I transitioned from a 350 to a 300 this year. Kind of a unique situation. Haven’t ridden dirt in 20 years, and last year picked up a 2012 350sx with a Rekluse for $2500. Rode it 3 times and sold it for a profit. Invested the money, made more profit, and now have a TBI 300xc. It’s nuts dude. It’s too much for me to handle, even on the white map. Open fields and moderate single track are great, but technical stuff and the Mx track are a struggle. As recently as 2014 I was doing track days on my Triumph Daytona 675, doing stoppies and riding wheelies down the back straight at 70-90mph… maybe I just need 20-30 hours to knock the rust off?
Good insight... how do you feel about a 23 350xcf for as a first bike? Road plenty of track with street bikes, just never dirt...looking to putt around, and go on long desert or woods rides... not looking to race... had not considered a 2t, but not for a particular reason... would like one bike, and grow into it.. plush suspension is a plus, or something I could adjust greatly. They don’t make a 350xcfw for 23...
The 350 would probably be a bike you could grow into. The only disadvantage is you can't ride it it really low RPMs like a two stroke. Meaning you'll need to get pretty adept at using the clutch. You could throw a rekluse auto clutch on it but that will add around $1,400. Other than that I think the 350 will suit a wide range of rider skill level. If you want easy to adjust suspension than the WP Air Forks on the ktms is a plus.
@@nwrain21 thanks for the reply… and is maintenance and upkeep a consideration when choosing 2t or 4t? or PDS vs linkage? Thanks. Or is this not something riders use as a decision maker.
I know it’s been awhile since this was posted but I just came across it. I am a big guy. 6’01”. 340 lbs. would the 300 have enough power to pull me up hills and through trails ok? Also is the TPI models so much better than carbureted models that I shouldn’t look at one of those. These new bikes are so expensive. Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks. Great comparison.
I might take a hard look at the 450xc if I were you. I like the TPI because I don’t want to deal with a carb and the throttle response is really smooth. However people have been putting kits on to change their TPI bikes to carbs. To each their own. I wouldn’t say TPI bikes are so much better that you don’t consider a carbureted bike.
It's funny how this younger generation has no concept of the joys and superiority of riding a good quality 2 stroke is off road .They all ways seemed so suprised ! It's like they've been brain washed. I've road both in my 50 years of riding and i finally went back to a 2 stroke beta 300rr and i fell back in love with riding again !
Coming from someone who just rides for fun. I have an fc 450 and aTX300i In both MX and woods, i will say my 2020 TX300i is far and away better as an all around do it all machine. Love it on a practice MX track and really love it in the woods. The 450 is crap in the woods but a bit better on an mx track. If you can only have one, get the 300 tpi.
Great review! I'm sure you've probably figured this out by now but if you do that TSP ECU reflash and cylinder head OMG wakes the bike up a lot and gives it better oiling through the whole map. It gives the bike so much more low-end torque and mid-range. I just rode my buddies stock 2021 300 tpi it feels so restricted compared to mine. Thanks for sharing the video ride safe have fun cheers!
I know. My local dealer is selling the 300 XC for $13k! I feel fortunate to have got mine just before these shortages started hitting the market. Best of luck.
Great personal review, I also own a 2020 KTM 300 tpi, and feel the same way you do. They are amazing bikes and can do pretty much anything you demand of them. Engine is a tractor and just lugs everywhere and has such smooth power and can pull hard when you need it to.
I've had to think about this one. I think I'm going to give the edge to the 350 over the 300. The 350 delivers the power to the ground better than any other bike I've ridden. For me I'm still going to pick the 300 over the 350 based on other characteristics, but like I said in this one category the 350 takes the win.
I find the 300 much less physical demanding. The advantage of the 2 stroke is there is less moving mass in the motor, making the bike much more nimble with less physical effort.
