BMW G 310 series motorcycles get the BS VI treatment

After introducing its entry-level motorcycle twins for the Indian market – BMW G 310 R and BMW G 310 GS – in 2018, which were jointly developed with local two-wheeler manufacturer TVS Motor Co, BMW Motorrad today unveiled the 2020 versions of the two motorcycles, giving them a host of updates.

First things first, the refresh comes in the wake of the BS VI emission norms that became mandatory in India from April 2020. As a result, the 310 duo has received a few tweaks to the 313cc, single-cylinder motor which is now BS VI-compliant, but continues to develop 34bbhp at 9,500rpm and 28Nm at 7,500rpm as earlier. The engine comes mated to a six-speed gearbox and the shift mechanism is aided by a slipper clutch, along with an electronically-controlled ride-by-wire system for the throttle. In terms of safety, the motorcycles offer dual-channel ABS.

While the BMW G 310 R boasts a street-naked design, the G 310 GS is dressed in adventure-tourer clothing. Both bikes in their 2020 avatar get a host of aesthetic and functional updates including LED headlamps, LED indicators as well as LED tail-lamps. The clutch and hand brake levers get four-level adjustment too. There is a new colour option on the 310 R – Style Sport in Limestone Metallic while the 310 GS gets two new shades christened – ‘40 years of GS Edition’ in Cosmic Black as well as Style Rallye in Kyanite Blue Metallic. The engine housing cover for the alternator and water pump gets a new finishing on both motorcycles as well.

According to Vikram Pawah, president, BMW Group India, “India is the first market to witness the launch of these updated products. We have brought in design modifications, new technology and enhanced driving dynamics. This will attract passionate buyers to become a part of the BMW Motorrad community.”

“The 310 R is city-friendly and nimble motorcycle and can take up highway duties too, while the 310 GS has a higher level of versatility which can also go off the road for adventure touring,” he added, describing the machines.

Locally manufactured in Hosur
The association of BMW and TVS Motor Co means that high volumes are going to be a key enabler for the attractive price tag of the technology-advanced motorcycles. While the same engine and platform is also shared by TVS Motor which sells the Apache 310 RR in India, BMW Motorrad has sold over 5,000 units of this entry-level duo in its portfolio that comprises over 80 percent of its overall sales volumes in India.

The first 2020 BMW 310 series motorcycles began rolling out of TVS Motor Co’s Hosur plant on October 1. 

The 2020 models will continue to get locally manufactured at TVS’ plant in Hosur, near Bangalore, and cater to both domestic and export sales.

“India is amongst the top growth markets for BMW Motorrad globally. Started off in 2017, we have become one of the most talked about premium motorcycle brands in the country. Last year, we delivered 2,400 motorcycles from our 21 touch-points across India. The 310 duo poses a phenomenal opportunity for future the growth of BMW Motorrad in India,” said Pawah.

Easy finance options
Whilst the volumes are insignificant considering the size of the Indian two-wheeler market, but given the brand value that it commands, BMW Motorrad has been able to encapsulate the attention the young and adventurous buyer giving them a premium riding and ownership experience at an affordable price-tag for this segment of motorcycles. The 2020 BS VI BMW G 310 R comes priced at Rs 245,000, ex-showroom and G 310 GS at Rs 284,000, ex-showroom, India.

Moreover, the company is trying to attract first-time buyers as well as novices into its showrooms, and offer them easy finance schemes through its financial arm – BMW India Financial Services. The all-inclusive EMI for the BMW G 310 R starts at Rs 4,500, while for the 310 GS it is pegged at Rs 5,500. Clearly, the company aims to widen its reach and foothold in the midsized performance bike segment.

BMW Motorrad will offer exclusive range of lifestyle merchandise for 310 buyers at its outlets and also offer three-year, unlimited kilometres standard and up to five-year extended warranty on the two motorcycles.

“Motorrad customers treat themselves to adventures and are willing to invest into the whole experience that comes along by associating with a brand,” concluded Pawah.