I don't know anything about the availability of the 125 EXC, but I've been campaining an '01 125 SX in the GNCC's and local HS races. You'll need to address the suspension issue as it was too stiff for woods use. (Maybe the '02 suspension will be better?) You will also want to look into a larger capacity gas tank. Stock 2 gal. (8 liter) tank wont go far. You can buy the EXC tank/shroud/seat combo to get the really large capacity but that will cost you $$$$ and you loose the sleek SX layout. I went with the 2.9 gal. (11 liter) SX gas tank and am very happy. I discovered it when looking up the EXC gas tank part number to price the conversion. It's in the parts book. I retains the stock SX layout but has much more capacity. The tank is larger at the bottom and extends under the seat. I can comfortably go 1/2 of a 3 hour GNCC, which is all the range I need. The motor is a toss up. It's ok for faster GNCC type tracks but tight stuff is a problem as the motor is all up top. And when you find the power, hang on!!! This thing still amazes me even after I've ridden my 400 4stroke:scream: . I added a PC pipe and Vforce reed cage to help the bottom end and I'm quite happy. The bike is very easy to ride compared to larger bikes, despite the top end motor.