after having a 96 beta for 3 yrs i switched to a 2000 txt 249 in 2002. I had the pleasure for the next two and a bit years of owning a very competitive and very reliable trials bike. 3 lakes 2 days, 2 manx, 3 scotts all finished, 2 france 4 days, never missed a beat in any, and club trials most wkends!this was not just on easy course either!the bike is capable of any expert course.