Still prefer a two stroke..but yeah that flowy stuff looks like an absolute BLAST on the 4! I can sense the control and torque just from watching..what a hoot! great video again..thx
The Sherco 300SEF is the only thumper I think I would consider to replace a two-stroke on the trails,I've never fallen for the KTM 350's. I love the big bore 4-strokes for dual sport use and light weight BDR bikes, but if it's single track park and play rides then the smoker wins every time for myself. It would be nice to have both so that I could have the option depending on the ride.
Really like your Sherco sef videos. And thus comparison with the se was really good. Also watched your test of the Beta 350 and it did look less agile than the Sherco sef.
I have a 19 300 sef with a clake one light clutch. Gearing transforms the bike in tight, technical going. 51 rear makes it very capable. Just done sea to sky with no problems. I agree with previous comment that clutch control is vital, but the same goes for any bike in very technical going. Btw mine is on original clutch at 170 hours and that includes 2 trips to Turkey for sea to sky involving about 20 hours of merciless clutch use each time.
Just picked a Sherco 300 SEF 2023 and it has good low down torque and revs hard as well but i still love my Sherco 300 SE i use the SEF for long ride to towns and The SE for the hard single days rides
If you go to a 50T rear and are adept at feathering a clutch, you can go anywhere your singletrack heart desires. I think it has much better traction than a 300 2T in my experience. I have 80 hours/1200 miles on my 2020 - it is a phenomenal bike - give it a chance on those hard trails. Just one guy's opinion.
I’ve got two Yamaha WR450’s and will soon be picking up a new GASGAS EC300 two stroke for competitive events. I’m just tired of dragging the big 4 strokes out of the mud. Don’t get me wrong, I love the big bore thumpers but, as they say, variety is the spice my friend. Cheers from North Eastern Ontario.
I stepped from a WR450 to a 300SEF and for the terrain here in Maine, it is well worth the smaller displacement. I have a 200 two stroke that I primarily ride, but the size and power delivery of the 300SEF is much less fatiguing than the WR was
Nice! I got the 2020 300 SEF in late 19' and 300 SE in 21'...cant and will not part with either. Fortunate to be able enjoy them both. BTW my Smartcarb came today...surprised how heavy that thing is when i pulled it out of box. Must be made of silver coated gold!
For me it comes down to weight and maintenance, I don't want more of either so I'll stick with the 2T. Besides, for the majority of terrain here in New England, 2T's are better suited.
My personal opinion is: I don’t care which is better for different tracks or whatever. Two strokes are just way more fun to ride and since I bought my 2022 KTM 300 I am never going back to four strokes. And it is all about the fun isn’t it?
@@PNWEnduro are they changing the 4t’s too? I thought it was only the smokers. Exciting either way. Sherco makes a great bike. Sold my ‘22 250 SE, but contemplating holding out for the ‘25 300 SE/SEF. Haven’t made up my mind. The 24’s are sick looking though.
That looks like a really cool area to ride. It reminds me of central Washington cascades. Rick @ heddletowns Enduro makes most of his videos in that area.
@@PNWEnduro Ode question but do you find the throttle response a bit jerky on the 4 stroke or like it engine breaks heavily? I briefly test rode a 500 that had a lot of mods including a throttle tamer and it seemed very all or nothing especially in first gear. Could be because of the mods and setup perhaps a stock one isn't that way.
@@PNWEnduro After owning the YZ250FX, I think the 300sef would be just about the perfect amount of power. I ride a lot of terrain just like in the video here which suits the little thumpers really well.
@@firffighter Hey firfighter I remember you from your Beta Forum posts. I have owned the 300 SEF for 2 years now - it is pretty close to perfect for the area you ride. Way lighter and more nimble than the YZ250FX.
I ride a 4 stroke and I think it's just what you are use to riding, I tractor my bike on the rockiest hill climbs and trails, it's so much fun, I'm getting really good at going slow 🐌 😄 Speed hurts more when you hit the ground
@@firemenonbikes it's all in the skill level, I very rarely stall my bike, 2019 yz250fx, I have a 53t instead of the stock 51t on back with a throttle tamer 400 cam and lots of practice with the clutch, I am by no means an expert rider but I believe I am above average, I ride with some pretty decent weekend riders who ride 2t and I am right there the whole time, I wouldn't trade my bike for any 2t
Interesed in the sef, is the character of the engine grunty with lots of power down low or does it want to be revved all the time? Sounds strong and luggable in the video. I like to ride in the low/mid rpm range so I’m wondering if this is a good option for me? 🤔 great video! 👍
I bought a 300SEF this spring and comparing it to the 2018 WR450 I had prior, the 300 can withstand much more lugging (still not exactly comparable to a 2 stroke) and the power is much more usable. It has a semi harsh EFI 'from-idle-to-throttle' delivery like every EFI 4 stroke I've ridden but you get used to it quicker and once you're rolling its a non issue for me. It will rev and the more you twist it, the more power it makes but its very linear and not unpredictable.
