BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test

Table of contents

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test

38 pictures

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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It is the first BMW to be built in India. And it is the cheapest machine with the smallest displacement in the white and blue portfolio. Good reasons to send the G 310 R over the 50,000 kilometer distance. She made it – and there is a lot to tell.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Short distance bike? The Czech Republic was just one of many travel destinations for the BMW G 310 R..

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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The endurance test of the BMW went as fast as that of the Honda Fireblade. To ask?

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Small bike on a big tour: the G 310 R at MotoGP in Jerez – 2,300 kilometers easy.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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1,000 kilometers: Both the handlebar clamp screws and the …

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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… Brake caliper mounting bolts were replaced during the first inspection.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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24,000 kilometers: The BMW is still waiting for the stand fastening to be reinforced.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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The BMW accelerates from 0-100 km / h in 6.8 seconds.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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After 50,033 kilometers, it took the BMW 7.1 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km / h.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Despite a removal of only 0.25 mm (wear limit: 0.5 mm), the front brake disc was replaced at kilometer 29,676. Nevertheless, the pressure point of the front brake remained spongy and the free travel on the hand lever was unusually large. Only the installation of a Magura hand pump improved the braking feel.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Rear wheel brake system replaced: At 17,000 kilometers the rear brake piston no longer fully released the disc after braking. Cleaning only solved the problem for a short time. At 17,700 kilometers, the entire system – it comes from the Indian Brembo subsidiary Bybre – including the master cylinder was replaced under guarantee. Since then the brake has worked without complaint.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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To speak of a defect is probably not correct in the case of worn fork seals. Simply because the sealing rings also suffer from tough year-round operation. Even financially, the damage remains manageable at 70 euros for fork oil and spare parts (plus working time). The Simmerrings, which leaked after almost 20,000 kilometers, still fit into the image of the worn chain and brake components.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Long journeys are easy to manage, but cold starts are less difficult in the winter at home.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Without warning, the starter of the single-cylinder only responded to the push of the button with a helpless click at a mileage of 41,600. The cause: a blocked starter freewheel. Trigger of the blockage: The ring spring, which pulls back the rolling elements of the freewheel, had lost its clamping force.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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After neither the new brake pads nor the replacement of the brake disc brought any improvement, a radial brake pump from Magura was installed on a trial basis. With the HC1 pump (310 euros), the pressure point was noticeably more defined, but the free travel of the hand lever remained unchanged.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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After 80 percent of the test distance, the steering of the BMW was noticeably stuck, causing the G 310 R to swing occasionally when driving slowly in city traffic. The steering head bearing was therefore replaced after 39,473 kilometers. As an excuse: The wear and tear of the warehouse may be largely due to the inhospitable conditions of two winters passed through.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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On the autobahn, the single suddenly made loud noises at 47,910 kilometers. The G 310 R was loaded and dismantled by a BMW technician in the MOTORRAD workshop. The damage: a defective connecting rod bearing. Connecting rods and bearing shells were replaced, the crank pin smoothed manually.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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The valve stems of both the inlet and outlet valves are – as are the valve guides – in pristine condition. Deposits on the valve disk of the exhaust valve are visible, but not critical.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Although the engine only ran the remaining distance of 2,100 kilometers after the repair, tracks can be seen on the bearing shells. Probably a consequence of the running surface of the crankshaft crank pin, which was only manually smoothed during the repair.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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The transmission is OK, except for pitting on the sixth gear.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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The radial play of the gears on the shaft is chosen to be large by default, but does not affect the function.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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“You can also have fun in the mountains with 34 hp”, noted online editor Uli Baumann on behalf of many.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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The grown-up look turns on, and the nimble handling inspires.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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The Akrapovic Racing Line was used for the accessories test for 804 euros. The Slovenian exhaust specialist is currently the only supplier of retrofit systems for the G 310 R. The quality of workmanship is first-class, the assembly is stress-free. In terms of weight, the stainless steel system (5.0 kg) saves a good two kilos compared to its series counterpart (7.1 kg). Striking: Instead of a higher peak performance, Akrapovic advertises an improved torque in the lower speed range in the Racing Line. In fact, the Akrapovic damper smooths the torque hole in the 5,000 rpm range. This powerful acceleration is clearly noticeable in practice.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Wunderlich tank bag holder, 69 euros: BMW specialist Wunderlich offers a universal base plate for the in-house tank bag line “Elephant”. The part can be easily attached with straps and can remain on the motorcycle without a tank bag. Refueling is not a problem. A recess fixed with a Velcro fastener effortlessly exposes the filler neck. Matching tank bags cost between 140 and 209 euros.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Wunderlich Cruise Control, 100 euros: Is half-throttle downhill as fast as half-throttle uphill? Those who have to think about the answer to this question for a long time could belong to the target group of this cruise control. Everyone else does not understand the usefulness of the part – no matter how much long-distance drivers swear by it for decades. With the G 310 R, the mechanical locking of the throttle grip would only be necessary in one position: at full throttle.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Wunderlich rear-view mirror extensions, 60 euros per pair: Rear-view mirror extensions are helpful on almost all bikes. The 45 millimeter wide extensions move the mirrors outwards, depending on the installation position, and blend in inconspicuously. Not just a tip for the G 310 R..

