Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2021

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 are both enduro motorcycles that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, 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. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS features a Boxer twin engine with a displacement of 1254cc, delivering 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters and come with a transmission system, with the Pan America utilizing a chain drive and the R 1250 GS using a prop shaft.

When it comes to suspension, the Pan America 1250 Special features an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm in the front, and a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 191mm in the rear. The suspension is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS is equipped with a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 190mm, and a single swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 200mm. The suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of chassis, the Pan America 1250 Special features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design, while the R 1250 GS has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. The Pan America has a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 157mm, while the R 1250 GS has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, traction control, and riding modes. The Pan America also offers suspension that is electronically adjustable, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and cornering lights. The R 1250 GS, on the other hand, offers additional features such as anti-slipping control, hill start assist, and a connectivity app.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Pan America 1250 Special has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1585mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 258kg. The fuel tank capacity is 21.2 liters, providing a range of 432km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.9 l/100km. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS has the same tire dimensions as the Pan America, a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1525mm, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 249kg. It has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, providing a range of 421km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with adjustable windshields, LED headlights, and cornering lights. The Pan America also offers Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display. The R 1250 GS does not list these features.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Pan America 1250 Special offers a sporty power unit, a comfortable seating position, comprehensive electronics, a distinctive look, and standard cornering ABS and cornering TC. It also offers an optional seat lowering feature when stationary. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS boasts great ride comfort and great 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. It is also described as easy to ride.

In terms of weaknesses, the Pan America 1250 Special is noted to have workmanship and haptics that are partly below average, a quickshifter that is available at an extra cost and not perfect, and a windshield that is too high for off-road use. On the other hand, the R 1250 GS is described as having a rough overall appearance and gearshifts at low revs that are somewhat clumsy.

Overall, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offer powerful engines, advanced rider assistance systems, and versatile capabilities for off-road and on-road riding. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences in terms of design, features, and riding experience.