adventure motorcycles

2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special Review

2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special Review
Table of Content
1. 2024 Updates: Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 1.1 Only Special Model Available 1.2 Vibrant Color Options 1.3 Upgraded Charging System 1.4 More Aftermarket Parts 2. 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special Specs 3. What Type of Motorcycle Is the H-D Pan America 1250 Special? 3.1 On-Road Touring Excellence 4. Design and Aesthetics: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 4.1 It is a Harley Adventure Bike 4.2 Features 4.3 Rough and Tough 4.4 Wheels Options 4.5 2024 Pan America 1250 Special Price and Color Options 5. Engine & Performance: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 5.1 Strong Engine for Fast Pick up 5.2 Liquid-Cooled Engine to Tackle Heat Issues 5.3 The 2024 H-D Pan America Must Be Handled with Care 5.4 Highway Ready 5.5 What Are the Five Ride Modes in the 2024 Pan America 1250 Special? 6. Handling & Cornering: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 6.1 Lightweight Frame 6.2 Cornering 6.3 Leaning Capability 6.4 Electronically-Adjustable Suspension 6.5 Nimble and Flickable 7. Comfort & Ergonomics: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 7.1 Ride Position 7.2 Rider Triangle 7.3 Seat Comfort 7.4 Suppressed Engine Vibrations 7.5 Wind Protection 7.6 Adjustable Seat Height 8. Braking: 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special 9. Cost and Value for the Money: 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special 10. Pros & Cons: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 11.1 What Is the Top Speed of the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special? 11.2 What Is the Function of the Semi-Active Suspension Found on the Pan America 1250 Special? 11.3 What Is the Fuel Consumption of the 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special? 11.4 What Is the Difference Between the Pan America and the Pan America Special? 12. Verdict

Harley-Davidson has come up with design and manufacturing innovation deviations only a few times. An example, which is quite contrary to what Harley has been manufacturing, is the H-D Pan America 1250.


Harley-Davidson is especially famous for its large tourers and cruisers. The company had always maintained its core competency and has never deviated from it. But over time, a few experiments were made to lure young and new riders.


The Harley-Davidson Sportster series was the one of the most notable change in the production strategy by Harley-Davidson. Indeed, it proved to be one of Harley’s greatest inventions to date.


Recently, Harley shifted its focus toward one of the trendiest motorcycle segment, known as the adventure touring. In the year 2020, the company launched the H-D Pan America for the adventurers. The Pan America did not disappoint and became a huge success. It became the bestselling adventure touring bike in North America. It also outperformed other Harley motorbikes in terms of sales.


The H-D Pan America is unique and is loved by most Americans as one of the best adventure bikes. Read on to learn more about the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special review.

1. 2024 Updates: Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

2024 Updates Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
Photo Credit: Augusta HD

1.1 Only Special Model Available

Currently, in the 2024 series, there is no H-D Pan America base model. The only model in the H-D Adventure Touring series is the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special.

1.2 Vibrant Color Options

The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is now available in several more lively and pleasant color options. 

1.3 Upgraded Charging System

The previous generation of the H-D Pan America model had a smaller battery which is upgraded to a larger battery in the 2024 model.

1.4 More Aftermarket Parts

Most of the premium parts for the 2024 H-D Pan America Special are available as an option. It is good to know that there are many aftermarket parts that can be installed on this bike to make it more special..

