GasGas introduced two new models to its full-size motocross bike lineup last year with the MC 250F Factory Edition and MC 450F Factory Edition. Back for their second year on the market, the red Austrian special-edition duo feature a list of updates that riders far and wide can appreciate.
A new frame and engine mounts have less material for improved chassis flex, reduced weight, and better handling—namely when entering corners. The WP Xact shock’s linkage features lower friction seals and a new bolt, while the WP Xact 48mm closed-cartridge air fork is spec’d with revised settings to suit the new chassis and linkage.
Other new items in the chassis department include a smaller fuel tank that’s exclusive to the Austrian brand’s Factory Edition models. GasGas reduced capacity to save weight and allow air to flow more freely through the radiators for improved cooling. A stronger rear brake pedal, Dunlop Geomax MX34 tires, and dual-material frame protection kit are additional updates for 2024. Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/GasGas Factory Racing replica graphics are different as well and wrap further around edges of the bodywork thanks to a new in-mold technology application process.
Related: 2023 GasGas MC 250F Factory Edition First Ride Review
A redesigned front fender houses the new GPS sensor that enables the rider feature on the GasGas+ smartphone application to work with the Connectivity Unit Offroad (CUO) mounted on the fork leg behind the front number plate. CUO gives users the ability to choose between predefined engine maps based on track type and conditions, or to create a map from scratch using an advanced mode. Engine features that can be adjusted include engine-braking, throttle response, traction control (TC), launch control, and quickshifter (QS) sensitivity.
The GasGas+ app also has a suspension feature with two main functions. Sag assistance helps find the correct sag for each individual bike with the machine on a stand and bike with rider aboard to help set it. Suspension setting section assists in creating multiple personalized suspension setups after riders input their weight with riding gear on, and track type and conditions. After riders select their skill level (basic, advanced, or pro) and track terrain (sand, soft, medium, or hard), the app shows recommended settings that can be fine-tuned and saved.
Yet another facet of the app has to do with the rider. Powered by LitPro, it receives data from the CUO and GPS so track sessions can be recorded and downloaded into the app for details such as lap, section, air time, and corner analysis. Engine data can be viewed at the same time with up to 15 values selectable including engine rpm, gear position, throttle position, map switch mode, and more. Once downloaded, riders can analyze their performance, compare laps, and compete with others on a virtual leaderboard. The rider feature is only available as an annual subscription, and a four-week trial period is offered for those who want to try before they buy. After that, the price starts at $69.99 per year in the Apple and Google app stores.
Like last year, the MC 250F Factory Edition and MC 450F Factory Edition are equipped with many items from GasGas’ Technical Accessories catalog including an Akrapovič Slip-On Line titanium muffler, Factory Racing wheels with D.I.D DirtStar rims laced to red anodized hubs, CNC-machined triple clamps with two offset options, a carbon composite skid plate, Hinson Racing Billetproof clutch cover, ribbed seat cover, semi-floating front brake disc, carbon composite front brake disc guard, WP holeshot device, gold chain, and gray ODI lock-on grips.
Other differences both bikes feature over their standard-model counterparts are a map select switch with two riding modes (mellow and aggressive), TC, launch control, and QS, along with a black Neken handlebar and black rear sprocket. Also, unlike the regular MC 450F, the larger-displacement Factory Edition’s header pipe features a resonance chamber. It also comes with No. 51 decals for those who want their bike to look even more like Justin Barcia’s.
The 2024 GasGas MC 250F Factory Edition costs $11,349, while the 2024 GasGas MC 250F Factory Edition rings in at $12,449. Both will be available on dealership floors in February 2024.