On the motorcycle spectrum, there are several "camps." These include sportbikes, tourers, cruisers, and generally speaking, every camp finds a way to talk trash about Harley. Why? It's the classic, the legend, the legacy of gang lore; sometimes it's also their ability to vibrate themselves to pieces. However, since the Pan America 1250 Special first hit the streets in 2020, the perception of Harley has started to change.
While Harley-Davidson is typically known for its big, bad slabs of iron, adventure bikes like the Pan America tick all the right boxes. Combining comfort for long-haul riding and the ability to head off pavement makes this model perfect for diverse terrains, such as those found across Canada. In a comprehensive test ride from Toronto to Muskoka last fall, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special proved its capabilities.
The Case for the Pan America
Harley’s scene, despite the diversity of its road-going models, has a certain reach. Riders either buy into the big American brawn ethos or they don’t. Meanwhile, the adventure category is ever-growing, and its competitive field remains relatively narrow. There are lighter, smaller dual-sport bikes, and a handful of big adventure bikes to choose from. Given the combination of engine size and distance capability that Harley-Davidson typically aims for, its adventure variant has one major competitor — BMW’s famed GS adventure bikes. It’s a simple equation when distilled.
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
The Pan America is powered by a modern 1,250cc V-twin engine, providing ample grunt for lengthy highway cruises. It features a cushy seat, neutral riding position, highway-friendly gearing, and an adjustable windscreen to keep riders comfortable during long rides. The engine's torque develops quickly, and the light yet connected clutch makes lower-speed maneuvering comfortable and relatively effortless, even on bumpy terrain. Though not tested in deep mud or Dakar-like desert conditions, the Pan America performed well in off-pavement scenarios. Despite being far from a featherweight in its category, it remains incredibly stable in slippery conditions, can hang a tail out on command, and its big ABS-equipped Brembo brakes provide reliable stopping power.
Technological Advancements
The Pan America features a large 6.8″ display with full connectivity for smartphones, allowing for seamless navigation integration. While not everyone prefers "tech while riding," there are undeniable benefits to this feature. The display can be customized to the user's preferences, and while the integration of touchscreens in motorcycles (given that all riders should be wearing gloves) might seem odd, it is a feature some will appreciate. Additionally, the Pan America is equipped with a full LED lighting system that ensures ample illumination for rides that extend from day into night.
Conclusion
With a sticker price of $25,499, the Pan America's primary audience will likely be the existing Harley-Davidson brand-faithful looking to explore new terrains. However, Harley-Davidson’s engineers have done commendable work, making the Pan America a worthy contender in the adventure bike category.