I purchased these tyres for my BMW G 310 R. The rear one is 18 months old whereas the front tyre is more than 3.5 years old.

BHPian WhiteBlu recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Hello, and hope you are having a great day!

I have been wanting to upgrade my tyres for a while now. I currently have the Pilot Street Radials on my bike and I have had a few hairy incidents when I was pushing it hard. The tyres do not have a great edge grip, and they greatly reduce my confidence while leaning. This led me to purchase a pair of Road 5s from Pathpavers a week ago. They arrived today and to my dismay, the front tyre read 3020.

Yes, the front tyre I received from them is more than 3.5 years old. So I called their manager promptly and asked for a newer tyre to be delivered to me. He had to check with the storage, and when he called back, he told me that the newest one they could arrange was one manufactured in 2021. Now I need advice from more experienced riders... What do I do?

I need tyres that are great with grip in all conditions, money is absolutely no matter; Do I return these tyres and accept the 21 manufactured ones? Do I return these for store credit and get a tyre that you could recommend? (I really have nothing else I want from them, and the manager is refusing a refund that isn't store credit.)

Some other details:

• I live in Bangalore, and if my past suggests anything, it is that Bangalore will decide to pour down every time I take my bike out during the monsoon months. This is why I wanted tyres that perform great in good and bad conditions and hence went with the Road 5s.
• Called multiple physical stores in Bangalore and no one seemed to have Road 5s.
• The rear tyre is 18 months old.
• The tyres have no sign of damage or drying, but they have also not been under load yet.
• The motorcycle is a BMW G 310 R.

While the manager from Pathpavers is responsive and trying to help, I am strongly disappointed with my purchase.

Here's what BHPian FURY_44 had to say about the matter:

Road 5s are in strong demand due to supply issues, I have been checking with Madhus, Cherrys and other reputed dealers in Bangalore for the last 3 months and none had a pair in stock, either they used to have the Rear or the Front. What you have received from Pathpavers is obviously old stock, you could have enquired about the manufacturing date before you went ahead with the purchase. You can get the '21 stock, I bet that's the freshest you can get right now.

I gave up on the Road 5s, not worth the hassle, and bought myself a freshly manufactured '23 TVS Eurogrip for my RR310.

Here's what BHPian gautam109 had to say about the matter:

I once spoke to a senior figure in the European tire sector (commercial tires segment, not car or bike tires) some years back on this. Their view was that a well-stored tire stays fresh and "good as new" for 3-5 years, though the convention is that once it crosses 3 years, they discount and try to sell it off just to free up the shelf space.

Emphasis is on "well stored" - dry, clean area, away from sunlight, corrosives/oils/abrasives and excessive heat.

He said discounts for tires less than 3 yrs old are rare and that commercial users they sell to are not too fussed with tire age provided it is a reputed brand backed by a credible manufacturer warranty.

Check for any sidewall cracks or bulges periodically, to be safe. If the tire was badly stored, it will show up. Else don't let it spoil your mood. If they work well and assuming you will use them up in 2 or 3 years (i.e. 6 to 7 years total age at end of life), the performance / experience will not be materially different from a new tire.

Here's what BHPian ebonho had to say about the matter:

In my experience, once you use a tyre, and take it off, then reuse it months or a year or two later, it hardens up (glazed) and becomes considerably less grippy. Not so in an unused or barely used tyre that's stored or even just fitted and the bike garaged.

Anthony Hopkins famously raced across the salt flats of Utah to set a speed record or a set of decades-old tyres with grooves hand cut out of them. As the legend goes.

Here's what BHPian Ratan Prabhu had to say about the matter:

For peace of mind, since the shop is ok to replace the tyre with 2021 model, get it done (also ask which month of 2021).

And next time if you are ordering tyres online, make sure you confirm the month and year of the tyre (on mail or text as proof) before making payment.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

BMW's G 310 range of motorcycles is powered by a 313cc, single-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox.

BMW Motorrad has introduced new colour schemes for the G 310 R, G 310 RR and G 310 GS.

The BMW G 310 R is now available in two new colour schemes: Style Sport and Style Passion. The former features Racing Blue Metallic and Polar White shades, while the latter comes in Granite Grey Metallic paintwork.

The G 310 RR is offered in a new Cosmic Black 2 paint scheme, while the G 310 GS is now available in Style Rallye paintwork in Racing Red.

BMW's G 310 range of motorcycles is powered by a 313cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch.

The Apache RTR 310 is expected to be rebadged BMW G 310 R, with styling inspired by the Draken concept.

The TVS Apache RR 310 could soon get a streetfighter version. Dubbed the Apache RTR 310, the new model is expected to be a rebadged BMW G 310 R and could be launched by the end of this month.

According to a media report, the styling of the RTR 310 is likely to be inspired by the Draken concept that was showcased at Auto Expo 2014. So, we can expect to see an aggressive-looking naked motorcycle with a sporty LED headlamp up front, an exposed frame and a narrow tail section. 

