2014 Sherco 2T & 4T 300's... quick test ride

I was lucky enough to get a ride on the 2014 Sherco’s on the weekend. I’d call this “initial impressions” rather than a review, so here goes…

Background:

My current ride is a 2013 TE310R with race map, tc250 pipe and quick turn throttle. I’ve set up ergo’s and suspension to suit my larger frame. Its light, handles great and has aggressive power right off idle. I mainly trail ride but do the occasional (slow) mx laps. Now have 100+ hours on it. I like this bike and naturally I was comparing the Sherco's to the 310.
I’ve read reviews and comparisons on the Sherco’s and the idea I gathered about the 300 4 stroke was its similar to the Husky 310 but perhaps a little more agile, lighter and has smoother power. I didn’t know what to expect with the 2 strokes as I’ve never owned an oil burner.

The ride:

I warmed up on my 310 before jumping on the sexy French blue 300 SE-R Factory (2T).
First thing I noticed was how similar it felt to my 310 in ergo’s and geometry. The Sherco is narrow. (worth noting that one reason I chose the 310 over a Husaberg 350 was because of the agile dimensions and how narrow it feels between your boots). I was almost instantly comfortable with the Frenchie. Thumbs up!

The loop was approx. 3km and a mix of bush terrain. I rode the first lap with the map switch in the mild setting and the power was smooth and controllable. Flicked the switch “on the go” for the second lap and could feel the difference. Apparently an extra 7HP is unleashed and the engine even growls with a slightly deeper note. Power is still smooth but there was more everywhere with a good top end hit. In regards to vibrations, I took a moment to think about it and sure there were some but nothing to be concerned about.
OK… this bike is a pure fun machine and I grinned throughout the ride. I want one!

I did a few more laps on my 310 then jumped on the 300 SEF-R (Factory) (4T). My impressions from reading reviews seemed to be pretty close. The power was smoother with no abrupt hit in low-mid RPM like my Husky. This bike could be ridden all day without cracking a sweat. I have a few more thoughts on the Sherco 300 4T but need more seat time to be sure of my opinion. It’s really nice, but not too exciting for me and for now I prefer my 310 over this one.

A few others common points to note:
- The bikes look great
- High bend handlebar was good for me being tall
- Multiple handlebar clamp positions: forward-back
- Handguards are flimsy
- Clutch is heavier on the 2 stroke. 4 stroke clutch is one finger compatible
- Map switch is easily flipped “on the go”
- Dzus fastener to get the seat off… just like the Husky!


To sum up, I was really surprised with my preference towards the 2 stroke and how quickly I felt comfortable on it. I would happily own this bike and perhaps only put a light pull clutch lever on it then ride.
So, if you’ve ever wondered what an x lite Husky would feel like with a modern, smooth 300cc 2 stroke engine tossed in… go try the Sherco SE-R 300!

Good work Boogie! thanks for the update.
Glad they feel narrow, I'm very used to that on the TE449.
Not surprised by the softer feeling 300F, I had read they were a little short on go.
Very keen to go for a run on a 450 when they land.

Also rode a new Husky FC350 recently. Liked it but did not love it and would buy a Sherco before a KTM/Husky.

Big call in this company ha ha.

With the 300F, I remember they used to be Yami WR250 engines with a bore kit. I'm fairly sure they use their own engine now.

Anyone know for sure??

Yes, 100% sherco.

Yes, Its their own engine.

Cool, thought I'd read that too.

They build their own engines. I believe you are thinking of Gas Gas....

Thanks for the reviews; much appreciated . I was getting ready to pull the trigger on one but now with the "maybe" no new 15's I'm looking at other options.

The 300 2T has more overall power than the 310.
Delivery of power is obviously different being 2T v 4T so it’s really an apples/oranges comparison.
310 – snappier power off idle
300 2T – chugging power in low RPM then builds up to wheel lifting power in mid-top.
I had to ride the 300 2T differently and I couldn’t just brake late, turn and get angry with the throttle/clutch like on the 310.
The Sherco 300 2T needed to be ridden with more finesse and momentum in/out of corners was important. Due to this characteristic, I think the 300 2T could actually improve my riding and I doubt it would wear me out any more than the snappy “off idle” power of the Husky.

Actually, a good 4 stroke power comparison for the Sherco 300 2 stroke would be the Husky FC350. Probably would be close in a drag race.
My mates who both ride 450mxer’s at similar skill level, jumped on the 310 and 350 for a quick mid-bore shootout recently.
In a drag race, the 310 was quicker off the line till about 4th gear then the 350 came flying by and dusted it.

I picked up a Sherco SE-R 300 today and it's dirty already...

Congrats....... now where's your ride report . Enjoy!

I cant wait to ride it .... pics?

Well, that escalated quickly!

We are doing a quick fill-in ride this afternoon at Gheerulla (Maple ton) 2pm if you're keen

Yeh and he is sleeping in the garage ... With his bikes

My mrs caught me buying stuff today for the bike. .. So she has booked a holiday
Expensive bike parts

You'll get plenty of time to ride when she's away for holidays

My woman was a bit miffed Friday but came to pick the Sherco up yesterday... then suggested we get her bike on the trailer and go ride asap.

Here's a pic, ride report to come.