American Honda to Introduce XR150L and CRF300LS for 2023

Two dual sport models receive EPA certification

Honda is preparing to add two dual-sport models to it’s U.S. lineup: a CRF300LS and an XR150L. Both models were listed in the latest vehicle certification data released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board, indicating that they will be added to the 2023 lineup.

The regulatory data deals mostly with emissions compliance, but we can make some inferences about both motorcycles based on their names.

2023 Honda CRF300LS

The CRF300LS is obviously a variant on the CRF300L and CRF300L Rally, two models that have been in Honda’s U.S. lineup for a few years now. American Honda has yet to announce the 2023 CRF300L, but its European counterparts announced an update in December. For 2023, the CRF300L receives hand guards and, at least for Europe, a new Swift Gray color option to go with Honda’s usual Extreme Red.

But what’s up with the new “S” variant? We suspect 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 (compared to 34.8 inches for the KLX230) while the KLR650S offers a 32.1 inch seat height (versus the KLR650’s 34.3-inch seat height). If our guess is right, we can expect the CRF300LS to offer a more manageable seat height than the CRF300L’s 34.7 inches.

We expect American Honda will announce the 2023 CRF300LS soon, alongside the CRF300L and CRF300L Rally.

2023 Honda XR150L

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.

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