'06 vs. '03 opinions

[GMP]

OK guys, I got the go for a new bike. Of course an '07 GG250 is at the top of my list. Since the '07s are not available yet, can someone who has ridden both an '06 and an '03 comment on the differences in stock handling/suspension/power? What I would like to see improved over a stock '03 is primarily better(plusher) fork(expected), better low end power without a bigger hit('03 was very flat stock), and a little bit lighter in feel. I know these bikes well and how to get what I want, just want to know how close the starting point will be. Hopefully they will bring in a DE, so I don't have to strip another EC. Thanks.

[Loosenut]

I have ridden 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006 EC300s.

The 2000 still out turns them all and makes killer west coast enduro power. The '01 seemed very similar. The '02 had less low end and a screaming top-end. The '04 went back to more low end. My own '05 has the switch and it is in between the '00 and '02 in the rain mode. In the dry mode it's get's on the pipe quick, but it's great when you want or need that type of power. The '06 was very similar, but I think it pulled faster through the mid range.

The stock suspension has gotten better every year. I have an ECO and love the forks. I don't care if they are harder to service. My suspesnion sponsor is quite capable. However, the Shiver forks are pretty good. I personally think the Ohlins are woth the $$$.

Come on Glen, just pull the trigger!

[GMP]

Thanks.

I agree, I do thihk my '00 turned a bit quicker than my '03. The taller rear on the '00 offset the shallower rake on the '03 I suppose.

The '03 was a dud off the bottom. Thats why I put the VForce in, and the CDI from my '00 XC. Now it runs a lot like the '00.

Don't think I'll be buying an '07. Maybe an '06 if I can find one or another brand.

[gasgasman]

Glenn.
The "hot" set up for you would have been one of the WEC Gas Gas bikes GoFasters had for sale.
There's a ride review on KTMTalk.

[GMP]

The thing is I can't make a move just yet. I need to sell the '03, or at least get a commitment from my brother to buy it. If I can't sell it I guess I'll be riding it.

[rockyroad]

Glenn, I would think you'd sell that bike easily. Everyone knows your expertise with GasGas. Thought of a price? If you part it out, I'd be very interested in frame!

[GMP]

Of course $$ is an issue but time is as well. I don't have the time to part it out and manage ebay. All I plan to do is take some things off (not all) and list it. The bike is as good as it gets for an '03. The only reason I will sell it is now is probably the last chance for a new bike in a very long time. When I decide to do it I'll list it here.

[martintaff]

im in the same boat as you, i might part ex my ec300 03 for a ec300 06
but not riden it yet ,but if it goes anything like the 03 ill be happy .
not shure about that button that changes the power thou looks
like you could knock it by mistake at any time ,im all over the place
when riding hard! whats good is the 06 are going cheep soon
to make room in showrooms for the 07 bargans to be had!!

[fury1]

I have hit my button a few times without knowing it,I also forget to switch it back after a nice fast section,trying to leave it in one setting for a while till im used to the bike, then ill learn on the fast setting when I go a little faster