I kept my 2000 EC300 after getting newer bikes for several reasons.
1. Nothing like having plenty of spare parts or a spare bike for friends.
2. It's still a great bike
3. GasGas resale sucks!
4. I live is California and it's green sticker legal for year 'round riding.
The subframe on my 2000 EC300 was cracked in several locations during the first few months of ownership. My friend that welds for a living, fixed as good as he could. Eventually, I got a BBR '98KX250 subframe for $50. I had to make new seat tab mounts. They look like crap, but are not seen unless the seat is off. It also required a little trim to the side number plates in the grab handle area.
I busted a footpeg mount and the other was cracked nearly 85% through. It's not uncommon on KX's either.
I like you, purchsed a new bike so that I would have a reliable bike. However, I fully expect to be welding on this bike as well once it starts getting more fatigue. At the rate I'm riding these days, I have a few years.