Ec 200 Questions

[rippn450]

Hi I'm a new guy so forgive me for a dumb question. I'm looking at an EC 200 a 2001 model and a 2002 model. Are there any big differences between the two and are there any significant changes for the newer models? Should I wait and buy a newer one or are the earlier models ok? I bike will be used in the woods.

[barkeater]

There were changes made between 1998, 2001, and 2002, again in 2004, 2005, and 2007. The most significant being the 2004 and 2007 changes.
Steve or Mark at GoFasters can probably fill you in on the specifics of each change.

In 1998-2002 there were XC200's and EC200's. The XC being the stripped down full race version with smaller coil and no lighting and the EC being the full enduro version with larger coil and enduro lighting. In 2003 the XC became the DE and the EC remained the same.

I have an '03 EC200 and love it. There is nothing wrong with any of the model years though. The 04 frame is probably one of the best turning. There were few changes to the motors on the 200's.

Suspension can be different depending on what month the bike came off the assembly line. I have the full Ohlins. The pre '04 WP/Ohlins is good, but my experience is the WP's were droolers. The seals were constantly leaking. The post '04 Marzocchi/Ohlins is awesome. I haven't had any experience with the Zoke/Sachs set up, but I've heard it is on par with the full Ohlins.

You can't go wrong with any of the years as long they weren't raped by the previous owner. If it's a good deal, and you are happy with the condition of the bike, go for it. Check the subframe for cracks on pre-07 models before buying.

If I were you, looking for a used bike - I'd look for an '04 or '05 DE200. If you can afford new, I'd wait for the '08's to hit the shores. There will be a significant difference in price between used and new. Used Gassers aren't known for thier investment potential. Buying a brand-new Gasser is a purchase based only in hot-blooded passion, not sound economic logic.

[roostafish]

I would base my choice of year solely on condition. Even the earliest 200's, which debuted in '99 are very good bikes. Given the choice, I'd choose one with Ohlins forks. The 50mm WP conventional fork which came on some bikes in '99 as either MC models, or XC six days models are phenomenal forks also, and a bike with those on it may be the best value for your dollar. I would probably leave the Marzocci magnum 45's as my last choice fork which came on all other '99 models and previous years. The only reason I say that is that the bushings foul the oil, and should be replaced a little more frequently than other forks. As far as simplicity and working on them in your garage though, they're by far the simplest.

[rippn450]

Thanks guys that helps my decision. The 01 is in better shape than the 02 and both are priced about the same. I've noticed there aren't too many used 200's for sale and new is out of my price range.

[barkeater]

Originally Posted by rippn450

I've noticed there aren't too many used 200's for sale and new is out of my price range.

You have to pry them out of most 200 owners tree gnarled hands.

It's a sweet bike that fits that guy who doesn't race every week, but is more than just a casual trail rider.