Gas Gas EC 300 Racing (2018-2021): The Factory-Bred Enduro Warrior

When Gas Gas unleashed the EC 300 Racing for the 2018-2021 model years, they didn't just release another enduro bike - they dropped a grenade into the competitive off-road world. Born from the brand's Factory EnduroGP program, this Spanish stallion combines raw two-stroke aggression with precision engineering that blurs the line between production bike and race-ready weapon. After throwing a leg over this crimson-clad beast, it becomes clear why it developed a cult following among hardcore enduro riders.

The Heart of a Champion: Engine Performance

At the core of the EC 300 Racing beats a 299.3cc two-stroke engine that delivers one of the most visceral riding experiences in modern enduro. The 72mm square bore/stroke configuration creates an explosive power character that's miraculously controllable. With 50 horsepower on tap (37.2 kW) peaking at 7,340 RPM and 49 Nm (36.1 lb-ft) of torque hitting at 6,890 RPM, this engine doesn't just climb hills - it assaults them.

The Keihin PWK 38mm carburetor provides crisp throttle response that fuel-injected competitors still struggle to match. While some riders might lament the absence of modern fuel injection, purists will appreciate the carb's mechanical simplicity and tunability. The VForce 4 reed valve system ensures instantaneous response, making technical hill climbs feel like the bike's pulling you up by your jersey.

What truly surprises is the electric starter - a luxury rarely found on competitive two-strokes. Combined with the backup kickstarter, it eliminates those embarrassing trailside moments when you stall on a 45-degree incline. The Rekluse clutch system deserves special mention, offering both slip-free engagement and fade-resistant performance during marathon technical sections.

The FMF PowerCore 2.1 exhaust isn't just about that iconic two-stroke bark (though the soundtrack alone could justify the purchase). It provides a broad powerband that lets you tractor up obstacles at walking pace or scream through fire roads with the urgency of a motocrosser.

Dance Partner in the Dirt: Handling & Suspension

Gas Gas nailed the geometry with a 1,480mm (58.3") wheelbase that splits the difference between stability and agility. The chromoly steel frame flexes just enough to maintain traction without feeling vague, creating a connection to the terrain that aluminum-framed rivals can't match.

KYB's 48mm closed cartridge forks up front offer 300mm (11.8") of travel, while the linkage-mounted KYB shock manages 131mm (5.2") out back. These aren't rebadged motocross components - they're specifically tuned for enduro's varied demands. The DLC coating on the fork sliders isn't just for show; it reduces stiction for buttery small-bump compliance that keeps the front wheel glued to baby heads and root networks.

X-Trig's red-anodized triple clamps and Renthal's 997 handlebar create a cockpit that's both rigid and communicative. At 105kg (231.5lbs) dry, the EC 300 feels remarkably light when the trail turns technical. That 960mm (37.8") seat height might intimidate shorter riders, but the narrow chassis and well-sculpted seat let you cheat down to terra firma when needed.

Braking & Rubber: Controlled Aggression

Nissin's braking system pairs 260mm front and 220mm rear wave discs with precise feel that's crucial when descending greasy rock faces. While some competitors use oversized rotors for marketing specs, Gas Gas sticks with proven sizes that provide ample stopping power without unnecessary weight.

The Michelin Enduro tires come alive in soft terrain, offering tenacious grip that inspires confidence when railing berms or negotiating slick roots. The 90/90-21 front and 140/80-18 rear combination strikes a perfect balance between steering precision and drive traction.

Factory Flair: Design & Ergonomics

Dripping with Factory Racing aesthetics, the EC 300's red/white livery looks fast standing still. The GP-inspired graphics and black anodized components (spokes, sprocket, axle pullers) create a cohesive race-bike aesthetic. Practical touches abound - the EnduroGP seat's gripper material keeps you planted during acceleration, while the 9.8L (2.59 gal) fuel tank sits low to maintain mass centralization.

The Competition: How It Stacks Up

Against the KTM 300 XC-W and Husqvarna TE 300i, the Gas Gas carves its niche. While the Austrian bikes boast more dealer support and fuel injection, the EC 300 counters with superior suspension out of the crate. The KYB components consistently outperform the WP XPLOR forks on technical terrain, offering more nuanced adjustability.

Compared to Beta's 300 RR, the Gas Gas feels more aggressive in its power delivery - better suited to riders who want to charge hard sections rather than finesse them. The Italian machine counters with smoother low-end, but can't match the EC 300's top-end rush.

Where the Spanish contender truly shines is in its "race readiness." While competitors require suspension revalves and exhaust upgrades to reach GP pace, the EC 300 Racing arrives with proper FMF pipe, Rekluse clutch, and DLC-coated forks that others charge thousands to replicate.

Keeping the Beast Alive: Maintenance Essentials

The EC 300's two-stroke simplicity is a maintenance blessing: - Premix Precision: Stick to the 1:50 ratio (2% oil) with quality synthetic. Consider a ratio rite cup for consistency - Air Filter Vigilance: Clean after every ride with biodegradable solvents. Our MOTOPARTS.store offers twin-air filters for improved airflow - Suspension Service: Rebuild KYB forks every 60 hours. Upgrade to SKF seals for dust resistance - Clutch Care: Rekluse systems demand specific oil - we recommend Motorex Cross Power 4T 10W-50 - Brake Maintenance: Replace wave discs before they reach 3mm thickness. Try our Galfer braided lines for improved feel - Exhaust Upkeep: Repack the FMF silencer every 40 hours. Our store carries replacement PowerCore 2.1 kits

Pro Tip: Install a hour meter if yours is missing. These bikes beg to be ridden hard, but 100-hour crank rebuilds are cheaper than grenaded engines.

The Verdict

The Gas Gas EC 300 Racing isn't for the faint-hearted or fair-weather rider. This is a machine that rewards aggression, technical skill, and proper maintenance. While it demands more involvement than a four-stroke, the payoff is an enduro experience that's pure, undiluted, and thrillingly analog in a digital age.

For riders who value suspension performance over electronic gimmicks and appreciate the visceral thrill of a properly tuned two-stroke, the EC 300 remains one of the most compelling enduro packages of its era. It's a bike that makes you a better rider - provided you're willing to meet its fierce demands halfway.

Ready to make yours even sharper? MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from FMF expansion chambers to KYB rebuild kits, ensuring your EC 300 stays at peak performance long after the factory warranty expires.

---

Specifications sheet

---