Kinder goose: review and test drive of the BMW G310GS 2018

The introduction of the road-going G310R a couple of years ago made a lot of noise – BMW from India?! Not any specific unit, not a unit or a piece of plastic, but a whole motorcycle. However, the hysteria quickly passed - not only did the motorcycle turn out to be quite worthy, but the experience of competitors from Austria, who merged with the Indians in orange ecstasy, spurred on. In the end, the same BMW concern has long had its factories not only in China, but also in Russia, which today no longer bothers anyone. Globalization, you know.

As part of it, a motorcycle appeared, which we will talk about today. The construction of several different devices within the same platform has long been cultivated by all major and not so big manufacturers of everything in the world, so the appearance of a crossover based on the road-going G310R was just a matter of time. Meet the new BMW G310GS.

Video version of the test drive of the BMW G310GS 2018 crossover:

Or rather, not so new. The first goslings arrived in Russia last year, but either the Germans delayed serial production, or last year’s Russian quota turned out to be modest, but the motorcycle became available for testing only this year, which we did not fail to take advantage of. It was impossible to pass by, a very good offer for our country, on the one hand, not just a BMW, but also a GS, on the other – only 365,000 rubles (by 2021 the motorcycle has risen in price to 382,000), not bad even compared to the Japanese.

BMW G310GS is an ideal option for moving on surfaces that in the capital are mistaken for asphalt

What can you get for this money? Firstly, BMW. Maybe not big, maybe Indian, but it’s a “Boomer”! In addition, the country of origin did not in any way affect the performance - the quality of the casting of engine parts and plastics looks an order of magnitude higher than that of the BMW F750GS. The Chinese, you know, have nothing to lose, and the Indians have no stains on their reputation, at least in the minds of our compatriots.

The rear optics sport LEDs, while the front has the classic Ilyich bulb

In addition, the design of the device is quite modern, and what is more important, closely echoes the stylistic decisions of the adult BMW R1200GS. Not surprising, because almost all major manufacturers receive the lion's share of revenue on budget cars, earning much less on expensive and large motorcycles: everyone wants them, but they buy something that is very similar, has a similar coloring, the same brand, but costs five times cheaper.

In the details, the influence of larger brethren can be easily traced - continuity is obvious

But putting marketing aside, the resemblance to its older brother suits the baby - the image of the G310GS is laconic and looks complete. There is one “but” - the design of the cast wheels, as if unchanged, migrated from the BMW G310R, and because of the new long-travel suspensions, the silhouette of the motorcycle resembles a humpbacked horse. But this is only in profile, the full face is much nicer, even with a simple, halogen and symmetrical headlight, and not, as is usual in this marvelous family, a cross-eyed headlight.

The wheel rim pattern is similar to that on its road brother G310R

The little goose is not bad in the saddle either, except for the monochrome dashboard, the same as on the G310R. A tape tachometer, square numbers, all this looked quite modern until the new KTM 390 Duke saw the light, showing that in the budget small-capacity segment there are also colored panels with incredibly rich functionality. In other words, the dashboard of the new product already looks old-fashioned.

Despite the apparent simplicity of the device, its functionality is sufficient

However, “old-fashioned” does not equal “bad” - a simple panel is probably more reliable, which is rather an advantage for a motorcycle designed, including for off-road use. The same applies to remote controls - simple, high-quality, with keys located in the same place where we were used to seeing them twenty years ago on ancient rice grinders. No joysticks, rings, small and obscure buttons, which means no problems when transplanting from something old Japanese.

You won’t have to get used to the G310GS remote control after switching from any other equipment – the gold standard

The frame is steel, tubular, looks decent, the engine is included in the power structure of the chassis, the tank is 11 liters, which, with a consumption of 3 and a penny liters, should provide a power reserve of 300 km. The suspensions are without adjustments or bells and whistles, as befits a budget model, but the thickness of the fork tubes is 41 mm, this is a solid size, I have a similar thickness on the K1100LT, travel is 180 mm front and rear, which is more than the road G310R, let me remind you there , 140 front and 131 rear. The wheels are also different; here there are 17-inch castings only at the rear, while at the front there is a 19-inch wheel.

Nineteen-inch wheel hints at G310GS off-road capabilities

You can beat me up, but for some reason I always want to compare this device with some Transalp 400, it seems the motorcycles are completely different, but they have a similar ideology. But these are just thoughts out loud; there is too much time between these devices. 400 cc enduros managed to die for it, only to then return to fashion under the guise of compact crossovers.

The front optics have a significant backlash, which does not prevent it from producing a dense light beam

Three decades is a decent period of time, during which not only electronics have stepped forward, everything is clear with it, but also hardware. Even budget solutions, where engineers have to make compromises, have evolved, so the simple components of today's BMW work much better than the fully grown and expensive models of the past.

Despite its modest dimensions relative to its older brothers, the G310GS does not evoke the feeling of a bike “for girls”

Yes, everything is within the budget, but the fork doesn’t scare you with dives, and the standard settings of the shock absorbers are pleasing with their density - driving on sleepers, for example, can be done with the same comfort as refueling the device at the next turn on the Yauza embankment. There are also enough moves, both for jumping along curbs and for light off-roading, although the 19-inch front wheel clearly hints that the device is capable of more. The wide steering wheel is comfortable when riding standing, the footpegs are moderately toothy, the weight is within reason, in general - a real “goose”.

The front and rear suspension travel is 180 mm, which is quite sufficient for off-road driving.

Enough. This is the word that can be applied here to every first part and mechanism: single-cylinder engine? Enough. And let the KTM 390 Duke lose the peak values (the little Adventure still hasn’t become a production model), and it’s impossible to compare the little Goose with the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, the devices are too different, the potential of the Indian single-barrel gun is enough.

A fairly wide steering paddle is the only limitation on freedom of movement in dense traffic jams

It produces 34 horses with a volume of 313 cubic meters, 28 Nm, injection, liquid cooling, 4 valves per cylinder and two overhead camshafts - nothing unusual in the design, except for the wet liner, which is sold immediately with the piston, thanks to which the engine’s maintainability is very high .

The 34-horsepower single-barrel rifle does not suffer from excess power or lack of it.

Boring? Hardly, because in addition to the pulsation, which is so pleasant on slippery and loose surfaces, there is also an excellent throttle response due to the “reverse” arrangement of the intake and exhaust: the throttle valve is in front of the cylinder, and the exhaust manifold is behind it. Not bad, and most importantly – original engine.

The engine operation allows you to comfortably control the bike on both hard and soft surfaces.

Enough brakes. Not phenomenally much, just enough to ensure reliable deceleration. Feedback, linearity of reactions, owners of small “geese” do not care about this, much more important is the cost of brake pads, which are in complete order here. And also - the standard ABS can be turned off, this is a fundamental difference from the platform G310R and an important marker for anyone planning to drive the device off the asphalt.

The anti-lock braking system can be turned off - just hold down the corresponding button for a few seconds

And this is the main advantage of the G310GS - instead of copying the platform “R” in everything except plastic, the mini-goose turned out to be a completely self-sufficient model. In other words, the motorcycle is a real “Goose”. The numbers are not amazing, but everything is thought out so that you can confidently go where most competitors will stand.

Should I take it? For this money on the secondary market you can even buy a large GS, not like an F650. Of course, an old BMW is still an attraction, and second-hand first class is not always the best choice, but you should think twice before buying. Even three times, because according to rumors, Bajaj is preparing a crossover on the Dominar 400 platform.

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 picked up another one in 2021, 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 2021, 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 2021.

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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