Quick Analysis
BMW G 310 GS
11.0 pts
Unweighted: 6 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
Sportster S
21.0 pts
Unweighted: 15 advantages
EnginePerformanceDimensionsBrakesTyresFeaturesOther
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
Engine Specifications |
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| Cooling System | Liquid cooled system | Liquid‑cooled |
| Displacement | 313 cc | 1,252 cc |
| Engine Type | Water-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine, four valves, two overhead camshafts and finger followers, wet sump lubrication | Revolution Max 1250T V‑twin (DOHC, VVT) |
| Power | 34 PS (25 kW) at 9,500 rpm | 122.3 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Torque | 28 Nm at 7,500 rpm | 125 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 L | 11.7 L |
| Mileage | 30 | 19.6 Kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 169.5 | 228 |
| Seat Height | 835 | 765 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel ABS | Cornering (dual-channel) ABS |
| Front Brake | Single disc 300 mm with a 4-piston radial caliper | 320 mm Disc |
| Front Suspension | Upside down fork , Ø 41 mm | 43 mm inverted fork with compression, rebound and spring preload adjustability. Aluminum fork triple clamps. |
| Rear Brake | Single disc 240 mm with a floating caliper | 260 mm Disc |
| Rear Suspension | Cast aluminium dual swing arm | Linkage-mounted, piggyback monoshock with compression, rebound and hydraulic spring preload adjustability |
Tyres & Wheels |
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| Front Tyre | 110/80 R19 | 160/70 R17 Dunlop Harley‑Davidson radial |
| Rear Tyre | 150/70 R17 | 180/70 R16 Dunlop Harley‑Davidson radial |
| Tyre Type | Tubelesss | Radial, tubeless |
| Wheel Type | Alloy | Alloy |
Features & Technology |
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| Headlight | LED | LED |
Other Specifications |
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| Battery | 12 V / 8 Ah | 12 V, 12 Ah, 225 CCA |
| Bike Image 1 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/g310gsracingred.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Brilliant-red-1.avif |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/g310gscosmicblack3.webp | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Mystic-shift-1.avif |
| Bike Image 3 | — | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Vivid-Black-2.avif |
| Cluster | Digital | 4‑in full‑color TFT display |
| Color Options | Racing Red | #C40000 Cosmic Black 3 | #1A1A1A Polar White with Racing Blue Metallic | #F5F5F5,#003399 | Vivid Black | #0F0F10 Billiard Gray | #6B7074 Brilliant Red | #A01824 Mystic Shift | #4B4F59 |
| 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. | Rear Suspension Travel Is Limited – The motorcycle's low profile comes at the expense of suspension travel, which can make sharp bumps and rough roads more noticeable. Fuel Tank Capacity Is Smaller Than Expected – The relatively compact fuel tank can require more frequent fuel stops than some riders might anticipate from a large-capacity motorcycle. Riding Position Can Feel Unusual – The combination of mid-to-forward controls and a relatively upright upper body position doesn't suit every rider, especially on longer journeys. Passenger Accommodation Is Minimal – The motorcycle is clearly designed with the rider as the priority, and pillion comfort is limited in stock form. Engine Heat Is Noticeable in Traffic – The high-performance engine can generate considerable heat during slow-moving urban riding. Not as Relaxed as Traditional Cruisers – Riders expecting the laid-back feel of motorcycles such as the Fat Boy or Heritage Classic may find the Sportster S considerably more focused and demanding. Limited Touring Practicality – There is little wind protection, no integrated luggage, and fewer long-distance touring conveniences than Harley's cruiser-touring models. |
| 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 Sportster S represents a very different chapter in the history of Harley-Davidson’s Sportster line. For decades, the Sportster name was associated with air-cooled V-twin engines, relatively simple technology, and a riding experience rooted in traditional cruiser values. The current Sportster S moves away from that formula and adopts a platform that shares far more with modern performance motorcycles than with its predecessors. While the styling still carries some Harley-Davidson influence, much of the motorcycle’s engineering has been developed around a different set of priorities. The most significant change is found in the engine. Instead of using an air-cooled V-twin, the Sportster S is powered by Harley-Davidson’s Revolution Max 1250T engine. This 1,252cc liquid-cooled V-twin is a stressed member of the chassis, meaning it contributes to the motorcycle’s structural rigidity rather than simply sitting within a frame. The engine produces its power differently from traditional Harley-Davidson motors, with a broader operating range and a willingness to rev higher. A six-speed gearbox transfers power to the rear wheel, while electronic engine management systems oversee throttle response, fuel delivery, and rider-assistance functions. Visually, the motorcycle is defined by a compact body, a short rear section, and a high-mounted dual exhaust system positioned on the right side. The fuel tank shape appears larger than it actually is because part of the visible structure functions as a cover, while the fuel itself is stored lower within the chassis. This layout helps centralize mass and contributes to the motorcycle’s proportions. The actual fuel capacity is 11.8 litres, which is smaller than what is commonly found on many touring-oriented motorcycles. The chassis differs substantially from Harley-Davidson’s traditional cruiser platforms. Rather than using a steel frame with conventional architecture, the Sportster S combines the engine with separate front and rear frame sections. Suspension duties are handled by upside-down front forks and a rear monoshock, both of which offer adjustment options. Compared to many cruisers, the suspension components are more performance-oriented in both design and appearance. Wheel and tyre specifications also play a major role in defining the motorcycle’s character. The Sportster S uses wide tyres at both ends, including a particularly large front tyre that immediately stands out. This setup contributes to the motorcycle’s visual identity and influences steering feel and overall handling behaviour. Braking is managed