BMW G 310 R

BMW G310R

The BMW G310R offers a premium motorcycling experience at a more attainable price point. Does it tick all the right boxes? 

How’s the design? 

The latest version of the BMW G310R comes with a redesigned front fascia with a more contemporary headlamp cluster and LED lighting. There is a daytime running light (DRL) too for the bike while there are four-point adjustable levers, brakes and clutch. There is a new paint theme while the tail lights also get LEDs along with the turn indicators. The exhaust is quite similar to the one seen in the TVS Apache RR310. The bike looks and feels bigger than it actually is. 

How is the performance? 

The BMW G310R has a 313 cc DOHC liquid cooled engine that makes 34 hp and 28 Nm of maximum torque. The engine is also paired to a 6-speed transmission system along with a slipper clutch. There is automatic idle boost for the engine and it sounds a little off-key at the beginning. There is ample refinement though although vibrations do come into the picture when you get to 5,000 RPM or so. This engine does not stall suddenly like the earlier model so that is another improvement that BMW has successfully ensured. It also has a punch mid-range and bottom-line which helps while riding amidst congested city traffic at higher gears. The top speed of 148 kmph is decent for a bike in this category. 

How does the BMW G310R ride? 

The BMW G310R offers a somewhat uncomfortable shifting experience. Getting neutral in traffic is sometimes difficult and the gearbox does not like being pushed. Downshifting also requires some attention and effort form the rider. The bike however comes with decent ground clearance and there are good Michelin tyres which need to run for some time before showing their quality. You can easily get into corners with good low-speed ride and handling as well. The pre-load adjustable rear monoshock and front USD forks get the job done. They are slightly softer and are completely silent as well. 

How comfortable is the BMW G310R? 

The BMW G310R offers reasonable comfort with its dual-channel ABS and softer suspension system. There is good heat management and the pillion rider will be adequately comfortable over moderate distances as well. Yet, the hardness of the seat will eventually make its presence felt while covering longer distances. 

How’s the tech? 

The BMW G310R gets dual-channel ABS along with an LCD instrument console. There is a lot of information here as well. However, it does not get navigation features. 

How’s the mileage of the BMW G310R? 

The BMW G310R offers approximately 31 kmpl in terms of its mileage. 

Is the BMW G310R good value for money? 

Owning the BMW G310R at this price point seems to be a value proposition from most angles. However, the bike still has a few issues including the seat hardness, the sluggish gearbox, and the lack of more features. Yet, it still makes for a value buy. 

How is the after sales service? 

The service intervals are 1,000 km, 10,000 km, 20,000 km and 30,000 km. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

The BMW G310R takes on the likes of the TVS Apache RR310, its own stable mate and also the KTM 390 Duke along with the Royal Interceptor 650. At this price point, even the KTM 250 Duke comes into the picture. The bikes all get liquid cooled and single cylinder engines while the Interceptor 650 has a different engine type. They all have slipper clutch and six-speed gearboxes while ride-by-wire is only available for the KTM 390 Duke and the BMW G310R. The KTM 390 Duke outperforms the BMW G310R as well. It also gets the most features. While the rivals are quite impressive in their own merit, the BMW G310R will still be a value proposition for Indian buyers with its full package. 

Verdict (Value for Money)

The BMW G310R should be a value buy at this price point. It does not get as many features as you want and there are still some aspects to be smoothened out in terms of its riding manners. However, going by the design, appeal, and brand value, it should keep ticking most boxes for Indian buyers for a long time to come.