Is it really new enough?

IF YOU ARE expecting a radical update for the 2021 BMW G310R, you will be disappointed. All the ‘new’ model gets is a Euro5-compliant motor (which has the same power and torque as before), ride-by-wire throttle, slip-and-assist clutch, LED lights and span-adjustable brake and clutch levers. And new paint (for a £100 premium unless you want black) — that’s it. Does it make any difference to BMW’S A2-legal roadster? Not really...

On the road, the single-cylinder engine feels identical to before, just with a possibly slightly-smoother throttle pick-up. This is no bad thing as the G310R is a brilliant town bike that is light, agile and really easy for nipping through traffic on. And now it stands out more.

In daylight, the new LED headlight is extremely bright, catching other road user’s attention and certainly making the BMW more visible and therefore, hopefully, safer. At night, its illumination is also improved but not by a huge amount, especially on dipped beam which remains lacking. And that’s about all there is to say about the ’21 updates.

The G310R remains a fun and lightweight naked bike whose performance and handling will certainly appeal to A2-licence holders and has the added kudos of the BMW logo on its tank. But has BMW missed an opportunity to make it even better and give buyers a reason to purchase it?

Why opt for the 2021 bike when you can pick up a hardly-used, almostidentical 2020 model for £1500 less? Which is probably why the new bike is on three-year 0% finance.