BMW G 310 GS – a copy of the previous G310R or something new?
The G 310 GS motorcycle is based on the compact BMW G310R.
Assessing the success of the previous small crossover, the Bavarian manufacturer has developed another small naked car - the BMW G310GS. Unlike its brother, the new model has completely different plastic, as well as modified elements of attachments. And, despite the similarity of the space frame with the engine, even more motorcycle enthusiasts prefer to buy the BMW G310GS due to its advantages.
Features that literally make you buy the BMW G310GS
If the best-selling BMW G 310R, despite its small dimensions, had a spacious seat, then its successor GS has even more space! The seat height here has reached 835 mm, the steering wheel has become even wider, and the footrests have become ergonomic. The high and comfortable seating position of the G 310 GS is comfortable for the driver while driving, and also allows him to look even more impressive and confident!
The wheelbase of the BMW G 310 GS has been increased. The energy intensity of the suspension has also been improved, so that even the worst road surface remains unnoticed by the driver.
It is worth noting that the BMW G 310 GS feels great both within the city and in the countryside. The 19-inch “off-road” front wheel with a universal tire copes well with any off-road conditions. That is why, if you need to go off the road onto a winding forest path, you will not even have any doubts that you can do it. Let's add that the rear, also cast aluminum, wheel has a 17-inch disc.
A few words about the technical characteristics of the G 310 GS
The engine of the new BMW G 310 GS is similar to that of the G 310R. It's fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-valve, dual overhead camshaft, wet-sump lubrication, and still displacing the same 313cc. cm.
The power of 34 horsepower, just like that of its brother, gives the model dynamics, although it does not make your palms sweat. The six-speed cam gearbox integrated into the engine housing, combined with a mechanically operated clutch system, ensures subtle transitions between gears, further enhancing driving comfort.
According to the manufacturer, the target audience of the BMW G310GS is novice motorcyclists who are familiar with the features of driving such a vehicle and at the same time appreciate high quality, safety and comfort.
As mentioned earlier, buying a BMW G310GS means buying a motorcycle that copes well with off-road conditions. In turn, this feature significantly expands the scope of operation.
With such a unit you will feel confident and impressive, and the budget price will allow you to get even more pleasure from your purchase!
BMW G310 GS The moment of truth. The first departure... absolutely. Expectations and feelings. There will be enough words, but you can’t remove them from the song. I, like most guys over 40, came to the motorcycle consciously, without unnecessary snot and the desire to prove something to someone else. Rather, on the contrary, the men’s “minimum” program has been fulfilled: the house has been built (and even sold, the tree remains there), the children are growing up, a dog is included, a couple of cars are in the parking lot for myself and my wife. Someone will say nonsense, but for me it’s a return to those youthful, slightly forgotten emotions. The one where there were “Macaques” and “Simpsons” (originally from the GDR), grandfathers’ Ural with a stroller and a neighbor’s Java, like the crown of two-wheeled desires. I won’t say that I let go of the moto topic, I was just nearby with half an eye: magazines, the Internet, but in my heart I no longer believed that I would return. The little gosling sunk into my soul as soon as I saw the first reviews. Tourenduro is a blatant topic for me, adult Geese are completely out of space. Last year I went to the local BMW dealer for a fitting, although in my head I figured that I needed to start not from a new one, but somewhere in the vast expanses of used-Japan up to 600 cc. I still remember the manager who immediately stated that Bolt himself, now deceased, condescended to try on a microgoose and was very pleased with it. Having sat on horseback, I noted that he was definitely my size (height 173, weight 78-80), and he was a good-looking bastard. In general, the topic has gone. I realized for sure that a new one costs 380, but a one-year-old one with minimal mileage is just right. Then I began to politely encourage my wife that it was time for my dreams to come true, and not just for Gazprom. And in general, just buying it yourself is not our method, but converting to your faith, and even inducing your spouse to pay, as gratitude for the years lived together, is a completely different matter... And I even joined the corresponding group in VKontakte, without having a motorcycle. In short, when I woke up on a Saturday morning in February of this year, I saw an advertisement for the sale of the desired copy in my hometown and from a friend “from our backyard.” One owner, mileage 4000 thousand, not owned, not involved, well-groomed... No one flinched, especially the children. Everything else is in a fog. Last week in Stavropol +22, the first outing after a break of 20 years. I agree with many who spoke about the BMW G310GS. If you do not form high expectations for him, then he will surprise rather than disappoint. Lightweight and maneuverable, it will forgive a beginner a lot. It will make an experienced person smile, but again for pleasure, and not as condescension. 175 kg of weight for 34 horses does not excite the blood, but from 7 seconds, according to the sensations and the passport, it leaves, categorically does not like the bottom, and is fervently lucky at the top. 6 speeds with a very light clutch is also a plus. The sound at first seems disgusting (it’s a single-barreled 310cc gun, however), but then you understand and forgive everything. A couple of laps were enough for my body to remember the mechanics of the process, then straight into the busy city traffic. And again, all the usability: visibility and lane changes, speed bumps - no problems (suspension travel is almost like that of adults - 180). More like freedom outside the city. In our surroundings there are excellent serpentines with picturesque pictures. 140 according to the passport is guaranteed, but a comfortable 110-120 is his cruising range. Wind protection is moderate, vibration, oddly enough, is not bothersome (we keep 310×1 in mind). I will definitely note the stability in a straight line and the reserve on the chassis on heels. Very worthy for a baby. The brakes are flawless, I liked the stock tires better. The icing on the cake is attention to detail. The 310GS may be Indian, but its German roots are obvious: all the plastic, the remote controls on the steering wheel, the buttons and levers are definitely neater than other famous Japanese ones. Let me summarize: the goose gets a pass. I won’t even guess how many seasons it will last. A long and happy future awaits him in our family - his wife is going to study for a degree, and then we’ll see. An adept, he is an adept, we will persuade him to do more. Beaver everyone, take care of yourselves!
