BETTER LATE THAN NEVER
The BMW G 310 R, launched recently after a four-year wait, proves that good things come to motorcyclists who wait
First showcased in 2015, it took a long time for BMW G 310 R to make its debut in the Indian two-wheeler market. For the first time, BMW Motorrad has entered the below 500cc segment and the G 310 R presents a ripe opportunity for the German manufacturer to get good sales figures. Some people may argue that the company is a couple of years too late in bringing the motorcycle into the Indian market, but now that it is here to stay, we took it for a spin on all kinds of city terrain.
Does it tick all the right boxes? Read on to see.
DESIGN The G 310 R is a packed-in machine. Its overall build is apt to deal with the excessive city traffic, so as far as dimensions go, it passes with flying colours. The feeling from the saddle is that of a compact-yet-focussed motorcycle. There are minimal body panels, with most of the plastic bodywork concentrated over the metal fuel tank and the cover that hides the cylinder head and radiator.
Overall, its sharp lines on the tank and edgy design make it a head-turner. If we talk about its ergonomics, its scooped-out seat lets the rider snugly prop themselves on the bike. The wide handlebars and footpegs, which are fitted slightly backwards, put you in the ideal street-fighter riding position. The only drawback was the position of the break leavers, which were a bit too far away. A set of adjustable levers would have been great to take care of that. As far as the quality of materials, as well as fit and finish, is concerned, the G 310 R sets a new standard for all its rivals.
ENGINE Mechanically speaking, the G 310 R has received a 313cc, single-cylinder liquidcooled engine that it shares with the TVS Apache RR 310. But that does not mean they have the same ride quality. The prime difference between the two bikes is that the RR 310 uses an engine control unit (ECU) from Bosch, while the BMW has chosen Magneti Marelli. Both ECUs are in different states of tune as well. They both do make the same 34PS of power but that power peak comes in 200rpm earlier on the G 310 R (9500rpm vs 9700rpm). And there's a slight difference in torque too, which is 28Nm on the BMW and 27.3 on the TVS. Then, while both bikes use the exact same gearbox, they run a different sized sprocket, which means when it comes to the final drive ratio, there's a big difference in both these bikes. Put all this together, and you have a very different experience when you open the throttle.
PERFORMANCE This is one area where the new BMW takes the cake. The coordination between rider input and directional change is almost telepathic and the motorcycle feels nimble, giving it an advantage in city traffic. The G 310 R offers a plush riding experience and the suspension is set slightly on the softer side. Whether broken surfaces, speed breakers or potholes, the BMW G 310 R glides over most of them. Out on the highway, its engine comes alive after 5,500 rpm but, at the same time, acceleration is linear. 0-100kmph comes up in about seven seconds and if you are the kind that likes to cruise between 100-120 kmph, the G 310 R works like a charm. But, beyond that, the motor starts to lose steam along with a slight increase in vibrations felt through the seat and handlebars. As far as fuel economy is concerned, the bike delivers an impressive 30-35 kmpl in the city and around 40 kmpl on the highway.
VERDICT The G 310 R is a very promising bike. A quick and premium 'street-bike' like this is something that all bike-enthusiasts have been waiting for. Furthermore, it comes at a price point of Rs 3.00 lakh (ex-showroom India), which is bang in the middle of its affordable-yet- powerful rival, the KTM Duke 390 (Rs 2.45 lakh) and the perfectly matched, but slightly dominating in terms of power figures, Kawasaki Ninja 300 (Rs 2.98lakh). Overall, the most affordable BMW bike comes packed with stylish features, sharp looks, good ergonomics and decent power output. If these qualities along with a desire to own a BMW motorcycle is what you have longed for, then the G 310 R will keep you happy for long.