Sherco 2024 300SEF review︱Cross Training Enduro
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- Опубліковано 30 лис 2023
- www.crosstrainingenduro.com Our 2024 Sherco 300SEF review! I'm old enough to remember when four strokes were a bad choice for serious dirt riders due to their weight and lack of power. Not in recent years. And the 2024 Sherco 300SEF is a great example. We managed to get our grubby little fingers on one last weekend. As usual, we will list the things we liked. And what we didn't like. We first got to ride the Sherco 300SEF back in 2015 when Sherco was still seen as a boutique brand. Very light. Plenty of power. Quick steering. It was brilliant for the everyday dirt rider. The only real question was whether it would be reliable in the long term. The end result? Quite a bit more power. And less weight. The weight reduction? Here is a list of the lighter parts. Sherco claim a dry weight of 102kg or 225lb which is roughly on par with the lightest four stroke enduro models in the 250 to 350 class. Over the years we checked in with owners who confirmed there were minimal known issues. A quick bit of history for this 2024 Sherco 300SEF review. We rode a 2022 model during our one week outback tour and enjoyed it, although the 500SEF models were more suited to the wide open spaces of the outback. So what has changed for this Sherco 2024 300SEF review? Quite a lot. Plenty of changes to the Sherco 300SEF engine. Better cooling. And more power. Frankly, I was stunned at how much power a 300cc four stroke can create nowadays. There are claims of five extra horsepower. I haven't seen dyno charts confirming this, but I wouldn't be surprised. With our dodgy riding skills, there were only a few areas we could get into the higher revs. And each time there was a real danger of soiling our pants with the Sherco 300SEF. We are two stroke riders so we would need to change our clutch technique to avoid stalling the four stroke in tough terrain. The mapping switch is great. Need hard enduro training? Work through our video lists. Hard enduro techniques are covered in our training vids. Extreme enduro training vids are our focus. If you are enduro riding get into our enduro training vids. Unlike it some, it really does make a big difference, especially in wet terrain. It feels more like a 250 four stroke. Very smooth six-speed gearbox. We couldn't find any false neutrals. The transmission ratios reminded us of the 500SEF which had fairly close ratios. Great for keeping the engine on the boil. But if you do a mix of slow and fast trails the ratios might feel a bit narrow. The handling? Into enduro and dirt bikes? Check out our dirt bike videos. Try our training vids for working on your extreme enduro techniques. We found it much safer to use the very meaty mid-range power. And there's more than enough for everyday dirt riders. There's plenty of grunt at low revs as well. A lot more than your typical 250. However we did stall the Sherco 300SEF a lot in slow technical terrain. The Sherco 300SEF steering geometry makes it perfect for whipping through twisty single track. It's still stable at speed, although a fatty front tyre would be a good idea if most of your riding is in fast terrain. The KYB suspension is going to work well for the majority of dirt riders. Like every Sherco model we've ridden, it's on the firm side and works better the harder you ride. We found it a bit too firm in our usual slow technical terrain but then the Sherco 300SEF isn't designed for that sort of riding. What didn't we like? If you are aware of any, let us know and we'll put these in the pinned first comment. Would this Sherco suit you? It does seem to suit a lot of riders. In Australia it's Sherco's second biggest seller after the two-stroke 300. Why? 250 four strokes are very popular with beginner dirt riders. But the mapping switch is so effective on the Sherco 300SEF that you can use the soft setting to emulate a 250. Our dirt riding tips are great for developing your hard enduro skills. If you want extreme enduro training see our playlists of enduro skills to learn. Then as your skills improve use the hard setting more often. As with most recent enduro models, there's no kickstart on the 2024 Sherco 300SEF. Personally this doesn't worry us. But some riders like the option of installing an aftermarket kickstart and you simply can't do this with Sherco models. The midrange and top end power are more than enough for even experienced riders.... with the advantage of more nimble handling. Riding 450s on tight single track can feel a bit like pig wrestling. Whereas this 300 four stroke feels almost identical to the 250 two stroke as we kept swapping between these two motorbikes during the day. Ever ridden a Sherco 300SEF? Or another four stroke in the 300 to 350cc category? Did you like it? Let us know in the comments. Most manufacturers have been making their clutches progressively lighter over the past decade. We did our usual googling to find common known issues in recent Sherco 300SEF models and couldn't find any.
