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Here’s my dilemma, KTM launched 390ADV at a decent price point and now I am not able to decide (since KTM is not available for test ride). Being the owner of 3 BMWs my natural inclination is to go for 310GS (even my bicycle is BMW M cruise!). Heard rumours that 310GS is being discontinued from sale in India and also that a 400 (+)cc GS may be launched shortly, now this adds to my confusion.
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Ok, now that 390 Adv is out and we have all been watching its launch videos and test rides by journalist and their product reviews, both the bikes (310 gs and 390 adv) are good in their own way, its just us individuals who have to decide which suits the requirement better. I feel they both have their respective customer base and will continue to survive together in international market.
Engine: 390 ADV -Its all about power and more power, enjoyed at the right rpm and if not, the engine starts to show its displeasure. Requires frequent gear shifts and has strong engine breaking which some enjoy, some dont, especially in slow moving city traffic where it induces too many nods. Gun the engine, and its one of the most rev happy big single around. 310GS-Engine is not as rev happy, and more docile. power delivery is pretty basic and at higher revs there is good amount of vibes at tank and footpeg. comparatively less engine breaking force, and does not require to change gears frequently.
suspension: 390 adv seems to have stiff suspension ( i sat on the bike) in comparison to soft suspension of the GS, which you have already sampled. Means 390 adv will be more precise and will handle better whereas 310 may be more supple and comfortable at lesser speeds.
Chassis: 390adv is inspired from their 450 ralley, and KTM is known for their offroad pedigree. Means the chassis would be great. I have used 310gs for 25k kms and mostly on bad roads and its been holding very well. So full marks there too.
Looks: Both brands follow a style and their entry level ADV bikes stay true to their elder siblings. 390 ADV is on the lines of 790 and above, and the design language and colours appeal to younger crowd. 310GS follows the bigger gs design language and had a more understated looks and would appeal to 30+ age. Aesthetics being personal, both bikes appeal in their own way. i wold have loved to see a beak on the 390 adv.
Equipment: KTM 390 adv is loaded with features such as RBW, TFT, TC, quick shifter, etc which is very very good for the price. More electronics do bring up more chances of failure points too but. 310Gs is pretty basic but has adequate information and features for general requirement .One does miss features like slipper clutch, quick shifter, OEM USB socket, etc.
If i was in market and if i had to choose between the two, i would have most likely gone with the KTM 390 adventure, mainly for that mad power and greater value for money. Also for the wider service network and cost effective spares and ease of parts availability. The 310GS is highly over priced too, if we remove the current discounts. But i already have the 310GS and i am very happy with it. I would have loved if it has a bit more power and a bit more rev happy and refined engine, but in its present form too, its not like bad. I love that it does not have strong engine braking. I love that i can ride at 18kmph in 2nd gear in slow moving traffic without lugging. I love the supple suspension. I love the built quality. I love how it looks. Barring the unpleasant dealer and service experiences, i am very happy with the bike. I dont really see a strong reason for going with 390 adv, as power is the main big draw there, rest of the features i can easily live without. But thats me and my requirements, and it would be different in your case. So do try and visualize your usage scenario and take a call on which bike fits the bill better.