Summary
- The adventure motorcycle segment is booming, and two of the most popular options for entry-level riders are the BMW G 310 GS and the Suzuki V-Strom 250.
- The BMW G 310 GS has a more upright riding position and a slightly taller seat height, which provides a good view of the traffic ahead.
- The BMW G 310 GS has a starting price of $5,695, while the Suzuki V-Strom 250 has a starting price of $4,999.
The adventure motorcycle segment is booming, and two of the most popular options for entry-level riders are the BMW G 310 GS and the Suzuki V-Strom 250. Both bikes offer a great balance of performance, versatility, and affordability, but which one is the right choice for you? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll pit the BMW G 310 GS against the Suzuki V-Strom 250 to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
Engine
The BMW G 310 GS features a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces 34 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque. The Suzuki V-Strom 250, on the other hand, uses a V-twin engine that produces 25 horsepower and 17 lb-ft of torque. While the BMW has a slight advantage in power, the V-Strom’s V-twin configuration provides a smoother and more refined power delivery.
Transmission
Both bikes come with a six-speed manual transmission. The BMW G 310 GS’s transmission is known for its smooth and precise shifts, while the V-Strom 250’s transmission can be a bit clunky at times.
Suspension
The BMW G 310 GS comes with a 41mm inverted front fork and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock. The V-Strom 250 has a conventional telescopic front fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock. Both bikes provide adequate suspension travel for light off-roading, but the BMW’s suspension is more sophisticated and offers better damping control.
Versatility
On-Road
Both bikes are capable of handling both urban and highway riding. The BMW G 310 GS has a more upright riding position and a slightly taller seat height, which provides a good view of the traffic ahead. The V-Strom 250 has a more relaxed riding position and a lower seat height, making it more comfortable for shorter riders.
Off-Road
While neither bike is a true dirt bike, both can handle light off-roading. The BMW G 310 GS’s longer suspension travel and more aggressive tires give it a slight edge in off-road performance. However, the V-Strom 250’s lower seat height and lighter weight make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Features
Brakes
The BMW G 310 GS comes with 300mm front discs and a 240mm rear disc. The V-Strom 250 has 290mm front discs and a 240mm rear disc. Both bikes provide adequate stopping power, but the BMW’s brakes are slightly more powerful and have a better feel.
Instrumentation
The BMW G 310 GS has a digital instrument cluster that displays speed, RPM, fuel level, and gear position. The V-Strom 250 has an analog speedometer and tachometer, as well as a digital display that shows fuel level and gear position. Both instrument clusters are easy to read and provide the necessary information.
Ergonomics
The BMW G 310 GS has a more upright riding position than the V-Strom 250, which makes it more comfortable for long rides. The V-Strom 250’s lower seat height and more relaxed riding position make it easier to handle at low speeds.
Price
The BMW G 310 GS has a starting price of $5,695, while the Suzuki V-Strom 250 has a starting price of $4,999. Both bikes offer good value for money, but the V-Strom 250 is the more affordable option.
Wrap-Up: The Best Bike for You
The BMW G 310 GS and the Suzuki V-Strom 250 are both excellent entry-level adventure motorcycles. The BMW G 310 GS offers slightly better performance, versatility, and features, but it comes at a higher price. The Suzuki V-Strom 250 is more affordable and has a lower seat height, making it a better choice for shorter riders. Ultimately, the best bike for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which bike is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Suzuki V-Strom 250 is slightly more fuel-efficient than the BMW G 310 GS. The V-Strom 250 gets an average of 70 mpg, while the G 310 GS gets an average of 65 mpg.
Q: Which bike has a longer warranty?
A: The BMW G 310 GS has a longer warranty than the Suzuki V-Strom 250. The G 310 GS comes with a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty, while the V-Strom 250 comes with a two-year, 24,000-mile warranty.
Q: Which bike is easier to maintain?
A: The Suzuki V-Strom 250 is slightly easier to maintain than the BMW G 310 GS. The V-Strom 250 has a simpler design and fewer moving parts, which makes it less expensive and easier to service.
