If you were offered a couple of cheap montesa's locally, one a 247 the other a 349, which one would you buy? Both similar price and condition ie reasonable but not mint.

I've never owned a Montesa and I just fancy trying a few twinshock events on one. Any opinions on which one to go for or should I just forget it?

I'm not short of bikes to ride but you know how it is!

Which year 349? If it's an '80 leave it alone.

Probably the 349, depending on the years of each. If the 247 was '72-'76 with the slimline tank and alloy fenders, I'd probably take it. Especially if it was a left-shift model with the silver frame, or an Ulf Karlsson model. The 247 better conveys the classic Cota look, but the 349 is all business.

Pre-1976 slim tank 247s have drop dead gorgeous styling but a white tanked 349 would probably make a more competitive ride.

Is there any good reason for not buying both?

The 349 is a red tank 1980's model, whilst the 247 is a 1972 model with the slimline tank but plastic mudguards (right hand gear lever).

Still not sure what to do.

Think it depends how you intend to use it. There is a good few improvements between the 247 and the 349. The 349 was great in becks and the like but not brilliant twisting and turning down south.

Thanks for the advice lads.

Looks like the 349 is coming out tops. I agree that the 247 is a very pretty bike, but the main thing I want is the best/most enjoyable bike to ride.

Are there any known problem areas or things to look for when buying?

Based on your further info, I think I'd take the 349. I don't like right shift. I have a '72 247 that I've converted to left shift/right brake. It's not very hard for a decent machinist to modify the clutch cover, and the pedal assembly is almost a bolt-in.

Is the 349 a '79-'80 with the 348 looking tank and a big seat or is it a slimmer, more waisted tank with smaller seat as in '82-up ?

I don't think there's anything in particular to be wary of, just the normal things as with any bike. I've found most everything to be available. The only really pricy things are the jewellry and rubber in original new. If you're riding it, just use universal parts and it's very inexpensive. The Amal carbs wear rapidly and aren't the greatest even when not worn, but that's about it... oh, the 349 air box is hard to find and always cracked. These bikes are very durable mechanically. Check the 349's downtube below the steering head for cracks and the tubes under the engine of the 247 for flatness.

Thanks for the advice Vintagecota. The 349 is a MontesaHonda. Does that make any difference? What year would yhat make it?

From what I can gather, it's an '82. One source shows them made from '82-'84. I find the MH to be an interesting "missing link" model commemorating the buyout by Honda and connecting the lineage. I'd say that one would be a "must" for a serious Cota collection.

From what I can gather, it's an '82. One source shows them made from '82-'84. I find the MH to be an interesting "missing link" model commemorating the buyout by Honda and connecting the lineage. I'd say that one would be a "must" for a serious Cota collection.

Would you like to buy it, vintagecota?!!

Is it in mint condition and extremely inexpensive?

Of course!! Aren't they all!!