I have been a trials rider since 1974. My 1st trials bike was a 1974 TL125. That was also my last 4T trials bike. Since then I have owned and ridden only 2 strokes and at least 10 were GG 300’s. My current bike is a 2023 GG 300 GP. I love it and at 68 years old, it is way more capable than me. I have considered the switch before, but always go with the 2T - lighter and probably more power. However, I am not nearly as concerned about a few extra bike pounds at this point, and the sections I ride are no longer filled with major obstacles.

I recently acquired a beautifully restored 74 TL125. I am thinking now might be the time to get the most state of the art, current example of a 4T trials bike. A 2027 301rr when they become available. A cool couple of bookends.

I would truly welcome the thoughts of anyone who may have made a similar switch before.

Anybody….? Thoughts?

If the distribution and dealership representation was better here, I would be riding Montesa again. The Cota is far more settled in the suspension, not as lively as many 2T bikes and the 4RT thrive on revs with smooth throttle control and lots of clutch abuse, great bike for hill climbs and deep mud. They don't cold start in serious cold winter weather unless you have a heated garage or build a fire under it, small concern for most. After about 3 or 4 years you will need to learn how to adjust valve clearances very accurately.

Riding a 4T is totally different but great. We've had 4t's for probably 11/12 years... did recently by a TRS just to see if we could be tempted back from the dark side but although the TRS is light and nimble I think we'll stick with the 4T's. You could consider the beta 4t. less complicated. No F.I, ECU, Throttle body, no expensive pump in the tank. Slower idle speed (4RT idles at 1800rpm). I'm a rubbish rider, but had a 4rt which I nearly scrapped due to intermittent throttle body issues. Got it fixed then moved onto Beta 4t's... never regretted it, so much so my son bought one. Had them for probably 8 /9 years now..

4Rt's are lovely bikes but if they do go wrong (not often, granted) then its a pain to try and trouble shoot unless you have a spare bike to swap parts over on as I found.