BMW G310R (2016-2020) Review | Owner & Expert Ratings - MCN

The BMW’s tubular steel frame is built for rigidity, durability and to keep costs down. Shoving the motor right up the front of the bike has allowed BMW to fit a long die-cast ali swingarm for less nervous, more sure-footed handling. An S1000RR-look-a-like front end features non-adjustable upside down forks and an ABS-equipped radial-mount four-piston Bybre caliper, biting a 300mm disc. The single rear shock is non-adjustable.

The G310R has a low, friendly riding position and with a seat height of 758mm it’s easy for the short riders to get their feet flat on the floor at a standstill. But the BMW still manages to have a big bike feel and spacious riding position, so if you’re coming from a bigger bike, it doesn’t feel like you’re downsizing. 

The softly padded seat is comfy for an hour or so, but for all-day riding it will eventually give you bum ache. For a decent length commute it’s fine, though. 

Looking down at the controls its clear you’re on a BMW. There’s the giveaway propeller badge on the tank and a cockpit that, dash aside, could be from an S1000R supernaked. The switchgear is similar, as are the straight bars and handlebar grips. Mirrors are small, but give a decent view of where you’ve just been. 

One of the only real niggles with the controls is the clutch and brake lever especially, is a long way from the bar. It’s the same on all their models, so BMW test riders must have giant hands. 

One of the advantages of a single-cylinder design is low weight. Tipping the scales at 158.5kg ready-to-go, the G310R is light and manoeuvrable around town and on the open road. 

At middling speeds, the brakes lack bite and the steering is vague, but push through this and the BMW comes alive. The ABS-assisted brakes work the harder you squeeze the lever and lazy lines turn to crisp curves when you push the front end hard into a corner. 

Fit some sporty tyres and you could have some serious fun on the G310R. This is the sort of bike that will tech new riders more about the art of cornering and maintaining momentum than a powerful 600 or 1000 ever will.