Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles.

The Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is equipped with an in-line 3-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower and 130 Nm of torque. It features an electric starter and a prop shaft transmission. The bike's suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear. The front suspension has a diameter of 49 mm and a travel of 200 mm, while the rear suspension has a travel of 200 mm. The bike has a steel tubular frame with a rake of 65.9 degrees and a trail of 120 mm. The front brakes are double disk Brembo brakes. The Tiger 1200 GT Explorer is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, collision warning, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, blind spot assist, and traction control. It has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, a wheelbase of 1560 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight of 255 kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. The bike is equipped with Bluetooth, connectivity, heated grips, keyless system, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, heated seat, TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022

On the other hand, the Pan America 1250 Special is powered by a V-twin engine that also produces 150 horsepower but has a slightly lower torque of 127 Nm. It has an electric starter and a chain transmission. The bike has a suspension setup similar to the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer, with an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear. The front suspension has a diameter of 47 mm and a travel of 191 mm, while the rear suspension has a travel of 191 mm. The Pan America 1250 Special features an aluminum double cradle frame with a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 157 mm. The front brakes are also double disk Brembo brakes. The bike is equipped with ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. It has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1585 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight of 258 kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters. The Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with Bluetooth, connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer offers a powerful engine, a high-quality electronics package, a semi-active chassis that regulates finely, extensive standard equipment, long-distance comfort, excellent wind and weather protection, agility, and a better model spread between on- and off-road compared to its predecessor. On the other hand, the Pan America 1250 Special boasts a sporty powerplant, a comfortable seating position, good pillion suitability, an extensive electronics package, an original HD pannier system, wind protection, cornering ABS and TC as standard, optional seat lowering when stationary, and good off-road characteristics.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

However, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer does have a few weaknesses. It may experience minor load change reactions on Explorer models, and the Blind Spot Assist is not available on Pro models. Additionally, the high pillion seat can restrict freedom of movement for sporty off-roading. On the other hand, the Pan America 1250 Special has engine heat issues in city mode and does not come with a quickshifter.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Tiger 1200 GT Explorer offers a more refined and comfortable long-distance riding experience, while the Pan America 1250 Special excels in its sporty performance and off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.