BMW R 1250 GS 2022 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. They have their own unique features and strengths that make them suitable for different riding preferences and conditions.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 features a V-type engine that produces 151.98 HP of power and 128 Nm of torque. Both engines provide ample power for off-road adventures and highway cruising.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 comes with a Telelever front suspension with a 37 mm diameter and 190 mm of travel. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and 200 mm of travel. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 features an upside-down telescopic fork with a 47 mm diameter and 191 mm of travel for the front suspension, and a swing arm with a monoshock and 191 mm of travel for the rear suspension. Both motorcycles offer adjustable suspension settings for a customized riding experience.

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. It has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 features an aluminum frame with a double cradle design. It has a slightly steeper rake of 65 degrees and a longer trail of 157 mm. Both chassis designs provide stability and agility for off-road riding.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 does not provide specific details about the brake type, while the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 features double disk brakes with cornering ABS as a standard feature.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS, traction control, and riding modes. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 also includes anti-slipping control, hill start assist, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and advanced features such as cornering lights and adjustable windscreen. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 includes suspension that is electronically adjustable, cruise control, and additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, and a TFT display.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. It has a kerb weight (with ABS) of 249 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, providing a range of 421 km with a combined fuel consumption of 4.75 l/100km. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1585 mm and the same seat height of 850 mm. It has a slightly higher kerb weight (with ABS) of 258 kg and a larger fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters, providing a range of 432 km with a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer various features to enhance the riding experience. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 includes cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 offers additional features such as Bluetooth connectivity, connectivity options, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, and a windscreen that is also adjustable.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 is known for its extremely torquey boxer engine, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, great app integration, sophisticated operating concept, and great ergonomics. It also offers many customization options and has great handling with strong confidence in the front, making it easy to ride.

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 features like cornering ABS and cornering TC. It also offers an optional seat lowering feature when stationary.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 has been criticized for its awkward shifting at low revs, a seat that is considered too lax, and brakes and suspension that are not on par with strong competition. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 has been noted for its below-average workmanship and haptics, the need to purchase the quickshifter separately and its imperfect performance, and a windshield that is too high for off-road use.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths. The BMW R 1250 GS 2022 offers a torquey boxer engine, comfortable seating position, and great handling, while the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 provides a sporty power unit, comprehensive electronics, and a distinctive look. Riders should consider their specific preferences and riding conditions when choosing between these two motorcycles.