BMW Motorrad has gone ahead and confirmed that both, the G 310 R and the G310 GS will hit the market in the second-half of 2018. This announcement leaves enthusiast waiting for another year, but at least there is a confirmation now.
BMW first showcased the G 310 R in India at the 2016 Auto Expo, which is currently in production at BWM’s partner, TVS’ plant in Hosur. The G 310 R is already on sale internationally with the GS about to follow shortly. To recap, the G 310 GS is an adventure-styled machine based on the G 310 R platform but with a 19-inch front wheel and longer travel suspension that should aid riding comfort and also offer some mild off-road capability. The G 310 R is the company’s Duke rivalling small-capacity naked motorcycle.
The German manufacturer has already opened four showrooms in India at Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Pune, with three more set to open in 2017 - in Delhi, Chennai and Cochin. BMW also plans to open another three in Chandigarh, Kolkata and Hyderabad taking the total upto 10.
BMW’s reason for the delay is that they are looking to offer customers a high-quality experience. BMW recognises that premium bikes deserve a premium ownership experience; therefore it’s vital that the brand has a strong network to support the demand for the motorcycles. It will be interesting to see how BMW go about and price their motorcycles. Internationally they are marginally cheaper than the G 310 R however; KTM’s India pricing is absolutely incredible. BMW Motorrad officials said that the G 310 R is a direct competition to the KTM 390 Duke and will be priced accordingly. The company has announced that it will be present at the 2017 India Bike Week to understand the Indian market and its competition.