Quick Analysis
BMW G 310 GS
13.0 pts
Unweighted: 8 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S
22.0 pts
Unweighted: 16 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid cooled system | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 313 cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Type | Water-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine, four valves, two overhead camshafts and finger followers, wet sump lubrication | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° |
| Power | 34 PS (25 kW) at 9,500 rpm | 160 PS @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 28 Nm at 7,500 rpm | 140 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 L | 23 L |
| Mileage | 30 | 17.5 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 169.5 | 250 |
| Seat Height | 835 | 849/869 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Single disc 300 mm with a 4-piston radial caliper | Disc 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | Upside down fork , Ø 41 mm | WP SAT (semi-active technology) Upside-Down Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | Single disc 240 mm with a floating caliper | Disc 267 mm |
| Rear Suspension | Cast aluminium dual swing arm | WP SAT (semi-active technology) shock absorber |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/80 R19 | 120/70 - ZR19 |
| Rear Tyre | 150/70 R17 | 170/60 - ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubelesss | Tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED Headlight |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V / 8 Ah | — |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/g310gsracingred.webp | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/g310gscosmicblack3.webp | — |
| Cluster | Digital | Scratch-resistant 7-inch TFT display |
| Color Options | Racing Red | #C40000 Cosmic Black 3 | #1A1A1A Polar White with Racing Blue Metallic | #F5F5F5,#003399 | Orange | #FF6600, #000000 |
| Cons | Seat height of 835 mm may be challenging for shorter riders. Fuel tank is only 11 litres, limiting long-distance touring range. Relatively expensive compared to entry-level adventure bikes in India. Single-cylinder engine vibrations can be felt at higher speeds on long rides. No advanced electronics or ride modes, which some competitors offer at this price point. | High Price & Running Cost: As a premium big adventure bike, the 1290 SAS is expensive to buy and maintain. Complex Electronics: The rich electronics package may be overwhelming for some riders and can lead to occasional software glitches. Reliability Concerns: Some owners report electrical issues (e.g., MTC error, key fob issues) and other rare faults. Seat Comfort: The stock seat is criticized by several users for being hard, especially on long rides. Weight: With a kerb weight of around 250 kg, it’s a heavy machine, which can make it less agile in certain situations, particularly off-road. Heat & Engine Complexity: The powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, and servicing its complex components (like twin plugs, semi-active suspension, etc.) can be demanding. |
| Detailed Overview | The BMW G 310 GS serves as a lightweight entry into the adventure-touring segment, specifically engineered to balance urban agility with light trail capability. At its core is a 313cc, single-cylinder engine featuring a unique “reverse-inclined” layout, which positions the intake at the front and exhaust at the rear to lower the bike’s center of gravity. This liquid-cooled, DOHC unit produces 34 PS of power and 28 Nm of torque, managed through a 6-speed gearbox equipped with an anti-hopping slipper clutch and ride-by-wire throttle for smoother transitions. The chassis is built around a tubular space frame supported by a suspension system designed for high comfort levels on uneven surfaces. It features 41mm upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, both providing 180mm of travel to effectively absorb road irregularities. The bike rolls on a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cast aluminum wheel setup, fitted with tubeless radial tyres. Braking is handled by a large 300mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, both integrated with a dual-channel ABS system for consistent stopping power. Ergonomically, the motorcycle provides an upright, neutral seating position with a standard seat height of 835mm, making it a stable platform for both commuting and touring. With a kerb weight of 175 kg and an 11.5-liter fuel tank, it remains manageable for a variety of riders. The interface includes a full LED lighting package and a functional LCD digital instrument cluster that provides essential ride data at a glance. | The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is the thrilling apex of KTM’s travel bike lineup, blending raw power with modern electronics and long-distance capability to deliver a truly versatile adventure machine. At the core of