Like you, Zing, when I started out I was new to trailing but I'd ridden bikes since I was 16.
I moved to Devon 3 years ago and was amazed by the number of lanes near me.
I bought one of Brian's TTRs, one that he'd just re-furbished, and I've not looked back ever since.
I have ridden in groups having Suzuki DR350s (heavy) and Honda XRs (nice bikes) but in reality, since I've got to know the ins and outs of my TTR I'm glad I got it.
TTRs are really stout machines, easily serviced by amateurs, cheap to run, have 6 gears, electric & kick starts, decent lights, good brakes, plenty of clearance - smashing.
In fact, I trust my TTR because it's better on the trails than I am and has got me out of sticky situations amazingly.
It has never left me stranded either.
You may think I'm biased - and I admit that I am.
Martyn