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Wunderlich side stand plate, 50 euros: Anyone who has been desperately looking for a stone or piece of wood in a gravel parking lot will be happy about the side stand widening. With the plate on the top of the stand, the G 310 R is more stable even on a solid surface. And because the plate does not restrict the freedom of inclination in the least, there is a practical tip.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Wunderlich Touring windshield, 190 euros: The opinions on the large touring windshield from Wunderlich on the G 310 R are uniform: A) It looks oversized on the little speedster. B) It works great. With a measured top speed of 153 km / h, a good wind protection can do no harm. And: When commuting to the office every day, you are more often happy about effective weather protection. As an alternative, Wunderlich has a smaller version in its range of “Sport” (170 euros).

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Wonderfully transparent hand protectors, 120 euros: Hand protectors may look stylish on travel enduros, but on fun bikes the protectors are clearly too rustic. It’s a shame, because the plastic shells keep your hands dry in a shower or astonishingly warm in winter. The transparent plastic trays do this job just as well, but are hardly noticeable. A really smart solution.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Dunlop GPR 300: The GPR 300 celebrated a brilliant debut on the Kawasaki Z 900 RS a year ago. And the Dunlop does an excellent job on the BMW too. Great steering precision, very good feedback, good grip and a decidedly easy turn-in – it all adds up to an inspiring whole. The Dunlop is the first choice for the G 310 R..

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Heidenau K 80: With the tire from Saxony, the BMW strangled from the first meter. The front tire in particular is reluctant to cooperate with the geometry of the G 310 R, is lazy to turn in and provides little feedback. Even when braking in an inclined position, the BMW stood up noticeably with the K 80. It’s actually a shame, because the Heidenau builds up good grip and thus offers large reserves of lean angles.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Metzeler Sportec M7 RR: The Sportec M 7 RR harmonizes very well with the small BMW. The Metzeler is characterized by good rolling behavior, high self-damping and neutral steering behavior. The warm-up phase is also short and you quickly gain confidence in the tires. The grip is excellent. In the latest MOTORRAD tire test, the M7 also shone in the wet.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Michelin Pilot Power 2CT: BMW drives carefree with the Michelin. With the Pilot Power 2CT manufactured in Spain, the bike steers precisely, behaves neutrally and shows only a small amount of righting moment when braking in an inclined position. Only when it comes to ride comfort does the tire remain below average – albeit less than the Michelin Street Radial. Nevertheless: Very good grip and great handling – this Michelin convinces.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Michelin Pilot Street Radial: The series tire. From the first meter on, the tire produced in Thailand shows very neutral driving behavior. Trust builds up quickly. What is clearly noticeable, however, is the stiff structure of the carcass, which makes the tire uncomfortable to roll. The G 310 R therefore tends to get restless on bumpy sections. In addition, there is a lack of grip on the flanks when driving faster.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Mitas Sport Force +: The Slovenian Mitas entered the race by winning the MOTORRAD exotic tire test in 2014. The Sport Force + has a high level of self-damping and therefore rolls comfortably. The feedback could be better. However, handiness and steering precision are very good. And the tire also provides excellent grip when it is wet. A good choice.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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Pirelli Diablo Rosso III: After winning the latest MOTORRAD sports tire test, the Pirelli goes into the race with a lot of praise. The tire produced in China also cuts a fine figure on the BMW. With a lot of grip and good feedback, you can swing it through the corners with precision. In comparison, it is just a little less handy. Apart from that, everything fits.

