Is the BMW 310GS Suitable for Motorcycle Touring?
2 Answers
The BMW 310GS is a long-awaited single-cylinder lightweight adventure machine for many young riders, blending the concept of versatile touring with affordability. The G310GS is based on the G310R street bike, lacking the boxer engine but featuring a reverse-mounted single-cylinder engine. Here’s more detailed information: Content One: The reverse-mounted single-cylinder engine simplifies the arrangement of the intake and exhaust pipes. Many common components on the bike also reflect cost control. Content Two: The engine delivers 33.5 horsepower (labeled as 34 hp in China) at 9500 rpm and 28 Nm of torque at 7500 rpm. These parameters are not outstanding in its class. However, the engine’s strengths lie in its low fuel consumption (3.3 liters per 100 km) and simple maintenance.
I've taken my BMW 310GS on several long-distance trips, and I think it's quite suitable for beginners trying out motorcycle touring as an entry-level ADV bike. First, its lightweight makes it easy to handle on rough trails, and it's agile in corners, so beginners won't feel overwhelmed. In terms of fuel consumption, the official figure is around 3 liters per 100 kilometers, and a full tank can cover over 300 kilometers, making it economical and practical for those on a budget. However, the downside is that the single-cylinder 313cc engine has noticeable vibrations, especially at high speeds where wind noise is loud, leading to shoulder and back pain on long rides. The wind protection is poor, so you'll have to slow down on windy days. Its cargo capacity is weak—adding a large backpack or side cases affects balance, making it unsuitable for extreme terrain. Overall, it's fine for weekend rides or short to medium-distance trips, but if you're planning a months-long cross-continental journey across Eurasia, the power might be insufficient. I recommend starting with shorter trips within your province and keeping expectations realistic.
