BMW GS 310 Accessories: Top 8 Upgrades

Transform your BMW G 310 GS with these top 8 accessories, enhancing comfort, protection, and utility.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Boost your BMW G 310 GS with improved protection.
Enhance rider comfort on longer journeys.
Increase the bike’s cargo-carrying capacity.
Upgrade lighting for better visibility.
Add essential electronic accessories.
Customize for personalized riding style.

Are you ready to elevate your adventure on your BMW G 310 GS? This versatile motorcycle is a fantastic platform for exploring, whether you’re navigating city streets or venturing off the beaten path. But like any machine, it can be made even better with the right touches. Many riders wonder about the best ways to customize their G 310 GS to suit their needs. It can seem overwhelming with so many options out there. This guide will walk you through eight essential BMW GS 310 accessories that will boost your bike’s performance, comfort, and overall riding experience. Let’s explore how to make your G 310 GS truly yours.

Why Upgrade Your BMW G 310 GS?

The BMW G 310 GS is designed as an accessible entry into the adventure touring world. It’s lightweight, nimble, and capable of handling a variety of terrains. However, its stock configuration is often a balance between cost and features. For riders looking to push its boundaries, undertake longer trips, or simply enhance their daily commute, specific accessories can make a significant difference. Upgrading your G 310 GS isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about improving functionality, safety, and rider enjoyment. Think of it as tailoring the bike to your unique riding style and intended adventures, much like how American car manufacturers constantly refine models to meet diverse consumer needs and driving conditions across the USA.

From enhanced protection against the elements and road debris to increased storage and improved ergonomics, each accessory serves a purpose. We’ll cover upgrades that address common rider needs and preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your BMW G 310 GS. Get ready to discover the top 8 BMW GS 310 accessories that will transform your ride.

1. Protection: Skid Plate for Undercarriage Security

When you venture off paved roads, the undercarriage of your motorcycle becomes vulnerable. Rocks, debris, and uneven terrain can cause serious damage to vital engine components. A robust skid plate is one of the most crucial BMW GS 310 accessories for any rider who plans to explore beyond smooth asphalt. This protective shield acts as a barrier, absorbing impacts and preventing costly repairs.

What is a Skid Plate?

A skid plate, sometimes called a bash plate, is a panel typically made from aluminum or durable plastic that mounts to the underside of your motorcycle frame, directly beneath the engine and exhaust. Its primary function is to protect these sensitive areas from impacts, scrapes, and punctures.

Why it’s Essential for the G 310 GS

The G 310 GS, with its adventure-oriented design, often finds itself in situations where ground clearance is challenged. While it’s not a hardcore off-road machine, even gravel roads or minor trail riding can present hazards. Installing a quality skid plate gives you peace of mind, allowing you to tackle less-than-perfect surfaces with confidence. It’s a small investment that can prevent major financial headaches.

Choosing the Right Skid Plate

Material: Aluminum is popular for its strength-to-weight ratio and durability. Thick-gauge plastic can also offer good impact absorption and is often lighter and less resonant.
Coverage: Ensure the skid plate offers comprehensive coverage for the engine oil pan, exhaust headers, and any other exposed low-lying components.
Fitment: Look for skid plates specifically designed for the BMW G 310 GS to ensure a proper fit and easy installation.

Many aftermarket manufacturers offer excellent skid plates for the G 310 GS. Brands like Touratech, SW-Motech, and Hepco & Becker are well-regarded for their quality and design. Consider your typical riding environment when making your choice. For light trail use, a sturdy plastic plate might suffice, but for more aggressive off-road excursions, a beefy aluminum plate is recommended.

2. Comfort: Upgraded Seat for Extended Rides

Longer rides on a motorcycle can take a toll on your body, and a stock seat, while functional, may not offer the sustained comfort needed for extended adventures. The rider’s seat is a primary contact point, and an upgrade can dramatically improve your experience. An improved seat is one of the most impactful BMW GS 310 accessories for comfort.