The report states that the RTR 310 will use the same 313cc, single-cylinder that powers the BMW G 310 R. This unit develops 33.5 BHP and 27.3 Nm and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch. That being said, TVS is likely to retune the engine for a better mid-range grunt. The bike's top speed is rumoured to be 158 km/h.

Coming to the features and equipment, the new model may not get the RR 310’s vertical instrument console. Instead, the RTR 310 could get a horizontal TFT screen offering Bluetooth connectivity. 

Source: Bikewale

BMW hasn’t made any mechanical changes to the G 310 R.

BMW Motorrad has launched the 2022 G 310 R in India. The bike is priced at Rs 2.70 lakh (ex-showroom).

The 2022 BMW G 310 R comes in three new colour options: Polar White with Racing Blue, Racing Red and Cosmic Black.

BMW hasn’t made any mechanical changes to the bike. It still comes with a 313cc, single-cylinder engine that produces 33.5 BHP and 28 Nm and is mated to a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch.

The G 310 R rides on upside fork suspension and gets a mono-shock at the rear, while the brake setup consists of single discs at both ends assisted by dual-channel ABS.

It could be either a naked version of the Apache RR 310 or the rumoured TVS Zeppelin.

TVS Motor Company is gearing up to launch a new motorcycle in the Indian market on July 6, 2022.

While details are scarce, reports suggest it could be either a naked version of the Apache RR 310 or the rumoured TVS Zeppelin.

The naked version of the Apache RR 310 will be based on the BMW G 310 R. It could receive some cosmetic changes and is likely to be equipped with the latest hardware, including a fully adjustable suspension.

The TVS Zeppelin was unveiled in its concept form at the 2018 Auto Expo. It was TVS’ idea of a cruiser and was powered by a 220cc single-cylinder engine producing 20 BHP and 18.5 Nm. It even came with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) offering an e-boost function.

Source: Autocar India

The BMW G 310 RR will be powered by the same 313cc engine from the Apache RR 310.

BMW Motorrad India has released an official teaser of its upcoming G 310 RR sports bike. It will be launched on July 15, 2022.

The teaser image reveals the bike’s tail section, which looks similar to the TVS Apache RR 310. That being said, it could get a different front-end design and fairing.

Given that the G 310 RR will be based on the Apache RR 310, the bike will be powered by the same 313cc engine that puts out 34 BHP @ 9,700 rpm and 27.3 Nm @ 7,700 rpm. It will be paired with a 6-speed gearbox and could get multiple riding modes.

The G 310 R competes with the KTM 390 Duke, while the G 310 GS rivals the KTM 390 Adventure.

BMW Motorrad has increased the prices of the G 310 R and G 310 GS models by Rs. 5,000. The G 310 R is now priced at Rs. 2.65 lakh, while the G 310 GS costs Rs. 3.05 lakh (ex-showroom).

BMW had hiked the prices of both models back in August last year, just weeks before the announcement of the 2022 model range.

The bikes are powered by a 313cc, single-cylinder engine that produces 33 BHP @ 9,500 rpm and 28 Nm @ 7,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission via a slipper clutch. The bikes come equipped with a ride-by-wire system.

The G 310 R competes with the KTM 390 Duke, while the G 310 GS rivals the KTM 390 Adventure.

I plan to keep the motorcycle for at least 10-12 years. I've test ridden a few bikes including the Interceptor 650, Meteor 350, and BMW G 310 R/GS.

BHPian bravo82in recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I am in my late 30s, considering a bike for short trips/night rides, mostly within the city. Just for fun and some adrenaline rush. My back and shoulder problems keep me away from touring of any sort. The last bike I owned was a CBZ classic 15 years back.

My requirements are exclusivity and trouble-free ownership. The bike should look premium and must stand out in the crowd. Have set a budget of 3-3.5 lacs and can extend it a bit. I intend to keep the bike for at least 10-12 years or maybe longer. Have shortlisted and test rode a few and my ride impressions are summarised below.

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650

This was the first and obvious choice. However, was not really impressed with the TD. Found the seat to be a bit high (I am 175 cms tall), had to extend the foot to find a stable ground at crawling speeds. The left leg kept hitting the footrest. Had to stoop forward to reach the handlebar causing lower back pain. There was no gear shift indicator and stalled the engine a couple of times due to wrong gear selection (maybe because I was riding after ages). However, the power on tap is excellent, the clutch is soft and gear shifts smooth. This bike has an exclusive cult following, is a looker and is a fairly reliable product. Endless customization options make it worth drooling for.

Royal Enfield Meteor 350

Though not on my bucket list initially, the sales executive insisted on a TD after I pointed issues with the Interceptor. However, this bike left me impressed. The ergonomics are sorted and the speedo console has all the requisite information. The large screen keeps away the wind blast. This bike actually has everything I am looking for except the exclusivity. It’s way too common on the roads.

Honda H'ness CB 350

This was the bike I felt comfortable riding. Never felt like I was riding such a heavy bike. It was so smooth and easy to handle. The only con is the looks. It’s just too boring, more like a Splendor going to the gym, especially in dual-tone. Didn’t find many customisation options on the net, unlike the Interceptor. Another issue will be the service. The nearest centre is 200kms away and I can never drive that distance.

