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

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. They have some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, such as having a V-twin engine, chain transmission, and similar displacement. However, there are also some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021, it boasts a robust overall impression and a high-quality and practical chassis. The bike features an excellent seat for long endurance rides and is equipped with sporty and high-quality components. The engine delivers a powerful output of 160 HP and 138 Nm of torque, making it a potent machine. The bike also comes with practical riding aids such as ABS, riding modes, ABS for curves, ride-by-wire, and traction control. The suspension setup includes a telescopic upside-down fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear, both offering 220 mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 has a chromium-molybdenum frame, a rake angle of 64.7 degrees, and a trail of 112.8 mm. The braking system consists of dual discs with Brembo calipers at the front. The bike is equipped with a 21-inch front tire and an 18-inch rear tire. It has a wheelbase of 1577 mm and a seat height of 880 mm. The dry weight of the bike is 221 kg, and it has a fuel capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 403 km. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 also features additional equipment such as cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 offers a sporty engine and a comfortable seating position. The bike is designed to accommodate a passenger and comes with extensive electronics, including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ABS for curves, ride-by-wire, cruise control, and traction control. It also features the original HD saddlebag system for added convenience. The Pan America 1250 Special has a V-twin engine that delivers 150 HP and 127 Nm of torque. The suspension setup consists of a telescopic upside-down fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear, offering 191 mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The bike has an aluminum frame, a rake angle of 65 degrees, and a trail of 157 mm. It is equipped with dual disc brakes with Brembo calipers at the front. The front tire has a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a diameter of 17 inches, with a width of 170 mm. The Pan America 1250 Special has a wheelbase of 1585 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The dry weight of the bike is 242 kg, and it has a fuel capacity of 21.2 liters, providing a range of 432 km. Additional features of the Pan America 1250 Special include Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

Despite their strengths, both models have some weaknesses. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 is a high-priced bike that lacks individual features in its basic equipment. It also has complicated controls, which may require some time to get used to. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 tends to heat up in urban riding conditions, and it does not have an available gear lever.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are both impressive adventure motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths. The KTM offers a robust and sporty package with a powerful engine and practical riding aids. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson provides a comfortable riding experience with extensive electronics and a versatile design. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.