BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with a Boxer engine, which provides a high-torque power delivery that allows for strong acceleration from low revs. This, combined with its low center of gravity, ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability for such a large and powerful motorcycle. The bike also features practical details that are useful for frequent riders, such as a gigantic range of 600 km and amazingly low fuel consumption of 4.75 l/100km. Additionally, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure offers good wind and weather protection, great ride comfort, and a powerful engine.

In terms of electronics and technology, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure is well-equipped. It features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, and ride by wire. The bike also comes with cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023, on the other hand, is powered by a V-twin engine that delivers sporty performance. It offers a comfortable seating position, making it suitable for long rides. The bike is also equipped with comprehensive electronics, including ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

In terms of design, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special has a distinctive look that sets it apart from other adventure motorcycles. It features a double cradle aluminum frame, which contributes to its unique appearance. The bike also comes with a range of equipment, including Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

However, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special does have some weaknesses. The workmanship and haptics of the bike are reported to be below average in some areas. Additionally, the quickshifter is an optional extra and is not perfect. The windshield is also considered to be too high for off-road use.

In terms of specifications, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a higher engine power of 136 HP compared to the Pan America 1250 Special's 151.98 HP. However, the Pan America has a higher torque of 128 Nm compared to the BMW's 143 Nm. The BMW has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters, providing a range of 631 km, while the Pan America has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters, providing a range of 432 km. The BMW also has a higher combined fuel consumption of 4.75 l/100km compared to the Pan America's 4.9 l/100km.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 210 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. The Pan America 1250 Special features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 47 mm and a travel of 191 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 191 mm.

In terms of weight, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a kerb weight of 268 kg, while the Pan America 1250 Special has a kerb weight of 258 kg. The BMW has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1504 mm compared to the Pan America's 1585 mm. The seat height of the BMW is 890 mm, while the Pan America has a lower seat height of 850 mm.

Overall, both the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a high-torque engine, practical details, and a great range, while the Pan America provides a sporty power unit, comfortable seating position, and distinctive look. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.