If you prefer your overland riding on the gnarlier side, finding the sweet spot between weight, power, and long-haul comfort is key. GasGas is entering the arena with a spicy new single that is up for the challenge.
The GasGas SM 700 and ES 700 promise to be high-performance siblings that deliver a distinct, upright, and inviting approach to riding. With powerful single-cylinder motors, razor-sharp handling, and the latest rider aids, the SM is set up for city streets, and the ES is geared to off-road adventures.
We’ll dive into the details of the ES version in a moment, but for those of you with a daily commute to help fund your motorcycle habit, the SM version is a big-bore supermoto, designed for single-cylinder fun when getting from A to B. With punchy power that’s perfect for street riding, the SM 700 delivers class-leading performance, dynamic on-road handling, and advanced electronics.
Now, onto the dirt. The off-road ES 700 is designed to deliver the very best handling and was constructed with the lowest possible weight in mind. The ES weighs in at 322 pounds, which sounds delightful when you’re used to hoisting twice that out of the rubble when your GS hits the ground.
Spanish company GasGas is all about bringing something a little different to the party and putting smiles on people’s faces. Owned by Pierer Mobility Group, the GasGas 700 shares genetics with its big-single siblings from the same parent company, the KTM 690 and Husqvarna 701.
The GasGas takes its playtime seriously, and the 692.7cc engine produces a peak of 74 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and pumps out some serious torque. State-of-the-art electronics ensure precise throttle response. Smooth-shifting through the six-speed gearbox is assured, thanks to the quickshifter. A 3.5-gallon fuel tank is integrated into the subframe to keep the center of gravity as low as possible.
The ES 700 is built on a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame with a cast aluminum swingarm for precision cornering and stability. The suspension consists of WP XPLOR forks and a rear shock that are designed to fine-tune easily by hand. Rolling on a 21-inch front and an 18-inch rear wheel, the ES comes fitted with Continental TKC 80s that are ready for all your adventuring.
READ MORE: All Things Motorcycle at Overland Expo West
With switchable ride modes, you can adjust the ES to your liking. Off-road ride mode gives a torquey throttle response and triggers a lean-angle sensitive traction control to ensure perfect rear wheel grip in all conditions. Or, scrap the traction control altogether for a little extra dirt-spitting fun. For total control and stability, the Bosch ABS system features an off-road mode or can be turned off completely as well.
All in all the GasGas ES 700 seems to be a strong contender for the overland rider who likes to get dirty. The big-bore single is plenty strong for crushing miles quickly, and everything about this bike, from the weight to the upright riding position to the suspension, is begging you to peel away from the pavement.
The price is set at 10,749€, which equals $11,433. Unfortunately, you’ll have plenty of time to save up your pocket change because the 700s won’t be available in 2022 here in North America. Hate to put a damper on your FunFun, but the GasGas certainly seems to be worth the wait.