through a single front disc with a radial-mounted Brembo caliper and a rear disc brake, supported by modern electronic systems. Technology forms a larger part of the package than it does on many traditional Harley-Davidson models. A round TFT display serves as the motorcycle’s instrument cluster and allows access to a range of vehicle settings. Through this interface, riders can view ride information, adjust ride modes, and interact with connectivity features. The motorcycle includes selectable ride modes, traction control, cornering-enhanced ABS, wheel-lift mitigation, engine braking control, and cruise control. These systems are managed through sensors that continuously monitor riding conditions and rider inputs. The riding position differs from both conventional cruisers and naked motorcycles. Mid-to-forward-mounted foot controls place the rider’s legs ahead of the body, while the handlebar keeps the upper body relatively upright. The seat height of approximately 765 mm is higher than many Harley-Davidson cruisers, reflecting the motorcycle’s different chassis layout and intended riding dynamics. Taken together, the Sportster S combines a liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine, electronically managed rider aids, adjustable suspension, TFT instrumentation, and a compact chassis architecture. Its specification sheet reflects a motorcycle developed around modern engineering solutions while retaining a visual connection to Harley-Davidson’s broader lineup. |
| 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 Sportster S is one of the most significant departures Harley-Davidson has made from its traditional formula in recent years. Despite carrying the Sportster name, the motorcycle feels fundamentally different from the air-cooled models that built the badge's reputation. The Revolution Max 1250T engine is the centerpiece of the experience, delivering performance that feels considerably stronger and more urgent than what many riders expect from a Harley-Davidson cruiser. The chassis and electronics package have been developed to match that performance, giving the bike handling and braking capabilities that place it closer to modern roadsters and power cruisers than traditional cruisers. At the same time, the Sportster S makes a few compromises in pursuit of its aggressive styling and performance-focused character. Suspension travel is limited, the riding position can feel unusual on longer rides, and touring practicality is not a priority. What emerges is a motorcycle that feels deliberately different from the rest of Harley-Davidson's cruiser lineup. Rather than focusing on heritage and nostalgia, it emphasizes performance, technology, and a more contemporary interpretation of what a Harley-Davidson can be., 4.5, 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: Which engine powers the Sportster S? A: The motorcycle uses Harley-Davidson's 1,252cc Revolution Max 1250T liquid-cooled V-twin engine. Q: Is the Sportster S air-cooled? A: No. Unlike older Sportster models, the Sportster S uses a liquid-cooled engine. Q: How is the Sportster S different from older Sportsters? A: The Sportster S uses a completely different platform with a liquid-cooled engine, TFT display, ride modes, traction control, and a more performance-focused chassis. Q: Does the Sportster S have ride modes? A: Yes. Multiple ride modes are available, allowing riders to adjust throttle response and electronic intervention settings. Q: Does the Sportster S have cruise control? A: Yes. Cruise control is included as standard equipment. Q: What is the fuel tank capacity of the Sportster S? A: The motorcycle has an 11.8-litre fuel tank. Q: Is the Sportster S suitable for long-distance touring? A: It can handle longer rides, but its compact fuel tank, limited wind protection, and firm suspension make it less touring-oriented than Harley-Davidson's cruiser-touring models. Q: Is the Sportster S comfortable for a passenger? A: Passenger accommodation is limited in stock form and is not one of the motorcycle's primary focuses. Q: What is the seat height of the Sportster S? A: The seat height is approximately 765 mm. Q: Does the Sportster S have traction control and cornering ABS? A: Yes. The motorcycle includes cornering-enhanced ABS, traction control, and other electronic rider-assistance systems. Q: What is the kerb weight of the Harley-Davidson Sportster S? A: The motorcycle weighs approximately 228 kg in running condition. Q: Is the Sportster S beginner-friendly? A: Due to its performance, power output, and responsive throttle characteristics, it is generally more suitable for riders with some experience. Q: Does the Sportster S support smartphone connectivity? A: Yes. The TFT display supports smartphone connectivity, navigation functions, and various connected features. |
| Fuel System | Electronic fuel injection | Fuel Injection |
| Price Variants | Standard | 324973 | STD | 1805000 |
| 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. | Engine Completely Changes the Character of the Bike – The Revolution Max 1250T engine feels very different from traditional Harley-Davidson V-twins. It revs higher, responds quicker to throttle inputs, and delivers performance in a way that feels more modern and energetic. Strong Acceleration Across the Rev Range – Whether pulling away from a traffic light or overtaking on a highway, the engine has enough power in reserve that the motorcycle rarely feels short of performance. Surprisingly Capable Handling – Compared to most cruisers, the Sportster S feels noticeably more willing to lean into corners and change direction. Modern Electronics Package – Ride modes, traction control, cornering ABS, cruise control, and a TFT display bring a level of technology that wasn't traditionally associated with the Sportster name. Distinctive Design – The short tail section, high-mounted exhaust, fat tyres, and exposed engine give the motorcycle a look that stands apart from both traditional cruisers and naked bikes. High-Quality TFT Display – The instrument screen is clear, modern, and provides access to a wide range of riding information and settings. Strong Braking Performance – The braking setup offers a level of stopping power that matches the motorcycle's performance capabilities. Lighter and More Agile Than Many Harley-Davidsons – While not a lightweight motorcycle by industry standards, it feels noticeably more manageable than Harley's larger cruiser and touring models. |
| Starter | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6‑speed manual |
