It's folly to compare these bikes and not include the current KTM 1290 Super Adventure R (the new iteration should be even better). It is really fun and comfortable on the road and should best the others in the dirt. It may be a little unrefined compared to the BMW and Ducati but it easier to work on than either and is more raw and lively. The BMW is definitely let down with weak suspension and lackluster power delivery,despite it's high build quality.
It is obvious to those that know me that I am a Ducatista. With that being said, I too was impressed with the Pan American when I test road it on the street. This review of all 3 bikes was excellent and really showed the off-road capabilities more than I've seen and certainly better than I have done due to my lack of off-road access where I live. Hats off to all of those involved in the making of this video. Outstanding observations and conclusions. HD will be happy about this.
I stopped watching once I realized the KTM, Honda or Triumph weren't a part of the test. The Ducati is a street bike with 50/50 tires, the Harley is a fat kid scraping his belly on everything (but it has 50/50 tires..), the BMW is amazing everywhere, but to not include arguably the best and 3rd and 4th best bikes in the category is just lazy reporting.
I want to believe this and... well... it just seems so highly highly unlikely that the pan am outperforms the gs. so unlikely. the reasons in this video are so vague that it loses credibility.
There's a video where 2 men in another country put the pan America through some rough mountain mud slat gravel and up hill. That will change your mind. I just returned From New Orleans from looking at the GS and Ducati. After watching that video I'm going back to the Harley. Sorry I don't have the video. Just type I'm pan America off road. And you will find it.
Great video and great test. And HD as the winner was a surprise too. If I had one complaint it’s I wish you had the chance to add the new big Tiger and maybe the big KTM. Still, really enjoyed the test, thanks.
After Long Way Round, comparing the GS with anything else that didn't take that test, is futile. Declaring HD the winner here smells like somebody has a patron, in particular since I saw another head-to-head comparison video which the GS won (again, futile effort). Comparing adv bikes like that in a few hundred mile test with only a few riders is just way too insufficient. You need a 10Kmiles test with all the books filed out, service, failures, cost of operation, and so on, and so on. Then draw a conclusion.
I've had a Pan American since August of last year and when it's working I love it. But I've been plagued with electronics problems almost continually. 2 months ago the battery died while running while I was at a stop light. I ended up getting it towed to the local HD dealership. It took them 10 days to source a replacement battery. 2 days ago I was pulling out of the garage to go on a ride and the engine was acting strange and then it throw a general fault light at me. I pulled over turned off the bike and waited for it to completely shut down. Then it wouldn't start up again. Pushed it the block back home and hooked it up to a battery tender and now it starts again. But I had just finished a 4 day motorcycle trip and I had ridden it for an hour the day before. It's not as if the battery should have had a chance to drain. It's very frustrating.
I got the 2022 pan america this year. I have been having the same problem. My bike just turns off on me with seemingly no rhyme or reason. The dealership is looking into it now, im worried they are just going to find reasons to charge me for whatever is wrong with the bike.
Update: they replaced my bike with the same make and model but as soon as I left the lot my engine cut out. They looked it over to say it was the same problem, a loose pin connection. They ended up settling, giving my down payment back and terminating my contract. They are no in possession of the bike and my bill has been completely zeroed out
@@mrgrimrjs wow! That’s a crazy story! At least you got your bill zeroed! Been researching a lot about this bike! But these are the cons im afraid of! They all have their pros and cons but i guess they’re just too new maybe?
@Sergio Santinato idk. I only know this was the case for me. Had it not be the case I would have kept the bike. I loved that bike. It does seem to be a universal problem from what I can tell
Nice video. I'll take my Africa Twin Adventure Sports against all of these for many reasons, but two main reasons specifically, cost and reliability. I'd NEVER buy a HD because they're not known to be reliable. Not a good trai for off road middle of nowhere riding. This same reason can be applied to the other two for a lesser degree.
Drove my Sportster for 100,000kms with no problems. Now I got me a 114 Heritage. Put 15,000kms on it this summer. Zero issues and I'll never have to adjust the valves or replace a chain.
Here is another review with the H-D vs BMW 1250 GS vs KTM 1290 Super ADV. I have to say most reviews say the H-D's suspension isn't up to the task when it comes to off-road. On-road it works well, but is too soft for off-road riding. I wonder if this review leans toward the H-D because it's a USA company doing the review? ua-cam.com/video/jP5bd615wQk/v-deo.html And found another owner review video with good info on the Pan American and some known issues with the bike. Some very weird issues that hopefully they will address. ua-cam.com/video/2kAFtQaVoIk/v-deo.html
I'm not sure why the KTM 1290 SAR or S wasnt involved with this comparison. All the videos I've seen on the newer KTMs have shown it to be outstanding. cycle world you've done us a disservice without its inclusion.
Hmmm. First off, all these bikes are fast, fun, capable and comfortable. You have some points about the suspension. Telelever on the GS can feel vague on the trail. BUT. I can't overlook the poor build quality, cheap feeling of the cockpit controls, and bad slow speed engine behavior (wants to stall) of the H-D. Sorry, but the H-D feels cheap and unfinished compared to everything else in this category. My two cents. I'll put on my flamesuit now.
What about the blast furnace coming off the Harley engine at slow speed? I wouldn't be caught dead on one in warm weather, give me the GSA any day. Or if I wanted to spend over 10,000 more, I would get the Ducati.
