Sherco 300 SCF R [2019-2020]: The Precision Enduro Tool That Demands Attention
Introduction
The Sherco 300 SCF R (2019-2020) isn’t just another enduro bike—it’s a statement of purpose. Designed for riders who value surgical precision in technical terrain, this French-engineered machine carved its niche in the competitive enduro world by blending race-ready components with surprising versatility. After spending days wrestling it through rocky riverbeds, clawing up root-infested hills, and slicing through tight single-track, one thing becomes clear: this bike rewards skill and punishes complacency. Let’s dissect why it remains a compelling choice for serious off-road enthusiasts.
Engine Performance: Controlled Fury
At the heart beats a liquid-cooled 303.7cc four-stroke engine (18.53 cubic inches), its 84mm bore and 54.8mm stroke (3.3” x 2.2”) delivering a character that’s equal parts tractor and thoroughbred. The DOHC setup with a Keihin PWK 36 carburetor might seem old-school in an era of fuel injection, but there’s magic in its analog soul.
Low-Range Grunt: Crack the throttle at walking pace, and the engine responds with zero hesitation. The 300 SCF R crawls up near-vertical faces without stalling, its hydraulic clutch (2020 model upgrade from previous wet multidisc) offering buttery modulation. You’ll appreciate this when balancing on jagged rocks where a millimeter of lever travel separates triumph from tumble.
Mid-Range Punch: Where rivals like the KTM EXC-F rely on explosive powerbands, the Sherco builds momentum like a rising storm. Between 4,000-7,000 RPM, it pulls with linear urgency, letting you loft the front wheel precisely without terrifying kickbacks. The exhaust note—a muted bark rather than a scream—keeps trails peaceful.
Top-End Restraint: This isn’t a desert sled. Rev it past 8,500 RPM, and power plateaus gracefully. Wise riders short-shift, using the torquey midrange to conserve energy during marathon enduro stages. Fuel economy? Expect ~25 km/l (59 mpg) if you’re gentle, translating to 240 km (149 mi) from its 9.7L (2.56 gal) tank.
Handling: A Trials Bike In Enduro Clothing
With a 1,480mm (58.3”) wheelbase and 122kg (269 lbs) dry weight, the Sherco feels shockingly narrow between the knees. Stand up through whoops, and the bike disappears beneath you—a stark contrast to bulkier ADV machines.
Ergonomics: The 950mm (37.4”) seat height intimidates shorter riders, but the sculpted saddle lets you slide forward effortlessly when attacking steep climbs. Rubber-mounted pegs (20mm lower than MX models) and a 355mm (14”) ground clearance create a confident stance. After three hours in the saddle, only the most brutal impacts leave you begging for a seat concepts upgrade.
Flickability: Switchbacks become playgrounds. The Sherco changes direction like a trials bike, its slim aluminum frame (with clever engine positioning) offering a 25% tighter turning radius than the KTM 300 XC-W. Want to pivot on a dime mid-hillclimb? Stab the rear brake, weight the outside peg, and feel the bike pirouette beneath you.
Suspension & Brakes: KYB’s Hidden Gem
While rivals tout WP or Öhlins, Sherco’s KYB setup is the dark star here.
Front Fork: The 48mm KYB closed-cartridge forks (285mm travel) handle everything from baby-head rocks to flat-out G-outs. Stock settings favor precision over plushness—ideal for technical terrain. Dial in 10cc less oil if you’re under 80kg (176 lbs), and watch small chop dissolve.
Rear Shock: The KYB shock (320mm travel) shines in slow-speed chaos. Its progressive linkage maintains composure on square-edged hits that leave PDS systems bucking. Pro tip: Run 105mm sag (4.13”) instead of the manual’s 100mm for plusher initial stroke.
Braking Performance: Brembo’s 260mm front/220mm rear discs (8.7”) offer lever feel that’s… telepathic. One-finger stops are routine, though the rear lacks the bite of a Galfer setup. Swap to sintered pads if mud races are your jam.
Competition: How It Stacks Up
KTM 300 XC-W
- Power: KTM’s two-stroke hits harder but demands clutch finesse
- Suspension: WP Xplor forks are plusher but flex under aggressive riding
- Weight: 107kg (236 lbs) vs Sherco’s 122kg (269 lbs)—noticeable in tech
Beta 300 RR
- Engine: Beta’s oil-injection two-stroke simplifies fueling
- Chassis: Heavier steering requires more input at speed
- Price: Comparable, but Beta’s aftermarket support is stronger
Husqvarna TE 300i
- Tech: Fuel injection vs Sherco’s carb—smoother but less tunable
- Ergos: Husky’s composite subframe dampens vibration better
- Suspension: WP Xact vs KYB—KYB wins for adjustability
Sherco’s Edge: Unmatched low-speed control and KYB’s chassis poise. It’s the choice for riders who treat enduro as a technical dance rather than a sprint.
Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Happy
Critical Checks
- Oil Changes: Every 15 hours for engine/transmission oil (1.2L SAE 10W-50). Use MOTOPARTS.store’s synthetic blend for extended clutch life.
- Air Filter: Clean every 5-10 hours (twin-air foam). Our No-Toil filter kit simplifies swampy conditions.
- Valve Clearances: Check every 30 hours. Shim-under-bucket design needs feeler gauges (0.10-0.15mm intake/0.20-0.25mm exhaust).
Upgrade Recommendations
- Skid Plate: Stock aluminum bends on rocks. Swap to MOTOPARTS.store’s 6mm poly shield.
- Suspension Tuning: Revalve forks with lighter rebound shims for eastern woods riding.
- Carb Jets: NECJ needle (3rd clip) and 38 pilot smooths low-RPM hiccups.
Final Verdict
The Sherco 300 SCF R isn’t for everyone—it demands skill and rewards patience. But for those willing to master its nuances, few bikes offer this blend of trials-like agility and enduro endurance. While newer models flirt with TPI and EFI, the 2019-2020’s carbureted simplicity (and KYB suspension) make it a modern classic. Treat it to fresh grips, a taller gear lever, and our premium engine oils, and this Sherco will transform from a French thoroughbred into your personal trail samurai.
Ready to personalize yours? MOTOPARTS.store has every upgrade to make this enduro weapon truly yours.
