Showdown: BMW R 1250 GS vs Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 

Who needs to go abroad when you guys have got great scenery and great weather like that

Just brought home the 2022 Pan Am Special today. Looking forward to putting it through the paces.

The late Neil Peart spent many of hours riding those roads on his BMW GS 1100 and 1200. Thanks for the memories !

Great shootout coming I hope. New Triumph 1200, the Ducati v4, The KTM 1290 and these 2. I'd love to see that.

Massive improvement in production keep up the great work!

Very enjoyable content with this format. Loved it ❤

The absolute best thing in my opinion about the Pan American is the adaptive ride height. Hopefully all ADV/Sport Touring bikes going forward will have the option of something similar.

great Video boys thanks so much Get my Pan America 1250 Special in two weeks. thank you for the honest review.

Great video and some great production / photography. helpful to a prospective buyer too

Nice review guys! Very informative, objective and entertaining too. Even though I'm a long-time Harley owner, I'll have to go with the Beemer. The precision of the GS just seems to sway me over to the tele-lever/drive shaft side, especially since I'm not a terror on the trails and prefer low-speed gravel and jeep roads. Thanks!

Good, informative review. Video production is great and love the comment at the end. Ride, just go ride!

Nice review. I have a Pan America with almost 12,000 miles on it and I love it! But I know it is hard to beat the BMW. Ride Safe!

That was an engaging production: nice camerawork, good editing and the reviewers stayed on point (have you noticed that many reviewers seem to think we riders get a lot simply out of their giddiness about the bike). I'm not even an ADV rider and I watched the whole thing .... gotta admit I'm hoping to see the PA do well against the competition.

I've owned both. Sold my BMW to buy the Pan Am and have not been disappointed. BMW has some annoying traits that you did not hit on which have plagued the bike for years. Overall though, I thought your review was well done. The Pan Am is not perfect but neither was the BMW. I'm at 7500 miles now with zero issues. Overall what has impressed me most about the Pan Am is its ability to chew up miles without effort. What impressed me the least about the Pan Am and something Harley really needs to address is the size and placement of the rear tail light. Small and hard to see with full bags on the bike. Borderline dangerous. I rigged aftermarket LED's on my tail box to help with that. Otherwise, good scoot.

# 1 HD needs to get rid of the side stand bolted directly to the motor casing. #2 Get rid of the plastic grab rail. #3 Move the cooling fan to a place it does not blow heat directly onto the rider. #4 Radiator is too low directly behind the front wheel, move it up a bit. #5 Reposition the charging regulator that is behind the vented skid plate that is also behind the front wheel. One rough hit as well as mud and debris being slung from the front wheel can damage the regulator. #5 Don't do anything with the engine, that thing is a stud. For HD's first AVD they did a really great job. Love HD but it will take a few more years for me to truly trust banging this bike around in the outback.

Great comparison!

Thanks for the review. I test rode the Pan America last summer. I had been stoked about it since I watched the reveal from HD. I have always owned Honda motorcycles and had a couple Goldwings a Valkyrie and a 18 Africa Twin Adventure Sports when I test rode the PA. My impressions from my short test ride were that I too found the kickstand odd. Also that the engine was a treat, but really didn't come alive until after 4k RPM. But, I had built the bike up in my head and had they had the PA Special with the accessories I wanted available I probably would've bought one. That being said, it wasn't long after, I got a chance to test ride a 21 GSA. It developed power in the lower RPMs that I was more accustomed to and just felt good. Add that it was available in a color that I liked plus all the luggage and accessories were available and I bought it. No regrets. After buying the GSA I began reading of some of the 1st year issues and kind of felt like I may have dodged a bullet. I really hope Harley keeps it up and improves the PA.

Thanks for calling out the ridiculously short and flimsy kickstand on the PA. That’s my biggest gripe! The did release an aftermarket one but I haven’t installed it yet. Hopefully it’s an improvement.

You guys are going to have to do another big ADV shootout soon, with all the newcomers and recently updated bikes.