2. 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special Specs

2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special Detailed Specs
General Info
Maker Harley-Davidson
Model Pan America 1250
Model Year 2024
Motorcycle Type Adventure Touring Bike
Introduced in (Year) 2020
Warranty Info 2-Years Factory Warranty with Unlimited Mileage
Base MSRP $19,999
Engine & Performance
Displacement 76.4 cu in / 1,252cc
Engine Type Revolution® Max 1250 60° V-Twin Engine
Engine Cooling System Liquid-Cooled
Peak Torque 95 ft-lb / 129 Nm at 6,750 rpm
Peak Horsepower 150 hp / 112 kW at 8,750 rpm
Engine Torque Testing Method J1349
Stroke 2.846 in
Bore 4.134 in
Compression Ratio 13.0:1
Fuel Delivery System Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Consumption 46 mpg
Fuel Economy Testing Method Estimated City/Highway
Valves Per Cylinder Four
Valves Configuration DOHC
Starter Electric
Exhaust Two-Into-One-Into-One Exhaust System
Mufflers Catalyst in Header
Drive Train
Transmission Six-Speed
Final Drive Chain Drive
Clutch Wet, Multiplate Slipper/Assist Clutch; Cable Actuation
Primary Drive Gear, 49/89 ratio
Gear Ratios
1st 13.11
2nd 9.687
3rd 7.509
4th 6.057
5th 5.08
6th 4.436
Chassis
Frame Stressed-Member Alloy Steel Trellis; Forged Aluminum Mid-Structure
Suspension
Front Fork 47 mm Inverted Fork with Electronically Adjustable Semi-Active Damping Control. Aluminum Fork Triple Clamps
Front Wheel Travel 7.5 in
Rear Shocks Linkage-Mounted Mono-Shock with Automatic Electronic Preload Control and Semi-Active Compression & Rebound Damping
Rear Wheel Travel 7.5 in
Brakes
Front Brake 320 mm Single-Disc Brake with Four-Piston Brembo Monoblock Calipers; ABS-Equipped
Rear Brake 280 mm Single-Disc Brake with Single-Piston Brembo Caliper; ABS-Equipped
Tires and Wheels
Front Wheel 19 x 3 in; Aluminum Cast, Satin Black
Rear Wheel 17 x 4.5 in; Aluminum Cast, Satin Black
Tire Brand Michelin® Scorcher “Adventure,” Radial
Front Tire 120/70R19 60V
Rear Tire 170/60R17 72V
Dimensions
Seat Height (Laden) Low Seat Position: 31.1 in
High Seat Position: 32 in
Wet Weight 569 lbs
Dry Weight 534 lbs
Ground Clearance 6.9 in
Wheelbase 62.4 in
Length 89.4 in
Trail 4.3 in
Rake 25°
Fuel Tank Capacity 5.6 gal
Oil Capacity with Filter 4.75 qt
Lean Angle (Right) 42°
Lean Angle (Left) 42°
Electronics
Lights All-LED
Headlamp Daymaker Adaptive LED Headlamp with Six-Segment LED Banking Lamp
Tail / Stop Light All LED Tail/Stop Lamp with Signature Tail Lighting
Front Signal Lights LED bullet turn signals
Gauge 6.8-inch Viewable Area TFT Display
Speedometer
Gear Indicator
Odometer
Fuel Level Indicator
Clock
Trip Meter
Ambient Temperature
Low-Temperature Alert
Side Stand Down Alert
TIP Over Alert
Cruiser Indication
Range
Tachometer
Rider Safety Enhancements
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Standard
Cruise Control Standard
Cornering ABS Standard
Traction Control System (TCS) Standard
Electronic Linked Braking (ELB) Standard
Adaptive Suspension Allows You to Lower the Seat Height
Ride Modes Five Ride Modes:
Rain
Road
Sport
Off-Road
Off-Road Plus
Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS) Standard
Vehicle Hold Control Standard
Wheel Lift Mitigation Standard
Enhanced Lift Mitigation Standard
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Standard
Cornering Enhanced ELB Standard
Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System Standard
Cornering Drag-Torque Slip Control System Standard
Infotainment
Screen Display Size 6.8 in
Screen Type Color TFT with Touch
USB Connection Charging and Instrument Update, USB-C, 5V, 3A
Bluetooth Connectivity Standard

3. What Type of Motorcycle Is the H-D Pan America 1250 Special?

It is difficult to describe the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special. It is one of the most unorthodox Harley-Davidson motorcycles . It is an adventure touring motorcycle designed for adventures. This bike is capable of performing both on- and off-road. It is quite a versatile motorbike.


Before you buy the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special, you must know that there are better adventure bikes than this one. You cannot take this bike to conquer challenging off-road terrains. However, its performance is more oriented towards superior on-roading.