BMW G 310 R/GS

Again, not on my bucket list, saw the 310 R on display in a mall and was really impressed with the way it looks. The next day headed to the showroom. This bike is a looker no doubts, but the driving dynamics are not that great. The gear ratio was a bit odd, so was the acceleration in lower gears. The gear shifts were precise. Felt like I was riding an Apache. Is this really BMW or a TVS Apache with a BMW label? The ergonomics of both the bikes were sorted except in G310R I had to dorsiflex my wrist way too much causing pain on the palmar aspect of the wrist joint. Had seating issues with the GS, a pain in stop and go traffic. The GS impressed me with the suspension though. Out of the two, the 310R will be my choice. Except for the looks and premium BMW label, there is not much to write about. Again service will be a pain, 200 kms away.

Yamaha Aerox 155

Although there is no comparison between the bikes above and the Aerox, the Aerox seems to fulfil my requirement. Though I am yet to test drive one, it’s a looker, expect it to remain exclusive and can do some grocery runs too. A practical choice I can say. However, I will miss the charm of owning something like the Interceptor.

Bikes not considered

• Honda CB 300 - Yet to test drive but don’t find it a looker hence not considering.
• Jawa - Again, lack of exclusivity and quality issues as reported by users is keeping me away from Jawa.
• Kawasaki Ninja 300 - I guess the forward stance will cause back pain, hence not considered.
• Benelli - This brand has a couple of good options with an extended budget. Chinese connection is keeping me away. I can reconsider if the products are reliable and keeper.
• E-bikes - I couldn’t find good options hence not considered.
• Commuter bikes from Hero/ Bajaj, etc.

A humble request for suggestions and inputs from the forum.

Thanks and regards

Here's what BHPian Cyborg had to say about the matter:

I can sense your confusion and frustration due to your back and shoulder issues. I wish you happy, safe riding as long as you choose.

Please read your own post (read it a few times if necessary) on the RE 350 Meteor, it’s the ONLY bike you yourself say “has everything you are looking for” except exclusivity. I would strongly advise you to forget about exclusivity, why are you bothering about it!

Just buy the RE Meteor and get back to riding. Forget about exclusivity, you are buying this to make yourself happy, do not bother about world perception.

Here's what BHPian neil.jericho had to say about the matter:

Based on your requirements, I feel a few motorcycles appear to be better choices than most

• Royal Enfield Interceptor 650: With the back and shoulder issues that you alluded to, do strongly consider getting handlebar risers. Beyond that, the sky is the limit in terms of customization and making the bike your own. The Interceptor is a long term keeper and you certainly aren't going to outgrow it in a few years time.
• TVS Apache RR 310 BTO: Leftfield choice but it is stylish, comfortable, has some very good components and will give you exclusivity as well. It definitely meets your premium feel and stands out criterion.
• Classic 350: Same impressive characteristics of the Meteor but you might lose out on the exclusivity part.

In the end, I have a feeling that you will end up with the Interceptor 650 but do test ride a few more options before you make a final call.

Here's what BHPian nTorq had to say about the matter:

I am surprised at how Honda has been able to create a sense that the Highness is an alternative or even in the same segment as the Interceptor.

The Interceptor is a fantastic bike and is probably the most VFM parallel-twin engine in the market right now. Yes, there are a few design flaws, but those aren’t deal-breakers. Amongst the bikes you’ve listed, I think Interceptor is a no-brainer.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS motorcycles have contributed to nearly 90% of the brand's yearly sales.

BMW Motorrad India has announced that it has recorded its highest sales ever. The company has delivered a total of 5,000 motorcycles in the Indian market in 2021.

BMW Motorrad India has said in a press statement that it will post a growth of over 100% in 2021 as compared to 2020. The brand's G 310 R and G 310 GS motorcycles have contributed to nearly 90% of the yearly sales.

As per the company, apart from the huge demand for the G 310 R and G 310 GS, other models which have been a favourite among motorcycle enthusiasts include the C 400 GT maxi-scooter, R 1250 GS/GSA adventure bikes, R 18 Classic and the S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR sportbikes.

The firm has also said that BMW Financial Services India has played a strategic role in expanding the brand's network in the country. It has also helped in facilitating the company's sales performance.

The 1,00,000th unit of BMW 310 series has been rolled out from TVS Motor Company's Hosur plant.

Production of BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS has surpassed the 1 lakh mark. The company has achieved this milestone in less than 5 years.

BMW Motorrad and TVS Motor Company signed a cooperation agreement in 2013. So far, three motorcycles have been launched under this strategic partnership - BMW G 310 R, G 310 GS and TVS Apache RR 310.

TVS Motor Company manufactures all three models at its factory in Hosur. The 1,00,000th unit of BMW 310 series has been rolled out from this plant. This facility produces around 10% of BMW Motorrad’s volumes globally.

Exports of the BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS had commenced in December 2016. Today, both these models are available in 120 countries.