WANT BIG BUT NOT HUGE?
At the same time as we tested the GS-A we
also had a normal GS with a TFT dash unit.
For me the TFT dash is cool, very easy to
read and has a multitude of display options,
but not a must have – the normal analogue/
LCD dash is great too. What would sell it to
me is if GPS was integrated in to it too. The
GS comes with a 20-litre fuel tank, doesn’t
have the crash bars, pannier frames or spot
lights and has a slightly different rear carrier
frame, but of about the same size. Also the
seats are different with the GS-A running a
one-piece flat seat (that I much prefer) while
the GS has a two piece with the pillion seat
being substantially higher. This step up to
the pillion seat tends to lock tall riders in
the forward position reducing freedom of
movement and comfort; however the taller,
more deeply padded rear seat is more
comfortable for the passenger. Lastly the
foot pegs are different with the GS-A having
excellent, large, MX style pegs that offer great
grip and comfort while the GS has small,
skinny rubber topped ones that are awful by
comparison. While in most respects the two
bikes are the same, the GS feels like a much
smaller and lighter machine when they’re
ridden back to back. Honestly, the difference
is greater than I expected and therefore I’d
definitely recommend the GS over the GS-A
for riders of smaller stature.