3.1 On-Road Touring Excellence

The 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special is ideal for on-road touring. It can cover miles without being uncomfortable. Its highly powerful Revolution Max engine generates 150 horsepower, making it perform like a sports-touring bike.


Considering this bike's power and acceleration, it is no less than a comfortable sports bike.

4. Design and Aesthetics: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

Design and Aesthetics: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
Photo Credit: Harley-Davidson

4.1 It is a Harley Adventure Bike

The 2024 Pan America 1250 Special is different. It may not look as stylish as the high-performance modern bikes of the future, but it surely turns heads. It is unique in its way. Above all, it is a Harley-Davidson.


The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is tall, heavy, and mysterious. It may not be the most perfect-looking aggressive-style adventure touring bike you have seen. However, for Americans, it is a true adventure bike. Like other Harley motorbikes, it is quite neatly built. 

4.2 Features

The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special has a box-style headlight cover housing and a wide rectangular-shaped LED headlamp. The main headlamp is stationary and is not mounted to the handlebars as is the case with most motorcycles. This may create visibility problems especially while turning a corner.


To overcome this problem, the company has installed another adaptive LED light to the windscreen bracket. It is also known as the turn/lean light as it helps improve the visibility while turning corners.

4.3 Rough and Tough

Most of the motorcycle parts and components are visible to ensure the naked look. The most noticeable and appealing feature of this bike is the 1,250 cc Revolution Max engine. The matte finish, along with the bronze-finished exhaust pipes, make the bike look quite attractive.


The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special’s rear seat section is quite elevated from the bike’s chassis. Unlike most of the Harley-Davidson motorbikes, it has a ground clearance of 6.9 inches. 

4.4 Wheels Options

The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special has received alloy cast five-spoke wheels with satin black finish. However, if you want to give this bike a classic vibe, you can get the laced, wire-spoked wheels as an optional feature by paying $1,000 more.


Overall, the 2024 Pan America 1250 Special is unique. It has its unmatchable class and character that is difficult to mimic. 

4.5 2024 Pan America 1250 Special Price and Color Options

2024 Pan America 1250 Special Price and Color Options
Paint Scheme Price
Billiard Gray (Black Trim) $19,999
Vivid Black (Black Trim) $20,299
Alpine Green (Black Trim) $20,549
Red Rock/Birch White (Black Trim) $20,649

5. Engine & Performance: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

Engine & Performance: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
Photo Credit: Road Runner

Regardless being categorized as ad adventure bike, the H-D Pan America 1250 Special is geared more towards on-roading. It is a perfect bike for touring and long-distance on-road traveling. The extremely powerful 76. 4 cu in (1,252 cc) Revolution® Max 1250 60° V-Twin engine makes it more of a sports touring bike.

5.1 Strong Engine for Fast Pick up

The 76.4 cu in engine installed on this bike makes it move faster. If you have previously ridden a Harley motorbike before, you will feel the difference in acceleration. The new 2024 Pan America can accelerate to its top speeds in no time.


The Revolution Max 1250 engine in this bike pumps out a stunning 150 hp and can get to higher revs quite fast. It can also churn out a torque of 129 Nm at 6,750 rpm, due to which it is ideal for touring on various types of terrains.

5.2 Liquid-Cooled Engine to Tackle Heat Issues

In the Pan America 1250 Special, Harley-Davidson has introduced liquid-cool engine technology which is not very common on most Harley-Davidson models. It has an efficient cooling system which makes riding comfortable especially on difficult terrains.

5.3 The 2024 H-D Pan America Must Be Handled with Care

The 150 hp of horsepower is not a joke. It can make you go extremely fast on the Pan America 1250 Special. If you are an inexperienced rider, it is advisable not to take this bike out for a spin. If you are not capable to handle a big, super-fast, and powerful bike like this, you must not open the full throttle. Most of the reviewers have said that the H-D Pan America 1250 actually performs like a sports bike as far as the agility and handling are concerned.

5.4 Highway Ready

Yet another spectacular feature of the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is that it is very good on highways. Despite having fairly off-road capable tires you can happily take this bike to the highways also.

