2021 Honda CRF300L and CRF300 Rally unveiled
Thorough update for Honda's traillies brings more power, less weight, and improved handlingHonda has pulled the covers off its new 2021 Honda CRF300L and 2021 Honda CRF300 Rally trailbikes, with the pair receiving a major update spanning a new engine and frame, less weight, and fresh technology.
Unveiled online, the two models take over from the CRF250L and CRF250 Rally, but now benefit from a new and larger-capacity engine.
The new 286cc, four-valve, DOHC single-cylinder engine is said to produce a claimed output of 27.3hp (20.1kW) at 8500rpm and 26.6Nm at 6500rpm, which is an improvement of 10 per cent more power and 18 per cent more torque when compared to their predecessors.
The new donk also boasts new inlet cam timing, revised air intake and exhaust systems, shorter ratios for the first five gears and a taller sixth gear, along with a slipper clutch.
The steel semi-double-cradle frame has also come in for attention, with the new aluminium swingarm and bottom yoke in particular contributing to an overall weight saving of 4kg.
Honda says the new chassis delivers a "revised rigidity balance" with more lateral flex, while revised steering geometry and longer travel suspension have also gone into the mix.
Suspension travel is up 10mm at the front and 20mm at the rear for the CRF300L, and up 10mm at the front for the CRF300 Rally.
Related reading:
Honda CRF250L, CRF250 Rally back in black
Engine updates for 2020 CRF-R MX range
Honda unveils more 2021 models
The CRF300L's handlebars are now slightly pulled back, the footpegs are lower and further back, and the seat height has grown by 5mm to 880mm, while the model also now features refreshed bodywork and a slimmer 7.8-litre fuel tank and seat. The LCD instrumentation is also new.
The CRF300 Rally, meanwhile, scores a broader, rubber-mounted seat that is now 10mm lower (for a seat height of 885mm), while the fuel tank capacity has grown by 2.7 litres to 12.8 litres.
The handlebars now have internal weights for reduced vibration; the footpegs are topped with rubber inserts; and the LED indicators are said to have more flex for better durability.
"Altogether, the CRF300L and CRF300 Rally remain supremely useful, do-it-all, dual-purpose motorcycles as per the original formula," says Honda.
"And with all of their 2021 improvements, they are more ready than ever to tackle any challenge – from around the block to around the world."
No word yet on local availability or pricing; bikesales will bring you more information as it comes to hand.
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