We do a quick spec comparison between the just launched Honda CB300R and the BMW G 310 R.
Honda just introduced the CB300R in the Indian market at a price which yields mixed reaction among enthusiasts. It also lays the CB300R head-on to compete with the KTM Duke 390 and the BMW G 310 R.
Can the locally made BMW G 310 R justify its higher price tag against the Honda which is cheaper despite being a CKD unit?
Styling – Both the motorcycles fall under the street-fighter sport segment but have a very different design language. The BMW G 310 R despite being the older design carries a lot more character, thanks to its S1000R inspired design elements. The Honda on the other hand follows a more subtle approach to define its stance. Neo sports café as they call it, the design stands true to its tag by offering a perfect mixture of café racer styling on a street-fighter package. Thus, choosing one of these based on design is a complete subjective matter.
Engine – This is the department which is going to define the noteworthy difference between both the bikes, despite having similar setup on paper.
The BMW G 310 R employs a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 313cc, single-cylinder, reverse-inclined motor churning out 33.6 BHP and 28 Nm of torque. While the Honda seems to have a smaller 286cc motor producing 30.4 HP and 27 Nm of torque on paper, still the 0-100 km/hr acceleration is quicker on the CB300R.
This defines that the Honda employs a much sorted out gearing and the claimed best in class torque to weight ratio clearly has its advantage.
Price – The main parameter that often defines a motorcycle’s success in the Indian market is price. And that’s exactly where the BMW could have done a lot better. Let’s get the facts straight, the Honda CB300R despite being a CKD unit costs about Rs. 95,000/- cheaper than the BMW G 310 R which is locally manufactured.
Verdict – Post the arrival of the Honda CB300R, the BMW G 310 R will continue to have hard times in the Indian market. Honda as a motorcycling brand is a lot more established and known to offer a more unswerving ownership experience.
Hence, BMW’s premium brand badging doesn’t really hold its ground strong against a Honda, the CB300R seems like a smarter pick! However, we will still reserve the final verdict until we get our hands on the Honda CB300R whose real competition comes from the KTM Duke 390.
