BMW launches affordable bikes in India

German luxury carmaker BMW Group’s premium motorcycle arm, BMW Motorrad, ended a long wait and rode into the affordable motorcycle market in India with the launch of two locally-made bikes on Wednesday.

The new sub 500 cc bikes are priced at Rs 2.99 lakh and Rs 3.49 lakh respectively, way less than BMW’s premium models like the K 1600 GTL, which can go up to Rs. 28.30 lakh.

Bikers had been waiting for the new models—the G310R and G310G—for at least two years, but the launch was delayed because BMW wanted to establish a stronger and wider dealership base before it launched. Motorrad has seven dealerships across the country, and the machines will be sold and serviced through the premium dealer network of BMW Motorrad.

“BMW Motorrad has a legacy of creating motorcycles with a unique appeal, some of which have created a proud history in the world of two-wheelers. Whether it is the performance, quality, or handling, BMW Motorrad captures the pulse of true motorcyclists,” said Dimitris Raptis, Head of Region (Asia, China, Pacific, South Africa), BMW Motorrad.

The two bikes have the same 313 cc single-cylinder and share the same six-speed gearbox and chassis. The G310R has a top speed of 145 kmph, while the G130GS can touch 143 kmph.

What makes these two models stand out is that they are the first ones from BMW Motorrad to be manufactured in India as part of its partnership with Chennai-based TVS Motors. While the two bikes were developed in Munich, Germany, they were produced at TVS’s Hosur plant, which has supplied 90% of the motorcycle parts. The made in India bikes are on sale in Europe and the U.S., and their deliveries are expected to start from November in India.

“The two models will bring new customer groups to the world of BMW Motorrad. For those looking for an extra streak of adventure and fun, the BMW G310GS is the answer. Both are set to redefine their segment as they are ideal for young people, novices, returning riders, and many other motorcyclists,” said Vikram Pawah, president, BMW Group, India.

BMW G310R will compete with the likes of KTM 390 Duke, and the BMW G310GS with Royal Enfield Himalayan and Kawasaki Versys X-300 in the Indian market.