Introduction

Welcome to www.pradhans.net.in — a blog born from my passion for riding and the deep connection I feel with my BMW G310GS. “Aby” is me, Abhijit, and “baby GS” is my affectionate nickname for this motorcycle that has become much more than just a machine. After the disappointment of waiting endlessly for the Benelli TRK 502, the G310GS captured my heart with its design, balance, and promise of adventure. I booked mine on the spot, and it arrived at my doorstep in April 2019. Since then, this bike has been a constant in my daily life, accumulating an impressive 80,000 kilometers (and counting!).

Early Days:

When I first brought the G310GS home, it quickly became my regular companion for daily commutes—100 km to the office and back—handling city traffic and highways with equal poise. The bike’s suspension easily soaked up bumps, and despite the BS4 version lacking adjustable levers, gear shifting and clutch action became second nature with a little patience. That comfort and stability encouraged me to take longer rides between 100 km and even 1,000 km, all while the pandemic paused progress for nearly two years.

Accessories and Personalization:

To make the bike truly mine, I added a suite of accessories: handlebar raisers, knuckle guards, engine/body guards, saddle stays, HJG auxiliary lights, a BMW USB charger, a brake extender, and a Coocase top box. These not only improved functionality but also gave the GS a unique personality.

Known Shortcomings:

The stock halogen headlamp was barely adequate for night rides, so I upgraded to auxiliary lights for better visibility. Riding at high speeds (especially above 100 km/h) introduced some handlebar vibration—a common complaint—but nothing that outweighed the joy of owning this bike. With regular chain lubrication every 500 km, the first chain and sprocket lasted 18,000 km, and maintenance intervals of 10,000 km helped keep everything running smoothly. The BMW G310GS consistently returned 35 km/liter in real-world conditions, with Shell V-Power petrol bumping that up to 38 km/liter. Maintenance costs were about ₹8,000 per service—reasonable for the segment.

From 0 KM to 80,000 KM: The Long Haul

Crossing the 80,000 km mark, my relationship with the G310GS evolved from adventurous “getaways” to steadfast, daily reliability. My rides remained mostly routine commutes, but that’s where the bike’s true character shone.

Mechanical Updates and Repairs:

A few issues cropped up as the mileage climbed. The rear disc brake developed persistent problems, eventually necessitating a full disc replacement for about ₹4,000/-. The steering cone set also became a weak spot, needing replacement twice in a six-month span—perhaps indicative of part quality or the wear of daily rough roads. The rear suspension unit was replaced due to significant oil leakage. To handle the high-mileage wear, I swapped to economical MRF tires (₹6,000/pair), prioritizing value over the wet grip performance of the Pirellis. The chain was upgraded to a Rolon Full Brass unit for added durability.

Build Quality and Comfort:

The bike’s build quality is impressive—paint, plastics, and instrument cluster still look presentable, though there are inevitable signs of use. The seat, once plush, has grown firmer over time, and I may eventually opt for aftermarket cushioning for extra comfort. Despite these changes, the ergonomics remain unchanged, and I’ve made no further accessory modifications in this period.

Ownership Costs:

Running costs in this period included regular servicing plus the above repairs. The biggest expense was the cone set changes (₹5,000 each time), but overall, maintenance remained affordable. Fuel economy hasn’t dropped, still averaging 35 km/liter, and I’ve continued using premium fuel. The reliability of the bike has enabled me to keep running costs predictable and under control.

Riding Experience:

The G310GS still feels planted on highways and nimble enough in city traffic, even with added accessories (now about 20 kg heavier). Vibrations at higher speeds are present but not bothersome at my usual cruising speed. The only recurring comfort issue is the firmer seat, but it hasn’t pushed me to upgrade—yet.

Community and Memories:

While I haven’t participated in group rides or meet-ups, I’ve enjoyed the solitude and reliability of my G310GS, making every commute an opportunity to reflect. The bike has been my daily workhorse, not just a weekend toy.

Long-Term Owner’s Verdict

After 80,000 km, the BMW G310GS has cemented its place as a practical, reliable, and surprisingly robust machine. It’s not without flaws—the cone set and rear disc deserve better durability, and the seat could be plusher—but these are minor in the grand scheme. The bike’s core hardware has aged gracefully, maintenance costs are reasonable, and the riding experience remains enjoyable and predictable.

If you’re considering the G310GS as a daily rider or an entry-level adventure tourer, expect a machine that rewards attentive upkeep and regular use. It’s a bike that you can truly live with for the long haul, accumulating not just miles, but memories—one commute, one adventure, one year at a time.

I’ll continue to update this blog as I add more kilometers and stories to the journey. Ride safe, and here’s to many more miles on my baby GS!

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