It should be apples with apples. The 490 is an evo not a pre 85. Plenty of pre 85's would have a go at the title.Most of the comparisons are with later model bikes with 2 or 3 years more development. Best pre 85 that i have ridden, CR480 '83. Feels easier to ride than my 84 CR. To be honest, they are the only two i have ridden. With regards to the big 'M' , 2.5 years ago i didnt know what a Maico was, now i have some! I have said it before, believe the hype!