Faster riding=350 Slower riding=300 Solution=Have both if you can afford or buy whichever you feel more confident on if you can only afford one. I have a 17' 250 XC-W and a 17' 350 EXC-F which is great for having the same parts for 80% of the bikes if needed to cannibalize in a pinch. Both are plated as well so I feel like I can do any type of riding with either.
New to riding, just started Jan. of 2020, bought my first bike ever... A 2020 KLX 300R. It's been great. Taught me how to ride. But... I'm already pinning it in 6th gear, kinda want to upgrade. I want something faster, more powerful, but also...something LIGHTER. Thinking the 350 XCF is the way to go..
350XCF would probably be good, but you have to be on top of the clutch at low RPMs to prevent stalls. You could put a rekluse clutch on it. Some of the smaller displacement XC bikes from KTM might also be worth looking at. I think Kyle Brotherson on Dirtbike Channel has a video on bikes for newer riders. Good luck
Find yourself a nice used 200 xc-w. This will let you know what direction you want to go in with your riding style. The 350 really is a lot of bike to handle in the trails. It requires savant level clutch control to avoid flame outs. The 350 is a great bike, but it's sort of an A level GNCC type of bike. It's not forgiving or easy to ride.
Cheers for the comparison! I ride a 14 xcf 350 and thinking about heading to the 300 tpi. I ride a lot of single track(rocks and roots) in the winter but when the summer comes around there are days the wife and I are out on dirt roads for many miles exploring(bc Canada). I’m wondering if you have had any experience on some longer rides on forest roads on the 300 and could give some feedback. I’d like to have both bikes or a 300 and dual sport but space for toys is small.
I am in Oregon so I imagine we are riding similar Pacific Northwest terrain. I really haven't had any complaints on riding the long forest roads between the 350 or this 300 tpi. Both are about the same. Good luck!
I just switched back to a 2T myself from a 350 XCF. I had a 2016 300XC that I ran for 3 years ( and other 2T's before that). Wanting to try the new fuel injected 4T, I bought a 2020 350 XCF and really liked the bike. I kept the stock suspension, AER forks, which I thought did a good job. I re-sprung the rear shock for my weight, and other than that the bike was basically stock. After putting almost a year of riding on it, I was offered a great deal on a new 2021 300XC TPI. Used bike sales are through the roof, and I got a great trade-in price on the 350, so I decided I’d go back to the 2T, 300XC TPI. Like you mention, the fuel injection, along with the counter-balancing, bottom end, (and I was always a 2T rider before the 350), I traded the 350 and bought the 2021 300XC TPI and I’m really liking it. I only have a few hours on it so far, since the snow finally made it to NE PA, but it's a great bike. I agree that even though the weights are really close, the 2T just feels more nimble, and easier to flick around on the single track trails that I normally ride. I guess if you’re running a lot of GNCC style trails/races, you’d be happier with the 4T, but I run hare scrambles, and a lot of single track near my house so the 300XC is perfect, and I don’t have to mess with carburetor jetting, or valves. Would I have switched if I didn’t get a good trade-in on the 350? Probably not this year, but what got me really leaning towards the 2T TPI was I had the chance to ride a friend’s 2020 300XC-W TPI a few weeks ago and I kind of knew right then that I would be going back to the 2T, specifically the TPI. I didn’t want the XC-W though, I didn’t really like the 1st/2nd gear wide ratio, it was too low for me, but this 300XC TPI is perfect for the riding I do, and I’ll more than likely keep this one for quite a while.
excellent post, I have decided on a KTM 300 XC myself, I ride just as you do.. you must be from Missouri hah. I'll be getting the TSP performance kit too.
