Dear Clay,
Hope I'm not being inconvenient by posting my opinion as I'm new to the "family" and I don't have a Gas Gas...
Let me start by saluting you for this topic, these kind of actions are indeed one of the paths to the bright future of any brand.
The way I see it Gas Gas is a reference in the 2st world since ever and should aim to be so in the future. Everyone I know back here will gladly tell you that the smokers are great bikes especially the ones with the full Ohlins option package they had in the past. It's still a reference in Portugal.
From my point of view Gas Gas future resides on 2 strokes by gaining market share from KTM and Yamaha. GG goals should be building flawless machines as it's obvious that quality control needs great improvements and details like plastic fitment and all others already mentioned here can be easily reviewed.
As for the models, I think that what fits US would certainly fit Portugal
so my suggestions would be:
- standard 200,250,300 model with :
* Ohlins/Sachs 48
* E-Start with option to remove it by including in the package the needed engine and PV covers
* Skid plate
* TM Designs or BRP chain guide
-Race model 250,300 with:
* Ohlins/Marzocchi 48 CC
http://www.marzocchi.com/Template/detailProdotti.asp?LN=UK&idC=1686&IdFolder=128&IdOggetto=57626
* E-Start with option to remove it by including in the package the needed engine and PV covers.
* Skid plate
* Stealth rear sprocket
* TM Designs or BRP chain guide
* Rental Twin Wall
* Radiator braces
* Galfer or Braking floating rotors
My dream specs that would make GG top notch bike would be a Race model but with:
- Showa/Showa 47 CC (the same package as the Suzuki RMX 450-Z)
- X-Trig triple clamps
http://www.xtrig.de/index.php?lang=EN&page=gabelbruecken
- Excell A60 rims
- Talon hubs
In a more general way GG should have next year, and long over due:
- improved and accurate web site
- power parts catalog
- complete detailed manuals for each model
- shop manual for engine and chassis
Don't be shy to take a look at how KTM manages to be so efficient at this...
My 2 cents...