The pan America was absolutely not on my radar for a big ADV. Stopped by the Harley dealer looking for some gloves. They had one and now it’s for sure top of the list. It’s just not the size of a small car like the others. If your 5’8” or under I highly recommend looking into the Harley.
My bike finished last but I still love this review! You really did a fantastic job breaking it all down. Well written, great explanations in all the categories - I learned a lot. It is clear you put a lot of work into this - and I totally enjoyed every second of it! As you said, you cannot go wrong with any of these bikes and I’d take any one of them, any day! The video was great / I did a trip out there a year ago on a Hypermotard and love the roads north of Zion. It was great revisiting some of the scenery! Guys - A plus! Huge thanks!!!
@@RemboUSMC my man Rembo! I liked your last video as well! Seeking out whatever twisty roads you could find in the tough neighborhoods of south FLA! Ha! Good to see you have your bike back. Enjoyed the music and you ripping’ it on that entrance ramp at the end. These guys have way more resources and it’s incredible what they can put together. You do just fine as well!
Nice review. The PanAm certainly holds its own off-road. Having owned two of the bikes and ridden the other a fair bit, my personal conclusion was a little different. The BMW is the most practical, and well-developed after 40 years. The Ducati is the most technologically advanced, the most fun, and surprisingly the most comfortable. And the HD is a great first effort and even has a USP (lowering suspension), and desirable hydraulic lifters, but it's still a beta version to a large extent. It has missed the latest innovations (active cruise/blindspot), and although powerful, the engine/gearbox is not as refined, and neither are smaller things like the screen adjuster. I know a HD dealer, who told me he sent his first PanAm back to the factory, as the engine didn't sound good - and he didn't mean no 'potato-potato'. And one of my crew had an 11-hour ride home in limp mode on his (a dealer on his way home refused to help him btw!), which was never fully diagnosed but did go away after some eventual connector pulling and diagnostics resets - he has a Tiger 1200 GT Explorer on order, which he'll trade his PanAm and a Panhead for - that Triumph is a sound choice for 2022 methinks! But IMPO, honestly the HD PanAm isn't even top 3 even in 2021, because the heavily revised KTM took that bronze. So which is better, the GSA or V4S? It's subjective and so down to preference. But one thing that isn't, is that they are both noticeably better in qualitative and quantitative terms than all of their other peers, at present. The '22 Tiger vs GSA - the battle of the 8 gallons shafties - is certainly going to be a pay-per-view event. I think the Triumph might cause an upset!
This is all just too funny.. there is no such thing as a unicorn or a 450-550+ pound off road capable off road motorcycle. So for the hyper exploding middle aged dual sporters market,yes you can go down dirt roads and some bumpy stuff, but w a rider, like luggage and gear you can't do anything serious off the pavement. The bigger bikes have road manners and they have horsepower to get you between places wo shaking out your soul like a 250 or 300 single.So a serious discussion about the real world should not be much about doing cross ups and long stretches of whoops, and if you don't know most of the big bike videos of Tenere 700, Africa Twin, or GS1250s are ridden by the best of the best.. so technically you can do trials riding on a T7 maybe go over a 6ft boulder or up and over a Volkswagen but probably not.. so if you want off road 250-450 is the real deal with 300 pounds being as chubby as you want..
I've ridden the Harley I have to disagree with your opinion/assessment of how good the Pan America is compared to the GS or GSA...I think for a first attempt they did a good job but to say it won is per conjecture on your part.
I've been a Harley guy for years, but I have to say I find this 'review' suspect - as in I suspect the advertising dollars Cycle World receives from The Motor Company seriously compromised the objectivity of the outcome; particularly given that any other head-to-head comparison (performed by outlets that aren't compromised by H-D spend) definitely DO NOT conclude the PA is the best all-round bike of the lot. I'd really love for the PA to legitimately beat the GS and Multi on its own merits, and I think H-D have done an incredible job with the PA in their first foray into the ADV segment. But it's unquestionable there's room for improvement, and 'reviews' like this - that are so obviously compromised by the publisher from fear of losing advertising income - don't help manufacturers improve their bikes and seriously damage the credibility of the 'reviewers'. That said, I'm VERY thankful to see somebody FINALLY include the Multi in a big bore ADV face-off. So THANK YOU to Cycle World for doing that. However, it's inaccurate to day the only panniers available are the plastic ones; Ducati does have aluminum panniers available that are made in collaboration with Touratech. Please continue bringing us content like this because the details are informative, even if your conclusions are suspect, and PLEASE get your reviewers out from underneath the thumb of your publishers advertising department so we can trust you.
What is your evidence that HD paid them off? Your own surprise is certainly not enough to go on a comment rant. Like 99% of internet comments you just "know"??? Im surprised too but with the terrain not being as technical and mostly higher speed double track with lots of on road its not inconceivable that the HD was preffered by these guys under these circumstances.
100%. Suspect indeed. It’s a fact when dealing with comparing products from major players. Truth doesn’t always get you invited to all party’s. It is a fact and truth that HD needs desperately the help. Gotta know this.
They are an American publication. Home turf advantage. Still, considering HD hasn't exactly been pushing performance machinery or at the forefront of innovation (credit for the Live Wire though), the PanAm is a very impressive departure from their cruisers. Good thing too, as their traditional user base (baby boomers) is exiting the market altogether.
