I have an '01 300 MXC and after only four rides on it, I'm very pleased. It's a blast to ride, but what really makes it special is its versatility. The bike is great for lugging along in tight woods, but it will also work on a MX track and the faster stuff. I agree with some of the previous responses, that the 300 feels like a stout 250. The power is similar to a healthy 250, but it has more low-end and chuggability. I don't use the clutch nearly as much in the tight stuff as I would on a 250. It's amazing how low in the rpm range the 300 will chug along. It has a lot of flywheel effect, almost like a two-stroke tractor. But at the same time, when you screw the throttle on, it rips!
I haven't ridden a 380, so I can't compare the two. My initial opinion is that unless you're riding wide-open in the desert all the time or constantly climbing monster hills, the 300 would be more than adequate for your needs. I can definitely vouch that the 300 is a very nice motorcycle that you would no doubt enjoy. I think it's a do-it-all bike. If I could afford it, I would have a warehouse full of motorcycles at my disposal. But as things are, I can only really afford one nice motorcycle and the 300 was the bike for me. It does everything I need it to do.
For the riding that I do, woods, hare scrambles and some motocross, the MXC version is fine. If you're riding in a lot of open areas, then perhaps the EXC would be a better choice with the wide ratio transmission. I didn't need the lights and I didn't think I would need the extra gearing, that's why I went for the MXC. Good luck with your decision. I don't think you can lose either way but my advice is the 300.
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