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test
Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

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On-site meeting: The BMW duo Stefan Kallich, Head of Drive Projects and Concepts, and press spokesman Gerhard Lindner (from right) examined the innards of the single cylinder together with the MOTORRAD crew.

motorcycles

BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test

BMW G 310 R in the long-term test
Final balance after 50,000 test kilometers

The BMW G 310 R has passed the 50,000 kilometer endurance test at MOTORRAD. Here you can find out everything about how the little single-cylinder did over this distance. We are currently looking for reader experiences on the little BMW.


Mona Pekarek,


Uli Baumann,


Uwe Seitz,


Peter Mayer,

Jens Moller-Tollner, Uli Baumann, Imre Paulovits

09/26/2019

How should the retrospective of the endurance test of the BMW G 310 R begin? With the glee of BMW opponents that the first BMW produced in India slipped onto the dry dock as soon as it was launched? In October 2016, a faulty engine part caused a delivery stop for six months. Or may the review begin with a symbolic patting? In recognition that the little exiled Bavarian only needed 27 months to cover the 50,000-kilometer distance – just as long as the Honda Fireblade, which was tested at the same time (MOTORRAD 18/2019).

Accessories and tire recommendations for BMW G 310 R

Whatever the case, one thing was undisputed: as by far the smallest displacement machine in the long-term test fleet, it pushed itself into the limelight. But also through some quirks. A jerky clutch, the doughy-feeling front brake and a stiff rear brake, which ultimately had to be completely replaced, dominated the interim results drawn after 24,000 kilometers (MOTORRAD 20/2018).


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

ole steering precision, very good feedback, good grip and extremely easy turning – the Dunlop is the first choice for the BMW G 310 R..

Because upgrading with accessories and tire alternatives is also a fundamental theme, a short summary: The Dunlop GPR 300 emerged as a tip from seven tested tire sets. Great steering precision, very good feedback and a decidedly easy turn-in add up to the dream combination. The short rear-view mirror arms made widenings useful, for example from Wunderlich (60 euros). Ultimately, the well-functioning heated grips from Koso (type HG 13, 130 euros) and the touring windshield from Wunderlich (190 euros), which is optically slightly oversized for the small 310, but excellently protective (190 euros), are largely responsible for the busy kilometer collecting of the Baby BMW.

Inspection costs

In any case, it was touching how the workforce tried to free the BMW G 310 R from the reputation of the short-haul and economy vehicle. “You can also have fun in the mountains with 34 hp”, noted online editor Uli Baumann on behalf of many colleagues after a 1,300-kilometer alpine tour in the logbook. The frequent long-distance excursions required some coordination for fleet manager Tobi Wassermann in order to have the G 310 R in the underground car park on time for the inspections that are due every 10,000 kilometers. The price of the checks varied considerably. The cost of the initially cheap reviews at 1,000 kilometers (119 euros) and 10,000 kilometers (117 euros) drove repairs that were due later in the air. The 20,000 service (with replacement of the fork seals) cost 773 euros, the 30,000 service (with the replacement of the front brake disc) cost 677 euros, the 40,000 service (with the new steering head bearing) 617 euros.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

We installed a radial brake pump from Magura. With the HC1 pump (310 euros), the pressure point was noticeably more defined, but the free travel of the hand lever remained unchanged.

