2017–2019 · Enduro · Buyer's Guide
Counterbalanced Two-Stroke, No Apologies
This generation of the TE 300 is built around a 293 cc liquid-cooled two-stroke single with a counterbalancer, and that one decision shapes everything. The engine makes 43 hp and 28 lb-ft, but peak power is not what matters here. The powerband is smooth and hard to stall, pulls strongly from the bottom and builds cleanly into a healthy midrange. A chromoly steel central-tube frame, the WP XPLOR 48 Fork, Brembo brakes and a Magura hydraulic clutch finish the package. It is a serious hard-enduro tool that still wears Husqvarna's cleaner, more considered look.
Out of the crate it is one of the most complete enduro bikes you can buy, just as happy on a relaxed trail loop as on an extreme course. Its real home is tight, technical ground where torque and traction count for more than top speed. It will reward you for wrenching, since maintenance is straightforward and the aftermarket support is deep. The honest caveat is age and upkeep. The kick start boss can crack when the engine kicks back, clutch plates wear with hard use, and the carburetor needs jetting to match your altitude and temperature. Buy one that has been looked after, or plan to sort it yourself.
Spec sheets don't ride bikes, but they set the baseline.
| Power | 43 hp (32 kW) |
|---|---|
| Torque | 28 lb-ft (39 Nm) |
| Displacement | 293 cc |
| Engine | Single-cylinder |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Final drive | Chain |
| Fork | Upside-down (USD) |
| Front brake | 260 mm |
| Front tire | 90/90-21 |
| Rear tire | 140/80-18 |
| Wheelbase | 58.5 in (1485 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 14.0 in (355 mm) |
| Front travel | 11.8 in (300 mm) |
| Rear travel | 13.0 in (330 mm) |
| Seat height | 37.8 in (960 mm) |
| Fuel capacity | 2.5 gal (9.5 L) |
Equipment check
Chassis
Kick Start Boss Prone to Cracking
The kick start boss on the 2017 TE 300 can crack, especially when the engine kicks back. This can lead to a complete failure of the kick starter mechanism.
TPI Mapping Issues and Plastic Oil Tank Cracking (2019)
Early TE300i models (2019) experienced poor running due to early ECU maps and had a plastic oil tank prone to cracking and leaking. These issues have since been addressed by the manufacturer.
Carburetor Jetting Issues
Inconsistent low-RPM running, hesitation, and occasional backfiring can occur if the carburetor jetting is not optimised for altitude or temperature.
Clutch Plates Wearing Prematurely
Some owners report clutch slippage during hard acceleration, often caused by worn clutch plates. Requires plate replacement and correct adjustment.
Intermittent Starting Due to Weak Battery
Starting problems may arise from a weak battery, corroded connections, or a faulty starter relay, especially after long periods of inactivity.
Where this Husqvarna TE 300 pulls ahead of — or falls behind — its rivals on the numbers, and the typical bike in its class on character.
Power
Torque
Displacement
Seat height
Forget spec-sheet bragging. Here's who the TE 300 is actually built for.
This is your bike. The stall-resistant low-end grip and light handling make ledges, sand and technical desert lines feel manageable. Just plan your day around the 2.5 gal tank.
Made for Bar M / Kane Creek · Imperial Sand Dunes · Johnson Valley OHV Area
It's capable on a closed course and a blast for practice days, but it's an enduro at heart, tuned for traction and low-end pull. For pure racing, a dedicated motocrosser fits you better.
Made for Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area · Fox Raceway at Pala · Glen Helen Raceway
On the gnarliest BDR sections it will go anywhere, but with a 2.5 gal tank, a tall seat and no luggage system it's no multi-day mule. Think of it as a day-trip specialist, not your main route bike.
Made for AZBDR — Arizona Backcountry Discovery Route · California BDR South · COBDR — Colorado Backcountry Discovery Route
If you're cross-shopping the older generation, here's what changed.
Previous generation · 2014–2016
Two-Stroke Terrain Forgiver
Compare to the previous model →If this one isn't quite the fit, these are the bikes worth riding back-to-back against it.
Any price note compares both bikes at the same age — the youngest age both have on the used market — against this Husqvarna TE 300. “cheaper/pricier” is what that bike costs second-hand, not how worn it is.