Well finally, an American Co. Adv Ride that we can say it's ours! ☺it's about time... can't wait to have one... amazing and great ride and productions! I'll be looking forward for more developments on the PanAm since in its infancy that started awesome, there's no way except to get better in the coming years. Great job guys!

Great video thanks for sharing. The H--D is a capable motorcycle but I'm staying on my BMW GS.

I was hopin to see JB, but I guess he was sleeping off a bender. Thanks for the video Ryan and helper 😎 Neal in OKC

Heli-bars are a must on the PAS. Made sitting and standing way better. I added the driving/fog lights from HD. They work excellent. No they’re not Clearwaters but they don’t cost Clearwater money, either. My biggest gripe with the GS offroad was the front end vagueness over bumps etc.

On the subject of the handlebars, it's worth noting that the Harley in the video *does* have the raised handlebar spacer. It can be clearly seen in several shots of the video. And even me, at 6'4" tall, I didn't like the raised handlebar on the PanAm. The stock bar height is much better.

Definitely a hell of an improvement over my 98 Dyna Wide Glide

such a nice little PC review. By the way yes, you can disable 100% DTC on the BMW in Enduro Pro.

Great video and comparison guys… nice to see HD making a stamp on the adventure bike market.. it looked like it handled well in the loose dusty dry terrains; putting it in a wet muddy raining environment like we have in the United Kingdom though is a very different story….HD didn’t do well at all….it’s too low to the ground under the engine and it just bottoms out in the mud and you get stuck…..properly stuck, not good or fun pulling that machine out…. Looks good in the sunshine though..lol..

HD did an incredible job. To be up next to a GS is engineering at its best. I prefer to look of the HD. When/if HD make a more substantial windshield and more fancy hand protectors, it could be the best looking adventure bike. The night riding adaptibe headlights of the HD look like a big plus. What a job HD did!

Great Job boys.

In the scenic and boulder-strewn area you guys are riding, I'd be happy as hell even on a moped. Greetings from corn country. :(

John is my hero. We're about the same age and I ride a GS. My bike keeps me young.

Being a GSA rider and on my 2nd one....have been seeing better and better reviews on the HD...as stated ...for their first attempt at the adventure market..KUDOS.

Interesting review, well done. Knowing that BMW has been making these monstrous ADV’s forever, I’ve got to hand it to HD to come out with such a great first launch into the ADV market. I personally prefer lighter machines but if I were to buy a big ADV machine, I’d be the PA.

this first year model from what I've seen on youtube and read on forums would give me pause...esp since the dealerships don't appear to be in line with parts and service on this new bike...spending that much cash I'd rather go "tried and true"

can you do gsx s750 vs Aprilia 660 and ducati Supersport I which one is better ?

Well done

I believe Harley corrected some of the issues on the 2022 model year. A speed shifter is available now and they did address the font size on the TFT screen.

Hello gentlemen, I am a regular viewer of your videos and want to thank you for the wonderful work you always do. I do have to say that the Harley Davidson comes out strong in the comparison test. A big thumbs up and respect for Harley what they have realized in a short time, and it's a beautiful bike too. The pity for me is that it comes with a chain, okay, that has its advantages in terms of weight. But if you ride all year round and do rides to the Alps like I do, Cardan drive is a plus. Greetings from Belgium Erwin 😃👍👍

Great review👍 think I’ll stick with my 800 GS…does everything well

i've never liked harley or interested ... but the Panarama looks amazing.. looks different from all the other ADV bikes and like its big head design.. the 2022 has option for quickshifter.. thats all i was waiting for :)

In the end I feel this was a good evaluation. That said I also feel the final result being a tie was more to NOT OFFEND either because of monetary reasons.

Pre-owned Pan Am is the best deal at this time. And a total dealership network throughout America!

Very good review but I took screen shots of both riding positions from the video and they look about the same

I am so jealous of that terrain. I live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but offroad riding is so limited.

