BMW has just renewed its G 310 GS and we are preparing a test that will surely interest you. It is a motorcycle that we tested in depth in its previous version in a comparison of mini Trails in this link, but that has been adapted to the new Euro5 regulations. In this last update of 2022, improvements and changes are introduced as a result of the implementation of the Euro5 engine. We have, for example, an electronic accelerator, full LED lighting and a leap in quality in the finishes. It starts at 5,590 euros, which is a remarkable price considering that it mounts the single-cylinder block with 34 hp (9,500 rpm) and 28 Nm (7,500 rpm).
This BMW G 320 GS is the option that the German firm grants to those in love with its trails. The so-called “rookies” who want to show off this type of off-road aesthetic but who do not want to squeeze it out on roads, beyond some exit on a dirt track to take advantage of its qualities and road heritage.
The 300, little used in Spain, are designed for users who do not consider the need for a powerful unit or want to take a step prior to the average displacement. Given that there is the possibility of limiting the latter, it is a small niche market that is widely used by women. Whatever the reason, women do decide to use this middle step before moving on to a higher level.
The new G 310 GS weighs just 169.5 kilograms, which makes it very manoeuvrable.The key to being the learning motorcycle, something that is granted to the 300 is that, in addition to its contained benefits, they are easy to maneuver and handle by all types of bikers. In that sense, the G 310 GS has a curb weight of 169.5 kilos and a seat height of 835 mm, which can be lowered to 820 millimeters. As the owner himself indicates, if you are concerned about the height on the motorcycle, in this article we will help you find the most suitable model. In addition, we take the opportunity to give you some advice from the experience of being a 1.60 meter tall user.
A range for everyone
On the BMW Motorrad page you will find all the height options, for all models.BMW is the firm par excellence for bikers of contained stature. Although other brands have ideal models to arrive without any problem, it is the Germans who adapt their range from the factory and without any extra cost. On routes such as the BMW Motorrad Experience Tour you will be able to get to know the entire traveling portfolio, just as we did in its last edition. We are not only talking about the trails, which is the most surprising, but also the R, Naked, Customs or the neo-retros. Come on, if you want, you can with them.
The G 310 GS is just one example of the infinite height possibilities that are considered in the BMW configurator. In this case we have the standard seat but you can also raise it up to 850 mm without retouching the suspensions. However, as a motorcycle fan, the G 310 GS may fall short after a few months of progression. For this reason, it is advisable to review the alternatives, among which we find the 750 GS, which we thoroughly tested at this link. With 77 CV of power, it is an adventure with which to enjoy, learn and spend a long time without feeling that “you lack chicha”.
Thanks to the adjustment of the links, the 1250 GS can measure only 790 mm in height.In addition, it also has a range of height options that will leave you speechless. When you configure your motorcycle, or order it at the dealer, you also do it with that parameter. As we have been told from BMW Motorrad, if you do it later you will have to pay as an accessory. In the case of the 750 GS or the BMW F 900 XR, we can go beyond the simple seat. From the production line they will tweak the position of the suspension, which will make us lose the option of adding the Dynamic ESA system, with which you modify them electronically from the bike itself. Of course, we can reach 845 mm with the Rally seat up to 760 mm, which includes suspension height reduction.
But there is still more. Measuring 1.60 you can get a 1250 GS Adventure and without losing the Dynamic ESA system. That is because from the factory they modify the position of the linkages, not the suspension. So, the options in the most performance trail of the brand range from the 900 millimeters in height of the Rallye seat (high) to the 790 mm of the low seat (290 euros) with height reduction. We went through 10 types of heights available by changing the seat, the position of the seat and said linkages. But not everything is trails in the market, despite the unstoppable success of these. If BMW has a wide family of motorcycles ready to be lowered, its rivals are not far behind either.
Options for all segments.
The British Tiger LOW is another model to consider if you are interested in the trail segment.For example, in the Tour Adventure segment we find the F 900 XR, which can be lowered to 775 mm. However, if you are looking for a 100% Adventure you can also opt for the Triumph Tiger 900 GT LOW, which goes from 810 to 760 mm (we will talk about the range in this article).
