The Gas Gas TXT PRO Raga Replica 2010 received important novelties both in terms of the chassis and its mechanics. Among which we highlight the new exhaust system in its central and final part; The intermediate one is still made of aluminium and adapts its shapes to the geometries of the new frame, while the silencer is divided into two removable parts for easy maintenance.
All of these changes are important, as the old center exhaust welds were quite delicate; We are confident that the engineers have also strengthened this area.
Another important detail is that in this edition the “S3 Stars” cylinder head has also been maintained, which basically simplifies the task of regulating the compression of the engine according to the altitude where it is going to work.
We must also remember that the 280 and 300 versions are equipped with Keihin carburetors, while the 250 has the classic and effective Dell’Orto PHBL.
NEWS PART OF THE CYCLE
In the list of novelties we find other new solutions, such as the magnificent rear brake master cylinder, which combines all the elements in the same piece, the accelerator grip with bearing system, or the Renthal Fatbar handlebar with variable diameter. All this seasoned with a more stylized and racing bodywork that maintains the original chromatic of the 2009 version, combining gold tones, whites and the elegance of white.
DYNAMIC TESTING
The eighth saga of the Raga Réplica can be said that, in the overall calculation, it is the third that includes great changes compared to its predecessor. After the 2008 edition, where important structural innovations were introduced at the level of the cycle part, our protagonist Once again, it boasts of qualities and arguments to be the most requested in dealerships. As a reflection, it is interesting to understand one of the reasons that motivated the launch of a “Racing” version at the beginning of the year: to clean the shelves that occupied the frames of these last two editions and make room for the new ones.
When it comes to evolving a product of proven quality and performance, the chances of getting it right are very high. Gas Gas continues to polish this magnificent work of art with a chisel. Thanks to the great maturity and performance of its mechanics, engineers can focus on evolving the chassis part, where there will always be work to be done and really allows us to continue to scratch grams on the scales.
The changes of the new Raga are seen and felt. Aesthetically, the print is impeccable, clean and very well finished. The detail of the AJP rear pump is mind-blowing, the semi-bare arch that joins the lower stays of the frame more of the same, and the successful shapes of the new bodywork also deserve our admiration. As a negative point we point out a very visual but impractical detail: the fork and swingarm bottles, both very exposed to small bumps, we do not trust that the black color will give them a good old age. Likewise, the red hubs are also very aesthetic, but the anodizing is not well achieved in the part where the spokes are anchored. Except for those small details, the final note of the set in qualities and finishes is outstanding.
AT THE CONTROLS
As soon as he gets behind the controls of the “RR” the rider already perceives that it is a bike born in high competition, very minimalist but well balanced between axles and surprisingly comfortable. Once started, the first thing that catches the eye is the new sound emanating from its exhaust: it is deeper and fuller than its predecessor. What surprises us the most is how well these changes have sat with the 250 version, as this rEffort at low revs optimises to the maximum a very complete and easy-to-drive mechanics. The quarter-litre displacement is ideal for most drivers, as it combines a behaviour in medium and high revs very similar to that of its big sisters, with really noble reactions at low revs that allow you to ride in a sweeter way.
With the endorsement of such a letter of introduction, the new “250 RR” could not disappoint us, quite the opposite. From the first moment it is easy to interpret the reactions of its mechanics; Its excellent low revs allows you almost everything, so you shouldn’t make an effort to systematically seek out the joy of its mids and highs.
These good records, understood in the context of an indisputably outstanding cycle part, give the new “RR” a very high level of specialization. The new chassis is spectacular both visually and dynamically. The bike feels more stable thanks to those millimeters that the frame has gained in the lower part and also improves agility; It is truly astonishing that the engineers have managed to reduce such a competitive overall weight by almost two kilograms – 68.2 by 66.4 kilograms, empty.
As a result, movements from a standstill are fast and precise, while difficult areas seem to be solved more easily and physically demand only just enough from the driver.
Unsurprisingly, much of this good blame lies with the Excellent homogeneity of a suspension system very familiar; the Marzocchi fork with aluminium bars is one of the best on the market and has been equipped since 2006 with superb results, while the rear Sachs is responding better than the highly praised Öhlins and offers an exquisite feel.
Good also for the new rear braking system, although given the great performance of the previous version it is difficult to appreciate the differences. Aesthetically, the new pump is sensational, but by bringing all the components together under the same piece in such a visual place, the potential risk of impacts increases.
In short, the really difficult thing is to find a weak point in such a well-finished and competitive bike. Undoubtedly, Gas Gas has done a great job that lays the good foundations of the well-known 2011 range.
Finally, it should be remembered that Gas Gas markets the Raga version with all the “plus-size” engines and that, like any good replica, it is offered on a limited basis at a reasonably higher price.
Text and photos David Quer / Action Chema Quer
