BMW R 1250 GS 2022 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 are both powerful and versatile adventure motorcycles. However, they have some differences in terms of their technical specifications and features.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has a V-twin engine. The BMW has a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm, producing 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson has a larger bore of 105 mm and a shorter stroke of 72 mm, resulting in a higher power output of 151.98 HP but a slightly lower torque of 128 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and different transmission systems, with the BMW using a shaft drive and the Harley-Davidson using a chain drive.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 features a Telelever front suspension with a 37 mm diameter and 190 mm of travel. The rear suspension is a single-sided swingarm with a monoshock and 200 mm of travel. The suspension adjustments on the BMW include preload and recovery. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has a telescopic upside-down front fork with a 47 mm diameter and 191 mm of travel. The rear suspension is also a swingarm with a monoshock and 191 mm of travel. The suspension adjustments on the Harley-Davidson include compression, preload, and recovery.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 has a steel frame with a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has an aluminum frame with a double cradle design, a rake of 65 degrees, and a trail of 157 mm.

Both motorcycles have dual disc front brakes, but the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 uses a double disc system, while the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 uses a single disc system. Both motorcycles also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, and multiple riding modes. The Harley-Davidson also offers electronically adjustable suspension, cruise control, and cornering ABS as standard features.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 19-inch front tire and a 17-inch rear tire with a width of 170 mm. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 has a wheelbase of 1525 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, and a curb weight of 249 kg. It has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters and a range of 421 km. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1585 mm, the same seat height of 850 mm, and a slightly higher curb weight of 258 kg. It has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters and a range of 432 km.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with various features such as LED headlights, adjustable windshields, and heated grips. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 also offers additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, a TFT screen, and daytime running lights.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 is known for its extreme torque from the boxer engine, comfortable seating position for long distances, sophisticated operating concept, excellent ergonomics, and easy handling. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 is praised for its sporty power unit, comfortable seating position, complete electronics package, distinctive appearance, and standard features like cornering ABS and traction control.

However, both motorcycles have some weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 is criticized for its awkward gear changes at low revs, loose seat, and brakes and suspension that are not up to the level of strong competition. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has been noted to have partially below-average finish and feel, an additional cost for the gear lever, and a windshield that may be too high for off-road use.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on the rider's preferences in terms of engine characteristics, suspension setup, chassis design, and additional features.