300 or 250?

[gascanuck]

Can anyone give me some clarity please? I now own a 2002 XC 300 Gasser and I love it, BUT, I have all that horsepower at my disposal and that little voice in my head tells me to not to really open it up for fear of doing myself and the bike harm. I had a 200 EC which was also a very nice bike but, I had to be way more aggro on the loud handle which I have been told made me a better rider than I am now. That all being said, I am a rather large man and I don't think a 200 would be enough for all conditions I ride in. Should I consider an EC 250? A middle of the road choice? Now that there is snow on the ground and I can't really ride, I have time to think about these things. Any suggestions? Also, how does one turn that voice in the head off? Riding more?