Nice video. What type of clothing were the riders wearing? Thank you

what kind of motorcycle boots are you both wearing ? also pants and jacket?

How big was the check Hd wrote? It must have been a good size!!!

Risers are definitely a must on the HD.

The fact that Harley Davidson made a really good ADV bike considering all of their previous other bikes, this is just impressive. Harley did such a good job with this Pan America

Harley went with a larger font on their TFT for 2022 Pan America.

I did 1065 miles in 22hrs. on my Dragster RR...Certified Saddlesore 1000.

...be interesting to see/hear your take on the new Triumph 1200 when it finally surfaces.

I read that the Pan Am was Harleys #1 selling model. Great move on their part.

Props to Harley for going all in on the bike BUT it may be crazy to buy a first gen/first year model. Personally I'd go GS and never look back and I'm not really a bummer fan. I'm sure the Harley will get loads better in the future if they can sustain the manufacturing of the bike.

As someone who has loathed Harleys and their culture. I'm leaning toward getting the Pan Am. It checks most of the boxes and I'm all for buying American (yes I know much of the parts are from over seas). I think the dealer network and aftermarket accessories will be a huge advantage compared to other bikes.

YOU GUYS ARE GOOD! You Ride at just the right speed! Oh wait- I'm watching @ 2 x normal speed. 😂😂😂

If you are a good legitimate experienced rider, you can ride any bike and do it very well! Comes down to what you want out of a bike! Personally I like power and speed first, Pan Am seems faster and more fun to ride. That’s why I bought a new one.

Where is that ? The scenery is amazing. I would love to go there with my Pan America. Bought it last year !

Gs is still the king. But I definitely like the Hd too. If it gets a little more refined, get some improvements done, I might even consider buying one. Great job Hd.

Would love to ride a Harley but the clutch is just too difficult for my arthritic smashed up hand. Tried the Pan American. Clutch is super easy, as easy as my BMW.

the one thing missing.. the drop test.. drop the beamer , pick it up, drop the hardley ableson and pick it up... which one of these two things can you do without being a body builder..

The Harley is so good looking. It looks fast sitting still.

Did big sur from LA last week. My buddy and I, mine r18 and his rented Pan America. We switched the bikes a few times. This is my over a 100 a mile on open road, twisties, and city drive thoughts: 👍 Less vibration Punchy Snappy (very very fast bike) Seat can be lowered for city and back up Nimble Looks sexy (subjective) 👎 Heavy Gets really hot (medium rare between your inner thighs in city) Side kick stand sucks! Non keyless entry (2021) Wind screen vibrates a bit... Handguards are of low quality Price-

Weird that this is Harleys first adventure bike... The original Harleys from the early 1900's were all adventure bikes.

While this bike has been out for two years now, it’s good to see another review comparing the PanAm to the GS. I am happy to hear they touched on the difference in power and how it comes on, that was one of the major deal breakers for me when I took one on a test ride. Very little useful power below 4K rpm. Yes the font is too small and the buttons are annoying.

I think Harley HAD to make a ADV bike to introduce the revo x engine. They couldn't put it in one of their cruisers without the Harley fanboys complaining. But when they put it in a new bike, in a new segment, with non Harley riders, it gets the recognition it deserves.

The R1300GS with an all new design is around the corner. There will be a lot of catching up to do for others. Not sure what Harley, Triumph etc. are doing with chasing top end power instead of a meaty low-midrange on ADV bikes.

Glad to hear HD didn't bomb in the eyes of two pros, im a HD rider n love the brand not an adventure n wish i could looks fun but never done dirt bikes n feel u need that experience to feel comfortable doing it. Any of you have jumped into this sport cold from just reg biking? Is it hard? Did u mess up ur new toy? Do u recommend it or stick to street riding?