Those tusk hand guards fit good on your bike! I had them on my 2017 Yamaha 250x and they fit terrible! I recently bought a 2022 sef300 and im looking for hand guards that fit good, I noticed you have different handlebars, are they much different than stock handlebars? Any info is much appreciated! Thanks.
The Astra bars are a low rise handlebar but are about the same width as the stock bars. I would think the Tusk hand guards would work on the stock bars just fine.
Does the 2 stoke spray oil everywhere cause mine sprays it all over the engine and my boots etc.. I prefer 4 stoke all the way but I wanted to try something different
@@PNWEnduro yeah just like I thought mate cheers the dealership told.me he can assure me it's normal and yeah ok im gunna have to try to fix the issue cheers mate
How did the weight feel between the 2? I believe the 300 SE is about the same or a little heavier than the 300 SEF. Interesting that you think the SE is less planted than the SEF if they weights are pretty similar
@@PNWEnduro I was wondering. It seemed to have that sound like if it was wound out just a bit more, that it might be able to pull a shift up to 3rd. But that is easy to say watching from the sidelines. I know on my old KDX-200 it worked better on rocky hills in a higher gear. 2 strokes do seem to feel more planted when you grunt them. I have never ridden a 300 2 stroke, but I just retired, and we are moving into a toy hauler, and I am considering it. I love the size of the Xtrainer, but not sure on the suspension, unless I maybe do the AMP mods. The Reiju MR Ranger looks interesting too, and has Kayaba suspension. I'm sure they have a ton more grunt than the old KDX.
@@PNWEnduroI'm always surprised to see the main factor is not considred. yes, there is inertia of engine move, gyroscopic orce, etc... BUt about weight and feeling it is all about gravity center... And 4 strokes have far more higher gravity center, with all head/camshaft/valves /cylinder head,etc... on top . Just lift them after a fall . nightmare compared to a 2 strokes
Just ridden in Transylvania in a group with main 300 2 strokes and a 300 4 stroke. Without exception the 2 stroke was the preferred bike, the problem with this video, the just isn’t opening the bike up properly, he’s riding it like a 4 stroke. You need to wring the bike’s neck and make it take off like a scolded cat
So far no one I ride with is faster simply because of the engine when the rest of the bike is identical in almost every way. If your not racing just ride what you have fun on. And modern 250 and 350 4 strokes weigh the same on the scale as a 250 or 300 2t. Although yes they "feel" a bit heavier.
Still prefer a two stroke..but yeah that flowy stuff looks like an absolute BLAST on the 4! I can sense the control and torque just from watching..what a hoot! great video again..thx
The Sherco 300SEF is the only thumper I think I would consider to replace a two-stroke on the trails,I've never fallen for the KTM 350's. I love the big bore 4-strokes for dual sport use and light weight BDR bikes, but if it's single track park and play rides then the smoker wins every time for myself. It would be nice to have both so that I could have the option depending on the ride.
Really like your Sherco sef videos. And thus comparison with the se was really good. Also watched your test of the Beta 350 and it did look less agile than the Sherco sef.
I have a 19 300 sef with a clake one light clutch. Gearing transforms the bike in tight, technical going. 51 rear makes it very capable. Just done sea to sky with no problems. I agree with previous comment that clutch control is vital, but the same goes for any bike in very technical going. Btw mine is on original clutch at 170 hours and that includes 2 trips to Turkey for sea to sky involving about 20 hours of merciless clutch use each time.
Nice. I have 225 hours on my 300SE and the original clutch is still going strong.
Your reviews are the best!
Thank you!
Just picked a Sherco 300 SEF 2023 and it has good low down torque and revs hard as well but i still love my Sherco 300 SE i use the SEF for long ride to towns and The SE for the hard single days rides
If you go to a 50T rear and are adept at feathering a clutch, you can go anywhere your singletrack heart desires. I think it has much better traction than a 300 2T in my experience. I have 80 hours/1200 miles on my 2020 - it is a phenomenal bike - give it a chance on those hard trails. Just one guy's opinion.
