Bit embarrasing this folks - I was told I was getting the 310 GS as a courtesy bike so reviewed it as such. However as you can see from the thumbnail, it was actually the 310 R! Thankfully there’s very little difference except the R is about £800 cheaper, about 10kg lighter, and 50mm lower seat height. Check out the R 1250 R review - ua-cam.com/video/1VymxFupM2s/v-deo.html
Nice machine. But 6G buys you a cb500x. I think it's worth the extra juice for most people. Honda warranty and service is pretty good, too. But nice one. Enjoy Switzerland. Just returned from Greece, great to be riding outside the UK again m Happy travels 👍
I don't understand why manufacturers with A2 compliant bikes don't go up to the 47bhp limit. This bike's 34bhp falls well short. Is it because other countries have a lower limit? 🤷♂️. I'm sure the reliability wouldn't be compromised closer to the limit. There's often a big cost difference with valve clearance check servicing if they have to adjust them.
I think that 47bhp is a bit much to ask from a 300cc, relatively utilitarian/commuting bike. Most A2 bikes that are on the limit are either 500-ish cc or they're a smaller sportsbike in a higher state of tune.
@@motosnape Hi Neil, understand what you're saying but tend to disagree. For example, Honda's basic "first big bike" (hate that phrase) unstressed engine CB650R puts out a claimed 93.9bhp, which equates to 0.14 bhp per cc and rolls up to 43.33 bhp for a 300cc bike, which is a 27% increase on the 34bhp. Yes, I know this is a basic maths example and there may be more technical things to take into account (cylinders, etc), but you get my drift. I feel certain motorcycle engineers employed by the likes of BMW could come up with an answer. If they really can't perhaps they should jack up the engine size (probably proving your point 😁), e.g. KTM's 390 aimed at the same market is 373cc and puts out 43.5 bhp. If I were restricted to an A2 license I just wouldn't want anything so short of the mark. Having said all this, I'd probably by something like a CB650R in restricted A2 form and have it unrestricted when allowed. Two bikes in one.
The reason is this isn't really a BMW. It's a Chinese Apache 310 that's been rebadged to break into Asian markets. BMW have just partnered with them to make some small changes to the original. Having said that I don't know why they didn't find a better base bike.
I just got My GSA for a service and i got a Fully loaded 2021 1250 GS, funny thing my dealer was jocking that it gave me a scooter... but funnyer, after 5 years of GSA it does feels like a Scooter!
i have just looked at both models at a dealer, and initially thought the GS was the one i would like best, but due to a back injury and being a tad stiff, found getting my leg over (haha) a slight pain, as it's quite a bit taller than i expected, and at 6' with a 30.75" inseam couldn't quite flat foot it either, whilst the R model was a doddle. i don't commute or spend much time on main roads so speed aint what i'm looking for, or much of an issue on single track & B roads. The dealer said he could do me a great price around £4k in a month or so when i would be ready, on a 2023 fully serviced low mileage ex-demo with a 3 year warranty & breakdown cover, so ATM im favouring the R. I'd like to know if you purchased a 310 and if so which one & what you think of it, or in fact anyone's opinion, as it looks to be a great deal and if i decide to sell in a years time shouldnt get stung. GL
I'm still saving but rode the gs and the r and absolutely loved it I found the gs comfier tbh but now I'm really liking the triumph scrambler 400 decisions are difficult 😂😂
@@shanemassey2039 yeah, im finding it hard as well. A big option for me is a honda cb500f, as it seems to tick a lot of boxes, and atm i can't think of many reasons why id want anything more powerful for a long time, meaning it could well be a keeper, but this time of year means there's potentially lots of deals and good prices to be had, so no rush deciding yet really. i'll have a look at the triumph 400 though, as it's one not yet on the radar :) GL
@@Bob-ts2tuthe triumph looks so good as well best looking if you ask me, and I'm on a gs500 atm but saving for a new bike and I've done some research today and the honda fmx 650 caught my eye tbh su h a good looking bike and it's a2 compliant so I'm now thinking the fmx as a daily bike and gs or triumph as the dry weather machine 😂
loved this quickie review and ramble. nice to get a chance to meet you and speak at lynmouth on Nathan's postie bikes, can wait for that review. i finally met a celebrity 🤣 .. despite my two mates who hadnt a clue who i was yapping to! brill
Cool little bike, I was looking at one of these when getting back in motorcycling but being a complete midget the Kawasaki z400 was a better fit. I was so pleased I bought one before the euro5 rules stopped them being sold in the UK and the rest of Europe.