Buying a G 310 GS from official BMW dealers in Krasnoyarsk
At the official BMW dealership in Krasnoyarsk, ElitAvto, the model in question is offered in three colors:
- red-gray;
- black and gray;
- blue-white-gray.
Each option allows you to focus on different parts of the body and characteristics of the BMW G 310 GS. Red, for example, makes the image somewhat aggressive and more daring. Black gives elegance and luxury, while blue and white emphasize the sporty character of the BMW.
Here, in , the cost of the new G 310 GS starts from only 385,000 rubles. By the way, the fuel consumption of the motorcycle is only 3.3 liters for every 100 km (while maintaining a speed of 90 kilometers per hour). That is why choosing the G 310 GS is practical and profitable, even in terms of further fuel costs!
Come to the official dealership to meet and buy a BMW G310GS in person. You can be sure that such a motorcycle will not leave you indifferent and will allow you to appreciate all the delights of traveling on a two-wheeled, compact and maneuverable motorcycle!
The smallest “goose” BMW G310GS: formed opinion after 8 months of operation
Translation of an article by John Milbank, editor of Bennetts BikeSocial, member of the International Association of Automobile Theft Investigators and the Motorcycle Crime Reduction Group.
The author of the material has more than 20 years of driving experience
Mileage cutoffs for two mopeds in this review: 3680 km and 2225 km
Brief parameters of the device in question
Power: 34 hp Torque: 28 Nm Weight: 169.5 kg. Price: 5,100 pounds sterling (about 535,000 rubles)
The BMW G310GS is constantly criticized. Firstly, the motorcycle was made in India (this is true; it turns out that this fact is really upsetting to some). Secondly, many riders report strong vibration (probably because I always ride alone - I didn’t notice this). Thirdly, it is often called too slow (it gets along well on UK country roads and motorways). And finally, they say that the 310 “caterpillar” is not worthy of bearing the “GS” (Gelände/Straße - off-road/road) index in its name, which BMW has worn since the release of the R80 G/S in the distant 1980s.
Is the BMW G 310 GS GS name ?
I sincerely believe that yes. I wouldn’t call myself an experienced off-road rider, but sometimes I like to go off-road. I recently sold my KTM 1050 Adventure - the bike itself is great, but the off-road features seemed useless to me: it was too heavy.
I can say the same for the mighty R1200GS/R1250GS goose - even though I've learned how to handle it effectively on pavement, I know that if I slip or drop the bike off-road, it'll be up to me to lift its 249 kilograms of weight. It won’t be easy, and repairs will cost you money.
The G310GS has a curb weight of just 169.5kg, so returning it to an upright position is a breeze. And, as I know from experience, a fall will not cause serious damage.
I will give the opinion of John Mitchinson, owner of Rally Raid Products in Northamptonshire. Despite his status as an experienced enduro rider, he likes the baby GS for its light weight. But John also understands that the motorcycle can and should be improved, so his company produces upgraded suspension, spoked wheels and other useful accessories for the GS.
Experienced off-road riders will notice that the G310GS's soft, relatively bouncy suspension isn't up to par - and that's a valid point. But ask a simple person like me, who enjoys riding on rural roads, and I will answer that she is fine. Although, in fairness, it is worth noting that I tried a modified version of Rally Raid - and the difference was significant. But I like the idea of going the full bike owner route - enjoying the bike as is until you reach the limits of the suspension. When (or if) this happens, you can start thinking about Rally Raid upgrades and you'll have a superbly tuned bike.