Ergonomic Considerations

Stock motorcycle seats are often designed with a balance of aesthetics and cost in mind. They might not offer optimal contouring or padding for riders of different sizes and shapes, or for sitting for many hours. An aftermarket seat is typically designed with ergonomics as a priority, aiming to distribute weight more evenly and reduce pressure points.

Types of Seat Upgrades

Comfort Seats: These are direct replacements for your stock seat, featuring improved foam density, sculpted shapes for better support, and often a slightly wider profile.
Seat Covers/Pads: A more budget-friendly option is a comfortable seat cover or a gel pad that adds cushioning to your existing seat. These can be a good starting point to see if a full seat replacement is necessary.
Custom Seats: For the ultimate in personalized comfort, some companies offer custom-molded seats, but these are typically more expensive.

Benefits of a Better Seat

A more comfortable seat can lead to:

Reduced fatigue on long journeys.
Improved posture and control of the motorcycle.
A more enjoyable riding experience overall.
Less need for frequent stops due to discomfort.

When selecting an upgraded seat for your BMW G 310 GS, consider the type of riding you do most. If you’re doing a lot of highway miles, a seat designed for long-distance comfort is key. If you’re tackling rougher terrain, a seat with better grip and support can be beneficial. Companies like Sargent, Corbin, and various BMW aftermarket specialists offer excellent options.

3. Utility: Luggage Solutions for Your Gear

Adventure riding, by its nature, often requires carrying more gear. Whether it’s for a day trip or an extended tour, having adequate and secure luggage capacity is essential. Luggage solutions are among the most practical BMW GS 310 accessories you can add.

Types of Luggage Systems

There are several popular types of luggage systems available for the G 310 GS:

Soft Luggage: This includes tail bags, saddlebags, and tank bags made from durable, water-resistant fabrics. They are often lighter and more flexible than hard cases.
Hard Luggage (Panniers): These are rigid cases, typically made of aluminum or robust plastic, that mount to a frame. They offer excellent protection for your gear and can double as protection for the bike in a fall.
Top Cases: A top case mounts to a rear rack and is ideal for storing items you need quick access to, like rain gear or a camera.

Choosing the Right System

Your choice will depend on your needs and budget:

Luggage Type	Pros	Cons	Best For
Soft Saddlebags	Lightweight, flexible, easier to install/remove, less expensive	Less secure, can be less water-resistant, may sag if not properly supported	Day trips, light touring, off-road riding
Hard Panniers	Durable, secure, weather-resistant, offer crash protection	Heavier, more expensive, can affect bike’s width and maneuverability	Extended touring, all-weather riding
Tail Bag	Convenient for essentials, easy access	Limited capacity, can interfere with passenger if present	Day trips, carrying rain gear or lunch
Tank Bag	Easy access to essentials (phone, wallet, navigation)	Can obstruct steering if overloaded, capacity varies	Quick access items, navigation

For the G 310 GS, soft saddlebags or a combination of a tail bag and tank bag often strike a good balance between capacity, weight, and cost. Brands like Kriega, Nelson-Rigg, and Wolfman offer excellent soft luggage options. If you plan on serious touring, investing in a good pannier system from manufacturers like Givi or SW-Motech is worthwhile. Don’t forget to check if the luggage requires specific racks or mounting hardware for the G 310 GS.

Pro Tip: When packing, distribute weight evenly on both sides of the bike and keep heavier items lower for better stability. Always use waterproof inner bags for sensitive items, even with supposedly waterproof luggage.

4. Visibility: Auxiliary Lighting for Safer Riding

Being seen and seeing your surroundings clearly are paramount for safety. The stock headlights on many motorcycles, including the G 310 GS, can be adequate but are often improved upon with auxiliary lighting. Enhancing your visibility improves safety, especially during night rides or in poor weather conditions, making these lighting upgrades some of the most important BMW GS 310 accessories.

