A Tree Falling in the Forest

After 20 years with the same basic design, Honda has made some changes to the TRX 300 EX.

Think about that... 20 years with only a few minor changes along the way. The TRX 300 EX has officially out run the production life of the Model T Ford (1908-1927).

Most notable among the changes for the 20th Anniversary machine is a new procedure to engage reverse gear. The old procedure was routinely criticized. Engaging reverse was kind of like playing a game of Twister. Step 1: use you right hand to push in a little red button on top of the clutch lever on the left side of the handlebars and while holding it down pull in the clutch lever with your left hand. Step 2: put the machine in 1st gear with your left foot. Step 3: While holding the clutch in with your left hand, reach over to the left side of the engine with your right hand and pull up on a lever located under your leg. Step 4: Release the clutch, but don't stall it because if you do you will have to disengage reverse, start the machine and repeat Step 3 again.

Don't get me wrong... I have a special place in my heart for the Honda 300 EX. It was the machine that converted me from Yamaha to Honda. So, I am very glad Honda has introduced a couple refinements to keep this venerable machine going strong.