I'm at best a C level rider. If I was in better shape or a better rider the 300 would be my choice overall since it will easily pull taller gearing in the open areas and will out climb a 450 on the really snotty technical hills. I just bought a new 250 and it's a little easier to ride in the tight singletrack which composes most of my riding these days. The 300 is much more versital and easier to ride everywhere else. - Ken