EC 300 standard or EC 300 racing

[x300]

Hello,

I´m a new gasgas-riders forum member and I need some help, because I don´t know what bike is the right one.

Now I ride a KTM 300 EXC and I want a EC 300, but I don´t know 'racing' or 'standard' EC 300.

I ride hardenduro and I think the EC 300 racing enigne could be too aggressive.
Maybe I should get the EC 300 standard and a headmod etc.

Is there a big difference between the standard and racing engine?


Thanks in advance for your help!

[Skidad]

No difference in the engines as far as I know or have read. Suspension is stiffer, maybe adjustable preload on the forks and cosmetics are different. The racing might come with a spares package but I'm not sure about that so you should check.

[x300]

Yes there is a spares package with piston, and the suspension is different. The rear damper is a öhlins part.

But I think the racing engine has a different ignition and less flyweehl-weight.

[gassi]

You are right: ignition is different (CDI), but flywheel is same as standard model (if we are talking about EC=euro model?)
Standard model´s engine is clearly smoother than racing´s.
Go to standard!!!

[Skidad]

Originally Posted by x300

The rear damper is a öhlins part.

No more Ohlins on the new Gas Gas models, you get the Sachs front/back

[x300]

Originally Posted by gassi

You are right: ignition is different (CDI), but flywheel is same as standard model (if we are talking about EC=euro model?)
Standard model´s engine is clearly smoother than racing´s.
Go to standard!!!

yes we talk about the euro model EC

Have you ridden both bikes?



@skidad:
EC 300 racing 2009 comes with öhlins back and sachs front, and the standard model comes with sachs/sachs.

[MattR]

I have not seen much printed literature on the racing models. If I recall correctly, the fork gets spring preload adjusters and better coating on the lower sliders. I'm not sure if the Ohlins rear shock is being offered. It may be just the Sachs with different valving. The swingarm may be cast magnesium, as well as some engine covers... I thought the ISDE bikes had these. Also, there are some engine mods (CDI, lighter ignition, and piston?). Don't forget the bold, new graphics.

Basically, the racing versions are just that... ready-to-go racing models that the team uses. The standard versions are very much the same. Out of the box, they can easily be raced too. GasGas makes great bikes with top shelf components. The standard version is what most pf us on this site ride and enjoy everyday. You won't be disappointed... it is definitely not a stripped down hobby version.

Berkeyboy (Steve) or Wannabe (Mark) can provide more details on the racing model. If they don't chime in, send them a PM. They are great guys to talk to.

[gassi]

Originally Posted by x300

yes we talk about the euro model EC

Have you ridden both bikes?



@skidad:
EC 300 racing 2009 comes with öhlins back and sachs front, and the standard model comes with sachs/sachs.

My bike is EC 300 racing -08 and before i had EC 300 -06 & -03.
Best engine was -06 with LTR powervalve cover.
Incredible smooth and much bottom end torque.

I have ride EC 300 -09 and my opinion is that the suspension and the engine was smoother than racing´s.
My next gas gas will be standard model again, racing is better for the motocross-type tracks!

Btw: Finnish gas gas importer have one EC 300 2009 six days model, which came to the factory with öhlins rear shock.
He had no clue why this bike was with öhlins...

[x300]

@MattR: thanks for your help, I will talk to Steve and Mark!


@gassi:
Is there a huge difference between racing and standard: what about low-, mid- and top-end torque/performance??


http://www.gasgasmotoren.nl/nl/motoren/enduro
Racing with öhlins rear shock (picture)

[MattR]

By the way, you should update your profile and add your location. Sounds like you are from Europe, but a specific location helps readers.

Back to your question...
Unless your KTM 300EXC had a modified engine, the standard EC300 would be the closest in power characteristics. The KTM 300EXC had the heavier 2K-3 ignition (like the standard GG EC300). The KTM 300XC had the lighter 2K-2 ignition (like the racing GG EC300).

Just remember... you can always get the standard EC300 and upgrade items to suit your style. The money you save upfront can go towards custom valved suspension (like LTR), larger powervalve cover, different exhaust, RB-Designs head and carberator mods, etc.. The ignitions swap out easily from 2K-3 to 2K-2, so you can change them out as well. Some folks like the lighter 2K-2 ignition and add flywheel weights (7 oz, 10 oz, 14 oz, etc) depending upon conditions. It is all a matter of personal taste.

My point is... the standard EC300 can do everything the racing EC300 does and more. If it were me, I would choose the standard and save $$ for mods later on as needed. In the end, you may spend the same amount but the modified "standard" version will be set up to your personal desires.