BMW G 310 R [2018-2019] vs Zontes 350R

The BMW G310R might be a street bike but its roots are embedded in a racier avatar. Yes, we are talking about the TVS Apache RR 310 which was part of last year's track day line-up. The G310 R borrows nearly all its components like the frame, wheels, brakes, suspension and engine from the latter.

This is BMW's smallest, lightest, and most affordable motorcycle in the world. And, it's made here in India. By TVS Motor Company.

The G310R is BMW Motorrad’s most affordable motorcycle yet. It is also the first motorcycle that has been developed under the BMW-TVS alliance formed two years ago. Similar to the KTM-Bajaj alliance, BMW has engineered the motorcycle and will use TVS’ manufacturing capabilities to produce a motorcycle that’s cost efficient. TVS will also sell an itration of this bike under its own name. Interestingly, while the G310R is BMW’s smallest offering, the TVS bike based on the same platform will the latter’s biggest, most powerful and most expensive product. The BMW meanwhile will take on the Benelli TNT 300, Kawasaki Z250 and the KTM Duke 390 in India.

The Zontes 350R is priced at Rs 3.15 lakh (ex-showroom India), and aims to take on the likes of the KTM 390 Adventure and BMW G 310 R. So, how does it stack up against the competition, and should you consider this Chinese offering over its established European rivals? Let’s find out.