Sherco SE R 300 [2012 – 2022]: A Decade of Enduro Refinement

For over a decade, the Sherco SE R 300 has carved its reputation as a fiercely capable enduro machine, blending French engineering flair with Spanish off-road pragmatism. Designed to tackle everything from gnarly single-track trails to high-speed desert dashes, this two-stroke (and briefly four-stroke) platform has evolved into a cult favorite among hardcore riders. After spending a day wrestling one through mud, rock gardens, and loose hill climbs, it’s clear why this bike remains relevant even as newer models flood the market.

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Engine Performance: Two-Stroke Soul with Modern Refinements

The Sherco SE R 300’s heartbeat is its 293.1 cc liquid-cooled two-stroke engine (post-2014 models), though early adopters might recall the short-lived four-stroke 290.1 cc variant (2012–2013). Let’s focus on the dominant two-stroke iteration, which Sherco honed to near-perfection.

Power Delivery:
The Keihin PWK 36 carburetor (standard on most models) delivers crisp throttle response. Unlike older two-strokes that hit like a sledgehammer, the SE R 300 builds power linearly. Low-end torque is generous—ideal for technical climbs—but the real party starts at 5,000 RPM, where the exhaust valve opens fully, unleashing a surge that’ll loft the front wheel in third gear. Riders can toggle between two ignition maps (post-2014): a mild "rain" mode for slick conditions and an aggressive "sun" mode for dry terrain.

Test Ride Impressions:
On a muddy Welsh trail, the engine’s tractability shone. The bike chugged up greasy inclines without stalling, thanks to its torquey character. Switching to "sun" mode on a fire road transformed it into a snarling beast, hitting 13500 RPM with a frenetic, addictive bark from the FMF exhaust (featured on Factory editions). The hydraulic clutch offered buttery modulation, preventing arm pump during clutch-heavy sections.

Four-Stroke Footnote:
The 2012–2013 four-stroke SE 300i, with its Magnetti Marelli fuel injection and DOHC layout, was smoother but heavier. While competent, it lacked the raw, playful personality of its two-stroke successor.

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Chassis and Handling: Precision Meets Durability

Sherco’s Chrome-Molybdenum steel semi-perimeter frame strikes a balance between rigidity and flex. Paired with a WP XPLOR 48 mm fork (2017+) offering 300 mm (11.8") of travel and a WP Monoshock rear suspension (330 mm/13" travel), the bike feels planted yet agile.

On the Trail:
The SE R 300 flicks through switchbacks with the urgency of a 125 cc bike, its 105 kg (231.5 lbs) dry weight defying its 300 cc stature. Over jagged rocks, the WP suspension absorbed impacts without deflecting, though the stock setup favors precision over plushness. Dialing in high-speed compression damping on the rear shock added stability during whoops.

Braking:
Brembo’s single 220 mm discs (front/rear) provided ample stopping power. The rear brake required a deliberate stomp—perfect for controlled slides but less forgiving for heavy-footed riders.

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Ergonomics and Comfort: Built for Battle

At 950 mm (37.4"), the seat height intimidates shorter riders, but the narrow chassis lets you dab confidently. The Factory models’ DG3 seat has just enough padding to survive multi-hour rides without numbing your backside. Standing up felt natural, with MX-style handlebars placing minimal strain on wrists.

Fuel Management:
The 9.5–10.4 L (2.5–2.75 US gal) tank is frugal, yielding 80–100 km (50–62 miles) per fill depending on terrain. Carry a spare fuel bladder for marathon enduro events.

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Competition: How the Sherco Stacks Up

The SE R 300 battles in a crowded arena. Here’s how it fares against key rivals:

1. KTM 300 XC-W:
   KTM’s flagship two-stroke is lighter (103 kg/227 lbs) and boasts electric start since 2017. However, the Sherco counters with a stiffer chassis and more adjustable suspension. KTM’s PDS rear suspension can feel vague compared to Sherco’s linkage system.

2. Husqvarna TE 300:
   Shared DNA with KTM but adds a composite subframe. The Husky feels plusher in slow rocks, but the Sherco’s hydraulic clutch has a smoother pull.

3. Beta 300 RR:
   Beta’s counterbalance shaft reduces vibration, making it a better dual-sport option. Yet the Sherco’s aggressive power curve and sharper handling dominate in pure enduro settings.

Sherco’s Edge:
While not the lightest or most tech-laden, the SE R 300 offers a raw, connected ride that purists crave. Its niche appeal lies in its willingness to be thrown into chaos—and laugh it off.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

Ownership rewards those who stay proactive. Key considerations:

• Engine Care:
  Two-strokes thrive on attention. Rebuild the top end every 80–100 hours. Use a 32:1 premix ratio (synthetic oil recommended). For four-stroke models, monitor valve clearances every 50 hours.

• Suspension TLC:
  Replace fork oil annually. Upgrade to SKF seals if riding in abrasive conditions. MOTOPARTS.store stocks WP-specific rebuild kits.

• Brake & Clutch Fluid:
  Bleed hydraulic systems with DOT 4 fluid yearly. Contaminated fluid leads to spongy levers—a death sentence in technical terrain.

• Cooling System:
  Use ethylene glycol-based coolant and check hoses for cracks. Overheating is rare but possible during slow crawls.

MOTOPARTS.store Upgrades:
- Michelin Enduro Medium tires for versatile grip.
- DID VT2 Chain for reduced maintenance.
- Twin Air filters to match the V Force reed block.

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Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Grit

The Sherco SE R 300 isn’t a bike for the timid. It demands skill, rewards aggression, and scoffs at half-hearted riders. Yet, for those willing to master its quirks, it delivers a purity of experience that modern fuel-injected bikes struggle to replicate. Whether you’re resurrecting a 2012 four-stroke or flogging a 2022 Factory edition, this machine reminds us why we chase the dirt—preferably sideways, roost flying, and grinning like fools.

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Specifications sheet

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