200ec or 300ec for intermediate dad?

[firffighter]

I am looking for a bike that can take on many tasks.

-race cross-country/harscramble events at a beginner/intermediate level
-putt around with my young kids and wife
-reliable and cheap to maintain (average family man with not a lot of expendable income)
-tackle a variety of Northwest terrain from very steep, wet, rocky single track to more open desert type terrain.

I currently own a KDX220 with tons of mods and it is great for most of what I do, but struggles in the racing atmosphere due to outdated suspension.

I also owned 2 KTM200exc's and loved them, but I dont want to go Orange again.

I have access to a '03 200EC gasser and a '03 300EC gasser for decent prices.

[SpeedyManiac]

How big (tall/heavy) are you? Personally, I'd probably go with the 300 since it's better on hills. I have a 200 and a 250 and while the 200 is better on the twisties, it gets worked over on big hills which has hurt a few of my race results.

[firffighter]

Thanks for your reply.

I am 6' and 210lbs. I actually had no problems with the KTM200's even at my girth, but they were too pipey.

I think the 300 would lug better, and would be able to tackle the open terrain better, but the 200 would be better for throwing around in the tight stuff.

How are the GasGas as far as reliability and maintenance costs. My KDX is cheap to maintain and all I have to do is clean the air filter on regular basis and change the oil every couple of rides and she will last forever.

Are there any issues with the '03 models?

Thanks for the input, it is appreciated

[eff]

I have a 250, but if I was to choose between the 200 or 300, the 300 would get the nod.

Cost to own the GG is very reasonable. Replacement parts are easy to get and not over priced. The bikes are very durable to boot.

[iancp5]

I've ridden a 200 and it had no problem with hills carrying my 250 lbs. They were technical hills not drag strips. I was quite impressed with it. Sure it doesn't have the torque of the bigger bikes but it has enough. Also feels lighter and more relaxing when it's tricky and slippery. When the terrain opens up you obviously have to work it more.

[firffighter]

Have there been any major changes from '03 on?

Sounds like they are pretty reliable bikes from reading through lots of threads.

I have a dealer about an hour away, so I am not too concerned about parts.

Is it tough to find aftermarket parts since they are considered "exotic"?

[Skidad]

Have there been any major changes from '03 on?

I'm pretty sure they received a nice frame improvement in 05 which improved steering and perhaps some motor lightening.

07 brought a great improvement to the weak rear subframe along with a host of plastic, airbox and seat changes. Many don't seem to like the 07 seat and are looking to install the improved 08 seat.

Usual suspension tweaks every year of course and I think the rear shock changed from Ohlins to Sachs in 07.

With the resale of Gas Gas bikes so low personally I would look for an 05 or newer as these seem to have the most important improvements.

I'm sure more will chime in....and I'll go back to lurking LOL


Skidad in MA

[Rickster]

Go the 300 they are nimble just like the 200 but alot more power.

[skid jackson]

hmmm I don't know, sometimes my 06 300 can feel awfully big. I ride mostly tight technical stuff tho. Lucky if I get into 3rd gear. I got the 300 because I wanted the grunt for the end of the day when I get tired and lazy. If I was going to do it again I think I'd have to give the 200 try. That 06 200 for $2500 got my attention. If I did not have so much on my plate already I might have grabbed it. If you ride mostly technical single track, don't have the need for monster speed and aren't on huge hills all day ... I'd give the 200 a shot. If your in more open terrain, 300 is the way to go.
45 yr old c rider ... might qualify as a b ride on a good day.

[firffighter]

Thanks for everyone's input.

I hear things like cobby or not a clean fit and finish when referring to the GasGas. But, that is coming from the KTM crowd, and you cant trust someone who rides an Orange bike, right?

Are there any problems with poor craftsmanship on the GasGas?