Is the BMW G 310 GS an adventure motorcycle?
Of course, yes—unless you associate the word “adventure” with driving long distances across several countries on highways.
My idea of off-road riding is simple: take half a day on the weekend to explore new trails and country roads, or take a short trip along the back roads through France to Spain. “Gosling” copes with both options perfectly.
For other riders, “adventure” may mean exploring the depths of eastern countries, overcoming difficult trails and spending the night in a tent. In this case, they will have to carry with them everything they need for such a trip for several months. Honestly, this is beyond my capabilities for the foreseeable future. And although the G310GS is quite suitable for this, motorcycles with a larger cubic capacity are more suitable for such purposes. Having bought a Royal Enfield Himalayan around the world, Nathan Millward is proud of his bike - not least because of its ability to carry a lot of luggage: he can literally strap bags around it, not to mention the fact that it comes with panniers.
The Mini GS is designed to only use the top case and nothing more, but that suited me just fine; I installed a Givi luggage rack on it and with my overloaded 52 liter Trekker pannier I had no problems when taxiing. Exactly the same as with the Moto Fizz Camping bag, strapped to the tail instead of the central case, even with the latter weighing 29 kg. The little gosling coped with all his tasks perfectly.
the BMW G 310 GS perform as a daily bike?
Its light weight and excellent maneuverability make it indispensable in the city - you can easily avoid traffic jams. I installed a Givi luggage rack, as well as Barkbusters hand guards (for extra protection as well as wind protection) and R&G crash bars.
There is enough space under the seat to attach straps for additional luggage and accommodate a wheel lock. Although I did not install any additional electronic accessories (except for the TomTom Rider navigator), the generator is quite capable of powering them.
To make sure of this, I connected Oxford heated grips (about 3 amps), Keis heated jacket (5.4 amps) and Keis heated pants (2.9 amps); At idle with a full additional load of 11.3 amps, the battery voltage dropped from 14.6 to 13.6 volts. A little more revolutions - and it rose again to 14.3 volts. When the heated steering grips were turned off, the generator, even at idle, supplied 14.4 volts to the battery: accordingly, when all accessories are turned on at the same time, the “caterpillar” will be able to maintain the level necessary for the battery to be fully charged while driving.
Is the engine power of the G 310 GS ?
It all depends on what you are going to do with it. Commuting to work every day, driving along country roads and accelerating on British motorways at up to 130 kilometers per hour - it copes with this with a bang; but take a passenger plus luggage and you'll want a more powerful motorcycle.
The specific engine power is 0.2 hp/kg; for comparison, the power of the R1250GS is 0.5 hp/kg. Conclusion: you need power - prepare your money. If you're interested in a car comparison, the BMW 318i Sedan produces 0.09 hp/kg. The 3.0-liter M3 is about the same as the G310GS. But there's certainly something to brag about here - the M3 also produces 0.4 Nm per kilogram, compared to the 310's 0.1 Nm (the R1250GS produces 0.5 Nm per kilogram).
G 310 GS engine really vibrate?
Several journalists (whom I have great respect for) have said that the BMW has a vibrating engine, but I disagree - of course you feel the vibration, but it is a single-cylinder! This never caused me any discomfort, and even with the rubber footpeg spacers removed, I didn't feel any vibration through them or through the handlebars or seat when riding off-road.
However, the vibration is really noticeable in the mirrors, and while objects behind are easy to see, details are harder to discern (for example, the word "police"). The motorcycle “growls” is also not so beautiful, with asthmatic sighs (the sound is much better with the Scorpion muffler from Rally Raid).
The plastic of the body, although durable and well-made (it was the work on it that led to the delay in the launch of the motorcycle for sale), rattles at times; It definitely doesn't help the budget (for BMW) image.
Worst of all, the clutch makes an unpleasant clunking sound when shifting at high revs, like when you've finally pulled out of weaving between cars in traffic. Adam Mitchinson, who finished the Australian APC Rally this year in "three hundred and tenth", noted that over time the sound disappeared. My bike has only traveled 2225 km, and the previous one - almost 3700 km, but the noise on both bikes remains.
Does the G 310 GS problems or malfunctions?
So, why did I end up with two identical tracks, and also - what makes maintaining the motorcycle much more difficult?
Last June, I rolled the gosling out of the garage with the intention of servicing it. I left the bike on the kickstand and went back to the garage to get my tools. Hearing a crash, I found the motorcycle lying on the ground: the bracket holding the side stand had broken in half, causing the bike to fall on its side.
