2020 BMW G 310 R vs G 310 GS : Differences Explained

The BS6 versions of the 2020 BMW G 310R and G 310 were launched recently in India and the new, lower pricing has kept the buzz running high across social media platforms. While both the offerings share the same engine and (largely) the same underpinnings, there are a few differences. We discuss them in detail in this quick 2020 BMW G 310 R vs G 310 GS comparison.

Pricing
First and foremost, what do these bikes cost? The naked R carries an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.45 lakh while its elder sibling the GS is about Rs 40,000 more expensive. In terms of on-road pricing, the final difference will come to about 45k. Do note that both the bikes are cheaper than the outgoing BS4 models.

Dimensions
Another aspect of the 2020 BMW G 310 R vs G 310 GS battle is the size of the bikes. At 2075mm, the GS is 70mm longer. Likewise, it is 31mm wider and 150mm taller as well. Additionally, due the front fairing, the bike has a higher street cred as compared to the naked R.
The GS is also about 11kgs heavier here - the fairing and rear luggage rack adding to the weight here.

Suspension
A very important parameter of our 2020 BMW G 310 R vs G 310 GS comparison gets us to the way these bikes behave on the road. The GS is meant to explore adventure trails and hence gets as much as 180mm of suspension travel at both the ends. In comparison, the naked R is meant to flick through traffic or let the rider enjoy a set of twisties and hence has a 'tighter' set-up. The front suspension travel stands at 140mm while the rear offers 131mm of travel. Likewise, both the bikes also have a different castor and steering head angle.

Tyres
While both the R and GS get alloy wheels, the size and dimension of the tyres is different. The GS first - it gets a 19-17 set-up which means the front is a taller 19 inch wheel and the rear is a 17 inch one. Tyre sizes stand at 110mm and 150mm respectively. The R on the other hand gets 17 inch wheels on both the end with similar sized tyres. It should be noted that the GS also has a longer wheelbase, by about 40mm. This should add to its high speed manners.

Riding the bike
The R is more of a city naked monster and has a more aggressive (but not demanding) riding stance than the GS. The latter is meant for chewing up miles and also has a higher seating of 835mm vs 785mm on the R. Do note that for both the bikes, you can opt for optional lower or higher seat heights. Also, as both the bikes generate the same power and torque, outright acceleration and top speed is almost similar.

So which among the two would you pick and why - share with us in our Whatsapp Group? As for me, I booked the latter and awaiting delivery as I type this.