Great review, I was so happy when the editor decided to turn down the volume of that annoying background music half way through. Just leave the music out completely, it's an old trick to try and make the review exciting and in this case, it doesn't need it. Very informative and excellent review.
@@cycleworld Hopefully that can get sorted in a follow-up. I know the new 1290 SAR has been hard to come by and the new 1200 Triumph only really broke cover fairly recently.
Why has this channel only 113k subs? This is one of the view places where you find really thorough comparisons and professional analyses of tested bikes. Internet is weird.
So you’re telling us the HD is the best based upon more off-road capability, though that low ground clearance that has the battery and rectifier right behind the front wheel and would be submerged in any minimal water crossing (we all don’t live/ride in a dust bed). No mention of the excitement of not knowing if the HD will start or whine like a little kitten that was stepped on when hot. Much like most of the reviews it seems like you’re never bothered to fully understand or explain the much more comprehensive settings on the Ducati. The BMW has preset preload and preset modes, HD has auto preload and preset modes, while the Ducati has preload modes that can be individually adjusted and saved to each mode, And the Duc has the ability to individually adjust damping as well as multiple settings for abs and traction control that can be customized and saved to each ride mode, all customizable edited settings are saved to each individual ride mode even after the ignition is cycled and saved to that mode. The (lack of) functionality in the BMW and HD has no adaptability/adjustability beyond the factory modes… if they’re not right for the situation you get the tail wagging and pogoing… But it’s also understood that the vast majority of riders don’t adjust the suspension on any of their bikes or understand how suspension functions or how rebound/compression/preload can vastly alter a bikes handling. But eh, reviews for the masses I guess. You also forgot to mention how inferno hot the rear cylinder gets on the PanAm, melted my Klim pants, yeah the rear cylinder deactivated at lights but it’s right there when riding, though Levi’s and T-shirt will probably be the gear of choice for the majority of the owners.
"melted my Klim pants, yeah the rear cylinder deactivated at lights but it’s right there when riding, though Levi’s and T-shirt will probably be the gear of choice for the majority of the owners. Oh wow, melted his high dollar plastic poser pants........I'm callin BS on that one.
@@hiflyer1168 I'm not going to say my Pan Am is perfect but I don't understand all the heat issue complaints. I've ridden for hours at a time in 90+ (F) heat and didn't have any heat issues at all, well at least not from the bike. And Levi's and T-shirt is not my choice of riding gear.
@@hiflyer1168 The only issue I have had in 5k was riding through a torrential thunderstorm and a code came up but I just cleared it the next time I stopped with no problem.
This is awesome! Way to go Harley-Davidson. When I rode the Pan America I loved it. I haven't bought one yet but I hope to own one soon. Great video Cycle World.
Gotta admit, HD have surprised MANY of us. What a pity they didn't develop their new motors sooner for the road range, instead of the dinosaur technology. Great video folks. Tall, when are we going to see more from you brother?
LMFAO you do realize that HD bikes have vastly longer sales periods than any other brand right? You do realize they have the longest running motorcycle model in HISTORY, right?
He didn’t say Harleys won’t be available. This POS PA won’t sell to “Harley” people. It will be a failure and off the market by the next GS or multi refresh.
In Europe Multistrada won the Alpenmaster. The big surprise for testers was related to the extraordinary and unexpected off-road responsiveness about MTS with the gamble of using 4-cylinder in off-road use. In all tests made in Europe, HD has arrived behind Ducati, BMW and KTM both in off-road and in the all-around utilization. So it’s quite curious the result of this test. By the way for sure H-D is absolutely something of new very close to iconic Mad-Max Bike. Wonderful roads and fantastic scenarios for this video. I like to see dirty bikes 😉
It's not that curious. Home turf advantage. Same reason Triumph fares well in Brit media, Ducati in Italian media and BMW in German media. Can't say I've encountered any Austrian media, but I'd be surprised if team orange didn't get a similar helping hand from them.
One aspect (for decision making that matter to the consumer) BMW, at least in the US market has the most “try before you buy” user friendly philosophy. And although it is NOT a technical consideration, with such tight margins between these three, I appreciate this aspect alot as we riders need not only other people opinions and reviews but -mind you?- our own review. And the absolute no pressure to sell you into it mentality of the good BMW dealer and sales personnel is paramount to me. Not necessarily would determine going GS ofcourse, but in my checklist and at their prices it is quite favorable
Fantastic production fellas. Thanks for the views, comparison and info. I test rode all three last summer and bought the HD. For me, the attraction was immediate. It's my 54th bike, I've tried quite a few and am absolutely in love with the Pan America. It does it all, and does them well.
All 3 will nicely get you into and out of trouble competently. All the rest of the narrative should be about which one inspires you more and what do you like looking back at as you walk away. No big bore Comparison can be complete without the Honda Africa Twin, KTM 1290 Adventure R and the new Triumph Tiger 1200. Maybe next time. Congrats to HD. There are some fit and finish issues.
When I rode the Pan America, I couldn't believe how crappy the side stand was. The ride was good but it was not as good as a GS. But that's just my opinion. I'm looking forward to trying the new Tiger 1200.
I call BS, you just test the GS and commenting on the lack of Adventure ready suspension but you didn’t test the GSA, you know the one with the Adventure suspension and where’s the KTM 1290? You’ve taken HD’s marketing money so make the disclosure statement.
