Well that was an interesting test ride. The GSA has come a LONG way since my last test ride way back in 2008. The motor is now an absolute peach and revs like a horizontally opposed twin shouldn't, with loads of grunt everywhere. The goofy indicators are gone, the suspension is remarkably normal and rides very smoothly and the brakes are mega - best rear brake I've ever used. It's comfy, the riding position is OK and could be easily tweaked with a set of bar raisers to be near perfect and the seat is very comfortable. The screen is way too small for me, like all bikes so I can forgive it that. Again, and aftermarket option will (should) sort that out as there are literally hundreds out there. If you think this is all going too good to be true, well there is a fly in the ointment. It's the gearbox, a bit notchy on the way up, horrific on the way down. The 'shift assist' isn't very good and not a patch on the Triumphs. Downshifts require use of the clutch (it is an up & down quickshifter) and a hefty stamp. This will get tiresome compared to the silky smooth Triumph gearbox and shift action. I have been offered a longer test ride rather than just two hours so I may take them up on that to see if things improve with time ? As it stands the tigger is going nowhere !
Pic of the big hector in triple black -