But the BMW G 310 R also attracted attention outside of the inspections. Conceptually as an extremely handy curve speedster with said surprising travel qualities, technically through irregularities that repeatedly demand attention. Comments on the clutch that squeaked when starting up and was difficult to dose ran through the logbooks until the end of the test. MOTORRAD even got to grips with the doughy front brake with a retrofit hand pump from Magura. Although this provided a more defined pressure point, the free travel on the hand lever was also noticeably long until the end of the test. Obviously, the stoppers did not only cause concern on the long-term test machine. In the USA, BMW is currently recalling all BMW G 310 models due to possibly corroded brake pistons. Nevertheless: The KTM 390 Duke, equipped with an identical brake from Bybre (the abbreviation stands for by Brembo, the Indian offshoot of Brembo), was inconspicuous in this regard in all MOTORCYCLE driving tests.

24,000 G models sold worldwide

Speaking of KTM: BMW did not achieve the amazing sales success of the 390 Duke (eighth place in the German registration statistics in 2018). Probably also due to the lack of performance of ten hp on the KTM, the BMW G 310 R landed in 34th place on the sales hit list in this country. If you add the GS version of the 310, it is enough for 15th place. In an international comparison, Europe only plays a subordinate role for the little single anyway. A total of 24,000 G models (R and GS) were sold worldwide in 2018. For comparison: 51,000 of the bestseller R 1200 GS were sold in the same period.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

Without warning, the starter responded to the pressure on the button with a helpless click. The cause: a blocked starter freewheel. Trigger of the blockage: The ring spring, which pulls back the rolling elements of the freewheel, had lost its clamping force.

Just when the machine, already equipped with the second new chain set (169 euros), was to roll from the BMW dealer’s yard at 41,600 kilometers, the starter reacted with a gentle click when the button was pressed. The BMW G 310 R was pushed back into the workshop and dismantled. A stretched return spring of the rolling elements of the freewheel of the electric starter turned out to be the cause. After all, the repair was carried out free of charge as a guarantee case, and the G was then sent on the longest of its journeys – as a final spurt, so to speak. Germany – Jerez – Budapest – Germany – that’s the ambitious tour plan of MOTORRAD sports reporter Imre Paulovits. A total of 6,400 kilometers in eight days. After 6,284 kilometers it was over. On the autobahn near Nuremberg, the engine suddenly lost power at around 140 km / h and rattled audibly. “Iron butt” Paulovits turned off the single immediately, the BMW G 310 R had to cover the last few kilometers to the editorial office in the van. The dismantling in the MOTORRAD workshop showed: The connecting rod bearing had seized. The connecting rod and the bearing shells were replaced, the running surface of the crank pin of the crankshaft was smoothed with lapping cloth and the engine housing was rinsed. On its last 2,100 kilometers, the single purred again as usual.

Nevertheless, the bearing damage leaves room for speculation. The great stress caused by the unusually high proportion of full throttle in the test may be one of the reasons. A previous damage could possibly have already caused a collapse in the MOTORRAD underground car park at 40,100 kilometers. In the event of an employee’s mishap, the single – not equipped with an automatic switch-off – chugged for a long time lying on his side. It could have been damaged by an inadequate oil supply.

“bitchy clutch looks flawless”

However that may have been, during the final dismantling the traces of the capital damage could be seen even after the short remaining distance. The new tracks on the bearing shells of the connecting rod are probably due to the manual smoothing of the crankshaft crank pin. The rest of the mechanics are in fair condition. All parts are true to size, even the bitchy clutch looks flawless. And even the breakouts on the sixth gear output gear and the slightly widened seats of the exhaust valves are acceptable after this distance. The condition of the frame and plastic parts is even excellent.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Jorg Kunstle, Uli Baumann, Rossen Gargolov, Harald Humke

The transmission is OK, except for pitting on the sixth gear.

