Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. However, they have some key differences that set them apart.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, the Pan America 1250 Special features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1252cc, producing 150 horsepower and 127 Nm of torque. It has an electric starter and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS Adventure has a Boxer twin engine with a displacement of 1254cc, producing 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. It also has an electric starter but uses a shaft drive transmission.

When it comes to suspension, the Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with a telescopic fork with a diameter of 47mm and 191mm of travel. It offers adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swingarm with a monoshock and the same 191mm of travel. The R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and 210mm of travel. It offers preload adjustment. The rear suspension is a swingarm with a monoshock and 220mm of travel. It offers adjustment options for preload and rebound.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

In terms of chassis, the Pan America 1250 Special has an aluminum frame with a double cradle design. It has a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 157mm. The R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm.

Both motorcycles have dual disc front brakes, but the Pan America 1250 Special features electronically adjustable suspension, ABS for curves, cruise control, and traction control as advanced rider assistance systems. The R 1250 GS Adventure, on the other hand, offers ABS, traction control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, and ride modes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 19-inch front tire and a 17-inch rear tire with a width of 170mm. The Pan America 1250 Special has a wheelbase of 1585mm and a seat height of 850mm. It weighs 258kg with ABS and has a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a wheelbase of 1504mm and a seat height of 890mm. It weighs 268kg with ABS and has a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer features such as LED headlights, adjustable windshields, and TFT screens. The Pan America 1250 Special also offers Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, and original HD panniers. The R 1250 GS Adventure offers heated seats and excellent connectivity features.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

In terms of strengths, the Pan America 1250 Special excels in its sporty engine, comfortable seating position, good passenger suitability, extensive electronics, original HD pannier system, wind protection, and off-road capabilities. The R 1250 GS Adventure stands out for its practical details for frequent users, excellent fuel efficiency, good wind and weather protection, great riding comfort, powerful engine, connectivity application, easy-to-read display, confidence-inspiring ride, comfortable passenger seating position, and practical riding aids.

However, the Pan America 1250 Special has some weaknesses, such as engine heat in urban riding and the unavailability of a gear lever. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a high weight for maneuvering, somewhat stiff gear changes at low revs, and a less elegant appearance.

In conclusion, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 are impressive adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between them ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.