Considering older model Gas Gas

[EricP]

Hi all, I am considering purcahsing a 1997 GG 250 EC. My initial impression is that the bike is in good condition albeit 'old'. Normally, I would't consider a bike this old but the price is pretty good and this would be a second bike for me. I currently have a '04 KTM 400 but I have wanted a 250 2T for some time so I am thinking this would be a more economical way to try one out before I commit big money. From what I can see 97's appear to be almost identical to GG's from the '02-'04 era, is this true? Is there anything to look out for on these older GG's?

Thanks,
Eric

 

[JoshP]

I have a 97 and 98 EC 250. My 98 is a Six Days model so it has a few extras compared to the 97 (oversized tank, blinker kit, horn, no neon 80's graphics.)
but 97 - 99 are all the same and 00 is mostly the same with a couple of exceptions like the gas tank, seat, cylinder head, stator and cover and a couple other parts. The 01 - Up are different from the older models but mostly things like a snappy engine, USD forks instead of the conventional Zokes and some frame updates, etc.. I have not found any real issues other than the CDI on my 97 crapped out on me which was not cheap, but an easy fix none the less. The newer suspension does not have this option but on the conventional Zokes the right fork is rebound and the left is compression with adjustment clickers on top of the fork tube for on the fly adjustments. At first it's useless but once you can dial in a good setting for fast and one for slow nasty stuff, it is very handy. Bike seems very bullet proof. Good Luck!

 

[Cruiser]

I've had my 97 for a long time now and will not part with it. I like it more than my 03 that I just sold. That said,, the front suspension is the biggest issue on this bike,, the 45 zokes(conventional) are not up to par with modern suspenders.. But its easy to switch it over if you find someone parting out a newer GG..