That is why the long-term test of the BMW G 310 R, which is certainly extraordinarily demanding for this displacement class, ultimately ends as it began. And as the widely spread reader experiences reflect: with critical realism (problems with brakes and starter), but also appreciative pats (good condition of engine and chassis). And: Without the connecting rod bearing damage – possibly caused by MOTORRAD – the Bonsai-BMW would have made it into the top ten in the overall endurance test. Not a bad perspective for a retrospective.

Mileage: 49,622, 07/2019

The 50,000 km are now almost full. My conclusion: actually quite neat, Kleene. But at the end of the day it doesn’t have enough juice for me, it’s way too puny and very uncomfortable with the low bench – for me. If it leaves the fleet now, it will not make me sad – in contrast to the recently dismantled Honda Fireblade. But I also found out what the G of the series stands for on country roads and autobahn sections. Ghandi! Not only because it is being built in India, but because there is something fundamentally peaceful about it. Her appearance is subtle, her nature free from aggression, but she still has her goal firmly in mind – and she achieves this with perseverance and perseverance.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Uwe Seitz

What was completely wrong are the accessory heated grips. They keep twisting and the cable on the throttle often presses the kill switch! And the tank cap or the fuel inlet is crazy. It is hardly possible to call up the full jet of a fuel gun without the fuel spraying wildly from the filler neck. If you don’t think about it, you quickly run out of gas or something else. Bye bye G 310 – I’m looking forward to a powerful replacement in the fleet … the S 1000 RR should arrive soon

Mileage: 48765, 07/2019


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Lisa Radlein

MOTORRAD editorial volunteer Mona Pekarek is a guest at the horse magazine CAVALLO during her training. She is pretty good at motorcycling and is learning to ride. For riding lessons she likes to whiz with the G 310 R..

MOTORRAD volunteer Mona Pekarek is currently doing training at the horse magazine CAVALLO. For an animal outside appointment, she asks the MOTORRAD fleet: “The G 310 is already through?”, I feared, but luckily the answer was: “No, she’s still allowed to take her with you”. The little speedster was just right for my short trip to Heimsheim. I had a date with Poldi, the Polish warmblood, on whom I am learning to ride with our colleagues from CAVALLO. Or try. Too complicated by car, not accessible by public transport, but ideal by motorcycle. So I quickly pulled my riding breeches under the textile suit, stuffed my helmet and boots into my rucksack and escaped Stuttgart into the idyllic countryside. As always, the baby BMW carried me gently and warmly to the stable and there made the acquaintance of a similar caliber, only in the equine universe. The fluffy thing that pretty much shares the seat height with the BMW G 310 is the little onyx. He was very happy to volunteer as a model to make the G 310 look big at least once during the endurance test.”

Mileage: 48,233, 6/2019


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Uwe Seitz

PS boss Uwe Seitz about the BMW G 310 R: When it comes to the smallest BMW, I always ask myself whether developers believe that small people only like weak motorcycles or can even drive them? Or the other way around, whether A2 candidates are always small? Why? Well, because you sit on the A2-compatible BMW G 310 from 1.80 m tall as if you had to fit into a shoebox. And when you then resolutely turn the whorl at the traffic lights to advance to the narrowing of the lane before everyone else, you will be taught a better lesson. Perhaps this approach is not entirely fair, as A2 bikes are almost alien to me – thank God! But on the last drive on the motorway I was sure that the caliber of a Dani Pedrosa would certainly not have contributed to the overall concept here. However, it is impressive how the G 310 rushes along with its 34 PS single when the speeds shoot through the roof. Still, I’m happy when I get a few more horsepower for the drive home and you can still sit on it properly!

