Honda is preparing to add two dual-sport models to its US lineup: the CRF300LS and XR150L. Both models are listed in the latest vehicle certification data released by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board, which indicates they will be added to the 2023 model lineup.

The CRF300LS is clearly a variant of the CRF300L and CRF300L Rally, two models that have been in Honda's US lineup for several years. For 2023, the CRF300L receives hand guards and, for Europe at least, a new Swift Gray color option to pair with Honda's usual Extreme Red.

But what’s up with the new “S” variant? Honda is following Kawasaki’s playbook of introducing a S versions with lower seat heights for the KLX230 and KLR650. The KLX230 S has a seat height of 32.7 inches, while the KLR650S offers a 32.1 inch seat height. We expect American Honda will announce the 2023 CRF300LS soon, alongside the CRF300L and CRF300L Rally.

The XR150L might be new to U.S. consumers, but the dual-sport should be familiar to people in the Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Marketed in Australia and New Zealand as an agricultural bike.

According to the EPA’s data, the XR150L is powered by an 149cc OHC air-cooled carbureted Single, claiming an output of 12.5 hp at 7,750 rpm. The engine is produced by Sundiro Honda, a joint venture between Honda and Chinese company Sundiro, and produced in Mexico (where the Honda Navi minibike is also manufactured).

The engine is paired with a five-speed transmission and comes with an electric starter and back-up kick starter.
The XR150L offers a 32.4-inch seat height, which is relatively manageable for a dual sport. The telescopic fork offers 7.1 inches of travel while the rear wheel has 5.9 inches of travel. The front wheel is equipped with a two-piston caliper while the rear uses a drum brake.

The fuel tank holds 3.2 gallons which is quite large compared to the CRF300L’s 2.1-gallon tank, and even the XR650L’s 2.8-gallon tank. Honda New Zealand claims a curb weight of 284 pounds.

#motobike #motorcycle #motorcyclereview #motorcycleadventures #adventure #honda #hondamotorcycles #hondacrf150l #hondaxr150 #hondacrf150ls

свернуть