LOL, way to not include the KTM or even the Honda or the Yamaha... Wonder how much more Harley paid you guys to choose them as winner... Effing silly comparison dudes...
Great Harley Ad. Guessing KTM, Honda and Triumph were left out of the comparison on purpose, because the results would not be the same if they were included. Hoping Harley paid you well for this.
How does a 2022 comparison not include the KTM 1290 Super ADV R or the newly launched Triumph Tiger 1200? and sorry can't really buy this "review". A 1st generation ADV by a company known for cruisers is better than the BMW which has been at the game for over 2 decades now. C'mon.
Why the GS and not the GSA... I think that might have given it the edge here. ...and where is the KTM Super Adventure R. That would have given more legitimacy to the outcome.
Do it! It's no different than choosing a car, it's all in the rider's mind. I doubt any of us would be capable of pushing any of these bikes to their limit but we will be able to decide which one we personally like best!
Nice video but outta all the choices in the adventure category I chose the Ducati Multistrada V4S, with little intention to go off road with a 500 pound plus motorcycle I liked the Ducati the best, everyone ride safe.
congrats to harley, i honestly believed they were too far behind in the game to pull this off.im glad they proved me wrong.strong sales of the newer models may finally get them out of the slump of the same old crap.they had no choise. harley buyers would only buy the same old crap they been buying for multiple decades.you got to build what will sell.way to go harley,i really hope this works out well for them.wow!! a harley that actually does something other than make noise & go nowhere quickly.
Why would anyone want a bigger/heavier adventure bike than KTM 950/990 Adventure? That’s the perfect mix between dirt bike and road bike. Anything heavier/bigger is absolutely unusable off road and it’s still a good street bike.
Because most large displacement adventure bikes are ridden are super slab tourers. If off road is where you spend the bulk of your time then a smaller displacement would make sense.
Reviewers need to stop grading the Pan America on a curve. Either it’s good or not. You guys give this thing waaaay too much credit for just being a Harley. I.E. because Harley has been decades behind technologically until now, it’s somehow an over achiever? Stop giving them points just for showing up to the competition.
Is stupid to go on an adventure on these big heavy bikes,is all show off.You will be a lot of more better on a small all drive car like the crosstreck.
The HD looks like a good package but appearance wise I am reminded of a fifties vacuum cleaner. Butt ugly.
very informative 👍👍👍
Another horribly biased American review.
Wow! Thanks for your review! I have 11,000 miles on my Pan America and love it!
It's folly to compare these bikes and not include the current KTM 1290 Super Adventure R (the new iteration should be even better). It is really fun and comfortable on the road and should best the others in the dirt. It may be a little unrefined compared to the BMW and Ducati but it easier to work on than either and is more raw and lively. The BMW is definitely let down with weak suspension and lackluster power delivery,despite it's high build quality.
If I’m not mistaken, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure will not be available in the US until 2022. I am eagerly awaiting it’s arrival!
It is obvious to those that know me that I am a Ducatista. With that being said, I too was impressed with the Pan American when I test road it on the street. This review of all 3 bikes was excellent and really showed the off-road capabilities more than I've seen and certainly better than I have done due to my lack of off-road access where I live. Hats off to all of those involved in the making of this video. Outstanding observations and conclusions. HD will be happy about this.
I stopped watching once I realized the KTM, Honda or Triumph weren't a part of the test. The Ducati is a street bike with 50/50 tires, the Harley is a fat kid scraping his belly on everything (but it has 50/50 tires..), the BMW is amazing everywhere, but to not include arguably the best and 3rd and 4th best bikes in the category is just lazy reporting.
I want to believe this and... well... it just seems so highly highly unlikely that the pan am outperforms the gs. so unlikely. the reasons in this video are so vague that it loses credibility.
This.
Tried both. Chose the Panam over GS. Video is accurate
@@MasterBlasta how come? how does panam best gs?
@@damytzeus in my opinion pan am was great but ground clearance seems a bit low
There's a video where 2 men in another country put the pan America through some rough mountain mud slat gravel and up hill. That will change your mind. I just returned From New Orleans from looking at the GS and Ducati. After watching that video I'm going back to the Harley. Sorry I don't have the video. Just type I'm pan America off road. And you will find it.
Great video and great test. And HD as the winner was a surprise too.
If I had one complaint it’s I wish you had the chance to add the new big Tiger and maybe the big KTM.
Still, really enjoyed the test, thanks.
Hurray for Harley yay yay
After Long Way Round, comparing the GS with anything else that didn't take that test, is futile. Declaring HD the winner here smells like somebody has a patron, in particular since I saw another head-to-head comparison video which the GS won (again, futile effort). Comparing adv bikes like that in a few hundred mile test with only a few riders is just way too insufficient. You need a 10Kmiles test with all the books filed out, service, failures, cost of operation, and so on, and so on. Then draw a conclusion.
Nice to see HD take the win. Hopefully they will continue to improve it. Now I'll be out on the KTM...
bmw period
Hurray for Harley yay yay
I've had a Pan American since August of last year and when it's working I love it. But I've been plagued with electronics problems almost continually. 2 months ago the battery died while running while I was at a stop light. I ended up getting it towed to the local HD dealership. It took them 10 days to source a replacement battery. 2 days ago I was pulling out of the garage to go on a ride and the engine was acting strange and then it throw a general fault light at me. I pulled over turned off the bike and waited for it to completely shut down. Then it wouldn't start up again. Pushed it the block back home and hooked it up to a battery tender and now it starts again. But I had just finished a 4 day motorcycle trip and I had ridden it for an hour the day before. It's not as if the battery should have had a chance to drain. It's very frustrating.
