Hi sorry if this is has been asked a thousand times already! Happy to be pointed in the direction of a helpful link.

I recently did a day with inch perfect riding a friends 2006 Repsol Montesa. I really enjoyed the bike and by the end of the day I was reasonably competent again after a 15 year break. Locally I have the option of an identical 2006 bike, but I can't help notice I can get a much newer Beta Evo for the same money. I don't have a style that suits 2st or 4st being new to the sport again. I am just worried if I get a Beta it's going to spend more time in bits than riding it? Budget is allowing for a 2011/12 bike.

Thanks in advance!

I bought a shed 2001 beta rev 3. Spent a bit doing it up but otherwise it takes almost no maintenance at all. Just drag it out after months of it sitting there and it fires up second kick every time.

Personally as a fellow novice, I would go for the newer bike as that's a big difference in age. Failing that, get the one that's in the best condition.

If you choose wisely with the beta you shouldn't have to many problems with a 11-12 year. Plenty of decent stuff if your patient and don't jump in to soon and buy the first thing you see.

Can't speak from experience of the Mont although I know plenty of people who swear by them as a great bike. I've had 2 stroke and 4 stroke evos and they've been a joy to own and ride. Bikes are a v personal choice but generally get the newest/best condition you can.. Bear in mind the owner and care/service it's had though

Thanks chaps. There are a few tidy looking Beta's locally. A couple of 2014 bikes too if I push my budget out a bit. Thanks for the comments.

I love my 4rt, but I'm glad I started on a beta 200, nice soft power. If you've got some previous trials experience you should be able to live with a 4rt, harder work in some respects to ride but the most rewarding. The beta would be lighter and perhaps easier to learn on

 In six years time a 2006 4rt will still be more or less the price you paid for it now, however a 2011/12 beta will be less, another thing to think about is parts availability and price i.e. a new replacement mudguard (no decals) for a 4rt is £25 and with a bit of fettling will fit the older models, a replacement mudguard (with decals) for an evo is £90 but in a few years time they'll be like rocking horse poo.

 

What ever you decide make sure you give it a good look over especially frame and swinging arm for cracks.

 

Good luck

Go for a 4rt , base your purchase on condition not the year and you won't go far wrong ,