[Dave]

300s through the years - US models:

2003 - updated frame, updated plastics, WP43 forks, Ohlins shock, EC has full wiring harness, lights and 2k-3 ignition, DE has simpler harness, no lights and 2k-2 ignition, ECO is EC with Ohlins forks

2004 - Marzocchi 45 forks, larger front axle, Ohlins shock gets high speed adjustment, some '04s have a very small gas cap, last year for plated frame

2005 - updated frame, updated plastics, updated (lighter) engine cases, two position bar mounts, 1-1/8" handlebars, some late year models have dual mapped CDI, but no switch, plastic frame guards, powder coat frame, updated rear master cylinder

2006 - dual mapped CDI with handlebar switch, otherwise same as 2005

2007 - back of bike (subframe, air box, seat, etc.) all new, upgraded plastics, not sure of other mods

2008 - ???

2009 - ???

At some point the intake changed from the Boyeson Rad Valve to the Moto Tassinari VForce3.

Engines - all years: reliable, smooth, durable

Handling - '03s and '04s don't steer as quickly as later years, but are more stable at speed.

Weight - has dropped steadily over the years. Big drops were made in 2005 and again in 2007.