Types of Auxiliary Lights

LED Spotlights/Floodlights: These are the most common and efficient options. Spotlights provide a focused beam for long-distance visibility, while floodlights offer a wider spread to illuminate the sides of the road.
Fog Lights: Designed to cut through fog, mist, or heavy rain, these typically have a wide, flat beam pattern close to the ground.
Integrated Daytime Running Lights (DRLs): Some auxiliary lights also function as DRLs, making you more visible to other traffic during daylight hours.

Installation Considerations

Installing auxiliary lights typically involves:

Mounting: Attaching the lights to the motorcycle’s protective crash bars, frame, or dedicated light mounts.
Wiring: Connecting the lights to the motorcycle’s electrical system. This often requires a relay and fuse to protect the battery and wiring. Some systems may tap into the high beam circuit to allow the auxiliary lights to turn on only when the high beams are engaged.
Switches: Installing an appropriate switch on the handlebar for easy on/off operation.

Many aftermarket kits are designed for specific motorcycle models, simplifying installation. Always ensure your auxiliary lights comply with local regulations regarding their use and intensity. Check resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for general guidance on vehicle lighting safety standards in the USA. Brands like Denali Electronics, PIAA, and Clearwater LED offer high-quality lighting solutions for motorcycles.

5. Protection: Handguards for Rider Comfort and Safety

Handguards might seem like a simple addition, but they offer significant benefits for rider comfort and protection, making them highly recommended BMW GS 310 accessories, especially for adventure riding.

What Are Handguards?

Handguards are protective shields mounted to the handlebars that extend outwards to cover your hands. They are designed to deflect wind, rain, cold, and debris away from your hands and controls.

Benefits of Handguard Upgrades

Weather Protection: They significantly improve comfort in cold or wet weather by shielding your hands from wind chill and rain spray.
Debris Protection: They protect your hands and levers from impacts from rocks, branches, or other road debris, which is crucial for off-road riding.
Lever Protection: In a minor tip-over, robust handguards can prevent brake and clutch levers from bending or breaking.
Improved Control: By keeping your hands warmer and less fatigued, you can maintain better control of the motorcycle.

Types of Handguards

Plastic Handguards: These are lightweight and effective against wind and light debris. They are often integrated with or attach to smaller deflectors.
Barkbusters/Full Wrap-Around Handguards: These are typically aluminum frame handguards with large plastic shields. They offer the best protection against impacts and debris.

For the BMW G 310 GS, integrated handguards that come stock offer some protection. However, upgrading to larger, more robust aftermarket options can provide substantially more coverage and protection. Companies like Acerbis, Cycra, and Barkbusters (often considered the benchmark) offer excellent options that are specifically designed to fit the G 310 GS, sometimes requiring specific mounting kits.

6. Technology: USB Charger and Navigation Mount

In today’s connected world, keeping your devices charged and accessible is more important than ever, especially on longer rides or when using GPS navigation. Integrating a USB charger and a navigation mount are practical and modern BMW GS 310 accessories for any rider.

USB Charger

Many modern motorcycles don’t come with built-in USB ports, or the existing ones might be insufficient. A dedicated USB charger allows you to power your smartphone, GPS device, action camera, or other electronics while on the go. Look for chargers that are weather-resistant and feature a high amperage output to ensure fast charging.

Navigation Mount

Whether you use a dedicated GPS unit or your smartphone for navigation, you need a stable and secure mount that places your device within your line of sight. This is crucial for safety, allowing you to glance at directions without taking your eyes too far off the road.

Installation and Considerations

USB Charger Installation:

Find a suitable location to mount the charger, often near the dashboard or under the seat.
Connect the charger’s positive and negative wires to the motorcycle’s battery or a switched power source. Using a switched source ensures the charger only draws power when the ignition is on, preventing battery drain.
Secure the wiring neatly with zip ties or electrical tape.

