Honda 300ex

    Starting is easy, though finding the choke switch for cold starts can be a problem the first few times. It is buried deep into the center of the ATV and requires “becoming one with machine” to find it. Never has a machine been more desperately in need of a cable operated handlebar mounted choke lever. Once started, the warm up period necessary for smooth running is a bit longer than average and the choke is mandatory for at least the first few minutes in any kind of colder temperatures. The overly complicated reverse procedure doesn’t help matters and results in frequent stalls when attempting to engage reverse in cold weather.
    Two words sum up the 300 EX’s 282cc 4-valve powerplant–throttle response. The engine parameters have all been carefully chosen to work well together and provide good power with great response, right from the bottom of the RPM range. Great top end power is fun for wide open straight sections and drag races but instant response and muscular low end is what allows a machine to bark out of a corner and lift the front end at will. –We’ll gladly take the bark.
     The engines greatest attribute is the instant, front end lifting low end that pleases both novices and experienced riders alike. Lifting the front end over obstacles, lightening the front for whoop sections or doing your best impersonation of “the Wheelie King” are all very easy aboard the torquey machine. The mid-range power is also good, though not as spectacular as the low-end response. Top end is almost non-existent in comparison and the machine works much better when short shifted using the stronger low and mid-range power. Speed freaks may be interested in a top end oriented pipe and a tooth increase on the countershaft sprocket if the radar verified 52-MPH top speed isn’t impressive enough.
    A conservatively sized 32mm Keihin carburetor aids in providing good throttle response, solid low-end performance and great fuel economy. A SOHC (Single Over Head Cam) with a 4- valve head complete the package and result in a conservative 8.9:1 compression ratio insuring a long, stress free life and plenty of room for high performance improvements if desired.

     Braking is provided via the familiar triple Nissin calipers that compress dual discs up front and a single center disc in the rear. Brake power is very strong with good modulation and feel. Rear tire lifting stops can be had with just a single finger on the front brake lever and a downward push – no complaint here. With the exception of the reverse lever, all levers and controls are right where they should be and function flawlessly. The thumb throttle is fairly light and comfortable to use, the clutch action is smooth and all switches are smooth and precise feeling.

    The 300 EX is equipped with the usual “tin can variety” swing arm skid plate protection, which is supposed to protect the rear sprocket and disc. Like most other sport machines, an aftermarket aluminum swingarm skid plate is mandatory for everything but dune riding. On a brighter note (literally!), the single handlebar mounted halogen headlight works very well and the wide coverage, bright beam is excellent for nighttime riding. No back up starting provision is available but bump starting the machine is easy enough. The Ohtsu tires did a good job on varied terrain from hardpack dirt tracks to snow offering reasonable traction and performance. An upgrade to Holeshots or one of the many other performance tires available will yield even better results.

    The statement made earlier, “as a package, it’s hard to beat”, pretty much sums up our feelings about the 300 EX. It is a quality built machine with few liabilities and many assets that will please riders of all shapes, sizes and ability. It combines all the right ingredients to make a great Sport 4 stroke machine and chances are it will prove to be the best machine for you.

MSRP: 99