Bmw 310 Gs vs Ktm 390 Adventure: Which Adventure Bike?
Adventure awaits! But which small-displacement adventure bike is the right companion for your journeys? We’re pitting two popular choices against each other: the BMW 310 GS and the KTM 390 Adventure. These bikes promise versatility and fun, but which one reigns supreme?
The BMW 310 GS, with its iconic styling and reputation for reliability, brings a premium feel to the entry-level adventure segment. The KTM 390 Adventure, on the other hand, boasts a more aggressive design and a performance-oriented approach. Both motorcycles offer exciting experiences, appealing to riders eager to explore beyond the paved roads.
This comparison delves into the specifics, examining everything from engine performance and handling to features and overall value. We’ll explore the strengths and weaknesses of each machine, helping you determine which adventure bike best suits your needs and riding style. Get ready to discover which one comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | BMW 310 GS | KTM 390 Adventure |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 313cc Single-Cylinder | 373cc Single-Cylinder |
| Power | 34 hp | 43 hp |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 37 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed | 6-Speed |
| Seat Height | 835 mm | 855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11 Liters | 14.5 Liters |
| Front Suspension | 41mm Telescopic Fork | 43mm WP Apex Fork |
| Rear Suspension | Preload Adjustable Monoshock | Preload and Rebound Adjustable Monoshock |
| Front Brake | 300mm Disc | 320mm Disc |
| Rear Brake | 240mm Disc | 230mm Disc |
| Weight (Wet) | 169.5 kg | 172 kg |
| Riding Modes | None | Street/Offroad |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine & Performance
- Bmw 310 Gs: Powered by a 313cc single-cylinder engine, it offers smooth power delivery suitable for both city and light off-road riding. It’s known for its user-friendliness and fuel efficiency, but may feel underpowered on highways or challenging terrain.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Features a 373cc single-cylinder engine, providing more power and a sportier feel compared to the BMW. This translates to quicker acceleration and better performance on highways and off-road, albeit at the expense of potentially lower fuel economy.
- Winner: KTM
Suspension & Handling
- Bmw 310 Gs: Equipped with a conventional telescopic fork and a preload-adjustable rear shock, offering decent comfort and handling for its class. It’s well-suited for touring and provides a stable ride on various road conditions, but might struggle with demanding off-road trails.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Boasts WP Apex suspension components, offering a higher level of adjustability and performance. This allows for better off-road capability and sharper handling on the road, making it more capable on technical terrain.
- Winner: KTM
Ergonomics & Comfort
- Bmw 310 Gs: Generally offers a comfortable riding position with a relaxed posture, suitable for long rides. The seat height is relatively accessible, appealing to a wider range of riders. Some riders may find the seat a bit firm for extended periods.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Provides a more aggressive riding position, favoring a more upright stance for off-road riding. The seat height is slightly higher than the BMW, and the ergonomics are geared towards a more engaging riding experience, potentially leading to some fatigue on longer road trips.
- Winner: BMW
Brakes
- Bmw 310 Gs: Features a single disc brake setup front and rear, with ABS standard. The braking performance is adequate for its intended use, providing sufficient stopping power for both on-road and light off-road riding.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Equipped with ByBre brakes, offering stronger stopping power and better feel. The ABS system is also more advanced, with an off-road mode available.
- Winner: KTM
Off-Road Capability
- Bmw 310 Gs: While capable on gravel roads and light trails, its suspension and ground clearance are limited compared to the KTM. It’s more suited for adventure touring than serious off-road riding.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Designed with off-road prowess in mind, featuring more ground clearance, a more aggressive riding position, and better suspension. This makes it significantly more capable on challenging trails.
- Winner: KTM
Technology & Features
- Bmw 310 Gs: Comes with standard features like ABS and a digital instrument panel. The technology is functional but less advanced compared to the KTM, lacking features like cornering ABS or a TFT display.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Boasts a TFT display, cornering ABS, and other advanced features like traction control. This makes for a more modern and technologically advanced experience.
- Winner: KTM
Weight & Dimensions
- Bmw 310 Gs: Generally slightly lighter and more compact, making it easier to handle for novice riders and in tight spaces. Its smaller size can be an advantage in urban environments.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Slightly heavier and with a more substantial feel, providing better stability at higher speeds and in more challenging terrain.
- Winner: BMW
Price & Value
- Bmw 310 Gs: Typically positioned at a slightly lower price point, offering good value for its features and brand recognition.
- Ktm 390 Adventure: Often priced slightly higher, reflecting its more advanced features and performance capabilities.
- Winner: BMW
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Engine Performance | KTM 390 Adventure |
| Suspension | KTM 390 Adventure |
| Features | KTM 390 Adventure |
| Comfort | BMW 310 GS |
| Brand Prestige | BMW 310 GS |
What They Have in Common
- Engine Configuration: Both motorcycles feature a single-cylinder engine, offering a balance of simplicity, fuel efficiency, and manageable power delivery, ideal for adventure riding.
- Adventure-Ready Design: Both bikes are purpose-built adventure motorcycles, featuring upright riding positions, long-travel suspension, and rugged styling to handle various terrains.
- 6-Speed Transmission: Both models utilize a 6-speed transmission, providing a good spread of gears for both on-road and off-road riding conditions.
- Disc Brakes: Both motorcycles are equipped with disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, ensuring effective stopping power.
- Fuel Injection: Both bikes utilize fuel injection for efficient fuel delivery and reliable performance in different altitudes and temperatures.
- Abs: Both bikes come standard with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for added safety on the road.