5.5 What Are the Five Ride Modes in the 2024 Pan America 1250 Special?

You can choose from the five different riding options that are present in the 2024 Pan America 1250 Special. It has the ride-by-wire engine management system, traction control, ABS, cornering ABS, and several other sophisticated features making riding a much more fun and safer.


These features enable better ride customization. The rider can completely change the riding experience and the feel of the ride as per the circumstances.


The five ride modes are:

  • Rain: Rain mode is used to improve control as well as stability. This mode enables the maximum level of traction control while also softening the throttle.
  • Road: The road mode is meant for regular motorcycling. It is most appropriate for urban transport. It does not adjust any setting to a high level so as to provide the right blend of comfort, security, and speed.
  • Sport: The sport mode is used mainly for paved road and tracks to unlock the true power of the full engine. This mode engages the full throttle and cut out the traction control.
  • Off-Road: The off-road mode is for light off-roading. It also maintains the level of traction control, throttle response, as well as the ABS interference at a normal level.
  • Off-Road Plus: For extreme off-roading, the rider has to switch on the ‘off-road plus’ mode. This mode provides a dedicated setting to overcome extremely difficult off-road surfaces.

6. Handling & Cornering: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

6.1 Lightweight Frame

The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special has a high-strength lightweight multi-component frame. The frame is smartly integrated with the engine as structural support to give a low center of gravity while not lowering the structural rigidity. The frame is intelligently designed and is lighter, making it easy to handle.

6.2 Cornering

The 2024 Pan America 1250 Special is very stable while cornering. Below are some of the factors that explain why this bike is a joy to ride and flick into a corner:

  • It is lightweight, rigid and has a good weight distribution.
  • It also uses premium quality suspensions which makes it easy to ride.
  • The low mass distribution and center of gravity are most important in ensuring that this bike remains stable even when making turns.

If you are not experienced to ride this expert level motorcycle, then reduce the speed before entering into a curve. It is still a heavyweight and much more powerful bike to begin with or for an intermediate rider.

6.3 Leaning Capability

You can lean the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special a great deal only if you are confident. Owing to the fact that it has a great lean angle of 42° both right and left, cornering with the Pan America 1250 becomes quite easy.

6.4 Electronically-Adjustable Suspension

The 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special has an electronically adjustable semi-active suspension that adjusts to almost all riding conditions. You can change the spring damping with only a push of a button. This premium feature allows for better control, stability, handling, and comfort in multiple riding situations.


The H-D Pan America 1250 Special rides like a sports bike and handles like an adventure bike. It is fitted with fantastic suspension technology and handles exceptionally well.

6.5 Nimble and Flickable

The 2024 Pan America 1250 Special is also quite maneuverable and responsive in its handling. It means that you can easily switch this bike in the required direction with just a flick.


The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special can be distinguished from the standard Harleys mainly due to its sporty nature, compactness, and high performance. 

7. Comfort & Ergonomics: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

Comfort & Ergonomics: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
Photo Credit: Top Speed

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are renowned for their comfort and class. However, the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is not a cruiser or a Grand American Touring bike. It is an American adventure tourer.


As a performance-oriented on-road tourer, the 2024 Pan America 1250 is also designed to offer comfort to the riders.

7.1 Ride Position

The 2024 Harley Pan America 1250 brings the twin-spar aluminum frame with the perfect riding position for comfortable long distance rides. The rider can sit pretty much upright. On the other hand, the foot controls on the Pan America 1250 Special are mounted midway and are at a reasonable height.


On the other hand, the handlebar is also within the rider’s perfect reach. Riders do not have to extend their arms to reach for the bars which makes riding easier.

7.2 Rider Triangle

The rider triangle of the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is a work of art that is tailored to offer both comfort and control to the rider. It is neither too large nor too small to make long journeys become tedious.

7.3 Seat Comfort

The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special’s seat is comfortable and well cushioned. Even for long distance, it does not make you feel uncomfortable. But it also depends on with whether riders prefer soft seats or not.


A majority of riders do not prefer super soft stock seats because they are uncomfortable after some time and will result in sore buttocks. The seat should neither be too soft nor too hard.