Sounds like you re unlucky with your bike i hope it will be good from now on
I got the 2022 pan america this year. I have been having the same problem. My bike just turns off on me with seemingly no rhyme or reason. The dealership is looking into it now, im worried they are just going to find reasons to charge me for whatever is wrong with the bike.
Update: they replaced my bike with the same make and model but as soon as I left the lot my engine cut out. They looked it over to say it was the same problem, a loose pin connection. They ended up settling, giving my down payment back and terminating my contract. They are no in possession of the bike and my bill has been completely zeroed out
@@mrgrimrjs wow! That’s a crazy story! At least you got your bill zeroed! Been researching a lot about this bike! But these are the cons im afraid of! They all have their pros and cons but i guess they’re just too new maybe?
@Sergio Santinato idk. I only know this was the case for me. Had it not be the case I would have kept the bike. I loved that bike. It does seem to be a universal problem from what I can tell
Nice video. I'll take my Africa Twin Adventure Sports against all of these for many reasons, but two main reasons specifically, cost and reliability. I'd NEVER buy a HD because they're not known to be reliable. Not a good trai for off road middle of nowhere riding. This same reason can be applied to the other two for a lesser degree.
false. never had a problem with bmw and ducati
Drove my Sportster for 100,000kms with no problems. Now I got me a 114 Heritage. Put 15,000kms on it this summer. Zero issues and I'll never have to adjust the valves or replace a chain.
Here is another review with the H-D vs BMW 1250 GS vs KTM 1290 Super ADV. I have to say most reviews say the H-D's suspension isn't up to the task when it comes to off-road. On-road it works well, but is too soft for off-road riding. I wonder if this review leans toward the H-D because it's a USA company doing the review? ua-cam.com/video/jP5bd615wQk/v-deo.html
And found another owner review video with good info on the Pan American and some known issues with the bike. Some very weird issues that hopefully they will address.
ua-cam.com/video/2kAFtQaVoIk/v-deo.html
I hope you do this again with the new Super Adventure R and Tiger 1200. Great video thank you
I'm not sure why the KTM 1290 SAR or S wasnt involved with this comparison. All the videos I've seen on the newer KTMs have shown it to be outstanding. cycle world you've done us a disservice without its inclusion.
Hmmm. First off, all these bikes are fast, fun, capable and comfortable. You have some points about the suspension. Telelever on the GS can feel vague on the trail. BUT. I can't overlook the poor build quality, cheap feeling of the cockpit controls, and bad slow speed engine behavior (wants to stall) of the H-D. Sorry, but the H-D feels cheap and unfinished compared to everything else in this category. My two cents. I'll put on my flamesuit now.
No Africa twin ?
Obviously they weren't concerned with reliability.....
@@Mark11704 👍👍 you re totally right 🤣🤣
Hurray for Harley yay yay
What about the blast furnace coming off the Harley engine at slow speed? I wouldn't be caught dead on one in warm weather, give me the GSA any day. Or if I wanted to spend over 10,000 more, I would get the Ducati.
The pan America was absolutely not on my radar for a big ADV. Stopped by the Harley dealer looking for some gloves. They had one and now it’s for sure top of the list. It’s just not the size of a small car like the others. If your 5’8” or under I highly recommend looking into the Harley.
Lol I wonder how much Harley gave them. Biggest load of Bull ever
Harley pan america.... Big bike but has a cute design and simple. I love Harley....!!!!!
Big bore adv talk and #africatwin not invited? Com'on
I'm very excited to see a review like this but a little disappointed the KTM wasn't involved.
And Triumph, the 1200 rally can certainly fight for a place on the podium.
@@thierryfaquet7405 I agree and the Africa Twin.
I guess they figured it wouldn't be fair.
Africa Twin
sorry
everyones talking about the HD pan am but im drooling at the Norden 901 lol.
Should have included the new Triumph Tiger.
The ~BMW does not heat your toes!
I’ve owned one, in a hot climate, for the last 3 years.
My bike finished last but I still love this review! You really did a fantastic job breaking it all down. Well written, great explanations in all the categories - I learned a lot. It is clear you put a lot of work into this - and I totally enjoyed every second of it! As you said, you cannot go wrong with any of these bikes and I’d take any one of them, any day! The video was great / I did a trip out there a year ago on a Hypermotard and love the roads north of Zion. It was great revisiting some of the scenery! Guys - A plus! Huge thanks!!!
I totally agree with you.
@@RemboUSMC my man Rembo! I liked your last video as well! Seeking out whatever twisty roads you could find in the tough neighborhoods of south FLA! Ha! Good to see you have your bike back. Enjoyed the music and you ripping’ it on that entrance ramp at the end. These guys have way more resources and it’s incredible what they can put together. You do just fine as well!