@@teapotone Thanks for the response. Did not find it when I searched for it on your previous videos. I assume it's not titled as such (Zero SR/F).. I did find a 2018 Zero and one for the SR/S.. Don't know if I'm blind.
My apologies Dai, looking back through my vids it does appear I’ve not done the SR/S??? But I have ridden it so don’t know why I did t do a vid 🤷♂️🤦♂️ The Bike Vs Plane vid has Andy Man Cam riding one - ua-cam.com/video/RIn-Ugfmp2U/v-deo.html There really is very little difference in performance between the SR/F and SR/S
Going to Switzerland? I just got back from there (don't worry, I left plenty for you). YOU WILL LOVE IT! Great roads, beautiful views and it never ends. Just beware of speed traps, tickets are in line with the Swiss price levels and that's not good ;-).
I had the same issue getting my bike in for its 600 mile service with BMW… It was only done about 10 days ago… Got to play on a nice 1250 GS for 24 hours though 👌🏻👍🏻
Ha Ha, aye it’s not quite that deluxe in real-life, but has been fantastic every time I’ve needed it either for a breakdown or recovery after an accident etc 👍
My friend used a 99 600cc bandit for work and sold it and got one of these... I rode it other week and yeah its not too bad, I felt the front end was a bit sponge and the gearing could be slightly better... I personally would say a CBR250 would be a better bike to the GS310. Good ol review Bruce 👌.
Another great video my ex blue line haggis munching friend ! can you do a video to clarify the licenses ? and what your opinion is on the present set up and what changes should be made for old farts like me ...who at 53 just did their CBT and will struggle getting going in a piddly 125 when I am the same build as you....cheers
I rode as a kid on L’s in the 70’s. Took my test in 2017 at the grand old age of 61 using the direct access system. Alright it took me two attempts to pass but if I can do it anyone can.
For the money very good bike, but for riders north of 75 kg or if you’re going on off road tours you’ll need a you need to upgrade that rear shock to a RallyRaid product. Or you can keep going back to BMW for a rear shock
I would go for a Benelli TRK 502 or 502x its A2 and around 5500 for a adventure bike a lot more bike for your money or a Benelli 500 or 500c if you want more of a road bike but still A2
Apart from riding a diff bike to the one you reviewed, this was cracking 🤣 I feel like your lap of the UK would have been far more enjoyable on this (as a small capacity bike). What are you lining up to review next?
If anyone wants a new or used Beema then my son is a salesman at Chandlers Brighton Motorad, just ask for Chris and mention my name and you will get a great deal 😁
Enjoyed the review. 5 and a half grand for that though?. I'd just go for a Honda CB500X instead for around the same price and which I used to own. Would wipe the floor with that "GS" all day long. I now own a GS Adventure. A proper one... I get what BMW are trying to do but for anyone on an A2 they can get so much more for their money. This to me just seems like a gimmick using the GS brand to sell them.
Bit embarrasing this folks - I was told I was getting the 310 GS as a courtesy bike so reviewed it as such. However as you can see from the thumbnail, it was actually the 310 R! Thankfully there’s very little difference except the R is about £800 cheaper, about 10kg lighter, and 50mm lower seat height.
Check out the R 1250 R review - ua-cam.com/video/1VymxFupM2s/v-deo.html
hahahhaah yeah the 310 GS is like a baby GS ;-)
Ow and actually yes you should Review the 310 GS also ;-) Isnt it made in China?
