Quick Analysis
BMW G 310 R
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 / water-cooled | Liquid cooled |
| Displacement | 313cc | 1301 cc |
| Engine Type | Water-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75° |
| Power | 34 hp at 9,250 rpm | 160 PS @ 8750 rpm |
| Torque | 28 Nm @ ~7,500 rpm | 140 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
Performance & Efficiency |
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| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 L | 23 L |
| Mileage | 30 kmpl | 17.5 kmpl |
Dimensions & Weight |
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| Kerb Weight | 164 | 250 |
| Seat Height | 785 | 849/869 |
Brakes & Suspension |
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| ABS | Dual Channel | Dual Channel |
| Front Brake | Disc 300 mm Caliper - 4 Piston | Disc 320 mm |
| Front Suspension | Upside down fork , Ø 41 mm | WP SAT (semi-active technology) Upside-Down Ø 48 mm |
| Rear Brake | Disc 240 mm Caliper - 1 Piston | 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 | 110/70 - R17 | 120/70 - ZR19 |
| Rear Tyre | 150/60 - R17 | 170/60 - ZR17 |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | 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/image-8.webp | — |
| Bike Image 2 | https://motoautiv.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/image-10.webp | — |
| Cluster | Digital console | Scratch-resistant 7-inch TFT display |
| Color Options | Triple Black | #1B1B1B Polar White Racing Blue Metallic | #FFFFFF, #16588E Granite Gray Metallic | #1B1B1B, #4D4D4D | Orange | #FF6600, #000000 |
| Cons | Relatively small fuel tank at 11 liters, limiting long-distance touring range. Single-cylinder vibrations can be felt at higher RPMs, especially during prolonged highway riding. Limited top-end performance compared to some rivals in the segment that focus more on outright speed. Maintenance and service costs are slightly higher than typical 300 cc class bikes. No advanced electronics or ride modes, which some riders might expect 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 R is one of those motorcycles that reminds you how much joy a well-engineered lightweight machine can bring, even before you start chasing big numbers. Its 313 cc single-cylinder engine may sound modest on paper, but once it fires up, you feel a lively and eager character that’s been tuned carefully for both city life and spirited weekend rides. The liquid-cooled, four-valve motor revs cleanly, pulling with smooth determination through the mid-range before stretching confidently toward its peak output of around 34 horsepower. Real-world torque comes alive right where riders spend most of their time — around the 5,000 to 7,000 rpm zone — making quick overtakes and tight gaps in traffic feel effortless rather than stressful. Riding it in the city reveals how much its weight and design work in your favor. At roughly 158 kilos ready to ride, the G 310 R feels light on its feet, and that pays off the moment you weave through traffic or flick it into a narrow gap between cars. The six-speed gearbox clicks through gears neatly, helped by a slipper clutch that makes downshifts smooth when you’re scrubbing off speed or diving into a corner. BMW’s fuel-injection system keeps throttle response crisp, which makes the bike feel more polished than many in its class. Comfort and stability are handled by a suspension setup that balances firmness and compliance unusually well. Up front sits a chunky 41 mm upside-down fork that keeps the bike planted when you brake hard or lean in with enthusiasm. At the rear, a preload-adjustable monoshock helps tailor the feel whether you’re riding solo, carrying a backpack, or taking on a weekend highway stretch. Even on patchy roads, the suspension manages to absorb imperfections without ever feeling soggy or disconnected. Braking confidence is one of the G 310 R’s strongest traits. The front 300 mm disc with its four-piston caliper gives the kind of initial bite and progressive feel that encourages you to ride with assurance. The rear 240 mm disc complements it nicely, especially in tighter city situations where small corrections matter. Dual-channel ABS works quietly in the background, stepping in only when needed but never feeling intrusive, which is exactly how riders prefer it. The dimensions of the bike play a huge role in how friendly it feels. With a seat height of about 785 mm, it’s accessible to a wide range of riders while still giving a commanding riding position. The wheelbase sits right in the sweet spot for agility, making quick transitions feel intuitive rather than forced. Because of its narrow tank and compact chassis, newer riders find it unintimidating, while more experienced riders appreciate how