Nice review. The PanAm certainly holds its own off-road. Having owned two of the bikes and ridden the other a fair bit, my personal conclusion was a little different. The BMW is the most practical, and well-developed after 40 years. The Ducati is the most technologically advanced, the most fun, and surprisingly the most comfortable. And the HD is a great first effort and even has a USP (lowering suspension), and desirable hydraulic lifters, but it's still a beta version to a large extent. It has missed the latest innovations (active cruise/blindspot), and although powerful, the engine/gearbox is not as refined, and neither are smaller things like the screen adjuster. I know a HD dealer, who told me he sent his first PanAm back to the factory, as the engine didn't sound good - and he didn't mean no 'potato-potato'. And one of my crew had an 11-hour ride home in limp mode on his (a dealer on his way home refused to help him btw!), which was never fully diagnosed but did go away after some eventual connector pulling and diagnostics resets - he has a Tiger 1200 GT Explorer on order, which he'll trade his PanAm and a Panhead for - that Triumph is a sound choice for 2022 methinks! But IMPO, honestly the HD PanAm isn't even top 3 even in 2021, because the heavily revised KTM took that bronze. So which is better, the GSA or V4S? It's subjective and so down to preference. But one thing that isn't, is that they are both noticeably better in qualitative and quantitative terms than all of their other peers, at present. The '22 Tiger vs GSA - the battle of the 8 gallons shafties - is certainly going to be a pay-per-view event. I think the Triumph might cause an upset!
This is all just too funny.. there is no such thing as a unicorn or a 450-550+ pound off road capable off road motorcycle. So for the hyper exploding middle aged dual sporters market,yes you can go down dirt roads and some bumpy stuff, but w a rider, like luggage and gear you can't do anything serious off the pavement. The bigger bikes have road manners and they have horsepower to get you between places wo shaking out your soul like a 250 or 300 single.So a serious discussion about the real world should not be much about doing cross ups and long stretches of whoops, and if you don't know most of the big bike videos of Tenere 700, Africa Twin, or GS1250s are ridden by the best of the best.. so technically you can do trials riding on a T7 maybe go over a 6ft boulder or up and over a Volkswagen but probably not.. so if you want off road 250-450 is the real deal with 300 pounds being as chubby as you want..
I've ridden the Harley I have to disagree with your opinion/assessment of how good the Pan America is compared to the GS or GSA...I think for a first attempt they did a good job but to say it won is per conjecture on your part.
If you were heading off road, why did you not use a GSA? More suspension travel.
I've been a Harley guy for years, but I have to say I find this 'review' suspect - as in I suspect the advertising dollars Cycle World receives from The Motor Company seriously compromised the objectivity of the outcome; particularly given that any other head-to-head comparison (performed by outlets that aren't compromised by H-D spend) definitely DO NOT conclude the PA is the best all-round bike of the lot.
I'd really love for the PA to legitimately beat the GS and Multi on its own merits, and I think H-D have done an incredible job with the PA in their first foray into the ADV segment. But it's unquestionable there's room for improvement, and 'reviews' like this - that are so obviously compromised by the publisher from fear of losing advertising income - don't help manufacturers improve their bikes and seriously damage the credibility of the 'reviewers'.
That said, I'm VERY thankful to see somebody FINALLY include the Multi in a big bore ADV face-off. So THANK YOU to Cycle World for doing that. However, it's inaccurate to day the only panniers available are the plastic ones; Ducati does have aluminum panniers available that are made in collaboration with Touratech.
Please continue bringing us content like this because the details are informative, even if your conclusions are suspect, and PLEASE get your reviewers out from underneath the thumb of your publishers advertising department so we can trust you.
Newsflash--- Cycle World is advertising free. All of those words for nothin... no publisher ad department.
What is your evidence that HD paid them off? Your own surprise is certainly not enough to go on a comment rant. Like 99% of internet comments you just "know"??? Im surprised too but with the terrain not being as technical and mostly higher speed double track with lots of on road its not inconceivable that the HD was preffered by these guys under these circumstances.
100%. Suspect indeed. It’s a fact when dealing with comparing products from major players. Truth doesn’t always get you invited to all party’s. It is a fact and truth that HD needs desperately the help. Gotta know this.
They are an American publication. Home turf advantage. Still, considering HD hasn't exactly been pushing performance machinery or at the forefront of innovation (credit for the Live Wire though), the PanAm is a very impressive departure from their cruisers. Good thing too, as their traditional user base (baby boomers) is exiting the market altogether.
I am 5.4 height can I drive BMW gs r 40 years edition bike ?
Great review, I was so happy when the editor decided to turn down the volume of that annoying background music half way through. Just leave the music out completely, it's an old trick to try and make the review exciting and in this case, it doesn't need it. Very informative and excellent review.
I actually think I'm going with the PAN AM.
3/5’s comparison ?🤔 Triumph ? KTM ?
They we not available due to supply chain issues. We tried for several months do have all of the big bores...
@@cycleworld Yep, access has been an issue the past 2 years. Outstanding job on this one.
@@cycleworld understandable, hope to see an update one day with the KTM 1290, Africa Twin, and Tiger 1200 tossed in!
@@cycleworld Hopefully that can get sorted in a follow-up. I know the new 1290 SAR has been hard to come by and the new 1200 Triumph only really broke cover fairly recently.
Why has this channel only 113k subs? This is one of the view places where you find really thorough comparisons and professional analyses of tested bikes. Internet is weird.
So you’re telling us the HD is the best based upon more off-road capability, though that low ground clearance that has the battery and rectifier right behind the front wheel and would be submerged in any minimal water crossing (we all don’t live/ride in a dust bed). No mention of the excitement of not knowing if the HD will start or whine like a little kitten that was stepped on when hot.
