[MattR]

• In 2006, Coller Capital Management acquired 36% equity in GasGas and put in place new management, streamlined costs, etc.. In the process, GasGas eliminated their direct rep in Florida and closed the warehouse, etc., and went with Dixie Sales (who was also importing Husaberg). Barrett Marketing/Dixie Sales took over importing and distribution rights from GGMA. The Gas Gas factory and Dixie Sales eliminated the DE model for 2006 importing the only the EC, MC and FSE/FSR models. The FSE was changed to FSR in 2007. Also in 2007, some EC models were equipped with a Sachs shock and some with Ohlins.
• Dixie Sales import rights were short lived and ended when the company was purchased by Freeplay early in 2007. Freeplay/Dixie sales lost import rights for Husaberg in Summer 2007 (to KTM North America). Freeplay did not see off-road motorcycles as a fit with their environmentally conscious marketing plan, along with the motorcycle division being less profitable than others in their portfolio (they also distribute everything from lawn mowers to Philips TVs), drove them to get out of the motorcycle business completely.
• This left Gas Gas without a distribution point in North America. After a scramble to find a distributor capable of servicing the US market, the current Gas Gas trials importer, and original importer, Gas Gas USA of Kansas City, MO was chosen to import and distribute the enduro bikes in the US market. Enduro parts and warranty service was given to GoFasters Powersports of Ortonville, MN. Trials parts are still handled by Rising Sun Imports.
• In 2008, the EC, MC and FSR are the only Gas Gas enduro motorcycle models imported for the North American market (US/Canada). There are also some dealers still offering a DE version for the US based on customer's request.
• In 2009, GasGas continues to gain in popularity in the North American market. The bikes have received only minor changes since 2007.
• In 2010, GasGas will be releasing both 2T and 4T bikes that have many new upgrades. This will be the most significant model upgrade since 2007. Cosmetically, the bikes have a primarily black color scheme (different from their previous red heritage). They also are getting an improved frame, different suspension on some models, and a new 250cc 4T bike utilizing a Yamaha engine. Good times ahead!!!