Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles that offer a range of advanced features and technologies. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine performance, the Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1252cc, producing 151.98 horsepower and 128 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301cc, delivering 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions at the rear. The Pan America 1250 Special has a front suspension diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm, while the Super Adventure S has a front suspension diameter of 48mm and a travel of 200mm. Both bikes offer adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the front and rear suspensions.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of chassis, the Pan America 1250 Special features an aluminum double cradle frame with a rake of 65 degrees. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S has a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame with a rake of 65.3 degrees.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, with Brembo being the brand of choice for both models. The Pan America 1250 Special has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170mm, while the Super Adventure S has the same tire specifications.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer a range of features such as ABS, suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The Pan America 1250 Special also comes with additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, the Pan America 1250 Special has a wheelbase of 1585mm, a seat height of 850mm, a dry weight (with ABS) of 242kg, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 258kg. The Super Adventure S, on the other hand, has a wheelbase of 1560mm, a seat height of 849mm, a dry weight (with ABS) of 220kg, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 243kg. The Pan America 1250 Special has a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters, offering a range of 432km, with a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km. The Super Adventure S has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, offering a range of 416km, with a combined fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100km.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of strengths, the Pan America 1250 Special offers a sporty power unit, comfortable seating position, comprehensive electronics, distinctive look, and standard cornering ABS and TC. It also has the option for seat lowering when stationary. On the other hand, the Super Adventure S boasts a very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, accessible handling despite its high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package. It also has a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch display.

In terms of weaknesses, the Pan America 1250 Special has reported issues with workmanship and haptics, a quickshifter that is available at an extra cost and not perfect, and a windshield that may be too high for off-road use. The Super Adventure S has been criticized for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends, an opaque package design and pricing policy, and dashboards and switches that do not feel very high quality.

Overall, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.