The Gas Gas Randonné fits into the segment that we call Trial-Excursion, which offers the market several alternatives ranging from more “road” models such as the Beta ALP family and the KTM Freeride 350, to more trial-oriented models such as the Ossa Explorer and the unit we are testing today. Gas Randonné 125 4T.
Reliability + Quality
One of the strengths of this model is found in the engine. The chosen one has been a veteran and very reliable 4T 125 engine of Yamaha origin that offers robustness, minimum consumption and low maintenance.
On the other hand, at a glance we can see that many of its components derive from the TXT pro trial version, such as the chassis, swingarm, suspensions, brakes, handlebars… Even the final exhaust reminds us of the one fitted to the Gas Gas TXT Edition models and the first models of the Gas Gas Pro.
The main aesthetic difference is found in the seat, which gives a brilliant and fast solution that allows us to turn it into a more trial bike with just one screw.
After analysing the bike in detail, many of us wonder why Gas Gas has introduced a small displacement engine, and the answer is very easy:
All users who decide to buy a Randonné will be able to drive legally from the age of 16 or with a B car license, since the declared power is less than 15 hp.
All the attributes mentioned above make this Gas Gas a fun and versatile motorcycle to get started in the world of motorcycles, enjoying excursions in the countryside and amateur trials.
The Randonne has an electric start and a seat to accentuate its versatility and comfort
It is also suitable for women. Its docile 125 4T engine is perfect for beginners
At the controls
The first thing that catches our attention is the great work they have done at Gas Gas to facilitate the start-up. The Randonné has an electric start and as we can see in the photographs, the cam to “put in” the air is located on the handlebars, so the start-up work is a mere formality. It should be said that it also has a starter lever in case the battery runs out.
Once riding, what we find is a very comfortable bike that invites you to enjoy peacefully tracks, trials and even more technical areas.
Having tested the trial capabilities of the Randonné and having seen videos of several Japanese riders racing with it, there is no doubt that the limits are set more by the rider than the bike. Of course, if what we want is to use it for a more trial-like purpose, it is necessary to use the kit that comes with the bike and change the crown to shorten the development.
The Gas Gas Randonne has a modest adventurous spirit seasoned by extraordinary reliability and low consumption
As for the engine, we have already commented that it is “limited” to meet the maximum power allowed, so if we try to put this trailer in trouble, we will have to accept the fun challenge of counteracting the lack of power with technical skill, using even more the suspensions and the body to overcome obstacles.
One of the points that we find can be improved is that the engine protrudes more than desirable and could be exposed to shocks in the event of a fall.
On the other hand, the gear lever is remote if what we want is to go on excursions sitting down and change without moving the foot of the footrest, although on the other hand it is well placed if what we are looking for is to do more trial areas without being hindered by the gear lever.
In the suspension section, if we compare it with other tougher alternatives such as Freeride, it loses ground on fast tracks where high cruising speeds are reached due to the fact that the suspensions derive directly from its trial sister.
In general we can say that the Randonné is a good choice for novice riders, not very demanding in terms of physique and technical maintenance.
Text and photos: José María Quer
