BMW Motorrad Joins the Small Displacement Revolution
BMW 310R at EICMA 2015
For years my go-to answer to the question “what is a good starter bike for a new sportbike rider?” was the Ninja 250. In the US, it was really the only option in small displacement sportbikes that I was aware of; now, the options are many. Kawasaki has bumped their Ninja 250 to a sportier 300 and Honda and Yamaha have followed suit with the CBR 300R and the Yamaha YZFR3. Suzuki has a slightly less sporty 250 in the GW250z. One the most exciting additions to the group was from KTM, their sleek and sporty RC390 even has it’s own race class in MotoAmerica, and the naked 390 Duke is a fun city worthy alternative.
The most exciting news I’ve heard all day came when I got a peek at the all new BMW G310R from a friend attending the EICMA 2015 Motorcycle Show in Italy. BMW makes amazing motorcycles, but most of them, I would not recommend to someone just learning to get around on two wheels.
I am thrilled that manufacturers have taken notice of the demand for bikes in this range. They are not just for new riders either, even the most experienced rider can benefit from a quick light bike for getting around town. The style of the BMW G310R looks very much like the S1000R, BMW’s “roadster” version of the S1000RR.
The BMW G310R will be coming to a dealer near you third quarter of 2016. As soon as I can sit on one at EuroCycles of Tampa Bay, I will let you know if my excitement was justified, I am sure it will be, its a BMW.
Click an image enlarge and scroll through pics:
BMW 310R at EICMA 2015
Here’s what BMW Motorrad says:
Photo from BMWmotorcycles.com
The BMW G 310 R is the essence of riding pleasure. It was built for pulsing cities and those who simply love riding motorcycles. It is maneuverable, easy to handle and sporty at the same time. Whether you’re a tall or small rider, you’ll immediately feel at home on the BMW G 310 R! The bike is lightweight, yet a real powerhouse with its 313 cc engine. Get to work, the next hot spot or out of the city safely and reliably on the G 310 R. Premium quality, excellent workmanship and extraordinary technology ensure intense riding pleasure.
The G 310 R doesn’t take second place. The single-cylinder, four-stroke 313 cc engine and range of features help to ensure this. The tilt of the cylinder to the rear and the cylinder head that has been rotated 180° lowers the center of gravity and shifts it in the direction of the front wheel. Because of this, the G 310 R is more agile and easier to control. The low and longer swing arm ensures even more stability, without unnecessarily increasing the wheelbase. Ride in confidence with standard ABS, a standard feature on all BMW motorcycles since 2013. Good looks, powerful drive and less than 350 lbs. fully fueled, with the G 310 R you can simply enjoy motorcycling.
Thanks to Aaron Sprague with EuroCycles for the EICMA photos!
