GAS GAS 300cc SCORPA 250cc
QUICK SPIN
The 2015 300cc Gas Gas TXT Racing model needs no introduction as it’s a good solid and popular proven machine evolved from the previous year’s range. There is no ‘Standard’ model from the Spanish manufacturer any more but what you get is a free upgrade to the ‘Racing’ model which replaces the old range of ‘Standard’ ones. Added to the impressive list of components on the machine are the Reiger rear shock and the Keihin carburettor which not only gives added performance benefits but also makes the machine much better value for money. Smooth but usable power is essential for the Scottish Six Days Trial where the 300cc model is popular with both the Clubmen rider and the potential winners including Michael Brown. Richard Timperley on his own admission is never going to win the event but he will openly tell you that the 300cc model with its excellent attributes is his ‘Scottish’ choice for 2015.
My 300cc Gas Gas is pretty much a standard machine with the only changes personal ones for my own set up. I have had this ‘Racing’ model for around six-eight weeks now and it’s shall we say ready for action. As with all Gas Gas models young or old the riding position is very rider friendly with all the controls in very easy to reach positions. I change brands as and when I just fancy a change but one thing that always strikes you when you throw your leg back over a Gas Gas is how you very much feel comfortable and at home which in turns does give you a feel good factor and inspires confidence in your ability. As the Scottish Six Days Trial consists of many rocky type river and gullies we thought it might be a good starting point to make this ‘Quick Spin’ article on this type of terrain.
Let’s start with the motor which is happy in most gears when ridden in the rivers and on the rocks. It’s very smooth but its power output is ideal for both the top rider who wants the ‘Grunt’ for the big stuff or the Clubmen who quite literally want some extra power for the Moor crossings and up the steep hazards found in the event. The clutch action is excellent as was the carburation with the Keihin carburettor not letting the motor ‘Load Up’ and affect its performance. It starts first time hot or cold with a quick ‘Prod’ on the kick start lever. Gear selection is crisp and clean with the first three ideal for the hazards with the other three suited for the tracks and open road found in this six day event.
As we have mentioned this model has the Reiger rear shock controlling the back of the machine and the latest aluminium slider Marzocchi forks at the front which work so well with the steel tubular frame. Picking your path along the rocky hazards found in Scotland is very important and both the steering and suspension association give very good feedback to the rider especially when changing direction or turning. It’s also worth noting the ease of maintainace on the machine at his six day event with only a few tools required to carry out the day to day ‘Fettling’. Well talking never won me the ‘Scottish’ so it’s back to more training – see you in May.