I have been running 4 stroke Honda's since 04, and yes I am looking at going to the smoker... I ride HS & XC and want to go to the 300 XCW but I am just starting research now. I have been running a 09 CRF 450r all mods for trail, except elec start. I want to go to something with the elec. start, so what year did they start putting them on the 300's ? What pros and cons are there when I am looking for a 300 smoker. I will be reading this forum over the next few days , but any direction helps...

Thanks

08 on the w, 09 for the xc.  If you are used to a moto bike, the xc may be closer to what you would like.  

There is some good reading in the FAQ up top, discussiing some of the differences.

For offroad racing, I think an 11' 300 xc is pretty much optimal.  Closer ratio tranny than the XCX and in 12' they decided to put linkage on which a lot of people don't think the KTM off road models need.  FWIW....I rode a 2012 300 xcw and xc back to back, and couldn't tell the difference between a linked/non-linked bike.  I've also ridden an 09' 300xc and it is a very good bike as well.  The new frames on the 11'-12's yield better handling, but nothing that would hinder even very fast riders.  Good luck man!  I love my KTM!!!