Issue link: http://trailridermagazine.uberflip.com/i/110132
VIDeO surprised when GasGas abandoned the 2011 platform as I felt it worked quite well. The 2013 now underscores the value of the new platform. The motor may be smooth but it���s not boring. The chassis is the most cohesive effort yet from the Spanish manufacturer and is more confidence-inspiring than in any other year. So what���s not to like? The static weight. While GasGas claims a static weight of 224, it���s got to be at least 15 pounds heavier than that, which puts it well into the 4 stroke lites division for weight. Fortunately, the geometry of the bike is such that the weight isn���t noticeable when in motion. But imagine the potential if GasGas were to update the motor and shed some weight from it? I also like being able to adjust the power valve via swapping out springs like a KTM. Other gripes? I am done whining about the kick stand that retracts at 300 mph, just stand clear of it when it rockets into motion. What about the price? At $8,600, it seems high for a bike that isn���t orange but think about what you get: An FMF Stealth Q spark arrestor, a durable plastic skid plate (less vibration), Galfer Rotors, Nissen Brakes that do not fade as quickly as others, full lighting system, Marzochi 48mm forks with the PFP adjustment, an Ohlins shock and heavy duty nickel exhaust pipe and dual ignition mapping. There is lots of value in the GasGas. So is the GasGas competitive with KTM out of the box? Yes, it is ��� even more so this year. Jeff Melik didn���t win the ECEA Championship (the series with the most diverse terrain the East) in spite of the GasGas, he won because he is a great rider on a fine motorcycle. As for myself, I enjoyed the new GasGas. The out of the box performance is superior to the previous years and worth a look if you are an anti establishment type of guy. February 2013 11