Honda launched its FourTrax 300 4×4 in 1988, breaking previous sales records. Soon, it earned the title of best-selling ATV in history. It helps customers experience a tough quad equally suitable for work and recreation. This machine features a heavy-duty steel frame, a double-wishbone front suspension, and a limited-slip front differential. Moreover, its revolutionary design also received a lot of praise. Honda sold over half a million such vehicles in just over a decade.
A Cursory Glance at Honda FourTrex 300 4×4
The World famous Honda was the parent company that produced the Honda FourTrex 300 4×4 or TRX300FW from 1988 to 2000. After considering all its specs and features, it is safe to say that it is a ground-breaking high-end ATV. Regarding features, it comes with a 282-cc air-cooled four-stroke mono-cylinder engine, a top speed of 45 mph, remarkable towing capabilities, and 20 horsepower. It outclassed the TRX250X, a 246-cc sport model featuring adjustable suspension and five-speed transmission that earned the FourTrax its good name in 1986.
Moreover, the market was maturing to eye more value in ATVs. It was also vigilant about their benefits to recreation and utility work. Since the FourTrax 300 guarantees this, it became popular among off-road riders and people. This highest-grossing utility machine came in two versions: the 4WD Honda FourTrax 300 4×4 and the standard 2WD Honda FourTrax 300.
The rider community favours this vehicle because it ensures durability even while riding at an altitude of up to 10000 feet. Along with that, it does not let you down, no matter how rough the terrain is. Given its valves and spark plug correctly adjusted, its shock jetting exhibits amazing performance under these conditions. Furthermore, users also like its excellent gas mileage. With only the 0.7-gallon reverse, they can cover almost 40 kilometres (25 miles). Considering this vehicle’s low ground clearance, its 4×4 performance and front independent wishbones are impressive. Let’s now review its specs and parts that make it a powerful machine.
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Dissection of the Honda FourTrax 300 4×4
The following are the components that make up this machine:
- Front brake panel
- Front Arm
- Frame
- Final Driver Gear
- Driveshaft
- Cylinder Head
- Cylinder
- Crankcase
- Clutch
- Carrier
- Carburetor
- Camshaft
- Cam Chain
- Battery
- Alternator
- Air Cleaner
- Front fender
- Front brake master cylinder
- Front shock absorber and more
Why the Honda 300 so Amazing: Specs and Features
Impressive specs and features of the Honda 300 drive its high-end performance. See the table below to have a glimpse.
| Engine | Four-stroke, air-cooled SOHC |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Bore-stroke | 74 mm by 65.5 mm |
| Fluid capacity | 2.5 litres/2.6 quarts |
| Octane number | 91+ |
| Fuel tank capacity | 3.3 US gallons /12.5 litres |
| Engine displacement | 281.7 cubic centimetre |
| Ignition | Electrical battery system |
| Front wheels | AT 504 Ohtsu AT23 X 8-11 |
| Rear wheels | PA 501 Ohtsu AT25 X 12-9 |
| Brakes | Hydraulics drum front brakes |
| Vehicle wheelbase | 48.8 inches |
| Suspension | Double-wishbone (5.1 inches of travel) |
What Powers This Machine: Engine
The 300 features a four-stroke, air-cooled SOHC engine with a bore-stroke ratio of 74 mm by 65.5 mm. A piston-valve carburettor delivers 281.7 cubic centimetres of engine displacement. For feeding them, unleaded gasoline with a research Octane number of 91+ or pump Octane number of 86+ should be the priority choice. Don’t use gasoline that has more than 5% methanol or 10% ethanol. Besides that, use Honda 4-stroke oil or equivalent, which has a viscosity of SAE 10W-40, given its fluid capacity. However, depending on the external temperature, you can use other viscosities from 5W- to 20W-50. Where its top speed is concerned, this powerful engine can touch 45 mph.
Solid-State Digital Ignition System
When it comes to ignition, a solid-state digital ignition with a backup Kickstarter and electronic advance is equipped with this vehicle. It lies under the right-side panel. While you will find its electrical system, battery, and airbox under the seat.
Stop! Hit the Brakes
Functioning and well-responsive brakes are mandatory to ensure a safe ride. And Honda is aware of their importance. That is why the 300 ATV features single-sealed mechanical drum rear brakes and dual-sealed hydraulic drum front brakes. Moreover, dual skid plates protect the quad’s underside.
How does It look? Exterior
Its body material is plastic with a steel frame. The quad has three colors; olive, red, and beige. Not only is it tough and durable, but also cleaning is easy. Moreover, it comes with footpegs with a height of 12.4 inches.
How Big the Legs: Tires
PA 501 Ohtsu AT25 X 12-9 tires blanket rear wheels. On the other hand, AT 504 Ohtsu AT23 X 8-11 Honda FourTrax 300 tires cover stock front wheels. 2.9 psi is the recommended tire pressure, and 2.5 psi is the least. However, during summer, the maximum pressure is 3.3 psi. And its wheelbase is 48.8 inches. Lastly, the minimum tread depth necessary for replacement is 4 mm/0.16 inches.
Shining and Radiant Lighting
As far as lighting is concerned, the 300 has a 25-watt handlebar, providing superior light distribution. Along with that, two 25-watt light mounts of the front fenders. The quad also features a 5-watt taillight. The remaining indicators, such as oil, reverse, and neutral, are 1.7 watts each. To power all lighting, a 12V battery is there.
Where the Honda 300 Lags: Key Issues and Their Troubleshooting
Despite impressive specs and features, the FourTrax 300 has some issues its users highlight. Fortunately, they also provide solutions to troubleshoot these problems. Let’s discuss them in detail.
Degradation with Time
Degradation and decay are imminent for quads that have gone through too many streams and mud bogs. To limit the damage, grease your seals and O-ring, and do some restraint.
Issues with Drivetrain
Reduced top speed and slow acceleration indicate that your ATV is experiencing this problem. Your machine can still have this issue even if the wheeler starts fine. To troubleshoot it, do the following:
- Cut the bulged end of the wire
- Change the spark plug cap
- Examine and rearrange the valve lash to the spec
- Polish all jets in and out
- Drain and flush the gas tank
- Clean your carburetor
An Issue with Intermittent Shifting
An old 300 can suffer from this issue while downshifting or upshifting. A warped or broken clutch plate, improper clutch adjustment, clutch basket wear, and incorrect oil grade can cause this problem. To troubleshoot it, change the oil to a JASO rating of MA or higher. Because doing this eliminates the need to ram your shaft level into the next gear and mitigates clutch wear.
Bearings and Meagre Axle
Hardcore mechanics and professional riders suggest users check its rear-end axle, swingarm bearings, and differential bearings while rebuilding. These Achilles heals of this vehicle can damage pinion and ring bearings. For inspection, move the axle while looking at the areas where it exits the brake drum cover and comes through the differential. If you notice any play or movement, change the bearings at once.
Final Thoughts
Even after twenty years of coming into the market, the Honda FourTrax 300 still dominates. Therefore, it still holds a special place for rebuilders and off-road riders. Moreover, it still justifies its value, particularly in near-shock conditions. It excels many recent four-wheelers in endurance and quality. Such is the appeal of this amazing ATV.
Rand Frankey is OffRoadsCare freelance Content Editor. He loves offroad Travelling and bikes, jeeps, and dirk bikes. He will explain all his experience with dirt bikes and offroad vehicles which helps you to make a decision like which vehicle is right for you.
