The BMW G 310 RR was probably the bike I was least looking forward to riding, especially because it was parked next to the KTM RC 390. But after just one lap, my curiosity was piqued, so much so that we decided to do back-to-back runs with the KTM and the BMW to understand and expose their nuances of performance, ride, and handling.
The G 310 RR is very nimble – it tips into corners with next to no hesitation and follows through with great mid-corner stability, even at triple-digit speeds. The G 310 RR, however, suffers in the powertrain department. The 312cc liquid-cooled single is a familiar engine, putting out 34bhp and 27Nm. It’s very tractable, and out on the track, the surge of power at the top end adds some thrill. That said, it isn’t very refined and has fairly pronounced vibrations, which you can feel through the handlebar. Plus, it produces significantly less power when compared to the RC, and its gearing is short. All this means that while the G 310 RR is a joy around corners, helped by the Michelin Pilot Street tyres, you always find yourself in the wrong gear at the exit. And on the short, straight patches, the performance just isn’t there, which is reflected in its lap time. Simran appreciated the stability of the G 310 RR, but he did say that it could do with slightly better brakes and, of course, more power, considering how capable its chassis is.
The overall quality of the G 310 RR is quite good, especially that of the paint. And it also turns heads when you ride it out on the road, which adds to its X-Factor. The value for money factor is affected by the fact that it doesn’t get the superior Michelin Road 5 tyres like the sister Apache, nor does it get an adjustable suspension. And to make matters worse, it costs more than the Apache.
- BMW G 310 RR (Lap Time – 01:14.3)
PARAMETERS | POINTS | SCORE |
---|---|---|
QUALITY | 10 | 8.5 |
COMFORT & PRACTICALITY | 10 | 8 |
REFINEMENT | 10 | 7 |
DESIGN | 10 | 8 |
DRIVETRAIN | 10 | 7.5 |
RIDE & HANDLING | 10 | 8.5 |
X FACTOR | 15 | 11 |
LAP TIME | 5 | 3.4 |
VALUE FOR MONEY | 20 | 11 |
TOTAL | 100 | 72.9 |
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