day guided tour in
the back-canyon hills of South-
ern California. Since then, we've
gotten some more seat time on
the L and will be doing the same
with the Rally very soon. But
our first full day on both bikes
revealed many things. First off,
power is noticeably better on
both bikes. It's not a night-and-
day difference but there is a dif-
ference, nonetheless. It's been
a while since I last threw a leg
over either the 250L or the 250L
Rally, but the new engine feels
livelier overall with noticeably
better bottom-end performance
and improved torque. I felt like
you didn't have to scream the
engine nearly as hard as you did
on the 250 to find the power's
sweet spot. The 286cc en-
gine chugs much better, which
makes both bikes easier to ride
on technical trails, hills and soft
ground. I think the new gear
ratios help here, as well.
Gear changing is improved,
too. Missed shifts just never
happened and clutch pull is
indeed even lighter than before
while still offering good feel and
engagement.
On the pavement, the new en-
gine hums along nicely at speed.
It can handle 60 mph confidently
and comfortably. As speeds and
P106
RIDE REVIEW I 2021 HONDA CRF300L & CRF300L RALLY
The Rally loves smooth
dirt roads but can still
handle the messy stuff
surprisingly well.
