With the surge in adventure motorcycle popularity worldwide, the German automotive powerhouse, BMW, has decided to venture into the entry-level adventure-touring segment with its G 310 GS. Here's an in-depth analysis of the German marque's smallest GS-branded motorcycle, yet its heart is full of unadulterated adventurous spirit.
Design and Appearance
The G 310 GS is a stunning motorbike, mirroring BMW’s design philosophy. Its aesthetic appeal is enhanced by its sporty look and bold colour schemes—Racing Red non-metallic, Pearl White metallic and Cosmic Black one. The high-placed front fender, protective cowl, and LED tail light add to the GS appeal. The bike also comes equipped with a handy luggage carrier, perfect for those long trips.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of this adventure bike is a water-cooled, 313cc, four-stroke single-cylinder engine, producing a maximum power output of 34 bhp at 9500 rpm and a peak torque of 28 Nm at 7500 rpm. With the DOHC and 2-valves setup, the engine provides smooth power delivery for highway cruising and city rides.
The 6-speed synchromesh transmission is precise and offers a smooth shifting experience, with a gear shift pattern of 1-N-2-3-4-5-6. Despite being an entry-level tourer, the G 310 GS does not disappoint in terms of top speed, clocking in at an impressive 143 kmph.
Ride and Handling
Built around a robust tubular spaceframe, the G 310 GS provides the right balance between rigidity and agility. The suspension setup is competent, with an Upside-Down fork in the front and a drawn die-cast aluminium swinging arm at the rear, both providing 180mm of travel, making the ride comfortable on all types of terrain.
Both front and rear wheels are adorned with disc brakes, offering enough stopping power with ABS for added safety. The bike also comes with switchable ABS, providing the rider with the flexibility to turn it off during off-road excursions.
Efficiency and Practicality
For an adventure tourer, the BMW G 310 GS offers a decent fuel efficiency of 30 km per litre under standard test conditions. The 11-litre fuel tank, coupled with a 1-litre reserve, ensures a fair range between fuel stops.
Verdict
Priced at Rs. 3,49,000 ex-showroom Delhi, the BMW G 310 GS, while being a bit pricier than its competitors, delivers a comprehensive package of performance, comfort, and safety. It serves as a great entry-level motorcycle for those who wish to explore the realm of adventure touring without compromising on the thrill of a powerful engine.
From daily commutes to weekend getaways, this compact yet powerful tourer is up for it all. With BMW's solid after-sales service and maintenance network, the G 310 GS is a viable option for both new and experienced riders looking for a blend of adventure and practicality.
Despite its smaller displacement, the BMW G 310 GS stands true to the GS badge, offering an engaging and adventurous motorcycling experience that can confidently tackle both city streets and off-road trails.