Thanks for the video. I have been looking for a comparison between these two bikes, as well as the four stroke to two stroke transition. I used to ride through my early teen years (26 now), but only four strokes, and I am looking to get back into riding. My previous riding experience was with a DRZ 125 and a TTR 230, about 75 percent trail and woods and 25 percent mx track. I have recently been looking to get back into riding but I am now way to big for the TTR 230 in my opinion ( 245lbs.). I was told that a 250 four stroke probably would leave me wanting a little more power, but I know better than to jump onto a 450 right away. Initially I was drawn towards the 350 XC-F, but the more I research it sounds like maybe a 300 XC would be more suited for my riding style. I am hesitant to go with a two stroke as I have zero experience riding them, but they seem like they might really have a leg up at the slower speeds. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
For off road tighter single track I’m a fan of the 300. If you have more open area perhaps a 350 or 450. You could get an ecu tuner and detune the 450 until your comfort grows.
@@nwrain21 Thanks for the feedback. Didn't think about detuning a 450 I will consider that. I know I'm asking subjective questions, but what would you have to say about the learning curve of jumping on a two stroke, more specifically the 300 XC with zero two stroke experience? Asking for trouble?
Probably either would be fine, but I'd lean towards the 350. The 300 is going to better at the tighter stuff, while the 350 will be better at carrying momentum and top speeds. Hope that helps. If you go to a local GNCC or Hare Scramble what is most everyone else riding? That might be a good hint there too.
Oh that was cool
2 strokes like to have a little momentum, fan the clutch, get a little bit of flywheel buildup and you will conquer anything.
I transitioned from a 350 to a 300 this year. Kind of a unique situation. Haven’t ridden dirt in 20 years, and last year picked up a 2012 350sx with a Rekluse for $2500. Rode it 3 times and sold it for a profit. Invested the money, made more profit, and now have a TBI 300xc. It’s nuts dude. It’s too much for me to handle, even on the white map. Open fields and moderate single track are great, but technical stuff and the Mx track are a struggle. As recently as 2014 I was doing track days on my Triumph Daytona 675, doing stoppies and riding wheelies down the back straight at 70-90mph… maybe I just need 20-30 hours to knock the rust off?
Good insight... how do you feel about a 23 350xcf for as a first bike? Road plenty of track with street bikes, just never dirt...looking to putt around, and go on long desert or woods rides... not looking to race... had not considered a 2t, but not for a particular reason... would like one bike, and grow into it.. plush suspension is a plus, or something I could adjust greatly. They don’t make a 350xcfw for 23...
The 350 would probably be a bike you could grow into. The only disadvantage is you can't ride it it really low RPMs like a two stroke. Meaning you'll need to get pretty adept at using the clutch. You could throw a rekluse auto clutch on it but that will add around $1,400. Other than that I think the 350 will suit a wide range of rider skill level. If you want easy to adjust suspension than the WP Air Forks on the ktms is a plus.
@@nwrain21 thanks for the reply… and is maintenance and upkeep a consideration when choosing 2t or 4t? or PDS vs linkage? Thanks. Or is this not something riders use as a decision maker.
@@RC.56 the 2t is way less maintenance. Less oil changes required. Simpler motor. I’ve never have had PDS but linkage hasn’t required any maintenance.
I know it’s been awhile since this was posted but I just came across it. I am a big guy. 6’01”. 340 lbs. would the 300 have enough power to pull me up hills and through trails ok? Also is the TPI models so much better than carbureted models that I shouldn’t look at one of those. These new bikes are so expensive. Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks. Great comparison.
I might take a hard look at the 450xc if I were you. I like the TPI because I don’t want to deal with a carb and the throttle response is really smooth. However people have been putting kits on to change their TPI bikes to carbs. To each their own. I wouldn’t say TPI bikes are so much better that you don’t consider a carbureted bike.
