Motorcycle specifications HondaCRF 300 L 2025 The cool little trail

it 's probably one of the most discreet trail bikes in production, yet one of the most interesting for no-nonsense, no-holds-barred touring. The CRF 300 L keeps its place on the market with a few changes: the switch to Euro5+, improved hot-air evacuation, slimmer LED indicators, a redesigned headlamp (also LED) and new suspension settings for greater stability and comfort.

The 286 cm3 single-cylinder engine makes this a very pleasant little trail bike, halfway between a road trail bike and a real enduro motorcycle. Apart from the changeover to the new standards, the liquid-cooled block remains unchanged, with twin overhead camshafts and four valves. With its super-square ribs and 10.7:1 compression ratio, it delivers 27.3 hp at 8,500 rpm. Maximum torque is 2.7 mkg at 6,500 rpm. Nothing to get carried away with, just an unrestrained use of power that's always manageable.

Although it's very much based on the 250 of the previous decade, the CRF 300 L not only offers a little more on the engine side, it also offers a little less on the scales. It benefits from its new single-split steel cradle frame and tapered aluminum swingarm, and weighs 4 kg less than the CRF 250 L.

Its dynamism is also underpinned by a gearbox in which the first five gears are short for greater gniack. The sixth gear is designed more as an overdrive, for more fuel-efficient riding on the road. The CRF 300 L now also features a limited-slip clutch.

As for the chassis, it benefits from longer-travel suspension: 260 mm at both front and rear. Ground clearance is generous at 285 mm, allowing the rider to venture all over the place and overcome obstacles of a certain level.

The seat height is consistent, peaking at 880 mm. With off-roading in mind, the 300 L's ergonomic riding position has been designed for ease of use and versatility. The slim, lightweight 7.8-liter fuel tank has been designed with this in mind. And the position of the footrests has been calibrated for greater ease when shifting gears with heavy off-road boots.

As for suspension, this little Honda is equipped with Showa components, including a 43 mm inverted fork and a monotube monoshock attached to the brand's famous Pro-Link system. While the CRF 300 L has real off-road potential, it cannot do without ABS, which is compulsory for all road-approved motorcycles. However, it can only be disconnected at the rear. Braking is by single discs, front and rear, with diameters of 256 mm and 220 mm respectively.

The CRF 300 L is equipped with an LCD display providing all the necessary information, as well as an engaged gear indicator.

Worthy heir to the legendary Honda 250 XLS of the 1970s, this CRF 300 L has been intelligently improved. Good news: the Rally version is back in the catalog.

Let's not get carried away. Priced at just over €6,000, this CRF 300 L has everything you need to enjoy off-roading with ease.

Michael Levivier / M.B - Manufacturer's photos