BMW G 310 GS VS KTM 390 ADVENTURE READY TO RUMBLE

More tech and appeal at a more attractive price - is the G 310 GS finally a threat to the 390 Adventure?

- ADITYA CHATTERJEE

When it comes to poster boy of ADVs, BMW’s flagship R 1250 GS is one of the most capable dual-sport motorcycles in the world. In 2016, BMW Motorrad offered this motorcycle’s DNA in a more accessible form with their youngest in the GS series, the G 310 GS, which was a result of their collaboration with TVS Motor Company. Aimed at attracting newer and younger riders, the G 310 GS opened doors to many who aspired to get a BMW motorcycle but shied away due to their eye-watering prices.

For the year 2020, BMW Motorrad has updated its entry-level adventure motorcycle with new colour schemes and more tech along with a BSVI powertrain. While there is more to the updated G 310 GS, it costs substantially less to own as compared to the previous one. Does that make for a stronger case against the KTM 390 Adventure, the winner of our entry-level ADV shoot-out? We find out in our comparison feature.

Design

Wherever we went with the BMW G 310 GS and the KTM 390 Adventure, it was the GS that attracted the maximum attention, overshadowing the KTM. While the previous iteration of the GS had an intimidating presence, BMW has now updated it with DRL and LED headlights, giving it a similar look like the more premium BMW F 900 R. However, the highlight of this update are the new colour schemes, which have enhanced the appeal of the 310 GS.