Much like most of the reviews it seems like you’re never bothered to fully understand or explain the much more comprehensive settings on the Ducati. The BMW has preset preload and preset modes, HD has auto preload and preset modes, while the Ducati has preload modes that can be individually adjusted and saved to each mode, And the Duc has the ability to individually adjust damping as well as multiple settings for abs and traction control that can be customized and saved to each ride mode, all customizable edited settings are saved to each individual ride mode even after the ignition is cycled and saved to that mode. The (lack of) functionality in the BMW and HD has no adaptability/adjustability beyond the factory modes… if they’re not right for the situation you get the tail wagging and pogoing…
But it’s also understood that the vast majority of riders don’t adjust the suspension on any of their bikes or understand how suspension functions or how rebound/compression/preload can vastly alter a bikes handling.
But eh, reviews for the masses I guess.
You also forgot to mention how inferno hot the rear cylinder gets on the PanAm, melted my Klim pants, yeah the rear cylinder deactivated at lights but it’s right there when riding, though Levi’s and T-shirt will probably be the gear of choice for the majority of the owners.
"melted my Klim pants, yeah the rear cylinder deactivated at lights but it’s right there when riding, though Levi’s and T-shirt will probably be the gear of choice for the majority of the owners.
Oh wow, melted his high dollar plastic poser pants........I'm callin BS on that one.
@@hiflyer1168 I'm not going to say my Pan Am is perfect but I don't understand all the heat issue complaints. I've ridden for hours at a time in 90+ (F) heat and didn't have any heat issues at all, well at least not from the bike.
And Levi's and T-shirt is not my choice of riding gear.
@@nbrider7235 No heat issues for me, I'm coming up on 8k. no issues of any kind at all.
@@hiflyer1168 The only issue I have had in 5k was riding through a torrential thunderstorm and a code came up but I just cleared it the next time I stopped with no problem.
This is awesome! Way to go Harley-Davidson. When I rode the Pan America I loved it. I haven't bought one yet but I hope to own one soon. Great video Cycle World.
Gotta admit, HD have surprised MANY of us. What a pity they didn't develop their new motors sooner for the road range, instead of the dinosaur technology. Great video folks. Tall, when are we going to see more from you brother?
HARLEY BEAT ALL OF THEM HANDS DOWN QUIT BEING CRYBABIES AND BUY A PAN AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you want capability..BMW
If you want power.......Ducati
If you want a bike that will no longer be available in a few years...HD
LMFAO you do realize that HD bikes have vastly longer sales periods than any other brand right?
You do realize they have the longest running motorcycle model in HISTORY, right?
He didn’t say Harleys won’t be available. This POS PA won’t sell to “Harley” people. It will be a failure and off the market by the next GS or multi refresh.
@@FranBunnyFFXII 99% of Harley riders will ignore this bike. It's not something that they will want or enjoy.
To bad the ktm 1290 adv is missing from this mix ……
In Europe Multistrada won the Alpenmaster.
The big surprise for testers was related to the extraordinary and unexpected off-road responsiveness about MTS with the gamble of using 4-cylinder in off-road use.
In all tests made in Europe, HD has arrived behind Ducati, BMW and KTM both in off-road and in the all-around utilization.
So it’s quite curious the result of this test.
By the way for sure H-D is absolutely something of new very close to iconic Mad-Max Bike.
Wonderful roads and fantastic scenarios for this video.
I like to see dirty bikes 😉
KTM wasn't evaluated in this test, but it should have been. The Super Duke is fantastic!
It's not that curious. Home turf advantage. Same reason Triumph fares well in Brit media, Ducati in Italian media and BMW in German media. Can't say I've encountered any Austrian media, but I'd be surprised if team orange didn't get a similar helping hand from them.
One aspect (for decision making that matter to the consumer) BMW, at least in the US market has the most “try before you buy” user friendly philosophy. And although it is NOT a technical consideration, with such tight margins between these three, I appreciate this aspect alot as we riders need not only other people opinions and reviews but -mind you?- our own review. And the absolute no pressure to sell you into it mentality of the good BMW dealer and sales personnel is paramount to me. Not necessarily would determine going GS ofcourse, but in my checklist and at their prices it is quite favorable
GSA IS STILL THE BEST BIKE
BMW UNCOMPARE PERFORMANCE
I'm here for the butthurt comments.
Fantastic production fellas. Thanks for the views, comparison and info. I test rode all three last summer and bought the HD. For me, the attraction was immediate. It's my 54th bike, I've tried quite a few and am absolutely in love with the Pan America. It does it all, and does them well.
@@Motortexan I have the 22 Special as well. Love it!!
All 3 will nicely get you into and out of trouble competently. All the rest of the narrative should be about which one inspires you more and what do you like looking back at as you walk away. No big bore Comparison can be complete without the Honda Africa Twin, KTM 1290 Adventure R and the new Triumph Tiger 1200. Maybe next time. Congrats to HD. There are some fit and finish issues.
Too bad KTM and Triumph did not make the comparo.
And the Yamaha xt1200 super tenere or the bmw s1000xr.
@@liamman79 the ST is being forgotten even by its creators :( and the XR on the dirt? seems too risky
When I rode the Pan America, I couldn't believe how crappy the side stand was. The ride was good but it was not as good as a GS. But that's just my opinion. I'm looking forward to trying the new Tiger 1200.
And yet, everyone would choose GS or KTM...