Sorry India but still it looks like a great bike this one as well !
Aye I believe so, but there are loads of bikes these days that are either made in India/China or have major components from there.
Nice machine. But 6G buys you a cb500x. I think it's worth the extra juice for most people. Honda warranty and service is pretty good, too.
But nice one.
Enjoy Switzerland. Just returned from Greece, great to be riding outside the UK again m
Happy travels 👍
brilliant video i do like watching the low cc stuff, you should do the biggest A2 bikes out there like the mt03 things like that
Cracken review bud, no worries on the initial mistake calling it a GS. You get a lot of bang for your buck, great price and it’s a BMW👍🏻
Wow, TeapotOne, first time I've seen anyone overtake on a BMW 310! Well ridden.
Thanks for your review on the 310 and I was wondering what those were like ,sounds like a nice bike. Have a good trip through Switzerland 🇨🇭
Cheers David,
I was pleasantly surprised by this wee bike - million times better than the Sinnis T380 👍
I don't understand why manufacturers with A2 compliant bikes don't go up to the 47bhp limit. This bike's 34bhp falls well short. Is it because other countries have a lower limit? 🤷♂️. I'm sure the reliability wouldn't be compromised closer to the limit. There's often a big cost difference with valve clearance check servicing if they have to adjust them.
Good question re the 47bhp limit 🤷♂️👍
I think that 47bhp is a bit much to ask from a 300cc, relatively utilitarian/commuting bike. Most A2 bikes that are on the limit are either 500-ish cc or they're a smaller sportsbike in a higher state of tune.
@@motosnape Hi Neil, understand what you're saying but tend to disagree. For example, Honda's basic "first big bike" (hate that phrase) unstressed engine CB650R puts out a claimed 93.9bhp, which equates to 0.14 bhp per cc and rolls up to 43.33 bhp for a 300cc bike, which is a 27% increase on the 34bhp.
Yes, I know this is a basic maths example and there may be more technical things to take into account (cylinders, etc), but you get my drift. I feel certain motorcycle engineers employed by the likes of BMW could come up with an answer. If they really can't perhaps they should jack up the engine size (probably proving your point 😁), e.g. KTM's 390 aimed at the same market is 373cc and puts out 43.5 bhp.
If I were restricted to an A2 license I just wouldn't want anything so short of the mark.
Having said all this, I'd probably by something like a CB650R in restricted A2 form and have it unrestricted when allowed. Two bikes in one.
The reason is this isn't really a BMW. It's a Chinese Apache 310 that's been rebadged to break into Asian markets. BMW have just partnered with them to make some small changes to the original. Having said that I don't know why they didn't find a better base bike.
Great video Bruce. I keep meaning to swing a leg over one of the Baby Beamers. I might take one out when the Pirate Bike in in for a service.
WOHOO!!! A new movie =) FRIDAY SAVED!
Keep up the good work Bruce =)
Thanks Swe 👍
I just got My GSA for a service and i got a Fully loaded 2021 1250 GS, funny thing my dealer was jocking that it gave me a scooter... but funnyer, after 5 years of GSA it does feels like a Scooter!
