Gas Gas PRO 280

[Trialwench]

I got my new bike last week from Gas Gas USA, the importer of GG bikes, to contest the AMA Women's National Trials Championship on. I previously rode a 01 GG TXT280.

Light is better! The new PRO weighs in at 152lbs on our scales and that's full of gas & fluids, no kickstand, no headlight. The previous TXT weighed 170 with same specs. 18lbs makes a huge difference, especially for someone that weighs 125lbs.

I thought it would take a long while to get use to such a lighter bike, but I was wrong. Right away, it felt like "home". The power is very linear, clutch pull is lighter than a TXT, the gearing is different - 1st gear is faster, and very usuable in most sections.

I dont like the kickstarter. It sits forward and it doesn't twist out very easily, but it is loosening as I ride it. It's a shorter kick stroke, so it's harder for me to start - got short legs.

The bike is very forgiving and when you get off line, it keeps you out of trouble. In these situations, I keep getting the feeling that I'm going to have to dab at any moment, but I just keep going with my feet on the pegs. I guess cause it's so much lighter, there's less weight to fall over in a turn, so it's more apt to staying upright.

I have taken it thru it's paces and within a couple of hours was going up all the big rock steps that are at the ceiling of my courage/skills (4foot). It really inspires confidence because it just rockets up obstacles very easily. I'm really amazed. The rear shock is still breaking in, but the current stiffness, really aids in obstacle climbing!

Ive got about 9 hours on it so far, and I'm cleaning sections I haven't cleaned very often before, 9 out of 10 times now. I'm a happy girl!

 

[Patman]

The transmission seems to have a different configuration than most bikes how does it shift / feel? Also have you noticed any holding issues with the clutch having so few plates? It's an interesting bike for sure just curious about the new ideas real world functionality and durability.

 

[wayneg]

The next silly question is will there be a 200cc version available, or are these bikes going to be just for higher grade riders? Theres some rumours about that there will be a 300cc version coming soon. I'm sure that being a contracted rider and dealer you will know more about what the plan is than most. Being a pretty bad rider myself the 20 odd pounds of weight loss sounds good to me - I'm sure it will take me a fair bit of effort to lose 20 pounds myself;)

Does the bike offer increased ground clearance over the old TXT? When the original factory photos of the prototypes came out it seemed like there is a fair bit of extra space between the engine and bash plate. Have they tried for more ground clearance with the production models?

 

[Girlrider]

I rode the 280 this weekend. I didn't notice the clutch to really feel that much different. It did make a little bit of a funny noise but I guess that is just how it is. It is really narrow and very light compared to my 2000. Everything else really felt the same. The kick started is itty bitty but easy to start. I do believe they will have an 80, 200, 280 and 300 but ask someone who sells them to be sure. Cool looking bike.