Navigation Mount Installation:

These mounts often attach to the handlebar, the windscreen support, or the dashboard area.
Ensure the mount is designed for your specific device (phone clamp size, GPS model).
Confirm that the mount doesn’t vibrate excessively and obstruct your view of the instrument cluster.

Brands like RAM Mounts are extremely popular for their robust and versatile mounting solutions. For USB chargers, many reputable brands like OptiMate, Blue Sea Systems, and various motorcycle-specific brands offer reliable options. Integrating these accessories enhances your G 310 GS’s capability for touring and daily use.

7. Rider Comfort: Adjustable Windscreen or Deflector

Wind protection is a significant factor in rider comfort, especially at higher speeds or during prolonged periods in the saddle. While the G 310 GS comes with a small windscreen, upgrading to an adjustable or taller windscreen can make a world of difference. This is a key comfort-focused addition among BMW GS 310 accessories.

How Windshields Affect Riding

The factory windscreen on the G 310 GS provides some protection, but it might be insufficient for taller riders or for those who spend a lot of time on the highway. Wind blast can cause fatigue, buffeting, and noise, leading to a less enjoyable ride. An aftermarket windscreen aims to redirect airflow higher over the rider’s helmet, reducing these effects.

Types of Windscreen Upgrades

Taller Windscreens: These are direct replacements that are simply taller than the stock version. They offer more overall wind protection.
Adjustable Windscreens/Deflectors: Some systems include an adjustable spoiler or deflector that can be mounted on top of the existing windscreen or as a standalone adjustable unit. This allows you to fine-tune the wind protection based on speed, weather, or personal preference.
Wider Windscreens: Some aftermarket options are also wider, providing better protection for the rider’s shoulders and arms.

Benefits and Considerations

A well-chosen windscreen can:

Reduce rider fatigue by minimizing wind force.
Decrease wind noise, making it easier to hear your engine or the environment.
Improve aerodynamic efficiency slightly.
Enhance the bike’s touring or adventure aesthetics.

When choosing an upgrade, consider your height and riding posture. What works perfectly for one rider might not be ideal for another. Look for windscreens made from durable, scratch-resistant polycarbonate. Brands like Puig, Givi, and MRA offer various windscreen solutions for the BMW G 310 GS. Reading reviews from other G 310 GS owners can be very helpful in selecting the right height and shape.

8. Performance & Aesthetics: Exhaust System Upgrade

While performance gains might be modest on a smaller displacement engine like the G 310 GS, an aftermarket exhaust system can offer a noticeable improvement in throttle response, a more pleasing sound, and a reduction in weight compared to the stock unit. It’s also a popular way to customize the look of your bike, making it one of the more exciting BMW GS 310 accessories for enthusiasts.

Why Upgrade Your Exhaust?

Sound: The primary reason many riders upgrade their exhaust is for a more aggressive and satisfying engine note.
Weight Reduction: Stock exhausts are often heavy due to emissions control components and structural requirements. Aftermarket systems, especially slip-ons made from titanium or carbon fiber, can significantly reduce weight.
Performance: While major power gains are unlikely without other modifications, a well-designed exhaust can improve exhaust flow, leading to slightly better horsepower and torque, particularly when paired with a tuning module or remapped ECU.
Aesthetics: Aftermarket exhausts come in various styles and finishes, allowing you to customize the bike’s appearance.

Slip-On vs. Full System

Slip-On Muffler: This replaces the stock muffler with an aftermarket one. It’s the most common and generally easiest upgrade, offering significant improvements in sound and weight at a lower cost than a full system. It bolts onto the existing header pipe.

Full Exhaust System: This replaces both the header pipes and the muffler. It offers the greatest potential for performance gains but is more expensive and complex to install. It requires careful consideration of fitment with the G 310 GS’s engine and frame.

Legal and Environmental Considerations

It’s crucial to choose an exhaust that complies with emissions and noise regulations in your area. In the USA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets standards for vehicle emissions. Aftermarket exhausts are often labeled for “off-road use only” to circumvent these regulations, but using them on public roads may result in fines or other penalties. Always check local laws and ensure your chosen exhaust is street-legal if you intend to use it for general riding.