Bmw 310 Gs Vs Ktm 390 Adventure Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The BMW 310 GS and KTM 390 Adventure both offer capable performance for their class, but with distinct characteristics. The BMW prioritizes a smoother power delivery, making it user-friendly for beginners and comfortable for long rides. Its handling is predictable and stable, inspiring confidence on various terrains. The KTM, on the other hand, boasts a more spirited engine, offering quicker acceleration and a more engaging riding experience. Its handling is sharper and more agile, allowing for more dynamic cornering and off-road maneuvers. Both bikes provide a good balance of on and off-road capabilities, but the KTM leans slightly towards a more adventurous spirit.
Engine and Specifications
The BMW 310 GS features a 313cc single-cylinder engine known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It produces a modest but sufficient amount of power for everyday riding and light touring. The KTM 390 Adventure is equipped with a 373cc single-cylinder engine that delivers more power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more exciting ride. Both bikes feature similar fuel tank capacities, offering a decent range for extended trips. The KTM’s engine, while more powerful, might experience slightly higher fuel consumption compared to the BMW, but the difference is minimal.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort plays a crucial role in adventure riding, and both bikes offer different approaches. The BMW 310 GS generally provides a more comfortable riding position, with a slightly lower seat height and a more relaxed posture, ideal for long hours in the saddle. The KTM 390 Adventure, with its taller seat height and more aggressive riding position, caters to riders who prioritize off-road prowess. The KTM’s ergonomics are designed to enhance control and maneuverability in challenging terrains. Both bikes have adjustable features to accommodate various rider sizes.
Features and Technology
Both the BMW 310 GS and KTM 390 Adventure are equipped with essential features for adventure riding. The BMW usually includes standard features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a digital instrument cluster. The KTM typically offers more advanced features like ride modes, a TFT display, and a quickshifter. The KTM often has a more comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids. Both bikes incorporate LED lighting for improved visibility and safety. The specific features can vary depending on the model year and trim level.
Off-Road Capability
While both bikes are marketed as adventure bikes, their off-road capabilities differ. The KTM 390 Adventure generally has an edge in this area, thanks to its more aggressive geometry, longer suspension travel, and superior ground clearance. It’s better suited for tackling more challenging trails and technical terrain. The BMW 310 GS is also capable off-road, but its design leans more towards on-road comfort and ease of handling. Its suspension might not be as robust, and its ground clearance is slightly lower. Therefore, the KTM is generally the better choice for serious off-road adventures.
Price and Value
Price is a significant factor in any buying decision. The BMW 310 GS and KTM 390 Adventure are usually priced competitively within the entry-level adventure bike segment. The BMW often has a slightly lower starting price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious riders. The KTM, with its more advanced features and performance, might come with a slightly higher price tag. Consider the features, performance, and overall value that each bike offers. Evaluate the long-term cost of ownership, including maintenance and insurance, to make an informed decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy BMW 310 GS If…
- You prefer a more approachable and manageable motorcycle, especially if you’re a newer rider.
- You prioritize a more comfortable seat and riding position for longer distances.
- You appreciate a more refined engine feel and smoother power delivery.
- You value the BMW brand’s reputation for build quality and dealer network.
Buy KTM 390 Adventure If…
- You want a motorcycle with more power and performance for both on-road and off-road riding.
- You prioritize more advanced features, such as adjustable suspension and riding modes.
- You prefer a more aggressive and sporty riding experience.
- You value a more modern and technologically advanced motorcycle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the BMW 310 GS and KTM 390 Adventure?
The KTM 390 Adventure generally offers more power, a more aggressive riding position, and superior off-road capabilities. The BMW 310 GS prioritizes a smoother power delivery, a more comfortable riding position, and a more user-friendly experience. The KTM usually has more advanced technology, while the BMW may have a more approachable price.
Which bike is better for beginners?
The BMW 310 GS is often considered more beginner-friendly due to its smoother power delivery, more relaxed riding position, and easier handling. It inspires confidence and is less intimidating for those new to adventure riding. The KTM, while manageable, might feel more aggressive for inexperienced riders.
Which bike is better for off-road riding?
The KTM 390 Adventure is generally the better choice for off-road riding. It features a more capable suspension, more ground clearance, and a more aggressive geometry, allowing it to tackle more challenging trails. The BMW 310 GS is capable off-road, but its focus is more on on-road comfort.
What about fuel efficiency?
Both bikes are relatively fuel-efficient. The BMW 310 GS may offer slightly better fuel economy due to its smaller engine and less aggressive tuning. However, the difference in fuel consumption is usually minimal. Riding style and terrain significantly impact fuel efficiency for both bikes.
How do the maintenance costs compare?
Maintenance costs for both bikes are generally comparable. Both brands have established service networks. Regular maintenance like oil changes, chain adjustments, and tire replacements should be expected. The availability of parts and the cost of labor may vary depending on the region and dealership.
What are the common issues with these bikes?
Both bikes are generally reliable. Common issues can include minor electrical glitches, suspension adjustments, and occasional engine quirks. Regular maintenance and proper care can minimize these issues. Research any specific model years for known issues.
Which bike is more comfortable for long rides?
The BMW 310 GS usually provides a more comfortable riding experience for long rides, with its more relaxed ergonomics and slightly lower seat height. The KTM 390 Adventure’s more aggressive riding position might lead to fatigue on longer journeys, although it’s still comfortable for many riders. Consider your individual preference.
Final Verdict
Both the BMW 310 GS and KTM 390 Adventure are excellent entry-level adventure bikes, each with distinct strengths. The BMW emphasizes comfort and user-friendliness, while the KTM prioritizes performance and off-road capability. The choice depends on rider preferences and intended use. For riders prioritizing off-road prowess and a more spirited ride, the KTM is the better option.
Winner: KTM 390 Adventure