BMW’ s all-new G310GS is a handsome and surprisingly large looking machine. At a glance, from a distance, it could easily be mistaken for a larger bike, maybe even the 1200GS itself. Of course, this new‘ baby’ 310GS is much lighter and a far smaller machine than its big big brother, but it certainly gives the illusion of a larger capacity bike. Built from the same platform as the road going G310R, which we tested a couple of issues ago – you can read that in the link above – the GS version certainly takes styling clues from the R1200GS, the tank and frontal design / beak in particular keep the contemporary GS look going. Yes, you will certainly look the part and be in keeping if you’ re riding with fellow BMW buddies. The actual seat height is reasonable, but it steps up a lot to the pillion seat and rear carrier, so it’ s still a fair height to swing a leg over. The fuel tank looks large and quite high, along with the handle bars too, in that adventure-style way. The benefits are a relaxed, upright and comfortable riding position with good leg room and a nice stretch to the bars. The tank is narrow so your knees and legs are very nicely positioned and the whole riding environment is comfortable. The engine might only be a 313cc single but I have to say it’ s very perky and I was truly impressed with it. It is a rearwards facing type engine like the Yamaha 250 / 450 motocross dirt machines and produces 34hp @ 9500rpm; maximum torque is two thousand rpm lower at 7500rpm. This configuration means the intake is at the front with the exhaust exiting straight from the rear of the cylinder in front of the shock absorber. A counterbalance shaft is incorporated for vibration control; the clutch pull is light and the gearbox a six speed. Power delivery from this lump belies its small capacity with a broad, punchy and quite eager thrust that is relatively smooth throughout the

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