It's funny how this younger generation has no concept of the joys and superiority of riding a good quality 2 stroke is off road .They all ways seemed so suprised ! It's like they've been brain washed. I've road both in my 50 years of riding and i finally went back to a 2 stroke beta 300rr and i fell back in love with riding again !
good one , tough choice again , making me think about 300 ,, but on the road , its a bit different ,,
Its a dirt bike 😂
I have a 350 fx and a 300 tpi and I agree with everything you say ,the tpi is a bit more playful ,the 350 might have a bit more ,both great bikes.
yeah California used how loud 2 strokes were as one of the reasons to ban them, but forgot to tell everyone that 4-stroke is way louder
Coming from someone who just rides for fun. I have an fc 450 and aTX300i In both MX and woods, i will say my 2020 TX300i is far and away better as an all around do it all machine. Love it on a practice MX track and really love it in the woods. The 450 is crap in the woods but a bit better on an mx track. If you can only have one, get the 300 tpi.
Great review! I'm sure you've probably figured this out by now but if you do that TSP ECU reflash and cylinder head OMG wakes the bike up a lot and gives it better oiling through the whole map. It gives the bike so much more low-end torque and mid-range. I just rode my buddies stock 2021 300 tpi it feels so restricted compared to mine. Thanks for sharing the video ride safe have fun cheers!
I think Kyle and dirt bike channel did a video on that. I should look into it. Cheers!
My problem with 2 strokes is ....I can't fine one and if I do find one the dealers are asking 2000 more over retail.
I know. My local dealer is selling the 300 XC for $13k! I feel fortunate to have got mine just before these shortages started hitting the market. Best of luck.
@@nwrain21 ... I refuse to pay it . Just a little more and you can have a BMW s1000 r
Great personal review, I also own a 2020 KTM 300 tpi, and feel the same way you do. They are amazing bikes and can do pretty much anything you demand of them. Engine is a tractor and just lugs everywhere and has such smooth power and can pull hard when you need it to.
It’s been a bit of time sense you’ve posted this and I was wondering if you think this bike gets as much rear wheel driving traction as the 350 did?
I've had to think about this one. I think I'm going to give the edge to the 350 over the 300. The 350 delivers the power to the ground better than any other bike I've ridden. For me I'm still going to pick the 300 over the 350 based on other characteristics, but like I said in this one category the 350 takes the win.
Great video, thanks! Do you find the 300 more physical demanding than the 4 strokes?
I find the 300 much less physical demanding. The advantage of the 2 stroke is there is less moving mass in the motor, making the bike much more nimble with less physical effort.
Faster riding=350 Slower riding=300 Solution=Have both if you can afford or buy whichever you feel more confident on if you can only afford one. I have a 17' 250 XC-W and a 17' 350 EXC-F which is great for having the same parts for 80% of the bikes if needed to cannibalize in a pinch. Both are plated as well so I feel like I can do any type of riding with either.
Nicely said…can’t you adjust the 300 for faster rides? To feel like the 350, or is it the weight of the bike that makes it less planted
New to riding, just started Jan. of 2020, bought my first bike ever... A 2020 KLX 300R. It's been great. Taught me how to ride. But... I'm already pinning it in 6th gear, kinda want to upgrade. I want something faster, more powerful, but also...something LIGHTER. Thinking the 350 XCF is the way to go..
350XCF would probably be good, but you have to be on top of the clutch at low RPMs to prevent stalls. You could put a rekluse clutch on it. Some of the smaller displacement XC bikes from KTM might also be worth looking at. I think Kyle Brotherson on Dirtbike Channel has a video on bikes for newer riders. Good luck
Find yourself a nice used 200 xc-w. This will let you know what direction you want to go in with your riding style. The 350 really is a lot of bike to handle in the trails. It requires savant level clutch control to avoid flame outs. The 350 is a great bike, but it's sort of an A level GNCC type of bike. It's not forgiving or easy to ride.
Cheers for the comparison! I ride a 14 xcf 350 and thinking about heading to the 300 tpi. I ride a lot of single track(rocks and roots) in the winter but when the summer comes around there are days the wife and I are out on dirt roads for many miles exploring(bc Canada). I’m wondering if you have had any experience on some longer rides on forest roads on the 300 and could give some feedback. I’d like to have both bikes or a 300 and dual sport but space for toys is small.