My kickstand gave in a few days before the recall was announced...
Since the bracket is part of the frame, everything will have to be completely disassembled.
The problem was recently discovered and repairs will take time. A reinforcing element that can be installed on motorcycles that were manufactured before the manufacturer changed the frame design has already been developed, but many customers are faced with the need to completely replace the frame due to signs of premature corrosion and destruction (this is where Indian “quality” comes from). I was lucky that my BMW dealer had a second bike in stock, which they provided as a replacement for the first without question.
At first, the manufacturer justified itself by claiming that the root of the problem was that people stood on the motorcycle pegs with all their weight when the pegs were extended - but I didn’t do that. And, to be honest, I expected that any bike (especially the adventure class) should withstand this.
If a crack occurs or the bracket breaks off completely, like mine did, a new frame will be needed.
There were also comments on thematic forums of owners about problems with the water pump seal and starter. But they passed me by. I was faced with a leaking output shaft seal - the first sign was a drop of oil hanging on the sight glass, and I soon tracked it down to the front sprocket. The leak is not critical, but the seal needs to be replaced - Balderston BMW in Peterborough assures me that this is a relatively simple job, and, again, they will provide me with another bike while the repair is carried out.
The headlight is quite annoying; not me myself - the light is quite bright and has a good spread - but the drivers of oncoming cars. The headlight vibrates violently, bouncing up and down. When switching to high beam, problems also arise for the rider - the foreground is darker than the illuminated part far ahead. This is where an extra light (like the Denalis I've used on other bikes) can help.
On the second “caterpillar”, after driving off-road, play in the steering column appeared. To solve the problem, you need to remove the top clamp and handlebar, and then tighten the bolt and nut. The guys at Rally Raid say this is common on showroom bikes. Once the bolt was tightened the problem did not reoccur.
Is it worth buying a BMW G 310 GS ?
I'm often asked: would I buy the motorcycle I'm testing now with my own money? Usually an honest answer outweighs all other details and opinions. Test driving a motorcycle means understanding your target audience and sharing what you think is important, as well as pointing out any shortcomings.
Even though I had already purchased a KTM 1050 Adventure, within the first few months of riding the GS, I was really wondering if it would be suitable as a second bike allowing me to explore more off-road terrain. But as time passed, I found that the bike lacked performance for my taste - not because I really needed more, but simply for the thrill of it. I also have a Honda MSX125 that I've modified for light off-road riding (my Africa Grom), so I can satisfy my desires.
To be honest, the listed shortcomings of the “caterpillar” personally put me off buying it. But each manufacturer has pros and cons, so I will supplement my opinion with reviews from two other owners.
Reviews from BMW G 310 GS
Kevin Fairbairn has been driving for 14 years and purchased the G310GS in early March 2018.
“My first bike was a Honda CB500 which I paid £400 for - I completely rebuilt it from scratch but was so disappointed by the trip to the service station that I sold it the next day! Next up was a 1999 Kawasaki ZX9-R, but in new condition. As an inexperienced rider, he scared the daylights out of me most of the time, but he was my baby. I later sold it and foolishly bought a 2004 Kawasaki Z750 because my then-girlfriend started riding with me as a passenger and I wanted something more reasonable. This is the worst motorcycle I've ever owned."
“I only drove the Z750 for a month, then bought a 1996 BMW R1100R, which I partially restored myself and drove for several years; great bike. That's when my passion for motorcycles got out of control."
“I owned four bikes at the same time: a BMW C1 (I rode one for 12 months), a BMW R1100R, a GSX-R600 Alstare, a Tomos A3 (yes, they still exist) and a Puch Maxi. Then I got my act together and got rid of the scrap metal to concentrate on one decent bike, so in 2015 I bought a new BMW R NineT. I was delighted with this bike, but foolishly sold it at the end of the season. Missing it, I got another one in 2016, but this time the all-aluminum Sport version. I sold it again at the end of 2016, wanting more comfort, and bought a BMW R1200R Sport - another world! This happened at the end of 2022, which brings me to the G310GS. Along with all these bikes I've dabbled in a few classic BMWs (R65 and R100GS, but haven't really ridden them much, and a couple of TTR250s - Raid and Open Enduro). Looking back, I realize that there were too many motorcycles.”
Why did you buy a BMW G 310 GS ?
A friend suggested remembering his youth and bought a “gosling” for himself. I haven't ridden it, but I thought a small motorcycle might be fun and maybe encourage me to slow down on my daily commute. Powerful motorcycles constantly goad and provoke you, and some days I felt like I was pushing myself to an early grave!
