The original platform of the Mana 850 that we first reviewed back in Jan/Feb 2009 has been modified for the GT with a new half-fairing with an adjustable windshield, suspension modifications, and ABS as standard. Our tester was outfitted with optional hard bags and top trunk, so I felt it was my duty to give the bike a real-world test by taking it on a 1,400 mile journey, fully loaded. Here are some extra shots that didn’t make it into the printed story. Read the full tour test review of the Mana GT in our Jan/Feb 2011 issue (on sale Nov. 23rd).
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- The standard, sit-up seating position is comfortable for a long tour, but sporty enough to have fun while doing it.
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- The new GT features an easy to use, tool-less rear shock adjuster knob.
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- The windshield has a small amount of height adjustment available, but you need a screwdriver to change it. I kept it in the middle range..
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- I found some beautiful spots to shoot the Mana GT in Huntsville, Ontario. I was there covering the first ever Intl. Women in Motorcycling Congress and Festival.
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- The Gear Mode button is on the right grip. You have to hold it down for a few seconds to change the mode.
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- The paddle shifter is used with the left thumb and forefinger. Use the thumb to upshift, and the forefinger to downshift.
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- Getting the Mana GT leaned over is both fun and satisfying.
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- The optional bags make the GT a real touring machine.
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- Most people would never know from looking at it, that the Mana has an automatic transmission.
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- Inside the helmet compartment, is a 12-volt socket and a light that is on when the lid is open and the ignition is on.
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- The helmet compartment is handy for things you want to get to quickly. I used it for my sunglasses, camera, toll money, iPod, tinted visor, and more.
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- Because the helmet compartment is plastic, I couldn’t use my magnetic map pouch. So I improvised with baggies and electrical tape, which worked fine.
