Adventure junkies wanting to dip their toes in the world of lightweight ADVs can start out with the BMW G 310 GS. Based on the same platform as its more road-focused sibling, the G 310 R, the GS derivative offers a longer travel suspension, a more compliant ride, taller bars, and the legendary BMW GS nameplate to buyers at a relatively affordable price tag.
The 2022 G 310 GS got a handful of updates, including new color schemes. The motorcycle did, however, receive a comprehensive update for the model year 2021, meaning it carries on with the same mechanical package. A potent machine in its own right, the G 310 GS takes the fight to the likes of KTM 390 Adventure, Kawasaki Versys X300, Royal Enfield Himalayan, and more. While its rivals are capable in their own right, none offers the same levels of quality levels as the mini-GS. Plus, there’s always the novelty factor of owning a BMW GS bike, irrespective of its capabilities.
2022 BMW G 310 GS
- Long Travel Suspension
- Ride-By-Wire
- LED Lighting
- Engine/Motor: 313cc water-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
- Horsepower: 34 hp at 9,500 rpm
- Torque: 21 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Entry-level GS
- Quality
- Beginner-friendly
- Pricey
- Not a real off-roader
Adventure For Newbies
The G 310 GS happens to be the second motorcycle of BMW’s modern sub-500cc motorcycle range. The first is the G 310 R, of course. On paper, both the motorcycles share nearly all the components, including the chassis, engine, digital instrument cluster, and more. They’re even made in the same TVS Motors factory near Chennai, India. Shipped to markets worldwide from the very same manufacturing unit, the G 310s are currently one of the best-selling BMW Motorrad motorcycles in the world. Since 2018 – the year when BMW started rolling out the G 310 range of motorcycles – the company has shipped over 100,000 units to markets across the globe.
Let’s get back to the details. On duty here is the same liquid-cooled 313cc single-cylinder DOHC motor as the G 310 R roadster. Even the power output and torque are identical on both the bikes – 34 hp at 9,500 rpm and 20.6 lb-ft of twisting force developed at 7,500 rpm. They share the same running gear as well, meaning for power transmission duties, the bike incorporates a six-speed gearbox with an assist-and-slipper clutch. For 2022, there are no substantial mechanical updates. However, during the last update, the addition of ride-by-wire throttle made it feel more upmarket, while also giving the riders a peppier response from the engine with every twist of the right wrist.
In terms of performance, expect the G 310 GS to be just as quick as the R derivative. In fact, the claimed top speed of both motorcycles is 88 mph. However, the GS weighs over 20 pounds more than the R (386 pounds vs 362 pounds), meaning acceleration will take a hit as compared to its roadster sibling.
When The Going Gets Tough
The G 310 GS gets the same tubular space frame as its sibling, albeit the suspension, wheelbase, and wheel/tires are different. The wheelbase stands at 55.9 inches – over 1.5 inches longer than the R, whereas the GS version has more ground clearance, too. Of course, with a seat height of 32.8 inches, the GS can intimidate short riders as compared to its sibling, which has a saddle height of 30.9 inches. The fuel tank is slightly bigger too (3.0 gallons vs 2.9 gallons). Considering the fact that the GS is a tourer, a larger fuel tank would have had more sense.
The biggest change comes in the form of geometry, for the GS version is for adventure riders. As a consequence, it gets a bigger 19-inch front wheel, longer travel suspension, and wider and taller bars. However, wired wheels are not available, even as an option, and that’s a bit of a miss. As for its suspension, you’ll find a 41mm front fork on the front wheel and a mono-shock at the back. With 7.1 inches of travel on both wheels, it should be able to absorb big bumps and rocks pretty easily. However, the suspension is non-adjustable (only pre-load adjustment available on the mono-shock), and this may upset hardcore off-road enthusiasts.
As standard, the G 310 GS gets a dual-channel ABS. However, unlike earlier models, you no longer get the option to disengage the system on the rear wheel. For braking duties, there's a 300mm disc at the front wheel and a 240mm disc at the rear wheel.
Since this is a no-frills entry-level ADV, there aren’t a lot of fancy gadgets or features on offer. For instance, electronic aids like traction control and riding modes aren’t offered. You do however get a basic LCD instrument cluster, while all-LED lighting is part of the standard package. The clutch and brake levers are adjustable.
2022 BMW G 310 GS Costs
The 2022 BMW G 310 GS starts at $6,190 for the no-cost Polar White paint option. Spend $250 more, and you have got the choice to choose between Style Rally and Style Triple Black paint schemes. As standard, the motorcycle comes with 3 years or 36,000 miles warranty.
A lot of BMW accessories are available, including different size top cases, a luggage rack, heated grips, and more.
The G 310 GS may come across as a pricey proposition for an entry-level ADV, but it’s a great motorcycle to step into the revered ‘GS’ ecosystem.