Harley-Davidson has unveiled its first adventure-touring motorcycle, the Pan America. Two versions will be launched, the Pan America 1250 and the Pan America 1250 Special.
Harley emphasizes that the complete development process has kept in mind the practical usability of the machine. Whether it’s grab handles, the integrated luggage racks or the horizontally positioned headlight (designed to perfectly illuminate an off-road trail), function defined form.
New engine
The two models are powered by the Revolution Max 1250 engine. The liquid-cooled V-twin has 1,250cc and produces 112 kW or 152 PS at 8,750 rpm. Maximum torque of 128 Nm is reached at 6,750 rpm. It is said to offer powerful performance up to the highest engine speeds. The engine is a supporting element of the chassis.
Chassis
In addition to performance, one of the development priorities was weight optimization. The aim was to achieve the best possible power-to-weight ratio. It was therefore decided to integrate the engine as a load-bearing part in order to dispense with a conventional frame. The steel structure for the steering head, the centrally located segment and the rear frame are bolted directly to the drivetrain. This saves weight and achieves a stiff chassis that should contribute to precise handling. The wheelbase is 1,580mm.
The Pan America stands on cast alloy spoke wheels, 19 inches at the front and 17 inches at the rear. They have been fitted with custom Scorcher Adventure tires developed in collaboration with Michelin. For those who want to ride more off-road, the Michelin Anakee Wild lug-tread tire is offered as an accessory.
Ready to ride, the weight is listed at 245 kg.
Brakes and chassis
The braking system was developed in collaboration with Brembo. It involves four-piston monobloc calipers on the front wheel and two floating 320mm discs. In the rear, deceleration is provided by a Brembo two-piston caliper and a 280mm disc.
The Pan America 1250 is equipped with a Showa 47mm diameter upside-down fork. It is adjustable in spring preload, as well as rebound and compression. A Showa central shock is used at the rear, with adjustable spring preload. It is controlled by a progressive-action lever system, which is said to be advantageous both, on and off-road. Suspension travel is 191mm at the front and rear.
The Special gets a semi-active suspension, which is explained again under the point assistance systems.
Assistance systems
Various driving modes are now almost standard and will also be selectable on the Pan America. Four are pre-programmed and one can be customized. The Special gets a second freely programmable mode.
The adventure bike is also equipped with the Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements assistance package, which adjusts to acceleration and deceleration forces, as well as tire grip. The leaning position is also taken into account here, for example in the cornering-optimized electronic brake force distribution.
The Pan America Special is also equipped with an electronically adjustable semi-active suspension, which can be optionally upgraded ex works with Adaptive Ride Height (ARH). This automatically lowers the chassis by 25 to 50 mm (depending on the setting) when the vehicle is stationary and raises it again when driving.
The assistance systems can be set via a 6.8-inch TFT touchscreen. The display surface has been made non-reflective to make it easier to read. The controls are located on the handlebars. Infotainment functions can also be operated via the touchscreen, which of course requires pairing the smartphone with the motorcycle. For example, you can operate music, make phone calls or use navigation. Cruise control is also available.
Other features
The exhaust system has been designed to undercut globally applicable noise and emissions standards, including Euro5. However, no compromises were made on durability or driving experience. The catalytic converter was placed as close to the engine as possible to keep waste heat away from the driver.
The driver’s seat can be adjusted to two different heights without tools. No tools are needed to adjust the windshield either. It should be possible to adjust it within a range of 46mm with just one hand.
The lighting uses LED technology all around. The front turn signals are mounted under a protective bar.
The tank holds 21.2 liters and the filler neck is designed so that it is not covered by a common tank bag.
Equipment of the Pan America Special
In addition to the semi-active suspension and optional automatic lowering when stationary, the Pan America Special is also equipped with other features, including a steering damper. The height adjustment takes into account the load of the motorcycle.
Tire pressure is monitored via a control system. The current pressure can be read on the display. If the pressure drops, the rider will be warned.
The main stand is also reserved for the Special. The brake pedal can be adjusted in two stages without tools. The radiator has been protected by guards and the engine has been fitted with a light metal guard.
Three additional LED light elements on each side implement a cornering light to optimally illuminate the curves even at an angle, and the system works on low beam as well as on high beam.
For a more comfortable ride and protection from the elements, there are handle grips and heated grips that can be adjusted to three levels.
Wide range of accessories
Harley-Davidson offers a complete range of accessories for the Pan America, including three different luggage systems and matching motorcycle clothing for the rider. For the clothing, they have collaborated with REV`IT and also developed it together.
Availability
The Pan America 1250 is available in Vivid Black and River Rock Gray. The Special comes in Vivid Black, Gauntlet Gray Metallic, Deadwood Greeen, and the two-tone Baja Orange with Stone Washed White Pearl.
The most important technical data and prices at a glance
- Pan America 1250 (RA 1250) and Pan America 1250 Special (RA 1250S)
- Power kW ( PS)/rpm: 112 (152)/8,750
- Torque Nm/rev: 128/6,750
- Unladen weight incl. operating fluids (ready to run) kg: 245 (RA 1250S: 258)
- Fuel consumption l: approx. 5.5
- Warranty: four years
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