05 GasGas EC250 vs EC300

[dozerash]

What are the differences between the EC250 and the EC300? Could a EC250 be turned into a EC300 with just the cylinder and piston changed? Ignitions the same? Pipes, carbs?
Thanks,
Ash

[Berkyboy]

Here is a basic timeline of what has changed since 2005.

2005 was the first year for a new frame and engine design. That basic design is still used on the 08s. The only real difference is in '07 the subframe, seat, rear fender and airbox were changed. n '08 the bike got a revised seat and new fork valving.

2006 was the first year for daul map ignition but most of the '05s got it, they just didn't get the hi-lo switch. To see if you got it pull the seat and look to how the CDI box is mounted, if it's attached to the fender, and not located in the airbox, you most likely got the '06 dual CDI box. The real test is see if the CDI box has two short wires wither plugged into each other of just loose.

Most of the '07 and '08s have a Sachs shock while the '05 and '06s most likely have a Ohlins shock.

In '08 the main bearings were changed to sealed ones.

If you want to upgrade the bike with the new 07/08 subframe, seat, airbox, and plastic you'll spend around $800 to $900 to do it.

As far as making the bike a 300 all you need is a 300 cylinder, head and piston as everything else is the same.

[PEB]

Steve, are the 50mm zokes available still on the new bikes? I have seen them on the 05-06 but not the newer ones. Also I have seen a couple 08's latley and they have the FMF Gnarly. Is it a new design or the same basic shape as the old Gnarly?

Paul B

[dozerash]

About what would it cost to get a EC300 cylinder, cylinder head and piston kit and install it on the EC250?

[Berkyboy]

dozerash

I haven't checked lately but it can run around $800+ for cylinder, head, piston kit, gaskets.

Any GasGas dealer can get you the actual prices.

Your old 250 parts have a value as well and could bring in $300+ on this site or on E-bay.

If I was you I'd consider leaving it a 250 and look into a R&B head and carburator mod, a flywheel weight and a G2 camed throttle. Dollar for dollar these mods clean up the bikes throttle response at about half the price of all of the 300 parts.


PEB

A dealer should be able to order 50mm forks if they are willing to wait. Of course that would be up to GasGas USA if they want to make it available.

[dozerash]

I will be picking the 05 EC250 up this Friday and give it a good ride this weekend. I may decide on leaving it stock or do the 300 kit or mods next year. This is a new left over bike, any suggestions on breaking it in? What brand and ratio to mix the oil with? Transmission oil brand and weight? Thanks, Ash

[AZRickD]

Having ridden both a 2005 EC250 and EC300, I'm perfectly happy with my 250. No changes here, although I might consider a squish and carb mod from R-B Designs when the engine requires a top end.

Rick

[eff]

Use a standard break in procedure. Go through light riding sessions on flat ground and make each one a little longer, say 10, 20 and 30 minutes. Don't crack open the throttle, just low throttle openings. Allow the bike to cool completely in between each session. After that have fun. Do not run extra pre-mix or anything special with jetting and oil.

Pre-mix, I'm sure any synthetic is good, but I like the Mobil Racing 2T and Torco pre-mix.

Tranny, many of us run synthetic Shell Rotella T, available at Wal*Mart and auto stores.

[jlk_250]

Originally Posted by eff

Pre-mix, I'm sure any synthetic is good, but I like the Mobil Racing 2T and Torco pre-mix.

Sadly, Mobil Racing 2T is a thing of the past.

http://www.mobiloil.com/USA-English/..._Oil_FAQs.aspx

I didn't hear of this in time to stock up so I'm looking for a replacement. One thing I liked about the Mobile 1 2T was I could get it anywhere.

For break-in I also think it's best to go through a heat cycle or two at idle before riding it.

Tranny oil has been a hot topic for GG bikes. You'll find plenty of discussion by searching this forum. The good news is that nobody is claiming that any particular oil wrecks your bike, just that clutch drag and clutch feel are better or worse with different oils. I've tried them all and haven't found one that is so much better that I stick with it. Lately I've been using the Rotella since it's cheap and easy to get.

Jon

[eff]

Yes, but it istill available right now. While supplies last!