BMW’s next single-cylinder ‘G’ series bike is almost certain to be an adventure-styled G310 GS but its Indian partner TVS is forging ahead with its faired Akula sports version.
The firm hinted at its plans with the Akula concept bike shown earlier this year, and now a road-ready prototype has been spotted on test in India.
Getting from prototype to production shouldn’t take long. TVS has been heavily involved with the G series since its inception and is responsible for building the bikes. Its Akula – which might be renamed ‘Apache 310’ for its launch – is mechanically identical to the BMW.
The reverse-cylinder engine, tubular steel chassis, brakes, suspension and even the wheels are straight from the BMW G310 R. The only big changes are the addition of a full fairing and repositioned bars and footpegs.
The bike is expected to make its debut before the end of this year, and inevitably leads to speculation that BMW might also make a G310 RR sports bike. Such a machine would compete against the likes of KTM’s RC390 and the Yamaha R3. In Asian markets, there’s also Honda’s newly-revealed CBR250RR twin, which is expected to be expanded to over 300cc before it’s sold in Europe.
If the TVS Akula retains the same engine tune as the BMW, it will make 34bhp (25PS) at 9500rpm. It should also weigh around the same as the German bike, which is just 158.5kg fully fuelled and ready to ride.
However, sales of such sports-oriented small bikes are still fairly low in Europe, so BMW’s first intention is to add another GS model to its line up. The R310 GS should provide a bottom rung on the ladder towards Europe’s most popular motorcycle, the R1200 GS, and is sure to share similar styling. It’s expected to appear at shows towards the end of this year.
