I bought mine 280 in 2013, 5 months old and the bike was like new when I got it.
I still have it, and I love it!
When I bought it I was totally novise! And I still is :-).
There was only one problem: hard to start, but I made a small modification with a 9 volt battery, that helps a lot.
But you have to find a good one, well maintainced. If you can find a club someone can help you?
I do live in Norway and competid now and then, because of my son is driving. Its really fun :-)