Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are both enduro motorcycles with powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 is equipped with a V-twin engine with a bore of 105 mm and a stroke of 72 mm. It produces 150 HP of power and 127 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 also features a V-twin engine but with a slightly larger bore of 108 mm and a stroke of 71 mm. It delivers 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions with monoshocks at the rear. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has slightly larger front forks with a diameter of 48 mm compared to the 47 mm forks on the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021. The travel distance for both front and rear suspensions is also slightly higher on the KTM model, offering 200 mm of travel compared to the 191 mm on the Harley-Davidson.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

In terms of chassis, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both motorcycles have a rake angle of 65 degrees.

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, with Brembo being the brand for both models. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 also features cornering ABS, which enhances the braking performance during cornering.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1560 mm compared to the 1585 mm on the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021. The seat height is also slightly lower on the KTM model, measuring 849 mm compared to the 850 mm on the Harley-Davidson. The dry weight of the KTM is 220 kg, while the Harley-Davidson weighs 242 kg. The KTM model has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 416 km, compared to the 21.2-liter fuel tank and 432 km range on the Harley-Davidson. The combined fuel consumption is 5.7 l/100km for the KTM and 4.9 l/100km for the Harley-Davidson.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with cornering lights, LED headlights, TFT displays, and adjustable windscreens. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 also offers Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, and an optional seat lowering feature when stationary. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022, on the other hand, offers adaptive cruise control (ACC) in addition to the other features.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022

In terms of strengths, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 is praised for its sporty powerplant, comfortable seating position, good pillion suitability, extensive electronics, original HD pannier system, wind protection, cornering ABS, cornering TC, and good off-road characteristics. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 is commended for its very sporty yet cultivated V2 powerplant, extremely playful handling despite high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 is criticized for engine heat in city mode and the unavailability of a quickshifter. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 has the weaknesses of a gearshift assistant at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a tight seat.

Overall, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2022 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and priorities.