KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with similar engine types, V-twin. However, there are some notable differences in their technical specifications and features.

In terms of engine specifications, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a larger bore (108 mm) and stroke (71 mm) compared to the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 (105 mm bore and 72 mm stroke). This results in a higher engine displacement for the KTM (1301 cc) compared to the Harley-Davidson (1252 cc). The KTM also has a higher engine power of 160 HP and torque of 140 Nm, while the Harley-Davidson has slightly lower figures of 151.98 HP and 128 Nm.

Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions. They also feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension and swing arm with monoshock for the rear suspension. The KTM has a larger front fork diameter (48 mm) and slightly more travel (200 mm) compared to the Harley-Davidson (47 mm diameter and 191 mm travel).

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017

In terms of chassis, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, while the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has an aluminum frame. The KTM has a slightly steeper rake (64 degrees) and shorter trail (120 mm) compared to the Harley-Davidson (65 degrees rake and 157 mm trail).

Both motorcycles have double disc brakes at the front, with Brembo as the brand. They also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, and traction control. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 offers additional features like cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and cornering traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 has a slightly shorter wheelbase (1560 mm) compared to the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 (1585 mm). The seat height is also slightly higher for the KTM (860 mm) compared to the Harley-Davidson (850 mm). The dry weight with ABS is 215 kg for the KTM and 242 kg for the Harley-Davidson. The fuel tank capacity is higher for the KTM (23 liters) compared to the Harley-Davidson (21.2 liters).

Both motorcycles come with a range of equipment such as heated grips, adjustable windscreens, and LED headlights. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 offers additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, TFT display, LED daytime running lights, and optional seat lowering when stationary.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 is praised for its powerful engine, precise handling, traction control, cornering ABS, easy-to-read TFT display, quickshifter, LED headlights with cornering lights, and off-road capability. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 is praised for its sporty power unit, comfortable seating position, comprehensive electronics, distinctive look, and standard cornering ABS and traction control.

However, there are some weaknesses to consider. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 is criticized for its high price and power-consuming height adjustment of the windshield. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 is criticized for its workmanship and haptics being below average, the quickshifter being an extra cost and not perfect, and the windshield being too high for off-road use.

Overall, both motorcycles offer powerful performance and advanced features, but the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2017 may have a slight edge in terms of engine power and off-road capability, while the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 offers a more comfortable riding position and comprehensive electronics.