Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. They have similar engine types, with V2 configurations that provide strong performance. The Pan America has a slightly smaller displacement at 1252cc compared to the KTM's 1301cc. In terms of power, the KTM has a slight advantage with 160 HP compared to the Pan America's 151.98 HP. The KTM also has a higher torque rating of 138 Nm compared to the Pan America's 128 Nm.

Both motorcycles feature a chain transmission and have two cylinders. They also have similar suspension setups, with telescopic forks at the front and swingarm suspension at the rear. The KTM has a slightly larger front fork diameter at 48mm compared to the Pan America's 47mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustable suspension settings for compression, preload, and recovery.

In terms of chassis, the Pan America features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design, while the KTM has a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame. Both motorcycles have a rake angle of around 65 degrees, providing stability and agility.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2022

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual-disc front brakes from Brembo. They also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS for curves and traction control. The KTM goes a step further by offering adaptive cruise control and radar-based cruise control.

In terms of dimensions, the Pan America has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1585mm compared to the KTM's 1560mm. The seat height is also similar, with the Pan America at 850mm and the KTM at 849mm. The KTM is slightly lighter, with a dry weight of 220kg compared to the Pan America's 242kg.

Both motorcycles have generous fuel tank capacities, with the Pan America at 21.2 liters and the KTM at 23 liters. The KTM has a slightly lower combined fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100km compared to the Pan America's 4.9 l/100km. However, the Pan America offers a longer range of 432km compared to the KTM's 416km.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with modern features such as connectivity, LED lights, TFT screens, and adjustable windshields. The Pan America also offers heated grips and cornering lights, while the KTM offers a keyless system.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

In terms of strengths, the Pan America offers a sporty engine, comfortable seating position, comprehensive electronics, and a distinctive look. It also comes with ABS and traction control as standard, and the option for a lowered seat when stationary. On the other hand, the KTM offers a very sporty yet refined V2 powertrain, extremely playful handling despite its weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes including ABS for curves, comprehensive electronic package, adaptive cruise control, and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch screen.

As for weaknesses, the Pan America has partially below-average finishing and tactile feel, and the gear lever is an additional cost and not perfect. The KTM has an idiosyncratic appearance and a stiff seat. Additionally, some of the KTM's features, such as the quickshifter, come at an additional cost.

Overall, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preferences and priorities.