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

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities for riders.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1252cc, producing 150 horsepower and 127 Nm of torque. It has a chain transmission and an electric starter. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS features a Boxer twin engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque. It has a prop shaft transmission and an electric starter. Both bikes have two cylinders and provide ample power for off-road adventures.

In terms of suspension, the Pan America 1250 Special has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 191mm. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS features a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. The suspension can be adjusted for preload and rebound. Both bikes offer a comfortable and capable suspension system for various terrains.

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. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm. Both bikes provide a sturdy and stable chassis for off-road riding.

When it comes to brakes, both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. 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. The R 1250 GS also offers ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. Both bikes provide a range of safety features to enhance the riding experience.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Pan America 1250 Special has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170mm with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1585mm and a seat height of 850mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 258kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters. The range is approximately 432km, and the combined fuel consumption is 4.9 l/100km. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has the same front tire diameter and rear tire width and diameter as the Pan America 1250 Special. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1525mm and the same seat height of 850mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 249kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The range is approximately 421km, and the combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km. Both bikes offer similar dimensions and weights, making them suitable for various riding conditions.

In terms of equipment, the Pan America 1250 Special offers Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The R 1250 GS also offers cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. Both bikes provide a range of equipment to enhance the riding experience.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Pan America 1250 Special offers a sporty powerplant, comfortable seating position, good pillion suitability, extensive electronics, an original HD pannier system, wind protection, cornering ABS, cornering TC, optional seat lowering when stationary, and good off-road characteristics. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS provides great ride comfort and ergonomics, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, a confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and a versatile chassis that accommodates every route. Both bikes have their own unique strengths that cater to different rider preferences.

In terms of weaknesses, the Pan America 1250 Special is known to generate engine heat in city mode and does not have a quickshifter available. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has a rough overall appearance and gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy. These weaknesses may be minor drawbacks for some riders but may not significantly impact the overall riding experience.

In conclusion, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offer a range of features and capabilities for off-road enthusiasts. While the Pan America 1250 Special excels in terms of its sporty powerplant, comfortable seating position, and extensive electronics, the R 1250 GS provides great ride comfort, a powerful engine, and practical riding aids. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on individual preferences and riding needs.