GasGas has just added two new dual sport models to their 2024 lineup ― the ES 350 and ES 500. Both machines join the previously released ES 700, continuing what the Enduro-focused brand says is their modern-era expansion into the world of street motorcycles. Not surprisingly, the new ES dual sport models share many of the features of their newly-reworked KTM/Husqvarna siblings. So what is different? First, let’s take a look at what you get.

Engine

Both 4-stroke models feature a 42mm Keihin throttle body connected directly to the throttle cable, without using a linkage, as it guarantees a more instant response from the motor. 

The 350cc 4-stroke is completely new for 2024 with Diamond-like Carbon coated finger followers improving durability, and titanium exhaust valves improving performance. The cylinder head on the 500cc doesn’t go untouched either and it is lighter, more compact, and complete with revised intake ports to boost horsepower.

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The forged, bridged-box-type CP piston and the cylinder on each bike are professionally engineered from high quality aluminum to create great power without sacrificing reliability. Specifically positioned inside each 4-stroke motor, the crankshaft helps centralize oscillating masses for easy handling. Moreover, GasGas states that a plain big end bearing with force-fitted bearing shells increases service intervals, ensuring durability and the best possible performance.

The ES 350 and ES 500 are equipped with crankcases engineered to be thin and made using a high-pressure die casting process. Notably, they position all the major components inside the motor to centralize mass.

Complementing the engine, the gearbox features a 6-speed transmission made by PANKL Racing Systems. A sensor engages a specific engine map for each gear, delivering the best possible power in every situation. And to make sure you never miss a shift, the gear lever prevents dirt from building up around the tip.

According to GasGas, the Braktec hydraulic clutch system in both new ES models provides even wear, near maintenance-free operation, and perfect action —- even in the toughest of enduro conditions. It’s also extremely light, which means less fatigue, especially through technical sections. Free play is constantly adjusted to ensure the biting point never changes.

Using a Lithium-Ion battery, which weighs approx. 2.2 lb (1 kg) less than a conventional lead battery, the new ES models offer the convenience of electric starting while also keeping overall bike weight to a minimum. Additionally, the engine stop button is in the same switch with the start button to free up some space on the handlebars.

Exhaust System

Designed to be compact and fit neatly around the motor to prevent it from getting damaged, the header pipe connects to a short aluminum silencer, which keeps noise levels well within the FIM’s regulations. The aluminum mufflers also feature an advanced internal construction for excellent noise damping and weight saving.

Frame & Subframe

Ensuring straight-line stability and nimble handling, the frame of both new ES models benefits from optimal wall thickness to help with absorbing energy. In addition, the chassis is designed with anti-squat behavior, enhancing traction on extreme inclines and powering out of corners.. 

Taking charge at the rear of the main frame is a lightweight subframe. Strong and light at just 1,200 grams, the new aluminum subframe helps to centralize mass, which plays a huge part in the models playful and agile handling. As with other GasGas models, the frames are finished with a vibrant red powder coating and a set of grippy guards, which protect them from boot wear.

Suspension 

The ES 350 and ES 500 benefit from the tried and tested WP XPLOR Open Cartridge forks delivering 300 mm of suspension travel and featuring a mid-valve piston concept that optimizes oil flow within the cartridge for consistent damping. Fork protection rings also provide protection against dirt intrusion. 

Out back, the WP XACT rear shock also offers 300 mm of suspension travel. Optimal oil flow offers great supple action while the piston keeps the shock higher in the stroke for improved initial comfort. Just like the forks, the shock is fully adjustable by hand, which means whenever you come to a standstill, setting changes can be made quickly and easily, says GasGas.

Wheels & Brakes

The silver, CNC machined hubs, lightweight spokes, and high-strength EXCEL are equipped with Continental TKC 80 tires. High performance Braktec calipers and discs are fitted front and rear featuring a 260mm front disc with a 220mm disc at the rear. 

Swingarm & Footpegs

Cast from one piece of aluminum, the swingarm is lighter and stiffer compared to older GasGas enduro models further enhancing overall handling. A strong chain guide is designed with a rounder profile so when you’re negotiating gnarly ruts you can easily maintain momentum. The new models also benefit from clear chain adjustment markings and a 22mm rear wheel axle. 

Both models also feature sizeable platform footpegs for better control. Plus, thanks to a new mounting design, they’re further inward on the frame, which makes them less prone to catching deep ruts.

Headlight

Designed so that the headlight and mask are two separate parts, it’s easy to remove and replace either component should they get damaged thanks to the quick release system. When compared to the old headlight used in previous GasGas enduro bikes, the output of the new version is increased by 300%.

Fuel Tank

Made from transparent polyethylene, riders can easily see how much fuel is inside the 2.37-gallons (9-liters) tank with a threaded filler cap providing a secure and reliable seal. The new models are also equipped with an integrated fuel pump allowing the tank to be emptied further before refueling is needed.