I will be buying Harley for a bunch of reasons. 1) Made in the USA 2) 32 inch inseam. Bike lowers and I can get my entire feet on the ground. 3) huge industry that will be building many after-market parts. 4) You know screaming Eagle has something waiting for it. What I don't like about the GS. 1) Engine sticks out on both sides. I'd catch that on the ground. 2) Can't automatically lower for feet to touch the ground. You're stuck with one setting depending on the seat highth you choose, leaving the knees tired. 3) I do not like the shocks on the front. It nose dives too hard. Feedback is sloppy. 4) The windshield is hard for me to see out of. Something about the thickness or the way it made. Both bikes are great but have issues. The Harleys issues can be fixed with after-market parts quickly The BMW can't. And that's my opinion.

Having put 20k miles on my s1krr I always thought my own adventure debut would be on the GS but being only 5,6” the PA has seriously won my consideration which in itself is a W because I have a certain disdain for HD.. Bmwmotorrad has some work to do.

Great job throwing gravel all over the road, as motorcyclists you understand how important it is to have as much loose gravel on the roadway as possible. much appreciated.

I’ve loved my GSs. I traded my last 2015 R1200 GSA on a Husqvarna Norden 901. I wanted something lighter. My Norden is 420# full of fuel. I also have a 01 BMW F 650 Dakar. That’s my “go to bike.” So I’m still in the BMW owner. The Harley is too tall and heavy for 6’1” 250 # body. I’m on my tip toes on it. I’m 32” inseam. So my 650 Dakar is perfect for me. 😅

Good video but one thing, for guys that ride ADV bikes, you sure do hop on and off the hard way, especially when you have a top box on. Side stand down, mount from the right side, hand on brake, standing on the right foot peg with your whole body. 💯 easier. None of this trying to raise your leg above the seat. Not at when you’re over 50 😂.

If you like torque EVERYWHERE ride the Yamaha T7. It’s magic.

Would like to see more analysis and comparison. I didn’t really learn much for such a long video.

I have to go with the Harley for dealership availability if you are out exploring the country. I like the available 7 year unlimited mileage option with the Beemer, but when the closest dealer is 500 miles, it’s hard to trust it. And, the KTM with its unreliability and no dealers, it’s a big no.

Never owned a BMW 1250 GS. But I own a 2022 Pan America Special.. seems like it’s in the shop more than I ride it.. computer problems.. cooling problem.. it’s still under warranty.. summers are short in Minnesota.. wish I would have bought something else

108 HP on the GS? You running it on diesel?

HD lacks some fit, finish and field tested service reliability feedback. For the MotorCo, it’s pretty amazing on it’s first attempt and now 2nd year out. But, for similar money, Ducati and Triumph have come to market with some pretty amazing tech, performance and pedigree. You can’t rule out the KTM 1290 in the mix either. Look out in 23, as I feel BMW has something special coming. Good job guys.

I've been thinking of getting an AVB in about a year from now when I get my Road King paid for. The Pan America is off the short list because I just don't like the looks and where HD put the rectifier directly behind the front tire. I've narrowed my short list from lowest to highest price. Kawasaki KLR 650 adventure. KTM 390 Adventure Husqvarna Norden 901. KTM 890 Rally. BMW F750/850. Triumph Tiger 1200 Explorer. BMW R1250 GSA. This list is tentative for the most part.

14:10 the guy who got blurred tho

You're killing me, you're going into Titus and I know it to be currently closed.

What's that white helmet?

good bikes

Looks like a good first effort from Harley. But - as you point out - a few issues with quality in some areas and the front end looks like its a raid from the parts bin. I know looks are subjective, but the front end is butt ugly. Looking forward to mk2. Nice vid though - well done.

I don't understand why so less number of people care to like the video.!! Almost 30K views.

I'm a Bmw fan and on a 1250 Gsa but at 21.37 Why didn't anyone else think of that! Well i wrote to BMW Germany Head Office and suggested they do that. A flat NO was their reply. They are not friendly to suggestions.

I think it’s a little too early to give the Harley so much praise we have to get a long term review. I say that because of the price of the bikes. BMW is a proven road warrior so you know what to expect. Harley will have to earn the time trials of ownership.