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CORRECTION At 4:54 we mention the option of removing two clutch springs to lighten the clutch. It can be done the 300SE two stroke. Sadly this isn't an option as the 300SEF uses the five spring clutch from the 125 model.
EXTRA NOTES! One viewer recommended using 2004 CRF250R clutch spring for a lighter clutch. And add the 9mm master cylinder from the two stroke models if you can get a cheap one. No issues with slipping. @Fred-mv8fx • 5 hours ago
Want to try removing two clutch springs? I'm told some Sherco four strokes use five springs in which case it won't work. It's only for a six spring clutches. And of course you try this at your own risk.
My 23 300sef factory is by far the best 4stroke I’ve ridden to date for tight technical trails. For more flowing trails, put it in 3rd or 4th, lug it, scream it, no worries. I’ve kept my 18 TE250 because I wasn’t sure about the 4 stroke. At this point I am probably going to sell the Husky because it really only works better in the super tight technical trails, and at 62, they are as fun as they were 10 years ago. My 2 cents.
I own a 2023 model. Nice upgrades here on the 24 with the new motor and reduced weight but I'd definitely wait for the 2025 model to come out with the full list of upgrades, new lighter frame, new bodywork with better air filter access, DDS clutch. Love mine except for the air filter access and the forks were way too stiff before a revalve.
A buddy of mine has a 21 KTM 300 2T and a 23 Sherco 300 2T. He said that the KTM had significantly better fit and finish than the Sherco, a couple examples he gave me was mismatched fasteners, plastics not fitting correctly, and routine maintenance being much more inconvenient on the sherco. Has this been your experience as well? I know you've owned a couple of Shercos/KTMs. It was disappointing to hear because I was strongly considering getting a Sherco for my next bike.
@@SlipperySalamanders unfortunately I have to agree with your buddy. The Shercos are not as nice to work on, even routine maintenance, nothing seems to go smoothly and things just don’t fit together as well. The upside is they have not really needed much work other than oil changes and tires, brakes.
I hadn't heard about the plans for 2025 but a lighter frame, new bodywork with better air filter access, and DDS clutch would be brilliant. I'm a bit suprised Sherco don't soften the initial stroke in the KYB suspension, all they'd have to do it copy the valving in Yamaha's SSS version. Plenty of guys like the stock setup as is but I assume they are heavy and/or aggressive riders. But a lot of us find it a bit firm if we aren't on the gas.
I have 2022 250 smoker and yes filter access is not great but in 110hrs my bike was trouble free, all i did was new top end at 69hrs. Suspension suits me very well stock at 95kg with gear. KTM up to 2024 has terible suspension and needs 2k investment.
Great review. I have a 300 SEF, also had a '23 300 SEF and the upgrades are massive. Biggest improvement for me was the new rear swing-arm. The traction is significantly better, and it darts out of corners like a bat out of hell!
I had a 21 year model 300 SEF model loved it and at the same time I had a new Ktm300 with a weighted clutch the two of them were amazing bikes.
i have sherco sef-300r 2015 over 520 motor hours only done top end once i think this winter will do bottom end rebild overal i am verry happy with my bike
Great to hear!
Pick my 2024 300 SEF up next week. New to Sherco but fell in love with it on the Sherco ride day (thanks Toowoomba Bikes and Bits). Can’t wait!
you will love it mate! I got my first Sherco when i walked into shop and first time ever seen one. Was mine next day. That was 2018 model 2stroke, then bought brand new 22 250 2stroke, won my first race on it and clubmanB championship this year. Thinking about 24 300f now.
Talk about feeling old , my last thumper was a B44 BSA. Thanks Barry
😂 That outdoes me! Mine was the Beta RR480 about six years ago.