effortlessly it leans and responds. Fuel efficiency hovers in the 30–35 km/l range in mixed conditions, and with an 11-liter fuel tank, it delivers enough riding range for daily commute duties or casual weekend runs without constant fuel stops. The digital instrument cluster is straightforward and easy to read, giving you all essential information without clutter. LED lighting across the bike not only modernizes its appearance but also improves night-time visibility significantly. The electric starter fires the engine to life instantly, and the maintenance-free battery adds to the overall ease of ownership. On the move, the G 310 R manages to feel both manageable and genuinely enjoyable. In the city, it darts through gaps with precision. On the highway, it settles comfortably around typical cruising speeds, feeling stable and composed. On twisty roads, its lightness becomes its biggest asset, offering a playful and confidence-inspiring ride that encourages you to explore more lean angle than you expected from a bike in this category. What truly defines the G 310 R is how all these specifications come together to create an experience that feels refined, balanced, and mature. The engine never feels stressed, the suspension never feels confused, and the braking hardware never makes you second-guess your decisions. It’s practical enough for everyday life, exciting enough for weekend escapes, and polished enough to feel like a genuine BMW — just in a compact and accessible form. For many riders, that combination is exactly what makes the G 310 R such a compelling motorcycle to live with. | 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 R serves as an entry-level roadster that focuses on urban agility and brand accessibility within the Indian market. Its 313cc single-cylinder engine is tuned for a strong mid-range, making it effective for navigating city traffic and occasional highway stretches. While the 785 mm seat height and 164 kg kerb weight make it easy for most riders to handle, the 11-litre fuel tank limits its range for long-distance touring. Premium components like the 41 mm upside-down forks and gold-anodized calipers contribute to a high-quality feel, though the LCD console is now considered dated by segment standards. Maintenance and spare part costs remain significantly higher than domestic rivals, which is a key consideration for long-term ownership. Overall, it remains a refined option for those prioritizing a compact footprint and the prestige of the BMW badge over outright power., 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? A: The mileage is around 30–35 kmpl. Q: How much does the annual maintenance of a BMW G 310 R cost in India? A: While the initial price is competitive, the BMW G 310 R service cost is higher than domestic rivals. A standard annual service typically ranges between ₹6,000 and ₹9,000. Q: Does the BMW G 310 R engine vibrate at high speeds on the highway? A: Since the BMW G 310 R uses a single-cylinder engine, some "buzz" is natural at higher revs. You’ll mostly feel these vibrations through the footpegs and handlebars once you cross 100 kmph. Q: How does the BMW G 310 R handle heating in bumper-to-bumper traffic? A: The BMW G 310 R features a unique "reverse-inclined" engine design that helps with heat dissipation. While you will feel some warm air on your legs when the radiator fan kicks in during a hot Indian summer, it rarely gets "engine-stalling" hot. Q: Is the BMW G 310 R seat height comfortable for shorter riders in India? A: One of the biggest advantages of the BMW G 310 R is its very accessible 785 mm seat height. Because the bike is quite slim, it allows riders around 5'3" to 5'5" to plant both feet firmly on the ground, which is a huge confidence booster in heavy Indian traffic. | 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 | 290000 | STD | 2273900 |
| Pros | Refined and lively engine that offers smooth acceleration and a strong mid-range, making city riding and short highway runs enjoyable. Lightweight and agile, which makes it incredibly easy to maneuver in traffic and fun to flick through corners. High-quality suspension setup, especially the USD forks, giving the bike a stable and planted feel even at higher speeds. Strong braking performance with a confident front brake and dual-channel ABS for added safety. Premium build quality, from paint finish to component feel, giving it a true BMW character. Comfortable seat height that works well for most riders and encourages confidence. LED lighting and digital cluster provide modern functionality and improved visibility. Slipper clutch makes downshifts smoother and enhances overall ride refinement. | 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 constant mesh, manual | 6 Speed Manual |