Thanks exactly what I was looking for
2:21 the sound of 6 stroke 🤩
I’ve got two Yamaha WR450’s and will soon be picking up a new GASGAS EC300 two stroke for competitive events. I’m just tired of dragging the big 4 strokes out of the mud. Don’t get me wrong, I love the big bore thumpers but, as they say, variety is the spice my friend. Cheers from North Eastern Ontario.
I stepped from a WR450 to a 300SEF and for the terrain here in Maine, it is well worth the smaller displacement. I have a 200 two stroke that I primarily ride, but the size and power delivery of the 300SEF is much less fatiguing than the WR was
Nice! I got the 2020 300 SEF in late 19' and 300 SE in 21'...cant and will not part with either. Fortunate to be able enjoy them both. BTW my Smartcarb came today...surprised how heavy that thing is when i pulled it out of box. Must be made of silver coated gold!
So nice to have the option of choosing the bike depending on where you are riding that day. Yes the SC2 is heavy!
They’re a little portly that’s true. 47% heavier than the Keihin PWK. But they pull their own weight 😉
Good job Greg!
Thanks!
For me it comes down to weight and maintenance, I don't want more of either so I'll stick with the 2T. Besides, for the majority of terrain here in New England, 2T's are better suited.
Apparently the 300sef is actually lighter than the two stroke.
The low maintenance is a myth in my experience. Both require the same basic care.
My personal opinion is: I don’t care which is better for different tracks or whatever. Two strokes are just way more fun to ride and since I bought my 2022 KTM 300 I am never going back to four strokes. And it is all about the fun isn’t it?
It is, the four stroke was a lot of fun on these flowing trails but 2T is just as fun and more fun in the technical stuff.
Hoping you’ll get hands on a ‘24 to give some feedback on the update 👌🏻
Yeah, I’d really like to try one. The 2025 will be more exciting with the new frame and bodywork on both bikes and TBI for the two stroke.
@@PNWEnduro are they changing the 4t’s too? I thought it was only the smokers. Exciting either way. Sherco makes a great bike. Sold my ‘22 250 SE, but contemplating holding out for the ‘25 300 SE/SEF. Haven’t made up my mind. The 24’s are sick looking though.
That looks like a really cool area to ride. It reminds me of central Washington cascades. Rick @ heddletowns Enduro makes most of his videos in that area.
Awesome track!❤
Thanks for taking the time to make this video. How have you enjoyed owning a Sherco? Have you ever ridden the sef500 factory?
Loving the Sherco. I will buy another one.
I have not tried the 500, nobody around here rides them. I hear the 450 is really good as well.
@@PNWEnduro Ode question but do you find the throttle response a bit jerky on the 4 stroke or like it engine breaks heavily? I briefly test rode a 500 that had a lot of mods including a throttle tamer and it seemed very all or nothing especially in first gear.
Could be because of the mods and setup perhaps a stock one isn't that way.
It's been a while since I rode the 300sef but I don't remember it being an issue.
Yah buddy - really ripping that 4T there in the last minute of the vid.
So much fun when you get flowing on that thing!
Doggone you Greg. Now I want a Sherco 300SEF!
Great video and nice comparison
Ha ha, I want one too!
@@PNWEnduro After owning the YZ250FX, I think the 300sef would be just about the perfect amount of power.
I ride a lot of terrain just like in the video here which suits the little thumpers really well.
@@firffighter Hey firfighter I remember you from your Beta Forum posts. I have owned the 300 SEF for 2 years now - it is pretty close to perfect for the area you ride. Way lighter and more nimble than the YZ250FX.
I ride a 4 stroke and I think it's just what you are use to riding, I tractor my bike on the rockiest hill climbs and trails, it's so much fun, I'm getting really good at going slow 🐌 😄
Speed hurts more when you hit the ground
@Terry Wilson for sure. Given more time on the 4T I think I'd prefer it on these trails.
In my experience modern 2 strokes lug awesomely and stall less in slower terrain than 4 stroke.
@@firemenonbikes it's all in the skill level, I very rarely stall my bike, 2019 yz250fx, I have a 53t instead of the stock 51t on back with a throttle tamer 400 cam and lots of practice with the clutch, I am by no means an expert rider but I believe I am above average, I ride with some pretty decent weekend riders who ride 2t and I am right there the whole time, I wouldn't trade my bike for any 2t
You should see what Hamish MacDonald can do on a 300sef.
what trail is this seems very fun
Greg are you in BC for this video or was this from your trip to the states ?
I don't disclose locations publicly but you can contact me on social media.
