2013 GS LC to 2015 GS LC?

[matchbox]

I know this topic has been covered before, but now new owners(preferably those who had '13 or '14 before) have had time to run in and accumulate a few miles I wonder what they feel the benefits are and if the change is worthwhile?

I currently run a mid '13 GS which is great, but I do miss the low end torque of my twin cam 'R'. Also think the steering damper would be beneficial. What do you think!?

 

[Matty589]

I had a 14 GS and recently picked up a 15 GSA with lowered suspension. To be honest there's not a huge amount of difference overall but it's smoother sub-40mph and much more relaxed in traffic. The extra weight over the front wheel seems to make it feel more planted but obviously that won't affect you if you go for a GS. I can't comment on the steering damper as both bikes have one.

 

[gsman1]

2013 GS V 2015 GS

I had a 14 GS and recently picked up a 15 GSA with lowered suspension. To be honest there's not a huge amount of difference overall but it's smoother sub-40mph and much more relaxed in traffic. The extra weight over the front wheel seems to make it feel more planted but obviously that won't affect you if you go for a GS. I can't comment on the steering damper as both bikes have one.

Compared to m 2013 GS the 2015 is smoother in terms of the engine, 2013 had steering wobble at 50 MPH worse with panniers on, 2015 steering fine, just can't tell damper on really. Gear change much better on 2015 particulary 1st 2nd and 3rd. Heated grips on 2015 massively better than 2013 bike.

 

[stevie Allen]

I had a 14 GS and recently picked up a 15 GSA with lowered suspension. To be honest there's not a huge amount of difference overall but it's smoother sub-40mph and much more relaxed in traffic. The extra weight over the front wheel seems to make it feel more planted but obviously that won't affect you if you go for a GS. I can't comment on the steering damper as both bikes have one.

Matty any chance of getting a photo up of your lowered GSA next to a full height one? Just to see the difference

 

[Matty589]

It's getting serviced next Saturday so I could try then but there is another thread here when I was considering getting one where someone helpfully posted pics. There is a noticeable difference but on the bike you don't really notice. I got one partly because I wasn't happy with engine response at the low end on the GS and partly due to some longer trips planned where the bigger tank will come in handy - plus I prefer the look

 

[patzx12]

13 and 15 GS is the same bike.
Steering damper makes no difference and available aftermarket.
13 gs to 15GSA
Get you the grand tourer version of the GS family.

 

[Voz]

I had the 13 for 15 mths and 9500 klm. I now have had a 15 GS for 3 mths and 3000 klm.

To me the differences are small, I would say the 13 is defiantly a little quicker and more urgent than the 15 as the 13 engine revved quicker. I could not pick the difference at first as I was off the road for 3 mths and when I picked up the 15 I just loved it. But in reflection and looking at my 13 ride videos I can tell the 13 was quicker.

I had about 8 recalls and warranty issues on the 13 and a gearbox and engine failure. So far, the 15 is ticking along ok although I have noticed a very slight burning smell on some rides, can't quite locate it though.

I rode a 2014 Ducati Multistrada S about 200 klm today in pouring rain, showers and sunshine, wet and dry roads. I really disliked this bike in most areas except the increased power and the Skyhook suspension, it is just better at damping out road imperfections than the GS.

 

[matchbox]

Now I've ridden one

Thanks for all your comments which generally concur with what I expected - subtle improvement.

Actually had a test ride on one on Friday.

Brakes seemed a little sharper.

More tolerant of high gear at low speeds e.g. trickling thru villages. Can still get snatchy pulling away in slightly high gear.

Maybe smoother up to 50mph or so. No difference after that.

Something no one mentioned I found overrun braking smoother, less sudden.

Heated grips(!) marginally warmer than my '13.

Gearbox perhaps a little improved.

Was not aware of steering damper.

So not really worth upgrading, but Inhave an itch and if the deal is right...I might.