I'm kind of torn between one of these and the gs model
i have just looked at both models at a dealer, and initially thought the GS was the one i would like best, but due to a back injury and being a tad stiff, found getting my leg over (haha) a slight pain, as it's quite a bit taller than i expected, and at 6' with a 30.75" inseam couldn't quite flat foot it either, whilst the R model was a doddle. i don't commute or spend much time on main roads so speed aint what i'm looking for, or much of an issue on single track & B roads. The dealer said he could do me a great price around £4k in a month or so when i would be ready, on a 2023 fully serviced low mileage ex-demo with a 3 year warranty & breakdown cover, so ATM im favouring the R. I'd like to know if you purchased a 310 and if so which one & what you think of it, or in fact anyone's opinion, as it looks to be a great deal and if i decide to sell in a years time shouldnt get stung. GL
I'm still saving but rode the gs and the r and absolutely loved it I found the gs comfier tbh but now I'm really liking the triumph scrambler 400 decisions are difficult 😂😂
@@shanemassey2039 yeah, im finding it hard as well. A big option for me is a honda cb500f, as it seems to tick a lot of boxes, and atm i can't think of many reasons why id want anything more powerful for a long time, meaning it could well be a keeper, but this time of year means there's potentially lots of deals and good prices to be had, so no rush deciding yet really. i'll have a look at the triumph 400 though, as it's one not yet on the radar :) GL
@@Bob-ts2tuthe triumph looks so good as well best looking if you ask me, and I'm on a gs500 atm but saving for a new bike and I've done some research today and the honda fmx 650 caught my eye tbh su h a good looking bike and it's a2 compliant so I'm now thinking the fmx as a daily bike and gs or triumph as the dry weather machine 😂
Really like the back to basics format mate 👍
Thanks bud 👍
loved this quickie review and ramble. nice to get a chance to meet you and speak at lynmouth on Nathan's postie bikes, can wait for that review. i finally met a celebrity 🤣 .. despite my two mates who hadnt a clue who i was yapping to! brill
Ha Ha was nice to chat with you too Jon, cheers for saying hello 👏👍
Cool little bike, I was looking at one of these when getting back in motorcycling but being a complete midget the Kawasaki z400 was a better fit. I was so pleased I bought one before the euro5 rules stopped them being sold in the UK and the rest of Europe.
Will you be covering the Zero SR/F any time soon? Thinking about it.
Did a review on it a year or two ago bud 👍
@@teapotone Thanks for the response.
Did not find it when I searched for it on your previous videos. I assume it's not titled as such (Zero SR/F).. I did find a 2018 Zero and one for the SR/S.. Don't know if I'm blind.
My apologies Dai, looking back through my vids it does appear I’ve not done the SR/S??? But I have ridden it so don’t know why I did t do a vid 🤷♂️🤦♂️
The Bike Vs Plane vid has Andy Man Cam riding one - ua-cam.com/video/RIn-Ugfmp2U/v-deo.html
There really is very little difference in performance between the SR/F and SR/S
Going to Switzerland? I just got back from there (don't worry, I left plenty for you). YOU WILL LOVE IT! Great roads, beautiful views and it never ends. Just beware of speed traps, tickets are in line with the Swiss price levels and that's not good ;-).
Excellent review. Thanks.
Cheers Feeko!
Glad you enjoyed it bud 👍
I had the same issue getting my bike in for its 600 mile service with BMW… It was only done about 10 days ago… Got to play on a nice 1250 GS for 24 hours though 👌🏻👍🏻
What did you think of the 1250 Clive?
@@teapotone Best bike in the world Bruce 😉😂🤣
Nice bike, small cc bikes are cool, usually pretty cheap and low insurance cost.
…BMW assist sounds lovely, they’ll bring cream tea maybe if you ask?! Did have to laugh at that description, Bruce. Cracking work as always. 👍👍
Ha Ha, aye it’s not quite that deluxe in real-life, but has been fantastic every time I’ve needed it either for a breakdown or recovery after an accident etc 👍
Nice Vid 👍. I recently bought myself a 2021 G310 GS, great little beginner bike, a lot of fun to ride.
That’s a cool little bike!
You should consider reviewing the 310GS all the same
My friend used a 99 600cc bandit for work and sold it and got one of these... I rode it other week and yeah its not too bad, I felt the front end was a bit sponge and the gearing could be slightly better... I personally would say a CBR250 would be a better bike to the GS310.
Good ol review Bruce 👌.
Perfect for the new rider 👍🏻 great video 👏🏻👏🏻
Cheers Pete 👍
have you been down north devon recently cuz im sure i saw u
Ha Ha yes mate, I was down at Nathan Millward’s “Dorothy’s Speed Shop” last Thursday/Friday 👍
@@teapotone ahh yes. so it was you. i was in the tractor going past carting muck. any videos coming out down there?