The decision was also influenced by the money issue. I bought this bike on a great deal so I'm paying less than £65 a month for it.
How do you use it?
It's a great everyday option, offering excellent fuel economy and small enough to weave through rush hour traffic. I average about 40 kilometers a day and am thinking of trying it out on country roads.
I have a bag attached to the trunk and a backpack that holds my work clothes and a packed lunch.
Have you changed anything on the motorcycle, or would you like to change it?
The first thing I did was change the turn signals to LED ones - they shine much brighter and generally look better. I then installed a taller windshield from Powerbronze, as well as hand guards to help keep out the cold wind as well.
I also installed an additional light, tracker and R&G radiator guard to protect the radiator from damage from rocks from the tires of cars in front.
What do you like most about a motorcycle?
It's like driving a 125cc when you're 17 and trying to squeeze every last 34 horsepower out of a little crawler. Big bike mode aside, this is actually a lot of fun!
What is the main disadvantage?
No heated grips or center stand. Both are supposed to be delivered soon, but are still delayed - and it's damn cold at this time of year!
How much does it cost to maintain and maintain a motorcycle?
In everyday use, it consumes about 3.2 liters of gasoline per 100 km, so it is now almost self-sustaining. I also save about 15 minutes of time on each one-way trip compared to driving. Service is done every 9600 kilometers or once a year, I don't think it will be expensive and I'll probably trade it in before any major repairs are needed.
At the beginning of the year I slipped at low speed and put my bike on its side. There was damage, but mainly on one side. New plastic, grips and muffler repair - and the motorcycle is back on the road. The parts were surprisingly cheap - my gear was more expensive, but it did the job and proved the importance of proper protection! Yes, and I have since installed crash bars.
What problems have you encountered?
I contacted service because of a problem with the side step. When I first heard about this problem, I assumed that someone had clearly overloaded the bike. But when the service center looked at the modification of the footrest, it turned out that I needed a new frame under warranty due to a microcrack. But that hasn't put me off - it's still a great bike that's becoming a closer friend to me every day.
How long do you plan to ride it, and what bike will be next?
I usually change bikes regularly, but because of the low monthly payments, I may just keep it for everyday riding for the next three years and buy something else for longer trips. I still miss the big “goose”!
Roger Bikerstaff, 44 years of driving experience, purchased a G 310 GS in April 2022.
I've owned a variety of motorcycles before - Suzuki, Norton, Triumph, MZ, Honda, BSA, Yamaha and BMW. I had my eye on the 310 after riding it as a replacement bike while my RT was being repaired. I was simply fascinated by him.
How do you use it?
Mainly for fun due to its ability to conquer back roads - I've rediscovered the charm of a small motorcycle cruising through the beautiful British countryside, riding around 5,000 kilometers a year. There are plans to ride it around Europe.
Have you changed anything on the motorcycle, or would you like to change it?
I installed a socket for gadgets from a BMW branded accessory set and ordered pulleys for servicing the chain from Germany. I'm still waiting for the extension of the front mudguard and the rear wing.
Other additions include a radiator guard and a Wünderlich side stand support plate. I'm looking into options for hand protection, higher windshield and engine protection.
I'm disappointed that BMW still hasn't equipped the bike with heated grips or a center stand. I hope for the development of the accessories market.
What do you like most about a motorcycle?
The bike's ability to surprise the rider with its performance. Not to mention light weight and cost effective.
What is the main disadvantage?
The suspension is a bit primitive, and the stepped seat limits the ability to move back on long trips. Oh yes - and the beep sounds somewhat pitiful.
How much does it cost to maintain and maintain a motorcycle?
The first MOT cost me £140 (15,000 rubles), but it is too early to predict what will happen next.
What problems have you encountered?
After I went to the dealer to have the side stand repaired, I discovered that I would need to replace the entire frame, which took a long time to arrive.
The frame has been tested previously and found to be safe - apparently there are two alternative modifications. When my GS was inspected to determine which one was required, the frame was re-inspected. But after the supposed work “for an hour” stretched to three hours, I was invited to the manager’s office, where they said that they would still need to reinstall the new frame.
I still love this bike, which has great reviews on the G310GS forum, however I am disappointed by BMW's poor after sales support - all the parts I bolted onto this bike I sourced myself. Is BMW being cunning, or are their thoughts in the clouds of more prestigious models?
How long do you plan to ride it, and what bike will be next?
I plan to keep it for long periods of time for solo riding as I use it in parallel with the R1200RT when my wife accompanies me as a passenger. I'm not planning a replacement; however, a couple of months ago I never thought that I would buy a “caterpillar”!
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