At a Glance
- While the Versys 300 has a slight edge in power output, the G 310 GS’s single-cylinder engine provides a smoother and more linear power delivery, making it easier to ride at low speeds and in technical terrain.
- The G 310 GS has a single 300mm disc brake at the front and a 240mm disc brake at the rear, while the Versys 300 has dual 290mm disc brakes at the front and a 220mm disc brake at the rear.
- The BMW G 310 GS has better suspension, with 180mm of travel at the front and 170mm at the rear, compared to the Versys 300’s 130mm of travel at the front and 135mm at the rear.
The BMW G 310 GS and Kawasaki Versys 300 are two highly capable adventure motorcycles that offer a unique blend of versatility, performance, and affordability. Both bikes are designed to tackle a wide range of terrain, from paved roads to dirt trails, making them ideal for both commuting and weekend getaways. However, each motorcycle has its own distinct strengths and weaknesses, making it important for potential buyers to carefully consider which one is the best fit for their needs.
Engine and Performance
The BMW G 310 GS is powered by a 313cc single-cylinder engine that produces 34 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque. The Kawasaki Versys 300, on the other hand, is powered by a 296cc parallel-twin engine that produces 38 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque.
While the Versys 300 has a slight edge in power output, the G 310 GS’s single-cylinder engine provides a smoother and more linear power delivery, making it easier to ride at low speeds and in technical terrain.
Handling and Suspension
The BMW G 310 GS features a long-travel suspension with 180mm of travel at the front and 170mm at the rear. This gives it excellent ground clearance and makes it capable of handling rough terrain with ease. The Versys 300’s suspension has 130mm of travel at the front and 135mm at the rear, which is adequate for most riding conditions but may struggle in more demanding off-road situations.
Braking
Both the G 310 GS and Versys 300 come standard with ABS brakes. The G 310 GS has a single 300mm disc brake at the front and a 240mm disc brake at the rear, while the Versys 300 has dual 290mm disc brakes at the front and a 220mm disc brake at the rear.
The G 310 GS’s brakes provide excellent stopping power and feel, while the Versys 300’s brakes are adequate but not as impressive.
Features and Technology
The BMW G 310 GS comes standard with a TFT display, which provides a wealth of information, including speed, RPM, fuel level, and gear position. The Versys 300 has a more basic LCD display that provides less information.
The G 310 GS also has a number of optional features, such as heated grips, cruise control, and a quick-shifter. The Versys 300 does not offer as many optional features.
Price and Value
The BMW G 310 GS starts at $5,995, while the Kawasaki Versys 300 starts at $5,899. Both bikes offer excellent value for the money, but the G 310 GS’s superior suspension and features make it the better choice for riders who plan to do serious off-roading.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The BMW G 310 GS is the better choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is capable of handling a wide range of terrain, from paved roads to dirt trails. It has a more powerful engine, better suspension, and more features than the Versys 300. However, it is also more expensive.
The Kawasaki Versys 300 is a good choice for riders who are looking for a more affordable motorcycle that is still capable of handling most riding conditions. It has a smooth and fuel-efficient engine, adequate suspension, and a comfortable riding position.
Final Note: The Ultimate Choice
The BMW G 310 GS and Kawasaki Versys 300 are both excellent motorcycles that offer a unique blend of versatility, performance, and affordability. However, each bike has its own distinct strengths and weaknesses, making it important for potential buyers to carefully consider which one is the best fit for their needs.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which bike has a more powerful engine?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 300 has a more powerful engine, with 38 horsepower compared to the BMW G 310 GS’s 34 horsepower.
Q: Which bike has better suspension?
A: The BMW G 310 GS has better suspension, with 180mm of travel at the front and 170mm at the rear, compared to the Versys 300’s 130mm of travel at the front and 135mm at the rear.
Q: Which bike has more features?
A: The BMW G 310 GS has more features, including a TFT display, heated grips, cruise control, and a quick-shifter. The Versys 300 does not offer as many optional features.
Q: Which bike is more expensive?
A: The BMW G 310 GS is more expensive, with a starting price of $5,995 compared to the Versys 300’s starting price of $5,899.
Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: The BMW G 310 GS is better for off-road riding, thanks to its more powerful engine, better suspension, and more features.
