Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2019

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both enduro motorcycles that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are several differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1252cc, producing 151.98 HP of power and 128 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS features a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and two cylinders, but the Pan America has a slightly higher power output.

When it comes to suspension, the Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 191mm. In comparison, the R 1250 GS features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. Both bikes offer adjustable suspension settings for compression, preload, and rebound.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of chassis, the Pan America 1250 Special features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design, while the R 1250 GS has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. The Pan America has a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 157mm, while the R 1250 GS has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm.

Both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, providing stable braking performance. The Pan America comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The R 1250 GS also offers ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Pan America has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1585mm, a seat height of 850mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 258kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has the same tire dimensions, a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1525mm, a similar seat height of 850mm, a lighter kerb weight (with ABS) of 249kg, and a smaller fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

In terms of equipment, both bikes offer adjustable windshields, LED headlights, and adjustable suspension settings. The Pan America also comes with additional features such as Bluetooth, connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display. The R 1250 GS features a color TFT display as standard.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

In terms of strengths, the Pan America 1250 Special offers a sporty power unit, a comfortable seating position, comprehensive electronics, a distinctive look, and standard cornering ABS and traction control. It also offers an optional seat lowering feature when stationary. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS boasts an extremely high-torque boxer engine, a good sound, a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, a color TFT display as standard, and LED headlights.

However, the Pan America 1250 Special has some weaknesses, including below-average workmanship and haptics, a quickshifter at an extra cost and not perfect, and a windshield that may be too high for off-road use. The R 1250 GS has manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list, as well as a jagged appearance with little elegance.

In conclusion, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Pan America offers a more powerful engine and a distinctive look, while the R 1250 GS provides a high-torque boxer engine and a comfortable seating position suitable for long distances. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.