(10-26-2021, 06:33 AM)ESquared Wrote: Before I zeroed in on the RS as the "right bike," I did a fair amount of research on the GS line, and there seemed to be general consensus that the rear suspension was subject to wear, tear, water and crud without additional protection.
Are there other options that have worked for anyone?
Sure. There's always the option of doing nothing and saving money.
I might be living dangerously, but I elected to see how the minimal OEM protection worked. So far, no problems with damage to the radiator or rear components.
Though I regularly ride gravel, I try to stay out of the mud, and I try to keep the rear shock clean. I also try to avoid rain and snow, but have not been especially lucky with this bike. On the other hand, no problems with the original shock prior to recent replacement.
(If I owned a GS and rode it as it was meant to be ridden, the story might be different. Reminder, the GS forum includes a lot of guys who take pride in the mud left on their bikes between rides.)
(All that said, I should note that I did install some R&G sliders and OEM head protectors in the first hundred miles (so far, only used once), and I've looked hard at the Wunderlich front fender extender, the R&G radiator shield, and the MaMo rear shield above..., but chose to spend this year's motorcycle allowance on new suspension.)
"A good man always knows his limitations...."