Mileage: 47,900, 5/2019

MOTORRAD sports reporter Imre Paulovits was once again on long journeys with the BMW G 310 R when the single cylinder near Nuremberg suddenly drew attention to itself with an increased level of noise. Imre immediately switched off the engine and the long-term test machine was transported by van to the editorial office, where the causes were investigated.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Yvonne Hertler

To do this, BMW sent a technician to Stuttgart. The engine of the G 310 R was disassembled by the BMW technician in the editorial workshop in the presence of us. Cause: The connecting rod bearing was run in. Since the rest of the engine innards still looked good so far, the connecting rod and bearing shells were replaced and the engine reassembled and sealed. The parts are currently being examined in the factory while the engine is moving back into the chassis. Now the little BMW can ride the remaining 2,200 km under the wheels.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Yvonne Hertler

Mileage: 39,540, 4/2019

The BMW G 310 R had to undergo a 40,000 km inspection. In addition to the normal service, the steering head bearing was replaced under guarantee. The bill was 616.62 euros. The battered main headlight was also renewed, which led to further claims of more than 360.56 euros. For a new chain set, the BMW had to go to the workshop again at km 41,500, and there was also a new set of Michelin SportPro tires. Now the single cylinder would be ready for more kilometers if the starter had not gone on strike immediately after arriving in the editorial garage. So the 310 went straight back to the workshop. Here the starter freewheel was exchanged and the general inspection was renewed.

Mileage: 39,300, 12/2018

As soon as the Magura HC1 radial brake pump and accessory heated grips from Koso (HG-13 with integrated switch, 129.71 euros) were installed, Moto GP reporter and kilometer eater Imre Paulovits snapped himself up “the little one”, to travel to Valencia on the move to the season finale.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Paulovits

After the GP final in Valencia the sun is shining again. Also on the BMW G 310 R..

It remains to be seen whether he can feel a difference to the standard brake pump on the long stretches of the motorway. But at the latest on the way back, north of the Pyrenees, he should appreciate the hand warmers. When Imre is back, the mileage will have leveled off just before the 40,000 mark. Then the Indian Bavarian woman goes to the dealer’s cure before the festival.

After the finale in Valencia, it went another 750 kilometers to the Spanish Atlantic coast to Jerez de la Frontera, where the first Superbike World Championship test drives for 2019 took place. The fact that Imre, a prolific writer and communicator, did not say a word about the BMW for almost 5,000 kilometers in the logbook, can be interpreted as an award. And for the stone that smashed the headlight somewhere along the way, neither horse nor rider can do anything. We will replace him as part of the inspection that is due anyway.

Mileage: 36,363, 11/2018


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Imre Paulovits

The G 310 R also delights colleagues on long journeys.

MOTORCYCLE sports reporter Imre Paulovits designed the BMW G 310 R for an extensive trip to Spain: You had forgotten that you can also ride a motorcycle with 310 cubic meters and 34 hp. The BMW is very balanced in all respects and shakes everything easily from the hand. With the high windshield, long-distance comfort is also surprisingly good. I didn’t want to drive that long with her as a couple, but on my own it wasn’t a problem to drive down to Andalusia. Especially since speed limits now apply everywhere and it is checked that you are already too fast even with the G 310.

Cruising speed 140 is not a problem, the engine also copes well, consumption is really low, at 130 km / h (as permitted in France) you can travel over 200 kilometers with one tank of fuel, although the tank is quite small. Our G 310 does not have a luggage system, but it is very practical that BMW has made incisions in the handles through which the tensioning straps can be pulled through and the luggage roll can be tied properly. The heated grips are very practical, but whoever has connected them directly to the battery without interruption should actually come every time the battery is empty, not only if you forget to turn them off, but also if children play around with the thing there is a risk that the battery will be drained and one will be left without electricity.

It’s really fun on winding country roads, it’s handy and well balanced. Can be driven in 6th gear almost anywhere, you only have to switch down to overtake Maybe it’s because I drove a lot in the rain, but the first three gears have been a bit tricky in the last few days.

Mileage: 33.059, 11/2018


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Peter Mayer

Improves the pressure point of the front brake: Magura HC1 brake pump.

10,000 kilometers ago, in the G 310 R’s logbook, there was the first indication of the deteriorating pressure point of the front brake. The lever could be pulled almost to the handlebars when the car was slowing down. New brake discs and brake pads, that was the name of the solution. But the success did not materialize, the brakes continued to be very doughy. So Magura now offered a 12 HC1 radial pump. It has an ABE for the BMW, but an acceptance is mandatory. Although the HC1 offers a clearly tighter pressure point, the free travel on the lever is still quite long after the first test kilometers. Let’s see if that changes.