If there are a bunch of steep hill climbs without sharp switch-backs I’m impressed with my 350 xcf…otherwise it’s my 300 that I prefer.
Yes the 4T is more work on switchbacks for sure.
Interesed in the sef, is the character of the engine grunty with lots of power down low or does it want to be revved all the time? Sounds strong and luggable in the video. I like to ride in the low/mid rpm range so I’m wondering if this is a good option for me? 🤔 great video! 👍
It seems to be one of the best four strokes for more technical riding, lots of grunt and can be lugged quite well.
I bought a 300SEF this spring and comparing it to the 2018 WR450 I had prior, the 300 can withstand much more lugging (still not exactly comparable to a 2 stroke) and the power is much more usable. It has a semi harsh EFI 'from-idle-to-throttle' delivery like every EFI 4 stroke I've ridden but you get used to it quicker and once you're rolling its a non issue for me. It will rev and the more you twist it, the more power it makes but its very linear and not unpredictable.
Those tusk hand guards fit good on your bike! I had them on my 2017 Yamaha 250x and they fit terrible! I recently bought a 2022 sef300 and im looking for hand guards that fit good, I noticed you have different handlebars, are they much different than stock handlebars? Any info is much appreciated! Thanks.
The Astra bars are a low rise handlebar but are about the same width as the stock bars. I would think the Tusk hand guards would work on the stock bars just fine.
Does the 2 stoke spray oil everywhere cause mine sprays it all over the engine and my boots etc.. I prefer 4 stoke all the way but I wanted to try something different
No, sounds like you have a leak somewhere, likely where the pipe connects to the silencer. You are also probably jetted way to rich.
@@PNWEnduro yeah just like I thought mate cheers the dealership told.me he can assure me it's normal and yeah ok im gunna have to try to fix the issue cheers mate
I don't get it why do you enjoy the 4 stroke on the flowie? Is it low end torque?
Four strokes are better at holding steady RPM's on more opean terrain.
@@PNWEnduro makes sense thanks for the info.
How did the weight feel between the 2? I believe the 300 SE is about the same or a little heavier than the 300 SEF. Interesting that you think the SE is less planted than the SEF if they weights are pretty similar
Rotating mass of a 4 stroke will make it feel more planted.
@mack73 the SE feels lighter to turn and move around. It's the rotating mass that gives the SEF a more planted feel.
From my comfy armchair it almost sounded like the 2 stroke wanted 3rd gear. Any chance you think it would pull 3rd on that hill?
Yeah, with speed at the bottom totally doable in 3rd.
@@PNWEnduro I was wondering. It seemed to have that sound like if it was wound out just a bit more, that it might be able to pull a shift up to 3rd. But that is easy to say watching from the sidelines. I know on my old KDX-200 it worked better on rocky hills in a higher gear. 2 strokes do seem to feel more planted when you grunt them. I have never ridden a 300 2 stroke, but I just retired, and we are moving into a toy hauler, and I am considering it. I love the size of the Xtrainer, but not sure on the suspension, unless I maybe do the AMP mods. The Reiju MR Ranger looks interesting too, and has Kayaba suspension. I'm sure they have a ton more grunt than the old KDX.
New SUB here, love the videos my friend👍
Thank you!
Did you weigh both bikes?
My dealer says that the SEF300 is lighter than the SE300.
I’ve heard that too. I need to buy a scale.
@@PNWEnduroI'm always surprised to see the main factor is not considred. yes, there is inertia of engine move, gyroscopic orce, etc... BUt about weight and feeling it is all about gravity center... And 4 strokes have far more higher gravity center, with all head/camshaft/valves /cylinder head,etc... on top . Just lift them after a fall . nightmare compared to a 2 strokes
Just ridden in Transylvania in a group with main 300 2 strokes and a 300 4 stroke. Without exception the 2 stroke was the preferred bike, the problem with this video, the just isn’t opening the bike up properly, he’s riding it like a 4 stroke.
You need to wring the bike’s neck and make it take off like a scolded cat
yep , blipping all time. Very usual of 2strokes guys habits testing a 4strokes
So far no one I ride with is faster simply because of the engine when the rest of the bike is identical in almost every way. If your not racing just ride what you have fun on. And modern 250 and 350 4 strokes weigh the same on the scale as a 250 or 300 2t. Although yes they "feel" a bit heavier.
First
First reply!
Imagine having the first reply but actually saying something of value 😝
4 stroke is handling lazy, comes wide in the turns, your 2 stroke is twitchy.