BADGE HOLDER

Ze Germans have brought in the baby RR. But is it any different than the RR we already have?

- Janak Sorap

Well, the simple and straight answer would be no. And if you were to compare the Motodata box presented at the end of this review to that of the TVS Apache RR 310, the specs are absolutely identical. All is the same, except one, the price. The BMW G 310 RR demands a premium of 25,000 over its Indian counterpart. Now, who in their able minds would even consider buying a re-badged motorcycle for that premium, right? I went into this road test with an 'it's only a paint job' mindset, but the BMW G 310 RR has managed to change that. I know, even I was surprised at how I am saying this, but allow me to explain why I feel so.

In the world of four-wheeled vehicles, besides sharing a platform within the brands to bring about different models, it has been a common practice to share a platform, or a model between two brands, under a signed agreement. The latter hasn't been that popular but does exist in the two-wheeler space. TVS and BMW Motorrad had signed a deal about seven years back to co-develop a platform to be shared amongst the two, and used to bring in new motorcycles. Looking at it today, the deal seems to be working out well. BMW Motorrad has two entry-level motorcycles that are performing well in their respective segments and a flagship motorcycle for TVS Motor Company that carries the reputation for being a fast bike. Now, BMW has introduced the G 310 RR, the faired one of the 300cc clan, cousin to its Indian counterpart, and the smallest supersport to carry the RR tag.