Old thread - anyone bought one of these and put some miles on it. I'm thinking about it - planning to get a test ride.


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I've only ridden the CRF250L ... not the Rally or ABS versions.
I've read several recent reviews comparing new CRF250 Rally with X300 Versys. One surprising review from guys at Motorcyclist magazine. It pits new Thai made Kawi X300 Versys against new CRF250 Rally. (also made in Thailand)
video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SINyNWwFvFk

The written reviews I've read (many out there now!) puts X300 Versys on top, siting very weak power on the Honda, plus too much weight, poor brakes and way too soft suspension. I was surprised that they like the revvy 300cc Kawi twin engine, but they did! It really out paced the Honda badly.

This Thai made Honda may have had a slight edge off road but NOT MUCH.
Question would be ... which bike has more potential as a RTW ADV Travel bike?

Seems to me, both would need better suspension, better seat and probably lots more. The fact the Honda is so UNDER POWERED to me ... is the deal breaker.

I predict Honda will UP the CRF250 to a 300cc engine straight away. Adding ABS on an ADV Travel bike is also, IMO, a mistake. Simply adds unneeded complexity, cost and weight to an already overweight package.

The X300 Versys also has issues (for me anyway). I don't want that body work and am not fond of super revvy twins that don't deliver much torque off the bottom. But I've only ridden the CRF (standard version), not ridden X300 yet.

Meanwhile, while Honda and Kawasaki are screwing around with these bikes ...
both BMW and KTM are set to sweep in with two very interesting bikes in this mini ADV class.

The Indian made BMW G310GS is most surprising for it's projected low price. Won't see it here in USA until next year. KTM? I haven't followed it, not interested. Both KTM and BMW made in India.

Overall, all these bike are a breath of fresh air on the ADV bike scene. I'm still
shopping for a deal on a WR250R. (but will never sell my DR650!)