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

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. However, they have some distinct differences that make them unique in their own ways.

Starting with the technical specifications, both bikes have a V-twin engine configuration with similar bore and stroke measurements. The Pan America has a slightly lower power output of 151.98 HP compared to the Super Adventure S's 160 HP. The Pan America also has a lower torque rating of 128 Nm compared to the Super Adventure S's 138 Nm. Both bikes have an electric start and chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature a telescopic fork front suspension and a swingarm rear suspension. The Pan America has a fork diameter of 47 mm and a travel of 191 mm, while the Super Adventure S has a slightly larger fork diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 200 mm. Both suspensions offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the Pan America features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design, while the Super Adventure S has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. Both bikes have a rake angle of around 65 degrees.

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front, with Brembo being the brand of choice for both. The Pan America and the Super Adventure S both have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 19-inch front tire diameter and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The Pan America has a wider rear tire width of 170 mm compared to the Super Adventure S's 170 mm. The Pan America has a longer wheelbase of 1585 mm compared to the Super Adventure S's 1560 mm. The seat height is slightly higher on the Pan America at 850 mm compared to the Super Adventure S's 849 mm. The Pan America weighs 242 kg dry (with ABS) and 258 kg curb weight (with ABS), while the Super Adventure S weighs 220 kg dry (with ABS) and 243 kg curb weight (with ABS). The Pan America has a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters, providing a range of 432 km, while the Super Adventure S has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 416 km. The Pan America also has a lower combined fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km compared to the Super Adventure S's 5.7 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both bikes offer connectivity features, LED lighting, adjustable windshields, and TFT screens. The Pan America also offers Bluetooth, heated grips, cornering lights, and daytime running lights, while the Super Adventure S offers a keyless system and adaptive cruise control.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

In terms of strengths, the Pan America offers a sporty power unit, a comfortable seating position, complete electronics, a distinctive appearance, and standard cornering ABS and traction control. The Super Adventure S offers a very sporty yet cultivated V2 powertrain, extremely playful behavior despite its high weight, a comfortable seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, a comprehensive electronic package, adaptive cruise control, and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch screen.

In terms of weaknesses, the Pan America has partially below-average finish and feel, an additional cost for the gear lever, and a windshield that may be too high for off-road use. The Super Adventure S has additional cost for features like a quickshifter, an idiosyncratic appearance, and a stiff seat.

In conclusion, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are impressive adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Pan America offers a unique Harley-Davidson experience with its distinctive design and sporty power unit, while the Super Adventure S provides a powerful and playful riding experience with its V2 engine and comprehensive electronic package. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.