Airbox & AirFilter

To change the air filter, simply whip off the side cover, release the tab, and the air filter is released. Remove the dirty filter from the cage, install a clean, oiled one, and re-install on the bike using the fail-proof mounting system. Fit the side cover and that’s it.

Handlebar

Medium compound, lockon ODI grips are fitted to tapered Nekken handlebars, which are installed into new bar mounts designed to prevent twisting in a crash. Topping things off, a bigger bar pad is there should things get a little wild.

Electronics

The ES 350 and ES 500 feature an Engine Management System (EMS) that keeps things running smoothly. By constantly optimizing what the motor is doing at all times, you can focus on the trail ahead. As crashes are part and parcel of riding offroad, there’s a rollover sensor, which stops the motor if the bike goes upside down.

Simplifying everything electrical, an Offroad Control Unit under the seat replaces nearly all the relays and fuses found in other previous GasGas enduro bikes. In the event that an electrical component on the bike registers a problem, a corresponding LED changes from green to red allowing the rider to quickly diagnose the issue.

GasGas/KTM/Husky Model Differences

Back in May, KTM introduced the next-generation 350 and 500 EXC-F models. Now that the KTM-owned GasGas brand has announced the addition of the same engine capacity dual sports to their 2024 lineup, do you get anything different if you go red, white or orange? ADV Pulse reached out to KTM to find out. Let’s take a look.

First up, the new ES models get the latest chassis that KTM and Husqvarna received for 2024 but the suspension settings are custom to GasGas. The KTM and Husqvarna machines have closed-cartridge WP 48mm forks while the GasGas bikes use the Open Cartridge version of the Xplor. Moreover, the new GasGas models use a linkage-style rear suspension with an XACT monoshock like the Husky, whereas the KTM uses a PDS XACT rear shock. 

As for power, engines are tuned the same for GasGas, KTM and Husqvarna models as they share emissions homologation. However, there are some differences in the gearing. Also, GasGas has an aluminum subframe and its own bodywork, while the Husqvarna dual sports use a Carbon fiber reinforced polyamide subframe and the KTM uses an aluminum reinforced polyamide subframe. Both bikes are about 3-4 pounds heavier than their KTM siblings and the GasGas machines carry slightly more fuel. 

Prices have yet to be announced but the GasGas enduro models are usually a fair bit cheaper than either of their KTM or Husqvarna counterparts. Find more details on the ES 350 and ES 500 dual sport models on the GasGas website.

GasGas ES 350 & ES 500 Specs

	ES 350	ES 500
Engine type	Single cylinder, 4-stroke	Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement	349.7 cc	510.9 cc
Bore/stroke	88/57.5 mm	95/72 mm
Compression ratio	13.7:1	12.75:1
Starter/battery	Electric starter /  Lithium Ion 12.8V 2Ah	Electric starter /  Lithium Ion 12.8V 2Ah
Transmission	6 gears	6 gears
Fuel system	Keihin EFI, throttle body 42 mm	Keihin EFI, throttle body 42 mm
Control	4 V / DOHC with finger followers	4 V / OHC with rocker levers
Lubrication	Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps	Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps
Gear ratios	13:33 16:30 18:26 22:26 23:23 26:22	13:33 16:30 18:26 22:26 23:23 26:22
Primary ratio	24:72	29:72
Final drive	14/46	14/48
Cooling	Liquid cooling	Liquid cooling
Clutch	DDS wet multi-disc clutch, BRAKTEC hydraulics	DDS wet multi-disc clutch,BRAKTEC hydraulics
Ignition	Keihin EMS	Keihin EMS
Frame	Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4	Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4
Subframe	Aluminum	Aluminum
Handlebar	Neken, aluminum Ø 28/22 mm	Neken, aluminum Ø 28/22 mm
Front suspension	WP USD XPLOR (Open Cartridge) 48mm	WP USD XPLOR (Open Cartridge) 48mm
Rear suspension	WP XACT-Monoshock with linkage	WP XACT-Monoshock with linkage
Suspension travel front/rear	300/300 mm	300/300 mm
Front/rear brakes	BRAKTEC Disc brake Ø 260/220 mm	BRAKTEC Disc brake Ø 260/220 mm
Front/rear rims	1.60 x 21”; 2.15 x 18” Giant	1.60 x 21”; 2.15 x 18” Giant
Front/rear tires	90/90-21”; 120/90-18” Continental TKC 80	90/90-21”; 120/90-18” Continental TKC 80
Chain	X-Ring 520	X-Ring 520
Silencer	Aluminum	Aluminum
Steering head angle	26.1°	26.1°
Triple clamp offset	22 mm	22 mm
Wheel base	1,489 ± 10 mm / 58.6 ± 0.4 in	1,489 ± 10 mm / 58.6 ± 0.4 in
Ground clearance	343 mm / 13.5 in	360 mm / 14.2 in
Seat height	956 mm / 37.6 in	956 mm / 37.6 in
Tank capacity, approx.	9.0 l / 2.37 gal	9.0 l / 2.37 gal
Competition weight:(without fuel)	115.2 kg / 253.9 lbs	116.4 kg / 256.6 lbs