Good review. I have ridden a 22 300 Factory and absolutely loved it in the tight terrain. It almost made wonder why I have a 300 2 stroke. Yes it stalled easier but changing the clearing would reduce this issue. I also loved the silky smooth gearbox and the engine was great too, you just have to keep the engine on the boil. After swapping to a 450 Factory it didn’t take long before I wanted to swap back! That was riding in technical terrain though not on open tracks or desert country..
It's a single track beast for sure! I've tried lugging 450s and 500s through the same tracks and it's like a gym workout lol.
Good video, I'm really wanting to get the sherco, waiting for my dealer to get some, this was really helpful man!
Glad to hear it!
The Welshman's was nice in Quebec.. Really a sweet spot in the engine size.
My next one’s a sherco. Have a 250fx and I seem to not be able to slow wheelie like my old 2 stroke it’s got me drove! Winters here now guess I have to get back at it this spring 🙄
Replaced an '06 300 Gasgas which had given years of good service with a tidy '15 SEF 300 a couple of years ago. Straightaway noticed how it turned easier at slower speeds and was easier to balance. Power much more linear and predicable - it gives a little bit away to the two stroke but makes up for it in the way that it's easier to ride and inspires confidence. Less prone to wheel spin and hooks up in mud much better. Engine braking obviously better. Suspension worked better as speed picked up. Weightwise it didn't feel any different. Stalled a bit at first but that went away by covering the clutch better. Definitely runs hotter - overheated riding slowly in soft sand and sheep mustering so a fan is a must if you are going to be riding slowly and using the clutch alot. No mechanical failures. Gripes - harder to work on - spark plug is buried and needs a thin wall socket and extension bits to get out. Oil change is a stuff round and sight glass is next to useless. Brittle plastics that crack by just looking at them - maybe the newer models are better? Polisport replacements are fine. Made a heat guard for the pipe - newer ones seem to route the pipe better. Worst bit is that some swine recently stole it and the cost of a replacement Sherco, here in NZ, is presently through the roof compared to Gasgas and Beta.
Good to hear it's working out for you so far...
I have the 23 model and absolutely love it, I mainly ride single trail but these things love to be ridden at higher revs so riding forest trails are a blast as well
The air filter is a pain when changing so it would be great to see that changed, I noticed they changed the position of the oil sight glass in the new model, the previous models have it behind the rear brake lever which is very hard to see..
I have to say the new colour scheme is a winner.
Go Sherco, you will not be disappointed
Cheers 👍
Good to hear!
Its actualy good they have put new engine into current frame, so when new frame comes we know if new engine is good and can buy all new 2025 with confidence :)
Looking forward to test 24 Sherco UK! We dont even have them available yet here ffs!
On the clutch: the 4 strokes use 5 springs (at least they did). On my 2022 250, I put the 9mm master cylinder from the 2 strokes on and replaced the stock Sherco springs with 2004 CRF250R clutch springs.
The clutch feels great now and I have no issues with slipping.
Thanks, I am going to try this. Do you think both are necessary? Was 1 more effective than the other (those brembo 9mms are a bit pricey)
Five springs? Bummer, that means you can't remove two springs safely for a lighter clutch. I'll add your tips to the pinned first comment.
@@mack73 I measured a 11% reduction in lever pull force with the springs. 9mm master cylinder vs 10mm master cylinder is worth about 20% for a total reduction of about 29%.
The springs were just $7 from RMATVMC so if you can get by with just those or just need a little relief they might be perfect for you. I was struggling with carpal tunnel so I was ready to spend as much as it took to relieve the pain considering how much more expensive medical pain relief is.
@@Fred-mv8fx Awesome thanks for the info. First half of the day clutch pull is fine its just the last couple hours where fatigue sets in, so perhaps the springs are enough.
I had an older 300 SEF but I don't remember what year. Had 4 KTMs before that including a 300 2 s and sold it when I found the Sherco 4s. always geared them down and then put a recluse on them. It was the best bike I owned despite the awful air cleaner setup.