I call BS, you just test the GS and commenting on the lack of Adventure ready suspension but you didn’t test the GSA, you know the one with the Adventure suspension and where’s the KTM 1290?
You’ve taken HD’s marketing money so make the disclosure statement.
LOL, way to not include the KTM or even the Honda or the Yamaha... Wonder how much more Harley paid you guys to choose them as winner... Effing silly comparison dudes...
Great Harley Ad. Guessing KTM, Honda and Triumph were left out of the comparison on purpose, because the results would not be the same if they were included. Hoping Harley paid you well for this.
You are a 100% correct.
@@brucekendall52 yeah it would be HD, BMW KTM HONDA TRIUMPH DuC.
Hurray for Harley yay yay
How does a 2022 comparison not include the KTM 1290 Super ADV R or the newly launched Triumph Tiger 1200?
and sorry can't really buy this "review". A 1st generation ADV by a company known for cruisers is better than the BMW which has been at the game for over 2 decades now. C'mon.
Both the KTM and Tiger are not available in the US yet.
Why the GS and not the GSA... I think that might have given it the edge here. ...and where is the KTM Super Adventure R. That would have given more legitimacy to the outcome.
HD no.1...? You're bought & paid by Big Harley blahblah blah, fakeblah blabbity blabbityBSblahblah, etc....
Literally no one but CW claims the HD is the best. Or even particularly good.
That was very patriotic CW!
Hurray for Harley yay yay
Nice review, however I have an extremely hard time believing the HD is the overall winner. Guess I have to go for a testride ..
Do it! It's no different than choosing a car, it's all in the rider's mind. I doubt any of us would be capable of pushing any of these bikes to their limit but we will be able to decide which one we personally like best!
Hurray for Harley yay yay
omg so should i buy all 3 because I can not make up my mind.
That sounds like a bunch of, GS, to me!
Hmmmm…. You reviewers must’ve given Harley your bank account number and routing number prior to this review.
yep, we rich.
@@cycleworld nah, the Harley execs are cheap.
I have no interest in ADV bikes but still watched, keep up the good work.
Hurray for Harley yay yay
Hurray for Harley yay yay
Nice video but outta all the choices in the adventure category I chose the Ducati Multistrada V4S, with little intention to go off road with a 500 pound plus motorcycle I liked the Ducati the best, everyone ride safe.
Hurray for Harley yay yay
Sounds like a subliminal commercial for the PanAm, lol
I think like a lot of the other comments - can’t do a real test without the KTM 1290!!
In the end ... all good bikes and you will buy the one that looks beautytifull to you
congrats to harley, i honestly believed they were too far behind in the game to pull this off.im glad they proved me wrong.strong sales of the newer models may finally get them out of the slump of the same old crap.they had no choise. harley buyers would only buy the same old crap they been buying for multiple decades.you got to build what will sell.way to go harley,i really hope this works out well for them.wow!! a harley that actually does something other than make noise & go nowhere quickly.
I,ll wait till next year perhaps HD will give it a quickshifter better brakes and a better screen ?
with a face, only a mother could love...
No ktm 1290 SAR ??? Not a true comparison without it.
Not the GSA with it's longer suspension then the GS at 8.3in F and 8.7R?
I shopped all three and came home with a GS.
No big trailie test is complete without the KTM1290...
Loved the video!! Proud to own my 21 Pan America Special..an amazing bike indeed. But I’m sure anyone who owns a Multi S or Gs will be just as happy
I think I'm gonna own the Pan America, it has also got the best design of all adventure motorcycles
HD looks very mold injected plasticy.
Prefer shaft drive personally.
Hurray for Harley yay yay
I’ll keep my GS thank you very much.
Why would anyone want a bigger/heavier adventure bike than KTM 950/990 Adventure? That’s the perfect mix between dirt bike and road bike. Anything heavier/bigger is absolutely unusable off road and it’s still a good street bike.
Because most large displacement adventure bikes are ridden are super slab tourers. If off road is where you spend the bulk of your time then a smaller displacement would make sense.
Turd vs turd vs turd in the dirt. Nice street bikes though.
If it's my country, its rain already.
As ADV always prefer shaft drive
They left one out. The 1290 from Austria.
Wow, impressive on the Pan Am.
Nice review and camerawork but no mention of price?! Amazing omission?
They are dealer, bikes given to them. Or very rich, next trip their chauffeur drives.😅😅
HD on top?.... Only in America... :)
Which one is most reliable?
Reviewers need to stop grading the Pan America on a curve. Either it’s good or not. You guys give this thing waaaay too much credit for just being a Harley. I.E. because Harley has been decades behind technologically until now, it’s somehow an over achiever? Stop giving them points just for showing up to the competition.
Tiger, africa twin, ktm?
Funny how reviews of the Harley are so much worse on UK reviews. Check your bias guys.
Maybe the UK guys should check theirs too...
@@bikee4 you see... That would be a valid comment. If they were reviewing it against a Triumph for example. Spoiler, they weren't.
I agree, home-turf wank is big on this one...
Bunch a crybabies......my bike didn't win, wa wa wa.
Hurray for Harley yay yay
Where is the ktm 1290r?
In the commentary you keep referring to the BMW as the R1200GS? Not surprising to have Americans come up with the American bike as the winner. :)
Is stupid to go on an adventure on these big heavy bikes,is all show off.You will be a lot of more better on a small all drive car like the crosstreck.