The 2021 Honda 2021 CRF300L (above) and CRF300L Rally get more power and torque, a new assist-and-slipper clutch, less weight, and other improvements. (Photos by Drew Ruiz)

When Honda set out to improve its top-selling dual-sport models, the CRF250L and CRF250L Rally, it didn?t take half measures. The overhaul was executed as a package deal, integrating the modifications to improve the entire machine, and the 2021 Honda CRF300L and CRF300L Rally offer more power and more all-around capability. Having previously tested both 250 versions, I can assure you that Big Red has elevated the game for its CRF300L lineup.

Built on the same platform, the Honda CRF300L Rally (left) adds a windscreen, more seat padding, and a larger for tank, making it a great lightweight adventure bike.
The upgrades proved themselves at Honda?s press launch for the new bikes, where the assembled moto-scribes sampled both the CRF300L (MSRP $5,249) and CRF300L Rally ($5,999). From carving apexes on twisty pavement to negotiating rocky dirt roads and challenging single-track, we tackled nearly every kind of terrain a dual-sport rider might expect to encounter.

Our test ride on the Honda CRF300L and CRF300L Rally included a mix of pavement and dirt. The lightweight bikes are easy to maneuver on any terrain.

Arden’s Gear
Helmet: Fly Racing Formula Carbon
Jersey/Gloves/Pants: Fly Racing Kinetic K121 Racewear
Boots: Fly Racing FR5

The CRF300L and CRF300L Rally share the same powerplant,...