Honda CRF300L 2026 — Specifications

It is surely one of the most discreet trail bikes in the production lineup, and yet, it is one of the most interesting for relaxed touring without fuss. The CRF 300 L maintains its place on the market with a few updates: the transition to Euro5+, improved hot air evacuation, thinner LED turn signals, a redesigned headlight (also LED), and new suspension settings for more stability and comfort.

This small, very pleasant trail bike, halfway between a road trail and a true enduro motorcycle, benefits from a 286 cc single-cylinder engine. Apart from the regulatory changes, the liquid-cooled engine remains unchanged and still offers a double overhead camshaft and four-valve distribution. With its square dimensions and a compression ratio of 10.7:1, it delivers 27.3 hp at 8,500 rpm. Its torque benefits from a maximum value that increases from 2.7 kg-m to 6,500 rpm. Nothing startling, just enough to use power freely and always manageable.

While it is largely based on the 250 model from the previous decade, the CRF 300 L not only offers a little more in terms of engine performance, but also a little less on the scale. It benefits from its recent steel twin-spar frame and conical aluminum swingarm to display a weight reduction of 4 kg compared to the CRF 250 L.

Its dynamism also relies on a gearbox where the first five gears are short to offer more gnarly traction. The sixth gear is more of an overdrive for cruising on the road while saving its engine and fuel. The CRF 300 L is also now equipped with a slipper clutch.

In terms of the chassis, it benefits from suspension with increased travel: these offer 260 mm at the front and rear. Ground clearance is generous with 285 mm, allowing you to venture almost anywhere and overcome obstacles of a certain level.

The seat height is considerable, peaking at 880 mm. Still in a spirit adapted to off-road riding, the 300 L sees its riding position ergonomics designed for ease and versatility. The 7.8-liter fuel tank, thin and light, has been designed with this in mind. While the position of the footrests is calibrated to gain ease when changing gears with large off-road boots.

In terms of suspension, this small Honda is fitted with Showa components, with a 43 mm inverted fork and a single-tube mono-shock absorber attached to the famous Pro-Link system dear to the brand. While the CRF 300 L has genuine off-road ambitions, it cannot do without ABS, which is mandatory for any motorcycle homologated for road use. It remains disconnectable at the rear only. In terms of braking, it has simple front and rear discs, respectively 256 mm and 220 mm in diameter.

The CRF 300 L is equipped with an LCD screen that provides all the necessary information as well as a gear indicator.

A worthy heir to the mythical Honda 250 XLS of the 1970s, this CRF 300 L intelligently improves. Good news, the Rally version is back in the catalog.

Let's not hide our pleasure. Displayed just above €6,000, this CRF 300 L has all the qualities to enjoy yourself easily off-road.

Michael Levivier / M.B - Photos constructeur