GASGAS Motocross Range 2024 Review

Putting a fleet of 2024 GASGAS MC models to task for the official Australian media launch was a day to I was looking forward to. I could not wait to twist a grip to see and feel the updates on the red rockets with new engines, upgraded suspension, new tech, vibrant red new plastics, new frames, swingarms and subframes.

The Sanders’ Apple Farm was the location, and I couldn’t think of a better place given this is the stomping ground of Aussie enduro and rally star, Daniel “Chucky” Sanders.

For 2024, the GASGAS motocross range more or less adopts the same platform as its KTM and Husqvarna counterparts. Both two-stroke and four-stroke models get new engines, with the two-bangers adopting throttle body fuel injection (TBI).

The WP XACT AER suspension has been refined, while the bikes also get a new forged triple clamp, Braktec clutch and brakes, new bodywork, new footpegs and a Neken handlebar. There is also an option for a map switch on both the two- and four-stroke models (standard on MC 125), which also enables launch control, traction control and quickshift on the four-strokes.

It was very hard to curb my excitement with the brand-new GASGAS motocross weapons sitting in front of me ready for action. We had access to almost all the bikes in the range (the MC 250F was not available) and I wasted no time in hitting the track. Here’s my take on how each model performed at the Sanders ranch.

2024 GASGAS MC 125

Never will I shy away from a small-bore two-stroke due the sheer amount of fun they are to ride. In the case of the 2024 GASGAS MC 125, the power of the new TBI engine is amazing.

The MC 125 has a new engine with a new cylinder head and 39mm throttle body, along with a map switch, which is standard on this model only (it is optional for the other models in the range). It gives you the choice of a race map and a richer option for tougher conditions.

The bike feels smooth and powerful, and it takes nothing to keep the engine in the thick of the power. A simple rider error or loss of momentum requires nothing more than a flick of the clutch to get back on the boogie. The increased torque from the TBI design and electronic power valve combine to provide plenty of go.

Let’s not forget that we need to stop all this momentum and the new Braktec units do a great job offering smooth precise control with adequate braking power. Finally, the new electric-start makes life oh-so easy. Who kick-starts a bike these days?

There are a number of significant updates to the 2024 MC 125 including a map switch that is standard on this model-only. Other new features include the electronic power valve, torque markers for better and more precise servicing at home or by the dealer, better anti-squat behavior by the shock from changing the front sprocket location down 3mm and tilting the engine 2-degrees.

The GASGAS MC 125 utilizes the AER40 fork option from WP with a revised setting for 2024 and, for the most part, is easily set up for most riders having the adjustment of air pressure, compression and rebound to dial in your ride.

On the back the all-new swing arm, subframe, main frame, revised linkages and shock angles help with traction and weight transfer on braking bumps. The new frame and shock work together to spread the rear impact more evenly through the frame resulting in much better rider comfort.

2024 GASGAS MC 250

Hold my beer! How can you resist a 250cc two-stroke with this much technology? Bosting all the same engine and chassis features as the little brother MC 125, this bike is what fun-factor is all about. Crisp TBI power controlled by the electronic power valve, a note from the standard muffler that is pure music to any dirt bike fan, and power that is broad and strong.

The MC 250 engine has a counter balancer that assures smooth tractable power but still maintains the sting in the power band to keep us excited and in front of our mates on the track.

2024 GASGAS MC 350F

Where do you start with this capacity? The 350cc really is the all-rounder in the motocross world and this unit possesses all the same updates to chassis as the rest of the MX range plus a new engine with a new cylinder head, new piston, bore and stroke and ECU mapping.

From the moment you start this engine and touch the throttle it has a snap and free feeling. You can tell it just wants to rev. And it does! Don’t be fooled that this is just a top-end machine – the torque and rideability of the engine is something to tell your mates about. The MC 350 will suit most MX riders even if they don’t know it.

Key features of the 2024 MC 350 are the redesigned 250/350 engine platform, which sees the engine height reduced by 8mm, torque markers for better servicing, and better anti-squat behavior by the shock from changing the front sprocket location down 3mm and tilting the engine 2-degrees like the two-stroke models. A quickshift is optional which requires a switch.

2024 GASGAS MC 450F

The prince of the GASGAS MC fleet is the 450 and thanks to GASGAS engineering, the 450 powerplant is fast, but not in the way we all would first think. This engine isn’t aggressive, rather it falls in line with the rest of the range.

The redesigned engine offers the kind of smooth power delivery that promotes going fast. This is all done with a 44mm throttle body, updated ECU mapping with an option of traction control, and two maps on the handlebars that can be changed on the fly, including optional quickshift. As with the other models there are torque markers for better and more precise servicing, and better anti-squat behavior.

Rider ergonomics

From the first time you look at these new models, they demand attention. Sitting on the bike there is no mistake that they feel ready to roll on to any track. They feel slim in the right places but still offer grip to the rider from the plastics design and the frame. Handlebars and grips are of the best quality using a comfortable handlebar bend and lock-on grips from ODI. The hydraulic clutch is user-friendly and the footpegs feature a longer, wider and open design.

The verdict

Whether you like two-stroke or four-stroke, there is the ideal bike for you in this range. With the list of updates, you know you are at the forefront of technology not matter which capacity tickles your fancy the most.

For me, on a personal level, the two favorites would be the MC 125 for the fun-factor level and the MC 350 for racing, as that bike is everything I need. The MC 350 has loads of power but feels like a 250. It encourages confidence and allows me to ride longer than I could on the MC450.