I am returning to the GS world soon. As normal I have been researching the various years and models on offer. Would it be true in stating the early to 2016 models had a clunk into first gear issue (not terminal), and the 2017 models are improved on this ? My previous model was from 2007. Any advice would be gratefully received
Gearbox Clunk
- Thread starter Panmanuk
- Start date
2017 model definitely has a smoother, slicker and quieter change
Wet clutch bikes from all manufacturers tend to 'clonk' into first gear. The older dry, car type clutches tend not too. My 2021 1250GS clonks into first.
J biker
Registered user
2017 bikes had a modification which reduced the clunky change. My 2017 Rallye was miles better than an earlier 2014. Gearshift assist worked well, if on the gas and in the right part of the revs (as per all quickshifters…)
Now on a 1250 and that is better again.
Having ridden an old 1150 GSA, and owned a 2014, a 2017 and now a 2022 GS, it would be fair to say they just get better with each major reveision. I would not want anything pre-2017. Though there will no doubt be wails of ‘ paint, finish, quality and bs’. Ignore them. The later bikes are way better.
Now on a 1250 and that is better again.
Having ridden an old 1150 GSA, and owned a 2014, a 2017 and now a 2022 GS, it would be fair to say they just get better with each major reveision. I would not want anything pre-2017. Though there will no doubt be wails of ‘ paint, finish, quality and bs’. Ignore them. The later bikes are way better.
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Thanks Neil, looking on the various forum sites this seems to be the case.
Hi, thanks for your reply. I've been to my local dealer, the clonk on the 2017 and up bikes seems to be less than the earlier ones. Don't mind a nice clonk, i own five vintage Harleys !
Regards, Ole
Regards, Ole
The gearboxes get better as the bikes get younger. My 2019 1250 requires some TLC from 2nd-3rd if one changes at low revs. On Saturday I demo'd a 2023 and did not have to think about revs once when changing up. The down-shifts on the quick shifter are better too.
Put some earplugs in and the clunks magically disappear ( except 1st) ;
It is sound only … try it and surprise yourself
It is sound only … try it and surprise yourself
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