If you are looking for more vintage or neo-retro options, the English firm is one of the most suitable, with the 765 mm Triumph Street Twin (presentation article), which competes directly with the 770 mm Ducati Scrambler (novelties from the 2021 range). In the Custom segment, very fashionable lately, nobody beats the Indian Scout Sixty (650 mm, the lowest) (launch item). Personally, I would go for the 690mm Triumph Bobber or the Ducati XDiavel up to 755mm (2021 range), not forgetting the Harley Davidson Sportster S (first impressions) of the same height. We also find the Honda Rebel 500, with 690 mm (presentation in 2020) and its loyal audience.
The problem with the customs will come with the distance to the handlebar, something that we must also take into account.In my case, I own a 2019 Ducati Monster 821 and one of the reasons for that choice was its height. The seat has two levels and 785mm is easily reached, which makes it maneuverable even for someone like me. The new Monster can go down to 775 millimeters with suspension retouching (first impressions). Of course, it has rivals of all kinds and displacement such as the Honda CB500F (update of the CB range). If you want something less powerful you can go for the 795mm Benelli 302 S or the 790mm Vogue 300 R.
The gold segment, and the most desired but complicated for short ones, is the R. The Kawasaki Ninja 650, with 790 mm is the most interesting but it may fall short or you may not like it aesthetically. If you want something more powerful and, above all, premium, you will have to go for the BMW S1000RR that can go down to 814 mm with the M seat. You also have the 830 mm Ducati Panigale (thorough test) or the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade 830mm (launch item in 2019). The one that is quite discarded, unless you are agile and crafty, is the 855mm Yamaha R1 (presentation video).
Some tips from a shorty
A good kit not only protects, it can also make us gain a few centimeters.After having reviewed the market and the heights of the motorcycles, I grant myself, from my own experience, the courage to give you some little advice if you are concerned about the height. In the article we talk about millimeters and numbers, but it is not the only important thing. When looking at, or deciding on a motorcycle, it is important that you take into account the width of the seat and also the placement of the footrests. For this reason it is important to get on and try, so that you are not left alone with the data or you could be making a mistake.
Also, and this is very easy, get a shoe with a sole like the Way boots from ByCity. Currently the accessories market has grown significantly and incorporates more options for women and short people. Give up the topic of heels since, unless they are platforms (very insecure), it means the same in the contact part, which are the toe pads.
Focusing the wheel to the right makes it easier for us to lift the motorcycle, always with the brake on.Whether you’re just starting out or not, and you don’t care about aesthetics, crash pads will help you psychologically to dare with taller bikes. Falls while standing still are the most common for those of us who suffer from heights, and with these protectors you will save yourself changing mirrors, clutch and brake levers and scratched exhausts.
Once we manage to get on the motorcycle, a maneuver that we will do by placing the wheel to the opposite side from which we climbed and tightening the brake lever, we will risk it with one leg. This happens when it is impossible to arrive with both feet and, at that moment, it is vital that the weight distribution and lightness of the motorcycle is correct. In addition, it is essential to practice and feel physically strong so, if you want to be a biker and you are of moderate stature: sport will not hurt you.
Tall bikes with good grips move easier in this position.The moment of moving the motorcycle and maneuvering is one of the most tense. After many attempts we ruled out doing it on the machine, because even sinking the fork we can destabilize and fall.
The advice is to move her from the bottom up early on, learning how her weight shifts work and react. We will do it without getting too close to her and we will try not to tilt her too much, something that is difficult to do at first due to lack of confidence.
If we want to push the bike, and it is quite heavy, we can do it separately and from the handlebars.Moreover, when they are stable and tall like the 310 GS, it is recommended to do it in the following way: from the handlebars with the left hand and the grips with the right hand. As we may lack the strength to propel the bike forward, you can with both hands on the handlebars and the brake between your fingers. You can do the complete change of direction with the kickstand, but if you use it too much you can end up damaging the support.
As the saying goes, “good perfume is sold in a small bottle” or that’s what we short people are happy with. Our height should not affect our passion for motorcycles, we just have to be aware of our limitations and adapt to them. Preparing with more anticipation a possible stop and practicing the possible setbacks that can make us fall. Choosing a motorcycle is key but also understanding that, as in everything, skill is more important than strength or height and we can learn from everything.
