- 2023 CRF300LS, XR150L unveiled
- Launched in the US
- Likely to be patented in India
Honda has taken the wraps off two new motorcycles – the CRF300LS and the XR150L. These bikes have been introduced in the US and are unlikely to go to other markets.
These two bikes have been launched to make life easier for riders who are on the shorter side. The Japanese brand already sells the CRF300L in the US, but its tall seat height made it difficult to be accepted by shorter riders, and that’s where the CRF300LS comes into the picture. This off-roader rides on 43mm USD forks at the front and Pro-Link at the rear, but the suspension travel has been reduced drastically.
This change has altered the rake angle and also the ground clearance. But the most significant difference – the seat height – the figure is much lower than the standard variant. In terms of performance, nothing has changed. The CRF30LS still makes the same power and torque as the 286cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine.
For 2023, Honda decided to bring the famous XR150L to the US. This bike is primarily sold in Asian markets, but it looks like there’s a market for it in the US. The XR150L uses a small 150cc single-cylinder air-cooled motor that offers decent power. But this motorcycle is known for its accessibility and versatility. This Honda is equipped with a decent suspension setup that offers good travel. The wheels are 19 inches at the front and 17 inches at the rear. For stopping the bike, there’s a 240mm single disc at the front and a 110mm drum at the back.
Both bikes make perfect sense for the Indian market, and interestingly, these bikes will eventually be registered and patented in India. However, Honda India won’t launch it soon as it plans to focus on motorcycles and scooters that bring sales volumes.