I am in Oregon so I imagine we are riding similar Pacific Northwest terrain. I really haven't had any complaints on riding the long forest roads between the 350 or this 300 tpi. Both are about the same. Good luck!
Dirt bike Channel
No ear plugs when riding a 2 stroke. 2 stroke sound is music
Good point. When I rode solo on the 4 stroke I would wear ear plugs. I never even considered that on my 2 stroke. My ears never ring anymore!
I just switched back to a 2T myself from a 350 XCF. I had a 2016 300XC that I ran for 3 years ( and other 2T's before that). Wanting to try the new fuel injected 4T, I bought a 2020 350 XCF and really liked the bike. I kept the stock suspension, AER forks, which I thought did a good job. I re-sprung the rear shock for my weight, and other than that the bike was basically stock. After putting almost a year of riding on it, I was offered a great deal on a new 2021 300XC TPI. Used bike sales are through the roof, and I got a great trade-in price on the 350, so I decided I’d go back to the 2T, 300XC TPI. Like you mention, the fuel injection, along with the counter-balancing, bottom end, (and I was always a 2T rider before the 350), I traded the 350 and bought the 2021 300XC TPI and I’m really liking it. I only have a few hours on it so far, since the snow finally made it to NE PA, but it's a great bike. I agree that even though the weights are really close, the 2T just feels more nimble, and easier to flick around on the single track trails that I normally ride. I guess if you’re running a lot of GNCC style trails/races, you’d be happier with the 4T, but I run hare scrambles, and a lot of single track near my house so the 300XC is perfect, and I don’t have to mess with carburetor jetting, or valves. Would I have switched if I didn’t get a good trade-in on the 350? Probably not this year, but what got me really leaning towards the 2T TPI was I had the chance to ride a friend’s 2020 300XC-W TPI a few weeks ago and I kind of knew right then that I would be going back to the 2T, specifically the TPI. I didn’t want the XC-W though, I didn’t really like the 1st/2nd gear wide ratio, it was too low for me, but this 300XC TPI is perfect for the riding I do, and I’ll more than likely keep this one for quite a while.
Thanks for sharing. That is a great insight into where you found the bike to be best suited.
excellent post, I have decided on a KTM 300 XC myself, I ride just as you do.. you must be from Missouri hah. I'll be getting the TSP performance kit too.
Thanks for the video. I have been looking for a comparison between these two bikes, as well as the four stroke to two stroke transition. I used to ride through my early teen years (26 now), but only four strokes, and I am looking to get back into riding. My previous riding experience was with a DRZ 125 and a TTR 230, about 75 percent trail and woods and 25 percent mx track. I have recently been looking to get back into riding but I am now way to big for the TTR 230 in my opinion ( 245lbs.). I was told that a 250 four stroke probably would leave me wanting a little more power, but I know better than to jump onto a 450 right away. Initially I was drawn towards the 350 XC-F, but the more I research it sounds like maybe a 300 XC would be more suited for my riding style. I am hesitant to go with a two stroke as I have zero experience riding them, but they seem like they might really have a leg up at the slower speeds. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
For off road tighter single track I’m a fan of the 300. If you have more open area perhaps a 350 or 450. You could get an ecu tuner and detune the 450 until your comfort grows.
@@nwrain21 Thanks for the feedback. Didn't think about detuning a 450 I will consider that. I know I'm asking subjective questions, but what would you have to say about the learning curve of jumping on a two stroke, more specifically the 300 XC with zero two stroke experience? Asking for trouble?
Do you think if you were going to race a gncc and hare scramble do you think a 350 would be better or a 300
Probably either would be fine, but I'd lean towards the 350. The 300 is going to better at the tighter stuff, while the 350 will be better at carrying momentum and top speeds. Hope that helps. If you go to a local GNCC or Hare Scramble what is most everyone else riding? That might be a good hint there too.
How’s the front end traction/feel compared to the 350/300?
And what’s your skill level?
300 unless your a class rider but then you had to ask so def 300. :)