the bike lies its mighty 1,301 cc LC8 V-twin engine, which churns out around 160 PS of power and 140 Nm of torque. This translates into effortless rapid acceleration, strong highway performance, and the brute force needed to carry luggage or cruise with a pillion. Whether you’re blasting down twisty mountain roads or towing through open terrain, the 1290 SAS feels like a bike that can do it all. One of the standout features of the Super Adventure S is its adaptive cruise control (ACC) – a rare find in this segment. With its radar-based system, riders can maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front, reducing fatigue during long rides. This, combined with a rich electronics suite that includes Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes (Rain, Street, Off-road, Rally), gives you confidence and control no matter where you’re headed. The 7-inch TFT display serves as the cockpit brain, presenting ride data, navigation details, and vital alerts with clarity. In terms of handling and comfort, the 1290 SAS strikes a remarkable balance. Equipped with semi-active WP suspension, the bike dynamically adjusts damping based on ride conditions, ensuring a smooth ride over broken tarmac while maintaining tight control when pushing hard. The trellis frame is rigid yet light enough to make the weight (over 250 kg) feel manageable. The ergonomics are well thought out – the adjustable windshield, comfortable seat, and raised handlebars make for a relaxed riding posture that’s ideal for long touring. Fuel capacity is another strong point. With its 23-litre tank, the Super Adventure S offers excellent range, making it ideal for epic road trips. For riders planning multi-day journeys or even cross-country routes, fuel stops are less of a chore, and the engine’s broad torque curve ensures manageable fuel consumption even under load. However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The Super Adventure S’s powerful V-twin can generate noticeable heat, especially in heavy traffic or warm climates. The price tag is also quite premium, reflecting its status as a high-spec adventure bike with semi-active suspension and advanced electronics. As with any complex, electronics-loaded machine, maintenance and service costs are higher than simpler bikes. Despite these trade-offs, the 1290 Super Adventure S excels at its intended purpose: it’s a performance-focused travel machine that doesn’t compromise on comfort or high-speed capability. For riders who crave an adventure bike that feels equally at home on high-speed highways, winding backroads, or loose terrain, the 1290 SAS is one of the most compelling choices. It combines KTM’s racing pedigree with real-world usability, making long-distance touring not just practical but exhilarating. In summary, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a high-performance, high-comfort adventure bike that brings together advanced technology, raw power, and touring durability. If you’re looking for an adventure motorcycle that doesn’t feel like you’re making too many compromises power-wise or comfort-wise, the 1290 SAS delivers a premium, capable, and thrilling ride. |
| Expert Review | The BMW G 310 GS is a purposefully engineered adventure tourer that prioritizes mechanical refinement and rider ergonomics over aggressive off-road performance. Its standout feature is a plush, long-travel suspension system that effectively isolates the rider from the harsh irregularities typical of Indian road infrastructure. Complemented by an upright, commanding seating position, the motorcycle offers superior long-distance comfort and high visibility for urban navigation. The 313cc liquid-cooled engine is characterized by a linear power delivery of 34 PS, providing a predictable and manageable experience for intermediate riders. While it maintains highway speeds with ease, high-frequency vibrations at the upper end of the rev range remain a known trait of its single-cylinder configuration. Ultimately, the G 310 GS represents a premium ownership proposition, where the initial build quality and brand prestige are balanced against higher-than-average maintenance costs and a relatively concentrated service network., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team | The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S is a large touring-focused bike built around a 1301cc V-twin engine that produces strong power and feels smooth even at highway speeds. Despite its size, the bike feels quite balanced once it is moving, and the riding position is upright, which helps on long rides. It comes with electronic suspension, ride modes, traction control, and cruise control, which allow the rider to adjust the bike based on road and riding conditions. The suspension handles most road surfaces well, though its size can feel noticeable in tight city spaces. The windscreen and overall design offer good protection from wind, making long-distance riding easier. The TFT display is clear and shows a lot of information, but it may take some time to get used to all the settings and controls., 4.4, MotoAutiv Team |
