Harley-Davidson has long been known as America's most iconic motorcycle brand when it comes to cruisers. Until recently, though, there was nothing in this motorcycle giant's lineup that could truly qualify as an adventure touring bike. In 2021, the HD Pan America 1250 changed all of that.

 

The company's first foray into the ADV segment was seen largely as a great success, and its new 2022 Pan America 1250 model appears to be ready to follow in its predecessor's footsteps. The problem is that not all Harley enthusiasts are familiar with these types of motorcycles. Thankfully, the solution is simple. Just keep reading to find out what you need to know about the Harley-Davidson Pan America.

 

Who It's For

 

The Pan America 1250 is a carefully crafted adventure touring machine that offers a surprising amount of comfort and versatility both on- and off-road. If you think of touring as gently cruising down America's highways, Harley-Davidson has plenty of bikes for you. If you view motorcycle touring as a chance to seek out adventure and take on anything that the road has to throw at you, the Pan America is a perfect option.

 

This thoroughly modern motorcycle isn't just for Harley enthusiasts, either. Riders making the transition to Harley-Davidson from other adventure-touring bikes won't be disappointed. The motorcycle giant clearly did its due diligence in researching the competition, then went above and beyond when it came to features and benefits. It's a high-tech adventuring machine that's just as solid off-road as it is cruising down the highways.

 

What It Has to Offer

 

If you're already an experienced adventure tourer, making the switch to a Harley from a brand with a more established reputation in this particular market may feel like a risk. It's one that's worth taking, though. The best way to learn what's on offer with the Pan America is to take one for a test drive, but if you want a better idea of what to expect before heading to the dealership, know that Harley's foray into ADV bikes offers:

 

Plenty of Power

 

The Pan America 1250 features HD's new Revolution Max 1250 engine. If you're not familiar with it yet, don't worry. You'll be seeing plenty of it in future bike models. This motor is thoroughly modern, with a tech stack that allows it to tackle chugging through sand off-road just as well as cruising at highway speeds.

 

The Revolution Max 1250 engine has been in development since 2017, and once you've taken a Pan America out for a test ride, you'll see that it was worth the wait. Clocking in at 150 HP with 94 ft-lb of torque, this brand-new engine incorporates some thoroughly modern and impressive features. Its liquid-cooling architecture to its double overhead cams and sodium-filled heat control exhaust valves with independent electronic variable timing, multiple engine balancers, and hydraulic self-adjusting lifters all combine with the bike's lightweight design to deliver serious power.

 

Personalized Performance

 

The throttle feel, engine response, and torque delivery on the Pan America 1250 combine to inspire confidence off-road and create an exhilarating ride down paved highways. Each of the model's five Ride Modes makes a noticeable difference in how the bike handles. You can choose from: Sport, Road, Rain, Off-Road, and Off-Road Plus

To sweeten the deal further, the Pan America lets riders create custom tunings. Use different combinations of power delivery, engine braking, C-ABS, and C-TCS settings to get the perfect riding mode for you.

 

Advanced Safety Features

 

These days, any bike worth its proverbial weight comes with a full range of safety tech, but the Pan America goes above and beyond the norm. In addition to routine features such as ABS, ELC, and TCS systems, it also comes standard with hill hold control, wheel lift mitigation, and cornering-enhanced safety features.

 

A Surprisingly Comfortable Ride

 

Harley-Davidson has done some truly innovative things when it comes to ride quality. This unique bike's engine functions as a structural component of its chassis, eliminating the need for a traditional frame. As a result, the Pan America 1250 has a lower center of gravity than most of its competitors, plus a stiff but responsive feel that's perfect both on- and off-road.

These days, rider comfort isn't just about how a bike feels. It's also about convenience and tech features. Thankfully, Harley-Davidson hasn't skimped here, either. The Pan America 1250 comes with an impressive tiltable 6.8-inch touchscreen infotainment center that works in just about all conditions, including in the rain and with gloves. The system uses a Bluetooth connection to the rider's phone to manage navigation and calls but allows riders to access vehicle diagnostics and settings without a phone connection.

 

Why It's Worth Making the Switch

 

We get it. Change can be scary. If you're still riding an older adventure touring bike that doesn't offer advanced safety and performance features, though, it's time to think about making the switch to a newer model. The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 is a great option no matter where you're coming from.

 

Traditional Harley enthusiasts will find that while this bike is designed primarily to appeal to a different consumer segment, it still has all the American-made quality, aesthetic appeal, and low grumble associated with this ever-popular brand. ADV riders will find that it offers all the features they have come to expect from an adventure touring bike, plus some.

 

While first-time riders may want to get started on something a little smaller, they'll also be excited to take the plunge and upgrade to a Pan America. In other words, there's something for everyone.

 

Get a Great Deal on a Great Bike

 

Ready to take the Pan America 1250 out for a test drive, or already know it's your next touring bike? Reach out to the pros at the American Motorcycle Trading Co. We've got a wide variety of new and used bikes in stock, so even if the Pan America turns out not to be a good fit, we'll still be able to help you find the ride of your dreams.