Aye I’ll have a postie bike vid coming out in about a month, and the vid version of the podcast goes live on Monday on the Bru Time UA-cam channel
Big thumbs up Bruce, nice video.
Cheers Michael 👍
So when's the 310 GS tour of the UK proper test ride then? 😁
Another great video my ex blue line haggis munching friend ! can you do a video to clarify the licenses ? and what your opinion is on the present set up and what changes should be made for old farts like me ...who at 53 just did their CBT and will struggle getting going in a piddly 125 when I am the same build as you....cheers
I rode as a kid on L’s in the 70’s. Took my test in 2017 at the grand old age of 61 using the direct access system. Alright it took me two attempts to pass but if I can do it anyone can.
what ultimate addons case or holder is that Bruce?
Good one ,well put over Manxman 👍🇮🇲
Didnt you take it off road?
Nice review
How weird was this. I was in Allan Jeffries BMW with my son Looking at 310gs and your notifications came through.
They’re always watching/listening 🕵️♂️
@@teapotone great review btw Bruce.
My lads getting the GS model taking the BMW rookie to rider direct access.
Great stuff 👍
For the money very good bike, but for riders north of 75 kg or if you’re going on off road tours you’ll need a you need to upgrade that rear shock to a RallyRaid product. Or you can keep going back to BMW for a rear shock
Gs has an awesome plush suspension
The 310 R has an average and city ride suspension.
20 stone, I think you and chopsy enjoyed your pasties too much 😆
What gear do you have? I like your jacket 🧥
Thanks Cheryl,
I usually wear the Rukka Nivala suit, Altberg boots, Knox Handroid gloves, and Shoei Hornet ADV lid. Rucksack is a Kriega R30 👍
Well done,well put over.Manxman 👍🇮🇲
I would go for a Benelli TRK 502 or 502x its A2 and around 5500 for a adventure bike a lot more bike for your money or a Benelli 500 or 500c if you want more of a road bike but still A2
Apart from riding a diff bike to the one you reviewed, this was cracking 🤣 I feel like your lap of the UK would have been far more enjoyable on this (as a small capacity bike).
What are you lining up to review next?
I’ve got a few classics coming 😉👍
A nice little bike eh , but that exhaust needs cutting offffffff
It's not a GS it's an r lol very entertaining video though
Uckfield bypass! We could have had a race 😂
My 1200 had the valves done at 12k btw.
Ah right - had it in my head it was 18k for some reason 🤷♂️🤦♂️👍
Yes definitely the R, the GS version is not a bad bike either, is more a GS then the R, but i suppose thats obvious 😂😂
If anyone wants a new or used Beema then my son is a salesman at Chandlers Brighton Motorad, just ask for Chris and mention my name and you will get a great deal 😁
Enjoyed the review. 5 and a half grand for that though?. I'd just go for a Honda CB500X instead for around the same price and which I used to own. Would wipe the floor with that "GS" all day long. I now own a GS Adventure. A proper one... I get what BMW are trying to do but for anyone on an A2 they can get so much more for their money. This to me just seems like a gimmick using the GS brand to sell them.
I’ll need to try CB500X as lots of people have commented the same thing.
Cheers bud 👍
Oh god, not another GS (baby one or not) on the road. Hahaha only joking, looks a nice wee bike for the commuter or newbie.
Or you could buy a Japanese 300ish CC bike and not need to worry about breaking down…
Good review Bruce!
If you get the chance you should try the Husqvarna Vitpilen/Svartpilen 401, it's like the 310 but better (in my opinion)!
There ok ….not enough power or torque you get a single cylinder ktm 390 that will blow that away
Have fun on the continent!
Cheers Diego, can’t wait to hit the roads and travel again 👍
@@teapotone It does feel good!
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
It's an r
🤓👍🏻good job🏍💨💨💨💨💨💨👍🏻🇨🇦🥂
my motorocycle mechanic did my valve clearances for free....
Blimey, you were lucky there 👍
@@teapotone probably because 1.it's a single cylinder with easy access 2.i brought them food