Sherco have just announced a better airbox design in their new line up. Finally!
Great video Barry
Just a correction at 4:54 The 300SEF uses the smaller 5 spring clutch from the 125, so removing '2 x springs' isn't possible while keeping it balanced.
Certainly loved both of my 300SEFs and will probably sign up for another one next bike.
Thanks mate, I'll annotate the video. Happy new year and all that kind of thing!
Great review and comparisons! I was eyeing this model since it has a unique engine, KYB and a full akrapovic system. For my style of riding, the WR250F likely gets the same job done and frankly I don't see myself being any faster on the Sherco. Yamaha is hard to beat given it's engineering, years of refinement, and world-wide part selections. Would love to try this SEF model still.
I've owned a WR250F and absolutely loved it. Did a re-gear (13/52), new lighter wheels and better tires, power upgrades and to much other work to list. It was a fantastic bike that was amazing on both tight single track and open trails but the one thing I always found myself looking for at the end of the day was a little more power...
I was lucky enough to ride the YZ250FX, YZ250F and WR250F during a week of dirt riding in Tasmania a few years ago. All great bikes. That KYB SSS suspension was superb. It's interesting that Yamaha hasn't brought out a 300 model...
Had 2 WR250s and on my second 300 SEF. Rate the Sherco above the Yamahas..surprised to see it flaming out like that..haven't had that problem with mine.
Will the 2stroke handle a bit ok mx with the stiffer forlks and aggressive mapping ?
@crostrainingenduro
any words about new swingarm? some people swear by that it improves rear suspension.
See review about the new 23 or 24 tm en300s. Big improvment over 21 and older ive heard.
I rode a recent model, not '24, and hated the footpeg mounts on the frame. They were higher than the top tread of the footpeg, so if you kept your feet in on the vertical part of the frame the sole of the boot won't touch the footpeg. I got used to it but thought it was a big enough weird design to mention it.
maybe depends on boots you are using, i use Sidi and they dont allow sole to be so close to the frame.
'22 300 SEF owner here. 0 reliability issues. Agree on all the points - clutch a bit heavier than some. Air filter access isn't great but passable. Sometimes wish I had a touch more power and was a bit lighter (now addressed on the 24's). KYBs were a bit firm in midstroke but a simple revalve has made them great. I also added a tooth on the rear sprocket which has made it better for the PNW trails. New bike time in '25 so interested to see if they do a new frame or if I add a 300 2T along side
Great to hear it's been solid. Years ago there were various issues with the two strokes (which I covered in a vid) but the four strokes have been remarkably trouble-free.
what hours have you done so far?
I have the 2023 and I like this bike. For me, better than 350 Husqvarna!
Got since 2019 a Factory 300sef '17 model. Never want to ride another bike.
😎👍
So… on your 300 2 t you removed 2 clutch springs? Is it that much better? I feel it’s not to hard to pull clutch and we ride tight soft enduro. Or am I’m missing out on the easy fingering 😂. Thanks love your channel
It will be 33% lighter which is a pretty big difference. I'm told some Sherco four strokes use five springs in which case it won't work. It's only for a six spring clutches. And of course you try this at your own risk... on the bike or in the bedroom. 🤔
@@crosstrainingenduro I have a 21 300 2t
I am trying to decide between the 300 or 250 SEF.
I come from a 2018 KTM 350 EXC-F. When I start getting tired, I am sure its more power than I can handle.
Any suggestion?
Too many variables to say for your case unfortunately. We did a video comparing 250 and 300 two strokes that might help?
Thanks for the review Barry, would you go to a 4 stroke?
Tough question! Two strokes are way better in the slow technical terrain we like. But in my 60s I find it's beating me up too much and I'm reverting to more 'normal' enduro riding. So a 300 to 350 4T like this could be on the cards eventually...
The stalling characteristics is what will keep me on my 2 smokers.
do you reckon a reckluse clutch would sort out the technical stalling issues? I'm aware it's a style/learning issue, but for ppl wanting to jump from smoke to stroke.
