I just bought a 2001 Montesa 315 R and I to am a novice. I'm a Honda guy, so the choice was easy. I LOVE making bikes LOOK good, however, I don't like working on them just to keep them running (that is not a hit on the other bike, I know nothing about them). My bike is in near mint condition and RUNS GREAT. I hear that the resale value is greatest on the Montesa ? Honda has something to do with that. I vote: ... Montesa.
Just my 2 cents. Good luck. Jim