Hi, I'm getting back into trials after 30years and looking for a bike. The two options in theframe are a Beta Rev3 or a Sherco 290 or 250. Both are about the same year 2003 and same price. I'm going to ride them both to see which feels right but I wondered if anyone can give me some advice on which would be easiest for spares, which would be easiest to ride for a novice again and which would likely hold it's value.

Thanks in advance, Les

Hey Les,

I think it depends on where you are... I had a 2001 and 2002 Shercos back in the day in south east uk, predominantly muddy going, the 01 was useless, the 02 slightly better, must have been something to do with geometry etc but both hampered by 5 speed box, ie. no useable 4th gear. The sherco certainly felt lighter and more nimble, also looked good but grip in the mud was elusive. Changed to a rev3 and just let her rip in 4th gear, feather the clutch and lap up the grip... Been on Betas ever since.

I never got to try the 03 Sherco, maybe it was ok, Jarvis did alright......

Cheers - Mark

Hi Mark, thanks for the info. I've had a bit of a change though. Although I was looking to get one of these two I've now found a cheap Beta Techno which seems too good to pass on. Cheap reintroduction to trials again and then possibly upgrade later.

Does anyone have any advice on these. It's purple and silver and probably a 1995/6. Going to look at it on Wed. been told to look for water in the oil window. Anything else to note?

Thanks, Les

I'd say the Techno will feel like a lump of lead compared to a REV3 or Sherco. I'm also puzzled about using fourth gear? Great if you are going across moors or have a long run up a hill but unless the Sprockets are set for it not really usable in a Trial. If I were you go for the best condition bike and look at what the riders in your area prefer. That should give you an idea of which bike is better. If you still want to go older then the Montesa 315R is usually a good bet. Again though buy on condition. Sandifords still have lots of spares as well so it should be good for a number of years

I'm also puzzled about using fourth gear? Great if you are going across moors or have a long run up a hill but unless the Sprockets are set for it not really usable in a Trial.

You have obviously not been to a muddy southern trial!!!

Edited December 4, 201213 yr by timp

Hi chaps, well went today and bought a Techno Dougie Lampkin Replica. Not too pretty at the moment but it will come out of my garage looking a lot sweeter. Seems sound mechanically but needs tyres (which should I get, Michelin and if so which one?) and chain and sprockets (which teeth combo?).

Tried to not let my heart rule my head as much as poss but it was a good price and even paying say £250 for tyres and sprockets I think it was still a good buy.

Anyway, now itching to get it fully sorted and can't wait to make a total rrrs of myself in my first trial for 30+ years.

Keep you posted, Thanks, Les