Definitely no more stalling with a Rekluse!
Looking for help in choosing between 300 Sherco 2 vs 4 stroke. Is the 4 stroke really night and day better than the 2 stroke in terms of stability ? I tried the 2 stroke and it was a bit sketchy....
Hard to say, you'd really need a test ride to be sure.
after switching 2 stroke to 4 stroke then 4 stroke to 2 stroke i settled on a 350. 4 stroke but man do i miss my smoker
Merci pour la vidéo. Je vais commander la mienne.
Apres 35 ans chez Yamaha et jamais eu de panne. J espère que ca sera pareil...
My 23 has been well cared for. Blew the base cylinder gasket 24hrs. Dumped all the oil out of the front of the engine. Fyi
Bummer! Did the mechanic say it's happening to others? Fixed under warranty? I did do a check with a Sherco expert and he said the only mechanical thing of note was a very occasional main bearing failure in pre-2019 models if they were mainly used for racing... but no reports from everyday riders. They changed the style of bearing in any case and no reports since then.
My friend has a 19 model 500 AND 300. Both Factory editions. The 300 is good, I was impressed with the down low grunt for a 4 stroke. It has recently blown a head gasket on it which he has found out is a very rare incident. The 500 is a very manageable beast aswell I found. I have the 22 300 racing 2 banger. I still prefer the 2t. Best all round bike.
Bummer about the head gasket. I've got a good mechanical contact for Sherco issues and that didn't pop up. He said about the only known issue was there were occasional main bearing failures up to the 2019 if guys were serious hard core racers. Apparently Sherco changed the style of bearing and all good since then. Never cropped up for typical dirt riders, only under race conditions.
I own a 21 300sef and here is what I have witnessed. Failure of stator and regulator but Sherco quickly replaced the parts. Poor gas mileage, almost constantly 32.5 miles to gallon. Utah is a big state and the little tank with poor mileage really holds this bike back. Oh and not much available for over sized gas tanks. Fun bike to ride.
Safari makes a 15 litre tank to suit that doesn't take up much extra space and is a good fit.
Bummer about the stator and regulator. I do know this was a known issue on the two stroke models quite a few years back and I reported on this in our Sherco known issues vid a few years ago.
Basically the same weight as a 2 stroke and lighter than the 24 ktms. Just a shame about the tendency to stall. I'm running 12/51gearing on my 21 Fe 350 and it rarely stalls. It's a shame that Sherco don't offer a 350 4 stroke with a heavy flywheel and longer stroke motor.... be almost as good as a 300 2 stroke in the tight stuff.
It would probably be like the Beta RR390 which has the long stroke. Loved riding that one.
The biggest know issue is the effing price of the thing. 🤣
Which country? I think it's about $500 cheaper than the KTM 350EXCF here as the distributor prices them pretty competitively. Not sure about other countries though.
I got a 2023 300 SE factory (brand new, but last year's bike) for $3000 under MSRP in quebec (bought in august). It seems some dealers are quite eager to unload last year's bikes when the new ones come out.
Wow. 102kg is that without fuel or without all fluids? My 250fx is 245 lbs with all fluids... 2.2 gallon tank. If the 102kg is wo fuel... by adding 2.2 gallons of gas thats about 238 lbs or 7 lbs lighter than my 250fx!
I'm pretty sceptical of dry weights. Sometimes it's just an empty tank. Other times it's no radiator fluid, engine oil and suspension oil. In the past manufacturers have even taken off the tyres and battery!
Well, it's pretty light.... 107kg or 237 lbs wo fuel according to this guy ..ua-cam.com/video/g482lSbkevk/v-deo.html ...
that’s 250 lbs w 2.2 gallons same gallons as a 250fx. So looks like it weighs 5 lbs more than 250fx 2021. Dirt bike channel has the 2020 sef300 at 253,5 lbs with a full 2.6 gallon tank so it seems no weight reduction to me?. @@crosstrainingenduro
I am first like and view