Mileage: 29,637, 10/2018

The little BMW was put on new tires. From now on it rolls on Pirelli Diablo Rosso III. The creaking when accelerating, criticized by various colleagues, could be traced back to the accessory engine protection bar. On the other hand, it was praised for its suitability for passenger use. As part of the 30,000 km service, the sidestand recall was also processed at the same time.

Mileage: 20,750, 6/2018


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Dentges

The retrofitted Wunderlich windshield doesn’t necessarily look good, but it does its job.

When I saw the visor on my Nolan helmet, I thought: It must have been a shop window in my previous life … With the Wunderlich windshield for the little BMW, I’m sure of it: Wow, what a panorama window! The window on the 310 looks completely stupid, but it works. At 130 km / h on the autobahn, she takes the pressure off the helmet and shoulder area, so I don’t have to fold my 1.87 meters quite like that. Pleasant!

Mileage: 19,800, 6/2018


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Petra Wiesner

BMW G 310 R on their trip to the Czech Republic.

At the end of May, the little BMW and colleague Petra Wiesner headed for Vogtland and the Czech Republic. Here are their impressions of the G 310 R: Nice, handy motorcycle. Feels very light. Mediocre contact with the ground, do not put your whole foot on the ground (1.64 m). Unfortunately no adjustable brake and clutch levers. Display very difficult to read in the sunshine. Very small and inconspicuous indicator display. Great engine brake, front disc brake not that great. The Wunderlich windshield is very pleasant and noticeably relieves the driver, but it is also extremely ugly. I think the plastic handguards are unnecessary. Wunderlich’s tank bag system is a bit cumbersome to use, but it works. It has too few subdivisions inside (only one large compartment). I think SW-Motech with tank ring is better.

After this trip, the 20,000 km inspection for the endurance test BMW was due, which is included in the cost balance with 773.06 euros.

Mileage: 17,700, 5/2018


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


MPS photo studio

It caused problems and was replaced: rear brake.

After the rear brake kept showing problems with the maneuverability, which could not be remedied with new pads and cleaned pistons, the complete rear brake was now replaced.

The little BMW is quite good for commuting. Performance fits in the city, clutch (the fact that the lever jingles against the counterweight at the end of the handlebar every time it is clutched is annoying), gearbox, driving behavior, everything is consistent. At one point or another, you would want a slightly narrower handlebar when snaking through. There is also criticism for the cold start behavior. Although she spent the crisp early summer night in the garage, she starts really badly in the morning.


BMW G 310 R in the 50,000 kilometer endurance test


Baumann

The G 310 R is also a lot of fun in the Alps.

Mileage: 15,790, 2/2018

Tire change on Dunlop Sportsmart2 Max: Whether the criticized muddy pressure point of the brakes or the inattentive driver was to blame that the BMW knocked on the rear of the editorial truck during the autumn exit remains to be seen. In any case, she now has a new, round front wheel.

Mileage: 15,394, 2/2018

Steering head bearings had to be readjusted.

Mileage: 13,200, 10/2017

In a minor rear-end collision (10 km / h) the front wheel rim was hit. However, nothing of this is noticeable when driving. The rim was replaced, the fork was measured without any findings.

Mileage: 11,000, 9/2017

The BMW G 310 R has also caught the currently rampant clutch disease. In cold condition, the first entries at 5,500 km in the logbook say, it tends to chatter, and the shiftability of the transmission is not as good as it gets. The muddy pressure point of the brake was attempted by bleeding on the occasion of the 10,000 km inspection (117.10 euros). With moderate success. The left turn signal is fogged up from the inside.

Still prepares “the small”, as it is often called, even seasoned drivers have fun and has already been chased through the Alps twice. Arrival and departure on your own, of course, included. Others refer to the BMW as “bad cucumber”.

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