BMW G 310 R Flat-Tracker Unveiled in Japan

Japanese custom builder Takashi Nihira has built a custom flat-tracker based on the lightweight BMW G 310 R. Built at Nihira's Tokyo workshop called Wedge, the BMW G 310 R flat-tracker is commissioned directly by BMW Motorrad Japan, and without a concrete brief.

"I felt a different kind of pressure," said Takashi. "Usually, an owner exists. To a certain degree, I know the direction of the custom bike based on the owner's tastes and riding style. But this was difficult because I had too much freedom."

(BMW G 310 R custom flat-tracker)

Before setting up Wedge, Nihira used to work at a car dealership, as a mechanic, painter and metal shaper. No wonder then, he's hands on with every aspect of such a custom build. And the result is stunning.

The rear end of the bike has been completely transformed, with a new subframe, a new swingarm and suspension setup. The original linkage has been used, but the shock has been positioned right under the fuel tank. With a unique back-to-front engine layout, there were challenges to be faced.

(New subframe, new swingarm and suspension setup)

"At first, the space between the rear suspension and exhaust pipe was very limited. So I planned on moving the rear suspension to the side of the frame. But after starting the customization process, I unintentionally put the rear suspension on top of the engine, and the balance was perfect," Takashi said.

(BMW G 310 R custom flat-tracker)

The bodywork has been fabricated out of aluminium and the new exhaust system is custom made too. It's made of stainless steel and loops around the swingarm with a high position exit. The 41mm USD forks and brake calipers have been kept stock, while the standard 17-inch wheels have been replaced by 19-inch wheels. The airbox has been replaced by a K&N filter and the battery replaced by a smaller unit. In all, this is one build which certainly gives the G 310 R a unique personality.

BMW Motorrad has already announced the G 310 GS, which was unveiled at the EICMA show. And now this one-off custom build based on the G 310 R. Jointly built by TVS Motor Company and BMW Motorrad at the Hosur-based TVS factory, the BMW G 310 R will be launched in India in the first quarter of 2017.