Not quite that black and white. Terrain is what it is. You want to ride, and thats all you have, well you learn to ride it. I don't go out and trash my stuff for kicks. Considering where I ride, my bikes are in excellent shape, and truth is I don't crash that bad that often, but it does happen. The big difference is, if I crash and the bike tumbles/slides into a tree, an alloy subframe bends, or maybe even cracks. So, worst case I get a big stick or something for a lever and bend it back as needed, if neccessary, and fine tune it at home. With a '12, your totally screwed, as its shattered, and you most likely can't ride it out. Its also not cheap and quick to fix. The problem is the inner fender is too big and stiff, and also complex in its assembly. Too much load transferred to the subframe members, which are inherently weak and depend on all the steel inserts and cross braces for strength. A similar problem existed when GG used those old alloy fender support loops. I bent my '03 a lot more with that loop than without it. The fender needs to be more sacrificial, flex and break itself if neccessary without taking half the bike with it. This means a shorter inner fender. Its not rocket science.
No, I've never broken mine but came close in Hancock where the bike slid backwards down a very steep hill about thirty feet or so. So steep I slid and rolled and a tree stopped me when I rolled into the woods off the trail. The handguard caught a rock and stopped the bike before the rear hit a big slab of Bluestone.
So, back on main topic, like I said it depends on your use. GGs were always quirky and spotty in fit and finish, but we put up with it because when dialed in they worked great and were very tough bikes. Same applies now, except the tough part.
I guess we traded that for more focus, but we shouldn't have too in 2013. I'm getting a little burned out fixing other peoples mistakes on my dime. I mean I like to tinker and make a good bike better, and I'm not a complainer, but I'm about done. I have Cannondale flashbacks sometimes.
GG better stop this nonsense get there s%$t together or Beta, and soon Sherco with their new 2strokes, will take what little market share they have.
If the Japaneese giant ever wakes up, puts its head down and comes out with a true modern two stroke woods racer, there will be no reason to put up with any of this.
Dumb.
