2020 BMW G 310 GS: The things that we like and don't like

BMW Motorrad's updated entry-level motorcycles, the G 310 R and the G 310 GS were launched in October this year. Apart from the tweak in the aesthetics, the talking point of both these motorcycles were their prices. The German motorcycle brand seems to have finally taken into account the constant feedback about the premium pricing of the entry-level R and GS bikes, which it has rightly corrected in the new iterations.

We sampled the updates G 310 GS by pitching it against the KTM 390 Duke, the winner of our previous shootout with all the entry-level ADV motorcycles then. While you can read our detailed comparison review here, scroll below to read what we liked and we didn't about the 2020 BMW G 310 GS.

Likes

Premium looks

The BMW G 310 GS has always had an intimidating presence, with its taller than others stance. With the 2020 updates, BMW Motorrad has taken it higher with the new Rally Style paint scheme of cyanide blue paired with a contrasting red trellis frame.

There are these subtle red highlights all throughout the tank and also on the front beak. We have also liked the new LED headlight design which has been improved not only in terms of illumination level but also has fixed support to address the complaints of the shaky unit on the previous model. With these tweaks, the G 310 GS looks like the right sibling of the flagship R 1250 GS. Also, BMW Motorrad has brought in adjustable brake and clutch levers that do add convenience to the riders.

Ride by Wire and Slipper Clutch

The previous iteration of the BMW G 310 GS had constant issues related to vibrations, which has been addressed to a good extent on the BSVI updates. In addition to retaining the power and torque numbers and also no becoming heavier than the previous, the introduction of ride-by-wire has brought in precision and consistency in throttle response that's to our liking. One can feel the benefits while riding in the city and also on the highways, especially during manoeuvres wherein you need that quick response from the motor. The addition of slipper clutch has made the shifts smooth and hassle-free, something that you realise in bumper to bumper traffic.

Price

This has to be our favourite bit about the 2020 BMW G 310 GS as the prices have been brought down by close to Rs 50,000 even with all the updates and tweaks, which, we believe, should have been its introduction price in the first place. However, with this pricing, the GS has become about Rs 35,000 more affordable than the KTM 390 Adventure. Wondering which one to put your money on? Check our comparison review.

Dislike

Instrumentation

Why BMW...Why? We wonder what stopped BMW Motorrad from offering a TFT instrumentation on the G 310 GS, especially when we see its Indian cousin the TVS Apache RR 310 get one. As much as it could be a cost-saving decision, neither does the plain-jane LCD instrumentation do justice to the handsome styling of the motorcycle nor does it stand tall when compared to its peers.

Additionally, it doesn't even sport connectivity and navigation support which even a Hero Xpulse 200, at half the price of the GS, comes with. Even Royal Enfield Himalayan will soon come with RE's Tripper Navigation TFT screen that made its debut in the Meteor 350.

Mid-range performance and touring speeds

Yes, the BSVI compliant engine of the G 310 GS has come become smoother than before. However, in the mid-range, the engine still feels coarse especially when you are doing some spirited riding. When you reach close to 6,000rpm, the buzz from the motor can be felt on the tank and also the seat. If you can manage to get over that, the GS can be reasonable at speeds of 110kmph. While you can push the motor further, it does feel strained at higher speeds.