motomax

My 04 Raga has the same thermostat and it just crapped out. I am going to replace it today. I'll post my experience with the repair.

Thanks for the feedback. It sure sounds like the Keihin carb would be a good choice. The feedback I received from several others on the MCtrials mailist suggested the same mod.

I have a 2004 280 Pro. I run the stock ignition curve with a fast throttle and a 10 tooth c/s. I am an intermediate level rider. I am curious about several items that could improve the bikes performance. I hate to leave things alone, especially stock. First is reeds, anyone have experience with Boyesen and V-Force? What do they do? Are they worth the expense on a one year old bike? Second is the header pipe? The 05 Gasser has a longer one, does this improve low end torque? How about the mineral oil system for the clutch? Does it improve performance? How about riding in temps from 20-90 degrees F? Has anyone tried programming the ignition to a more agressive curve? Any comments? I was thinking of trying a faster cuvre with a slow throttle. Thanks, John - 04 280 Pro, 75 TY175, 79 Cota 348, 75 Cota 172

I have a 2004 280 Pro. Shortly after buying it, it started giving me problems starting when hot. Turned out to be the petcock gasket. The little holes that allow the gas to pass thru were misaligned and slowly starved the bike for fuel. Drain the tank and pop out the retainer clip to see if the bugger is properly aligned. I guess this is a common problem. Never given me another bit of trouble after I sorted it out.

I have been using an NZI Carbon fibre helmet for several years now. The bugger has developed a nasty odor that seems to be fermenting like a fine aged cheese. I have used Helmet deodorants and occasionallly wash it out but the smell comes right back. I would like to find a replacement liner for it if possible. Anyone have any experience with finding a liner to fit the NZI? I know there are several trials helmets that come with removable liners but no one seems to know if you can buy an extra liner. I may choose to buy a new helmet with a removable liner, but only if I can get spare liners for it. Any advise, ideas etc.....is welcome. Ride slow.....take chances.

This is my third year in trials. As an over 40 ex-motocrosser, I found trials to be the perfect balance of maximum challenge while minimizing bodily harm . Being very goal oriented, I have used a formula to move me along which I think more riders should consider. Especially newer ones getting into the sport. I started on a Montesa 172 twin shock riding the novice line. This forced me to learn and master the basics while making it challenging. I rode the Cota for one season, a great learning experiece. During the season, I would set goals for each event. First, I tried to clean one section per loop, then I tried to cleaning each section at least once per event, next, I tried to clean a loop and so on. I then bought an 02 Beta 250 and started the next season in the Sr B class. Sr B runs the novice line but presents a much tougher challenge by virtue of higher skilled competition. This forced me to concentrate on consistency. A single 5 could move you from 1st to 7th. I set my goals in baby step increments. First I worked at getting a top 5 finish. Once I made top 5, I set my sights on top 3. After top 3 I worked harder to try and win an event. Towards the end of the season I won a couple of events. During the off season, I decided that I would move up to Sr A. Using the same plan, I stared with my cleaning goals. Then, I set my sights on a top 5 finish. I just had my first 4th place finish last week. I think that if more people took a similar approach to trials, they would find each event very rewarding because your always working towards an achievable goal. You have your own little personal victories that you can celebrate at each event. This keeps it fun and helps motivate you.

2 Jubilee clips and the bugger is in your hands !!! How the hell can that be a bitch? Either I'm p****d or you are on drugs It's not getting the carb out that's a problem, it's putting it back in. The space that is available to work the carb is very limited. This makes reassembly a real squeeze act. If your hands are any bigger than a pigmy's, it's a bitch. Drugs are helpful to reduce the pain from bloody knuckles. By comparison, the Gasser is a breeze, no squeeze act needed and drugs are not required.

Having just recently traded my 2002 Beta 250 for a Gas Gas 280 Pro, I think I can offer some good objective comments. First off, I found the Beta to be an excellent all-around bike. Good grip, well built, reliable with many trouble free hours. It turned well, had a solid clutch that could take a lot of abuse. It significantly improved my riding skills in the 2 years I owned it. They are very well supported here in the US. I was going to trade up to an 04 until I rode a Gas Gas 04 Pro. My initial impressions of the Gasser were not as favourable as you might think for some who switched to a Gas Gas from a Beta. They are very different bikes that require a fair amount of time to adjust to. What I really liked about the Gas Gas was the power and the suspension. The "feel" was much different and took some time to adjust. I think the weight bias (front to rear) is lighter on the Gasser. After several months on my Gas Gas, I can say without a doubt that my riding skill is higher than ever. The bike is superb. The Motor is very useable for novice and expert alike, the suspension is magical, turning is very tight. The 40mm forks make the front very stable. The build quality is up to par with the Beta. Some people might disagree but I have taken my bike completly apart, except for the motor. The Gasser is well thought out and easier to service than my Beta. The carb on the Rev's is a bitch to get at. I bought the Gas Gas in part because of their popularity. Now I understand why they have such a big following. I believe the 04 Pro would help 9 out of 10 riders improve their riding level in short order. It's that good....... No regrets here from an ex- Beta rider.

Parts availability is a big concern, so is fun and reliability. I would stick to either a TY175 Yamaha, Bultaco or Montesa. All three have a great distribution of parts. The best out there. I have competed on both Montesa's and Yamaha's. I own and have competed on my TY175, Montesa 172 and 348. They all have good points. The Monty's have good solid motors, very usable power and handle well. Not the best brakes and OK suspension. I prefer my TY175, it has a weak motor (stock) but can be hoped up enough to make it competetive in any vintage event. The handling is superb, suspension good and very reliable. Mine has been punished for years and never gives up! Yamaha wins the Jap bike contest, no question, the rest are not in the same league unless heavily modified. Either Bul or Montesa are the best choices among the European's. Get a TY175 and just ride! You can forget about wrenching, they are as solid as a rock. You will be glad you did.