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

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special model year 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS model year 2019 are both popular adventure motorcycles that offer powerful performance and a comfortable riding experience.

In terms of the engine and drivetrain, 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. It features an electric start and a chain transmission. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS is powered by a Boxer twin engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. It also has an electric start but uses a shaft drive transmission.

When it comes to suspension, the Pan America 1250 Special features a telescopic upside-down fork with a diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm for the front suspension. The rear suspension consists of a swingarm with a monoshock and offers the same travel distance. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. In comparison, the BMW R 1250 GS is equipped with a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm. The rear suspension is also a swingarm with a monoshock, providing a travel distance of 200mm. The suspension adjustment options include preload and rebound.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of the chassis, the Pan America 1250 Special features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design. It has a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 157mm. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS has a steel frame with a motor as a load-bearing component. It has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front for effective stopping power. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the Pan America 1250 Special offers ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, cruise control, and traction control. Similarly, the BMW R 1250 GS features ABS, traction control, riding modes, and ride-by-wire technology.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 19-inch front tire diameter and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The Pan America 1250 Special has a front tire width of 170mm, while the BMW R 1250 GS has a rear tire width of 170mm. The Pan America 1250 Special has a wheelbase of 1585mm, while the BMW R 1250 GS has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1525mm. Both motorcycles have a seat height of 850mm. The Pan America 1250 Special weighs 258kg (with ABS), while the BMW R 1250 GS weighs 249kg (with ABS). The Pan America 1250 Special has a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters, while the BMW R 1250 GS has a slightly smaller fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer features such as LED headlights and adjustable windshields. The Pan America 1250 Special also comes with Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display. The BMW R 1250 GS comes with 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 appearance, and standard cornering ABS and traction control. It also offers an optional lowered seat for better stability when stopped. On the other hand, the BMW 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, and a standard color TFT display and LED headlights.

However, the Pan America 1250 Special has some weaknesses, including a partially below-average finish and feel, an additional cost for the gear shift lever, and a windshield that may be too high for off-road use. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS has a manageable standard equipment list and a somewhat irregular appearance with less elegance.

In conclusion, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Pan America 1250 Special offers a more sporty and distinctive option with comprehensive electronics, while the BMW R 1250 GS provides a high-torque engine and a comfortable touring experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.