Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 vs. Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 are both off-road motorcycles with powerful engines and advanced features. However, they have some key differences in terms of specifications and strengths.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1252cc, producing a power output of 151.98 HP and a torque of 128 Nm. It has a chain transmission and a 2-cylinder configuration. On the other hand, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer features an inline 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1160cc, delivering a power output of 150 HP and a torque of 130 Nm. It has a shaft drive transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have a telescopic fork front suspension and a swingarm rear suspension. The Pan America 1250 Special has a front fork diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm, while the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a front fork diameter of 49mm and a travel of 200mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the Pan America 1250 Special features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design, offering a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 157mm. On the other hand, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a steel tubular frame with a rake of 65.9 degrees and a trail of 120mm.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front, with Brembo being the brand of choice. The Pan America 1250 Special offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, cruise control, and traction control. Similarly, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer also offers advanced rider assistance systems including hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, collision warning, cornering ABS, ride-by-wire, cruise control, blind spot assist, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weight, the Pan America 1250 Special has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1585mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 258kg. On the other hand, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, a wheelbase of 1560mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 255kg. The Tiger 1200 GT Explorer also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters compared to the Pan America 1250 Special's 21.2 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, adjustable windshields, and TFT screens. However, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer also offers additional features such as keyless ignition, heated seats, and a blipper-assisted quick shifter.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023

In terms of strengths, the Pan America 1250 Special stands out with its sporty power unit, comfortable seating position, comprehensive electronics, distinctive appearance, standard cornering ABS and traction control, and optional seat lowering when stopped. On the other hand, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer excels with its silky yet powerful engine, semi-active chassis with a wide range of adjustment, excellent brakes, comfortable ergonomics, and extensive equipment with many comfort features as standard.

However, both motorcycles also have some weaknesses. The Pan America 1250 Special has partially below-average finish and feel, an additional cost for the gear lever, and a windscreen that may be too high for off-road use. On the other hand, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer has a somewhat limited lean angle clearance, high-frequency vibrations at cruising speeds, and slightly sluggish cornering behavior with stock tires.

In conclusion, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2023 are both capable off-road motorcycles with powerful engines and advanced features. While the Pan America 1250 Special offers a sportier performance and distinctive appearance, the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer provides a smoother engine and more extensive standard equipment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.