Popular brands for motorcycle exhausts include Akrapovič, Two Brothers Racing, Yoshimura, and Remus. For the G 310 GS, look for specific slip-on or full systems designed for your model to ensure proper fitment and performance. A good exhaust can truly bring your bike’s character to life.

Conclusion

The BMW G 310 GS is a fantastic motorcycle with a lot of potential for customization. By investing in the right accessories, you can transform it into a more comfortable, capable, and personalized machine. Whether you’re enhancing its protection with a skid plate, improving rider comfort with an upgraded seat or windscreen, increasing utility with luggage solutions, boosting safety with auxiliary lights, or adding modern tech with a USB charger, each upgrade contributes to a richer riding experience. Don’t forget the aesthetic and sonic appeal of an aftermarket exhaust system. These eight BMW GS 310 accessories represent wise choices for any rider looking to get the absolute most out of their adventure-ready bike, ensuring that your journeys, whether across the vast landscapes of the USA or through your daily commute, are always enjoyable and safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are these accessories difficult to install on a BMW G 310 GS?

The difficulty of installation varies by accessory. Simple items like USB chargers or handlebar-mounted navigation mounts are generally easy for beginners. Skid plates and handguards are moderately difficult, often requiring basic mechanical skills and tools. Exhaust systems can range from simple slip-ons to more complex full systems or may require professional installation. Always consult the accessory’s instructions and consider your own mechanical aptitude.

Q2: Where can I buy these BMW G 310 GS accessories?

You can purchase these accessories from various sources: authorized BMW dealerships, dedicated online motorcycle parts retailers (like RevZilla, Twisted Throttle, Cycle Gear), manufacturer websites (e.g., Touratech, SW-Motech), and general automotive parts suppliers. Ensure you are buying from reputable sources to get genuine or high-quality aftermarket parts.

Q3: Will adding these accessories void my BMW warranty?

Generally, installing aftermarket parts does not automatically void your entire motorcycle warranty. However, if a specific aftermarket accessory causes a failure in a related component, the manufacturer may deny warranty coverage for that specific part or repair. It’s always advisable to check your warranty terms and conditions or consult with your BMW dealer. For electrical accessories like USB chargers, ensure they are installed correctly to avoid electrical system issues.

Q4: Are there any cheaper alternatives to these premium accessories?

Yes, for many accessories, there are budget-friendly alternatives. For example, universal tank bags or tail bags can be less expensive than model-specific ones. Generic USB chargers are widely available at lower price points. For windscreens, universal clip-on spoilers can be a cost-effective way to improve wind protection. However, always consider the quality and durability of cheaper alternatives, as they might not last as long or perform as well.

Q5: How much weight can I add to my BMW G 310 GS with these accessories?

The G 310 GS has a specific payload capacity, which includes the rider, passenger (if applicable), and all luggage and accessories. Exceeding this limit can negatively impact handling and safety. Check your owner’s manual for the exact payload capacity. Accessories like hard panniers add significant weight, so it’s important to factor this in when packing for a trip. Lighter-weight soft luggage is a good option if payload is a concern.

Q6: Can I install all these accessories at once?

Yes, most of these accessories can be installed simultaneously. Some might even complement each other, like handguards and a windscreen working together for weather protection, or luggage racks and panniers. Ensure that the mounting points for different accessories don’t interfere with each other, especially around the handlebars and frame.

Q7: What is the most important accessory for a beginner rider on a G 310 GS?

For a beginner rider on a G 310 GS, the most important accessories would likely be those enhancing safety and basic comfort. This includes a good quality skid plate for protection against unexpected terrain, robust handguards to protect controls and hands, and potentially a navigation mount to safely use GPS for learning routes. These help build confidence and protect the bike during the learning phase.