The best comment for me was the last; "just go ride". For me, it's much better to be out riding on a number 2 or 3 bike in a category, than have having the number 1 bike just sitting in my garage. I'm surprised the test riders didn't mount and dismount these tall bikes by stepping onto the near side foot peg and going up and over the bag on the tail, which is much easier. (see 4:30 here ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-CQO6grJYmOg.html ). I like the review you've done. Not because of this review, but though tempted by the Panamerica and Harley's nationwide dealer network, I am getting the GSA. Sure the nearest BMW dealer is 3 hours away but the route to get there can be 2 lane and twisty. Most of the routine service can be done at home anyway. Heck the valve adjusters are accessed after just removing a few bolts.

I bought a 2023 Pan AM, no doubt it is fast, fun and unique. However, it broke two days after I bought it, shut down and screen went black and wouldn't start. Goes to dealer, get it back. Broke immediately again. I lose excitement and trust for the bike. I then ride it around town for about 500 miles. It's doing okay so I decide to ride from NC to IA when my Mom had health issues. The entire way kept having issues. Audio controls and GPS quit working, had ride mode failure with warnings and faults. Ride modes no longer functioning. Then bike would occasionally not start. I took to the IA Harley dealer. They had it a month and a rep came out from Harley. Said nothing was wrong with it. They gave me some BS answers and just reset everything. I had to leave it there since I couldn't trust it. Then had to pay to have it transported to NC. IMMEDIATELY after unloading the bike wouldn't start and had faults. Goes to dealer again and they clear faults and reset it and say it is good. I have pics, videos, documentations and everything. After making the 1000 mile trip to Iowa the bike Has 2k miles on it. Harley won't buy it back, help me get in to another bike, won't even offer more warranty. NOTHING! To add to their poor customer service I have owned 4 Harleys and bought 2 new ones about a year apart. I'd think at 34 years old they'd want to keep me as a customer. I have loved the brand my entire life and no longer have any love or respect for them. Including buying a Pan Am special, with hard bags, fog lights, exhaust, axle guards and many add ons and extended warranty I am $29,991 invested. I asked the dealer what they'd give me for the bike to trade into something else. They offered me $9k after all this, so after getting stuck with a lemon I'd have to take that big of a hit......I hired a lawyer. Hopefully I can get out of this nightmare. I am flying to Milwaukee next week to go to corporate too and try to discuss, I hit a wall with customer service and they won't let me talk to anyone above my "rep." I have never felt so helpless and stuck with a poor quality and expensive purchase/product. Reply

You can get a screaming eagle quick shifter for the pan America

Well there u have it guys, a tie?? With how long bmw has been making the GS it should Not be this close..

I’m trying to figure out what was blurred out at 14:12 I’m hoping it was a bikini clad supermodel. 🤣😂🤣

Totally different subject, I swear. Some people think they’re funnier than they actually are.

GS all day long, mind you they have had 40 years head start

Great video! I love the indepth perspective ,awesome views and Hi-def quality. I'm a GS owner/rider and absolutely love it.Cudos to Harley, but no thanks. The Germans do it well enough.Other than a better network of dealers on the side or harley...you can't convince me the GS isn't worth every penny...see me in 20 years with that harley and I'll buy u a burger 😉

So..what your saying...the BMW ON road is much better in ergonomics and comfort and OFF road...anything technical the BMW again wins...if I'm looking to race in dirt then the PanAM...who in adventure races (ha)? ....I have ridden the PanAm - engine is great - but the bike overall feels cheap and plastic...they will get better and a great start - but there's a reason I bought the GSA...now if BMW doesn't adjust and HD makes some tweaks in the next few years - it will be a toss up...good for the category and keeps pushing all the manufacturer's to get better!!!....Nice review - keep them coming...

Can you take the Harley off its centre stand with the side stand down?

Review of two adventure bikes :The broke-back mountain edition.......

Is anyone going to acknowledge how straight of a power curve that pan america has? I can only imagine a gear swap, tune and bolt ons. It would smoke the GS