New Delhi
2024 BMW G 310 R Road Test Review
Reviews by Team Drivio | 23 Aug 2023
The baby Beemer looks and goes a fair bit better than before.
- The TVS Apache RR 310-borrowed 313cc liquid-cooled engine makes 34PS and 28Nm
- At Rs 2.85 lakh, ex-showroom, the G 310 R recently underwent a massive price cut as well
- That means it’s also the most affordable BMW on sale in India.
The story of the small BMW roadster didn't go as smoothly as expected in India, did it? Despite the G 310 R being likable in many ways, its pricing was too high, taller and larger riders felt a bit squeezed in its riding position, and it lacked some modern features that people wanted. But the biggest problem was the strong vibrations from the engine that took away the joy after a ride.
But now, most of these problems, if not all, are no longer a concern. BMW has introduced the new and improved BS6 version of the G 310 R, addressing these issues.
BMW G 310 R: Design & Features
When it comes to the design, the G 310 R embodies the typical look you'd expect from a BMW-designed motorcycle. It showcases the same LED headlight and turn signals that were initially introduced on the F 900 R. The front appearance is made more aggressive with the striking golden-finished USD fork.
The side view is marked by the prominent 11-liter sculpted fuel tank, the extensions on the tank, and the sizable exhaust. The seat appears long and wide, prioritizing comfort, and it sits at a low height of 785mm.
BMW G 310 R: Engine
| Specifications | BMW G 310 R |
|---|---|
| Engine | 313cc liquid-cooled engine |
| Maximum power | 34PS |
| Maximum torque | 28Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
BMW has been collaborating closely with its Indian partner, TVS, to enhance the refinement of the G 310 siblings. While TVS had previously updated its Apache RR 310 with small enhancements like a slipper clutch, the significant transformation in appeal occurred with the BS6 model. This newer version introduced ride-by-wire technology, updated engine components, and various other improvements. Many of these upgrades have also been incorporated into the G 310 R.
The outcome is noticeable: the once-unpleasant vibrations from the engine have been tamed. Now, it feels incredibly smooth around 4000rpm, and only mild vibrations become noticeable after 6,000rpm. These vibrations are barely noticeable at the handlebars but can be felt at the foot pegs and when gripping the tank.
This improvement is particularly beneficial for cruising on the highway, where you can comfortably sustain speeds of 100-110kmph.
BMW G 310 R: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes
| Specifications | BMW G 310 R |
|---|---|
| Front suspension | Inverted Fork |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock |
| Front tyre | 17-inch alloy |
| Rear tyre | 17-inch alloy |
| Front brake | Disc Brake |
| Rear brake | Disc Brake |
| ABS | Dual-channel ABS |
The G 310 R continues to be one of the most enjoyable bikes to handle. It doesn't require much effort and leans into turns effortlessly. While it might feel a bit intense initially due to its sharp steering response, it becomes even more satisfying as you encounter more corners. The suspension is well-tuned, enabling you to tackle corners with enthusiasm, leaving you with a broad smile beneath your helmet. Even mid-corner bumps don't perturb the bike's composure in the slightest.
BMW G 310 R: Dimensions
| Dimensions | BMW G 310 R |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 1380mm |
| Ground clearance | 165mm |
| Kerb weight | 158.5kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11-litres |
| Seat height | 785mm |
The G 310 R has consistently been praised for its comfortable ride, and this quality endures. BMW has made subtle adjustments to the suspension setup, rendering it slightly firmer now. This has marginally reduced the bike's overall smoothness, but it still maintains a composed demeanor when dealing with uneven road surfaces.
Additionally, the bike no longer exhibits the wobbly sensation it used to have when carrying a passenger. Even with the suspension's softest preload setting, the monoshock remains effective and doesn't bottom out when encountering abrupt bumps.
BMW G 310 R: Price
| Price | BMW G 310 R |
|---|---|
| Ex-showroom Delhi | Rs 2,85,000 |
BMW has priced the G 310 R at a much more sensible Rs 2.85 lakh, ex-showroom Delhi.
Verdict
By reducing the ex-showroom price of the BS6 G 310 R by a significant margin, BMW has made this small roadster much more affordable and within reach for many enthusiastic riders at Rs 2.85 lakh. It has shed its previous image of being a rough and vibration-prone bike.
The engine still offers a lively performance, and its handling is both graceful on corners and composed on uneven roads. The addition of advanced LED technology enhances its appeal, although the monochrome dashboard feels out of place for a bike like the G 310 R in 2020. The choice of tyres also raises concerns.
While it might not match the outright power of the KTM 390 Duke, the G 310 R boasts greater versatility and a clear premium quality that sets it apart from the Austrian naked bike.
