Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special: Zabardast Adventure at Rs 24.64 Lakh!
Are you ready to conquer new horizons on two wheels? The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special is here to redefine your adventure riding experience.
This cutting-edge motorcycle combines Harley’s legendary heritage with modern technology to create a machine that’s equally at home on city streets and rugged trails. But what makes this bike truly special? Let’s take a closer look at the Pan America 1250 Special and see why it might just be the ultimate adventure tourer you’ve been waiting for.
Power and Performance: The Heart of the Beast
At the core of the Pan America 1250 Special lies a revolutionary powerplant. The all-new Revolution Max 1250 engine is a liquid-cooled V-twin that pumps out an impressive 150 horsepower at 8,750 rpm and 128 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. This engine isn’t just about raw power – it’s designed to deliver a broad powerband that’s responsive at both low and high RPMs.
But what does this mean for you on the road? It translates to effortless acceleration whether you’re merging onto highways or tackling steep off-road inclines. The engine’s variable valve timing ensures smooth power delivery across the entire rev range, giving you confidence in any riding situation.
Harley-Davidson has also paid attention to weight reduction. The Revolution Max engine is integrated into the vehicle as a stressed member of the chassis, contributing to the bike’s overall rigidity while keeping the weight down to a manageable 258 kg (wet).
Suspension and Handling: Taming Any Terrain
The Pan America 1250 Special truly shines when it comes to suspension technology. It’s equipped with semi-active front and rear suspension that automatically adjusts to road conditions and riding style. This Showa-supplied system uses data from various sensors to optimize damping in real-time, ensuring a smooth ride whether you’re cruising on tarmac or bouncing over rocky trails.
One of the most innovative features is the Adaptive Ride Height (ARH) system. This industry-first technology automatically lowers the bike’s ride height by 1 to 2 inches when you come to a stop, making it easier to plant your feet firmly on the ground. Once you start moving, the bike raises back to its optimal ride height. It’s a game-changer for riders who might be intimidated by the typical tall stance of adventure bikes.
The suspension offers 190mm of travel both front and rear, giving you plenty of cushioning for off-road adventures. Combined with the 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, the Pan America 1250 Special strikes a balance between off-road capability and on-road stability.
Technology and Electronics: Brains Behind the Brawn
Harley-Davidson has packed the Pan America 1250 Special with an impressive array of electronic aids to enhance your riding experience. At the heart of this tech suite is a 6.8-inch TFT touchscreen display that’s visible even in bright sunlight. This interface allows you to control various aspects of the bike, from ride modes to navigation.
Speaking of ride modes, the Pan America 1250 Special offers five pre-programmed modes (Sport, Road, Rain, Off-Road, and Off-Road Plus) along with three customizable modes. These modes adjust various parameters including power delivery, engine braking, and traction control to suit different riding conditions.
Other notable tech features include:
- Cornering ABS and traction control
- Hill hold control
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone integration
- Cruise control
- Heated grips
The bike also features a Daymaker Adaptive Headlamp that adjusts its beam based on lean angle, illuminating the inside of turns for better visibility during night rides.
Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for Long Hauls
Adventure touring is all about covering long distances comfortably, and the Pan America 1250 Special doesn’t disappoint in this department. The bike features a spacious riding position with an adjustable seat height (850mm to 870mm without ARH). The windscreen is also adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect position to minimize wind buffeting.
The 21.2-liter fuel tank provides a generous range, allowing you to cover long stretches between fill-ups. For those extended trips, the Pan America 1250 Special is compatible with a range of luggage options, including hard panniers and a top box.
Comfort features like heated grips and cruise control make those long highway stretches more bearable, while the well-padded seat ensures you can spend hours in the saddle without discomfort.
Pricing and Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special is priced at Rs 24.64 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. While this might seem steep at first glance, it’s competitive when you consider the technology and features packed into this machine. Let’s see how it compares to some of its rivals:
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special | Rs 24.64 lakh | Semi-active suspension, Adaptive Ride Height, 150 hp engine |
| BMW R 1250 GS Pro | Rs 22.90 lakh | Boxer engine, Dynamic ESA, 136 hp |
| Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Pro | Rs 20.19 lakh | T-plane crank engine, semi-active suspension, 150 hp |
| Ducati Multistrada V4 S | Rs 24.99 lakh | V4 engine, Skyhook suspension, 170 hp |
As you can see, the Pan America 1250 Special holds its own against established players in the adventure touring segment, offering a unique blend of Harley-Davidson character with cutting-edge technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. What is the fuel efficiency of the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special?
The Pan America 1250 Special has a claimed fuel efficiency of 18.33 kmpl. However, real-world mileage may vary depending on riding conditions and style. With its 21.2-liter fuel tank, you can expect a range of around 380-400 km on a full tank.
Q2. Is the Pan America 1250 Special suitable for off-road riding?
Yes, the Pan America 1250 Special is designed to handle off-road terrain. Its semi-active suspension, generous ground clearance, and off-road specific riding modes make it capable of tackling rough trails. However, like any adventure bike, its off-road performance will also depend on the rider’s skill level.
Q3. How does the Adaptive Ride Height system work?
The Adaptive Ride Height (ARH) system uses sensors to detect when the bike is coming to a stop. As you slow down, it gradually lowers the suspension, reducing seat height by 1 to 2 inches. This makes it easier to put your feet down at stops. Once you start moving again, the system raises the bike back to its optimal ride height.
Q4. What are the service intervals for the Pan America 1250 Special?
Harley-Davidson recommends the first service at 1,600 km or 100 engine hours, whichever comes first. Subsequent services are recommended at 8,000 km intervals or annually, whichever comes first. However, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual or local Harley-Davidson dealer for the most up-to-date service information.
Q5. Can the Pan America 1250 Special be used for daily commuting?
While the Pan America 1250 Special is designed primarily for adventure touring, it can certainly be used for daily commuting. Its comfortable ergonomics, smooth power delivery, and features like cruise control make it suitable for urban riding. However, its size and weight might be challenging in heavy traffic or for parking in tight spaces.
Wrapping Up
The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special represents a bold new direction for the iconic American brand. It combines Harley’s heritage of powerful V-twin engines with cutting-edge technology to create a truly versatile adventure touring motorcycle. Whether you’re planning a cross-country expedition or just want a capable all-rounder for weekend escapes, the Pan America 1250 Special offers a compelling package. Its innovative features like the Adaptive Ride Height system and semi-active suspension set it apart in a crowded segment. While it comes with a premium price tag, the level of technology and performance on offer makes it a strong contender in the high-end adventure touring market.
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