Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/783081
2018 BMW G 310 R FIRST TEST P92 design are that the angle of the cylinder helps keep the weight of the engine centrally located in the chassis, while also allow- ing the header pipe heat to be more easily and efficiently drawn away from the engine. The 313cc plant has a four-valve head that is operated by two overhead camshafts, the lightweight rocker arms coated with DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) to minimize fric- tion and wear. The power rating may sound embarrassingly low at just 34 horsepower @ 9500 rpm (with a torque rating of 20.65 lb-ft. @ 7500 rpm), but given that it's only pulling 349 pounds the bike offers some go—granted, not superbike numbers, but that's not what the 310 is all about. Transmission is a six speed, with well-spaced ratios that compliment the bike's economic power. First gear is low enough to not require any serious feather- ing to get going, while sixth gear handles freeway speeds relatively well, capable of maintaining 75 mph speeds without redlining or excessive buzzing. In between first and sixth the gears are evenly spaced and require noth- ing more than a gentle nudge of the toe to make shifts. Surprising- ly, despite the small engine, the G 310 R has a torquey enough character to pull the bike through corners a gear high. Unlike a lot of smaller displacement bikes, this usable torque means that the 310 doesn't require constant massaging of the gearbox to find the right gear, being relatively forgiving—perfect for new and beginning riders. Final drive is by chain. Essentially an addition to the Roadster lineup in BMW's stable, the G 310 R possesses comfort- able ergonomics and nimble characteristics that benefit it in equal measure whether nego- tiating city centers or rambling along country roads. The bike is intended to deliver an enjoyable, relaxed riding experience with a mix of functionality and sporti- ness—which it does in surprising measure. Fitted with narrow bars, the 310 effortlessly slips between traffic, yet offers enough maneu- verability in tight operating space and plenty of leverage when attacking canyon roads. Despite such a feathery weight the 310 expresses nothing skittish when ridden hard, staying remarkably stable under aggressive braking and remaining solidly planted The G 310 R is spunky enough that even experienced riders will have fun on it.