The popularity of the 300cc to 400cc class, particularly in Asia and Europe, is definitely something that can't be dismissed. Even in the U.S., these bikes tend to gain the favor of newbies looking for something easy, yet quick enough to start on. Just a couple of years ago, the 300cc segment was occupied mostly by naked and sportbikes. Recent years have introduced a crop of small-capacity ADVs, too, giving beginner riders many more options.
Motorbikes like KTM's 390 Adventure, Royal Enfield's Himalayan, and yes, the all but forgotten Versys X-300, all played a major role in making ADV riding accessible to beginner riders. In Asia, the 300cc to 400cc class of bikes is actually considered to be within big bike territory (yes, I know, it's surprising). That said, bikes like SYM's newest addition, the NH-T 300, certainly make sense when looked at from this perspective. However, I can't help but wonder if it's just a tad to underpowered to compete effectively in the entry-level ADV segment.