| FAQ (Manual Override) | Q: What is the mileage of BMW G 310 GS? A: The mileage is approximately 28–30 kmpl. Q: Does BMW G 310 GS have ABS? A: Yes, it comes with dual-channel ABS. Q: Is the BMW G 310 GS suitable for short riders? A: The standard BMW G 310 GS seat height is 835mm, which can be challenging for anyone under 5'7". However, BMW offers a low seat option (820mm), and the bike's narrow profile and light 170kg kerb weight make the BMW G 310 GS easier to balance with one foot down. Q: How much is the annual maintenance cost for a BMW G 310 GS in India? A: Expect to pay between ₹6,000 and ₹10,000 for a standard annual service of the BMW G 310 GS. Major services (every 20,000 km) for the BMW G 310 GS can cost significantly more, sometimes exceeding ₹20,000 if parts like the chain-sprocket or brake pads need replacement. Q: Is the BMW G 310 GS engine reliable for long-distance touring? A: The BMW G 310 GS uses a proven 313cc reverse-inclined engine that manages heat very well. | Q: What is the engine specification of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It uses a 1,301 cc V-twin (LC8) engine with 75° configuration. Q: How much power and torque does KTM 1290 Super Adventure S deliver? A: The motor produces 160 PS (118 kW) and 140 Nm of torque. Q: What is the fuel capacity and mileage of KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It has a 23-litre fuel tank. According to Autocar India, the claimed fuel efficiency is 17.5 km/l. Q: What type of brakes and ABS does this bike use? A: The 1290 Super Adventure S features 320 mm front discs and 267 mm rear discs, backed by Bosch combined ABS with cornering ABS and an off-road ABS mode. Q: What suspension setup is on the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: It comes with WP semi-active suspension (SAT), a 48 mm upside-down fork in the front and a semi-active rear shock absorber. Q: What is the seat height and ground clearance of KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: The seat height is 849 mm, adjustable up to 869 mm, and ground clearance is 223 mm. Q: What instrument cluster does KTM 1290 Super Adventure S come with? A: It features a 7-inch TFT display, which supports angle adjustment, navigation via KTM Connect, and can show ride data. Q: Is the 1290 Super Adventure S good for touring? A: Yes, with its large fuel tank, long travel suspension, and comfort-oriented electronics (like ACC and adjustable windscreen), it's well-suited for long-distance touring. Q: What is the kerb / dry weight of the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S? A: The kerb weight is approximately 220 kg (per 91Wheels). |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Standard | 324973 | STD | 2273900 |
| Pros | Compact and lightweight adventure bike, making it very manageable in city traffic and narrow streets. Refined engine that delivers smooth power and strong mid-range torque, perfect for both urban commuting and occasional highway runs. Comfortable long-travel suspension that absorbs potholes and rough Indian roads effectively. Strong and predictable braking with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety. High-quality build and premium feel typical of BMW motorcycles. Good ergonomics and upright seating that reduce fatigue during longer rides. LED headlight and digital instrument cluster improve visibility and usability. Tubeless radial tyres provide better grip and easier maintenance. | Massive Power & Torque: Powered by a 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine, the 1290 SAS delivers 160 PS and 140 Nm of torque, great for both highway cruising and spirited rides. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Comes with radar-based ACC, which allows you to lock on to a vehicle ahead and maintain a safe distance automatically, a big plus for long touring. Advanced Rider Electronics: Features such as Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), cornering ABS, traction control (MTC), quickshifter+, and multiple riding modes add a high level of safety and versatility. Semi-Active WP Suspension: The WP semi-active suspension adjusts damping dynamically, offering comfort, sporty control, or off-road capability depending on the mode. Long Range Fuel Tank: With a 23-liter fuel tank, it gives a very decent range for touring or long rides. Premium Build & Components: The build quality is high, with a strong trellis frame, durable engine internals (like DLC coatings), and overall excellent material quality. Comfort & Ergonomics: Adjustable windshield, adjustable seat height, and rider-focused ergonomics make it comfortable for long-distance journeys. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric starter |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6 Speed Manual |
