BMW Motorrad Australia has announced the learner-approved G 310 GS will arrive in dealerships mid-October.
Pricing starts at $6,900 plus on-roads, and will be available in three colours.
BMW calls it a “genuine GS”, and press pictures indicate it certainly looks capable of slaying the twisties and a fire trail or two.
To be fair the GS has maintained an iconic status not because it looks capable and versatile, but because it is capable and versatile. Let’s see how it stacks up.
The G 310 GS is based upon BMW’s learner platform first seen with the G 310 R roadster.
First up, the biggest selling point of the 310 GS variant is ABS can be switched off at the press of a button, which is a must when you’re riding off-road. It’s great to see the feature included on an entry-level bike.
Cycle Torque had a ride of the G 310 R roadster back in July, so we’ve got a fair idea what to expect from the engine. It’s a 313cc liquid-cooled reversed-head single, which has suitable performance for a learner and boasts great fuel economy too.
However on a GS we’ve come to expect lots of fuel capacity, and it’s meagre on the G 310 GS at 11 litres, so we’re seeing BMW make some compromises. We’re looking forward to finding out how much range the G 310 GS offers, with roughly over 300kms expected out of a tank.
The other thing we’re looking forward to finding out is whether the bike handles as well in its intended environment as the roadster does.
Suspension travel on the GS is long with 180mm at each end, and the rear spring is adjustable for preload.
BMW has also opted for a 19-inch front wheel which will improve off-road handling and learner-friendliness, but cast wheels limit more serious off-road capability.
The 310 off-roader’s styling is distinctly GS with its characteristic high front fender and short, high rear.
Seat height is low by adventure bike standards at 835mm which opens up the bike up to a wide range of riders, the taller of which will suffer most.
All up we’re expecting a relatively capable machine, maybe not quite GS standard, but more than enough to satisfy its less-experienced rider market and the conditions they’ll throw at it.
The three colours are Cosmic Black, Racing Red and Pearl White Metallic (+$75).
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