4 Stroke Trials Bikes?

[Javarilla]

Yeah, I'm perusing various trials forums, but thought I'd ask here, as well...

Thinkin' about a Montesa 4rt.

What sources would you look into?
What other machines might you look at?

[2whlrcr]

I have a two stroke trials bike. Long live the smokers.

Beta's four stroke is available and the redesigned Sherco should be out soon. Not sure on the Scorpa, but I think it's available too. The Gas Gas will be awhile yet.

Better have some deep pockets, especially with how the weak the dollar is right now.

[nodab]

I bought an '07 4RT in April after lots of research and numerous conversations with owners. Turned out even better than I expected. Starts easy,runs flawlessly, sounds great, and better traction than my Monty two strokes. Only downside so far is no more five minute oil changes...oil filter change is a hassle, requires removal of engine side cover. Am hearing rumours '08s are going to be $9-10,000 due to weak dollar.

[Gnrnr]

Originally Posted by nodab

I bought an '07 4RT in April after lots of research and numerous conversations with owners. Turned out even better than I expected. Starts easy,runs flawlessly, sounds great, and better traction than my Monty two strokes. Only downside so far is no more five minute oil changes...oil filter change is a hassle, requires removal of engine side cover. Am hearing rumours '08s are going to be $9-10,000 due to weak dollar.

Isn't that essentially the on development of Honda's TLR motor from theeearly 80's? I noticed a few years ago that Montessa had HRC stickers on the bikes.

[motu]

No way!! Honda own Montesa,so it's a Montesa,and badged Honda for Honda dealerships.

I've seen a few used at trials,but they haven't really caught on yet,riders still prefer a 2 stroke.They sound very similar to a 2 stroke trials bike too,very hard to pick you are actually seeing a 4 stroke in action.

How do you find it compared to a 2 stroke nodab? I've been riding a TLR200 in Twinshock trials for over 5 years now,and still have trouble coming to grips with a 4 stroke trials bike....I just don't think they are suited to the sport.A 2 stroke uses it's heavy flywheels and lack of engine braking to give shut throttle power in bad traction situations (I'm talking old school trials bikes here,not moderns)....you build momentum and revs,then roll off the throttle and the stored energy takes you through,up,whatever.But shut off the throttle on a steep slope with the TLR200 and it just stops,although it has more traction so you just power up.I find I have to keep the power on as much as possible,shutting off loads the front,it can stall too.I still enjoy the bike and at this stage of my trials riding I don't think I'll move onto a modern....once I can't ride trials on the TLR200 I'll use it as a trail bike.I have to compete against modern bikes in my grade now,and they are making the sections a little too tough for us.

[duitswes]

Originally Posted by Javarilla

Yeah, I'm perusing various trials forums, but thought I'd ask here, as well...

Thinkin' about a Montesa 4rt.

What sources would you look into?
What other machines might you look at?

I'd also phone the trial bike shop for information. I think Montesa is now imported by Lewissports which has a good reputation as a straight shooter.

[mxasp]

4 stroke montesa is a version of hondas 250f mx engine with a different valve train layout. is a honda all through out,fit finish excellent.

[Ross Brown]

Thinkin' about a Montesa 4rt. What sources would you look into?"

Have a look here.
Monty quality is, I think, still the best. They seem to hold their value better too.

http://www.trialscentral.com/

[firebolter]

The Montesa is a very nice bike. Well made and runs well. I have a Scorpa SY250 LR smoker. I love it. I also have a 73 Honda TL125 4 stroker and that bike still works well.

[Javarilla]

Thanks guys...

[kwisn]

Old idea.




I know, not competitive, but a great tight single track bike.

[Hyakian]

Originally Posted by Javarilla

Yeah, I'm perusing various trials forums, but thought I'd ask here, as well...

Thinkin' about a Montesa 4rt.

What sources would you look into?
What other machines might you look at?

I have an 05 that I bought used about three years ago.
I use it mostly for trail riding as things are tight and technical around here.
Pretty happy with it, though as mentioned earlier, oil changes are a PITA.

[roadholder]

Originally Posted by kwisn

Old idea.

VERY old idea!

[roadholder]

As noted on the older posts here the new Montesa-Honda is actually based on a modern Honda MX engine design and marketed as a Honda in Japan....


and has nothing to do with the earlier generation (but still desireable!) air-cooled RTL's....



and certainly nothing to do with the old TL lump I used to own!

[brewtus]

Originally Posted by Javarilla

Yeah, I'm perusing various trials forums, but thought I'd ask here, as well...

Thinkin' about a Montesa 4rt.

What sources would you look into?
What other machines might you look at?

I sure love my 4RT. It took about a month to get used to it compared to my old GasGas TX270, but ever since then it's been a wonderful trialer. I did get a chance to ride the new Beta 4-stroke yesterday, and I have to admit that Beta did a very nice job on it. Much lighter, decent power, and that super-smooth progressive clutch that Beta's are famous for made me consider one.




Maybe.