as I hate mods with a passion I am gonna say stock. BUT!! if money is an issue, the mods start at lower prices. That biketrials site is really out of date, I wouldnt base your choice on that. heres how I see it MODS Pros: lighter easier to learn stuff total control of bike stronger wheels (not by much nowerdays though) Cons: look stupid (debatable ) are too easy to ride, you dont learn valuable skills a heavier harder bike will teach. can feel really twitchy to ride cant roll over rough terrain as well. STOCK Pros: looks nicer (well, most of them ) more stable (doesnt feel like an exspensive pogo stick) teaches valuable riding skills roll over stuff easier cons: Takes longer to get good on one mech to brake off (unless you dont run one) wheels are easier to buckle (not by much nowerdays though) heavier I say go stock, you will end up a better rider in the long run, the extra weight will build muscles faster, you will learn not to be relient on a bash plate and if you ever do get a mod in the future, you will be extra good on one.