I plan to pick-up a used 300XCW. I road a 2011 and what was different from my "old school" 2-stroke in that the KTM can lug-up steeps at low speeds without getting all boggy (and having to twist it and feather the clutch) like my old 2005 Kawasaki 2-stroke. It's almost like a 4-stroke in that sense (and in the mountains, you need that). So I'm worried if I buy an older KTM300 I might end-up with just another old school, boggy 2-stroke. Does anyone know which year KTM got this aspect right with the 300? Any other major differences from year to year in this model?

I am assuming that you are referring to the 2007 as "older"? I ride a 2007 300 XC and the bike is an absolute woods beast...it is very nimble and has tons of low-mid power...and it actually has a nice top end pull for a 300. You could go all the way back to the early 2000s 300 MXCs and still not be disappointed in the low end power...that is really a non issue. On the other hand, if you start talking about handling, elec start, etc, there are differences. KTM changed the frame design in 2008...some say they turn better than the 2007 and prior. They added elec start in 2009. They changed the transmission gearing in the later models as well. So, if I were in your shoes, I would focus on those differences instead of being concerned about the low end power on a 300.

Great advice - thanks! The transmission gearing could be a key issue for me. I live in Colorado, so we climb these insane, steep rocky trails as well as super tight single-track switchbacks where that low-end ability to be almost at a stop , but still able lug along without bogging is essential, but from what you said, sounds like KTM had this figured out a while back. Good to know. Sounds like at 2009 or 2010 would be a good bet without ponying-up for a 2012!

Yes, I wouldnt mind having a 2010 myself...but you will still fork out some coin eventhough its 2 years old.

I owned a 2007 300 XCW a 2009 300 XCW and I just got a 2012 300 XC. My humble opinion is stay away from the 2007. The 2008 and up bikes are way better. If you’re looking to save money I would go with an o'eight. They got the next generation frame, the electric starter, different shock angle and the steering head angle adjustment. The combination of the adjusted fork rake and steering head position make a huge difference in handling. Remember that the PDS is really touchy. The rear shock setup will greatly affect the way the bike handles. 08-11 are almost the same. A few small changes in the frame and the engine on the 2010 and 2011 but nothing huge.