When the tarmac ends
These aren’t big enduro bikes, their primary function is to keep going when the tarmac runs out and that usually means gravel fire tracks and green lanes. Each boasts Enduro and Enduro Pro modes, altering the power delivery, ABS and traction control settings, as well as offering bespoke semi-active suspension settings, too. Beware the Tiger’s big glitch though. Opt for Enduro mode, ride, then switch the ignition off. And it defaults to Road mode again. A potentially dangerous faux pas. Select full electronic support on both bikes, and you’ll be drifting through corners on full throttle before you know it. Their ability to find and deliver drive and braking control other bikes would miss is truly impressive. But the Tiger’s mass is carried high, making it feel like an overladen wheelbarrow when the going gets tougher, and it’s less compliant when standing up thanks to the shaping of its tall and expansive tank. And if you get airborne, expect the suspension to run out of clearance on landing, smacking the bash plate into terra firma. The GSA feels surprisingly at home in the dirt. That big boxer twin sits low in the frame, gifting it with a balance and stability that’s rather pleasing. The electronics are superb, and it feels as good stood up as it does sat down. The expected vagueness from the Telelever front-end never shows itself, and it doesn’t feel intimidating, even with 30 litres in the tank.
The Tiger is good, but the GSA is tangibly more accomplished.