21.03.2025 – Day 4
Rong Kham to Rasisalai: A Smooth Ride and a Look at the Honda CRF 300 Rally
The last leg of the journey—174 km from Rong Kham to Rasisalai—began early, aiming to beat the heat of the day. The route was a pleasant mix of light off-road trails and back roads, offering just the right balance between adventure and comfort. With a total riding time of 4 hours and 20 minutes, it was a manageable stretch for a small bike like the Honda CRF 300 Rally.
There were no unexpected surprises along the way—just a straightforward ride back home. So, instead of talking about the road, let’s talk about the bike itself: the Honda CRF 300 Rally.
The Honda CRF 300 Rally: A True Dual-Sport Machine
To put it simply, the CRF 300 Rally is a fun and practical bike. It’s not a full-fledged enduro machine, but it’s still light enough to be agile on trails. With a single-cylinder, 286cc engine, it’s built more for efficiency and versatility than raw power.
One of the first things you’ll notice when riding it is the engine sound—some say it buzzes like a mosquito, but don’t let that fool you. The bike delivers solid performance for smaller roads and off-road riding. The gear ratio is simple and intuitive:
• First gear is perfect for steep off-road climbs, providing enough torque to crawl over tricky terrain.
• Sixth gear is best for highway cruising, making longer distances feel more comfortable.
• Everything in between depends on your riding style and the road conditions.
After 1,100 km on the CRF 300 Rally, it’s clear that this bike is cost-efficient, fun to ride, and versatile enough for most situations.
Cost Efficiency: How Much Does It Cost to Ride?
One of the biggest advantages of the CRF 300 Rally is its cost efficiency. Compared to larger adventure bikes, it’s far more affordable in terms of purchase price, fuel consumption, and maintenance.
1. Fuel Efficiency
The CRF 300 Rally is known for its excellent fuel economy. With a 12-liter fuel tank and an average consumption of 30-35 km per liter, you can expect a range of around 300-350 km on a full tank. This makes it an ideal choice for long-distance riders who don’t want to constantly worry about refueling.
• Average fuel price (Thailand): ~40 THB per liter
• Cost per full tank (12L): ~480 THB
• Range per tank: ~300-350 km
• Fuel cost per 100 km: ~114-133 THB
2. Maintenance Costs
Honda has a reputation for reliable and low-maintenance motorcycles, and the CRF 300 Rally is no exception. Here’s a rough estimate of typical maintenance costs in Thailand:
• Oil change: Every 3,000-5,000 km (~300-600 THB)
• Air filter replacement: Every 10,000 km (~400-800 THB)
• Tire replacement: Every 10,000-15,000 km (~1,500-3,000 THB per set)
• Brake pads replacement: Every 10,000 km (~800-1,500 THB)
Overall, routine maintenance costs are low, making the bike a budget-friendly option for riders who want an adventure machine without breaking the bank.
3. Purchase Price and Resale Value
The Honda CRF 300 Rally is priced at around 170,000-180,000 THB in Thailand. While that might seem like a lot for a 300cc bike, it holds its value well due to high demand in the second-hand market. If you take care of the bike, you can expect a strong resale price, making it an excellent investment.
Performance: Where Does It Shine?
The CRF 300 Rally isn’t built for speed—it’s built for efficiency, comfort, and adventure.
• Off-road: It handles dirt roads, gravel, and farm trails effortlessly. The 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel make it easy to navigate uneven terrain.
• On-road: While it’s not a high-speed highway cruiser, it can maintain 100-110 km/h comfortably on long stretches. The windscreen and long-travel suspension add to its touring comfort.
• City riding: Light, nimble, and fuel-efficient, the CRF is also great for city commutes.
Who Should Buy the CRF 300 Rally?
The Honda CRF 300 Rally is a great choice for:
✔ Adventure riders who want a lightweight, fuel-efficient bike that can handle both highways and trails.
✔ Budget-conscious riders looking for an affordable, low-maintenance motorcycle.
✔ Long-distance travelers who appreciate a bike with excellent fuel range and comfort.
✔ Beginner off-road riders who need a manageable dual-sport bike.
However, it might not be the best choice if:
✖ You need a high-speed touring bike for highway riding.
✖ You prefer a more powerful adventure bike for technical terrain.
✖ You want a full-on dirt bike for aggressive off-road riding.
Final Thoughts: A Reliable and Fun Dual-Sport Machine
After 1,100 km of riding, the Honda CRF 300 Rally has proven itself as a cost-efficient, reliable, and fun bike. It handles a mix of road conditions with ease, offers great fuel economy, and requires minimal maintenance.
For riders looking for an affordable adventure motorcycle, the CRF 300 Rally is a solid recommendation—a bike that’s built to go anywhere without costing a fortune.
Stay tuned and enjoy yourself!!
#dustysocks