7.4 Suppressed Engine Vibrations

Another Pan America 1250 Special’s top ergonomic feature is its engine vibration damping mechanism. It is also possible to ride this bike on highways at high speeds without being bothered by heavy vibrations. The overall ride quality is smooth even though some slight vibrations are felt at the handlebar.

7.5 Wind Protection

Another important factor that contributes to the enhancement of comfort is the protection from wind. For an adventure-touring bike, such as the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special, you will need enough wind protection. The Pan America 1250 Special comes with stock windscreen which is sufficient to protect the rider from wind for most of the riding scenarios.


However, you will find it inadequate when on the highways. This means that you will require more wind protection on the 2024 Pan America 1250 Special.


To tackle this issue, the size of the windscreen can be increased by using the manual adjuster. By just turning the knob beside the screen, the rider can raise the height slightly to get better protection against the wind.

7.6 Adjustable Seat Height

The 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is a tall motorbike, which helps in keeping the ground clearance high as well. This bike also has an optional adaptive ride height feature to change the height of the seat. The rider can adjust the height of the seat to as low as 31.1 inches to 32 inches.

8. Braking: 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special

The 2024 Pan America 1250 Special can go faster. This bike ensures an acceleration of a sports or naked bike. Although, it does not compromise the safety of the rider at all. If riders have good riding experience, they can ride this bike at very top speeds. The anti-lock braking system installed on this bike also provides a dependable braking system for the bike. It makes it possible for you to come to a standstill without compromising on the stability of the bike.

9. Cost and Value for the Money: 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special

The 2024 model of the H-D Pan America 1250 Special is priced at $19,999. You will have to pay more depending on the color you wish to have and the kind of wheels you want on your motorbike.


It is a costly motorcycle and is manufactured by one of the most prominent motorcycle manufacturer. However, it is a Harley-Davidson. You also pay for the brand name.


If you are a genuine Harley lover and if you can buy this bike, the 2024 Pan America 1250 Special is good to go. It is a multi-purpose motorbike with the new Revolution Max engine, high horsepower, handling, cornering, and off-road performance.


On the other hand, if financial aspect is of much concern to you in every decision you take, then this bike is not for you. Still, if you put aside the cost factor, the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is a fabulous bike.

10. Pros & Cons: 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special
Pros Cons
Unique Harley motorcycle Expensive
Stands out from the rest Controls aren’t backlit
Potent engine Sidestand is not a good
Super quick acceleration Flimsy front-end plastic
Offers upright riding position The TFT screen display is slightly less visible
Comfortable for long rides No stock storage space
Lightweight in its category Street-oriented tires

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

11.1 What Is the Top Speed of the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special?

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special is one of the most powerful Harleys. Not designed to tackle race tracks, it still comes with the performance characteristics of a sports-oriented bike. The H-D Pan America 1250 Special has a 150-hp Revolution Max 1250 V-Twin engine. It can reach a top speed of 137 mph.

11.2 What Is the Function of the Semi-Active Suspension Found on the Pan America 1250 Special?

The best feature of the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special is its semi-active electronically adjustable suspension. Various sensors control the damping rate according to the riding situation to make riding easier and comfortable.

11.3 What Is the Fuel Consumption of the 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special?

Harley-Davidson claims that for a mixed urban and highway riding conditions, the 2024 Pan America 1250 Special can help you achieve a fuel mileage of 46 mpg.

11.4 What Is the Difference Between the Pan America and the Pan America Special?

Other than the colour options, there are very minimal differences between the H-D Pan America and the Pan America 1250 Special. For a more premium look, the Pan America 1250 Special comes in different attractive paint options. It also includes other features such as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and full electronic adjustment of the front forks.


In 2024, only the H-D Pan America 1250 Special is produced, with the base version no longer in the offering. The two are quite similar, but the one major difference stands out and that is the price. The Pan America 1250 Special is considerably more costly than the standard model. 

12. Verdict

The 2024 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special is the most unique Harley motorbike. It is entirely different from what Harley-Davidson is used to produce. The 2024 Pan America 1250 Specials’ design, build, performance, and agility make the Pan America one of the most exciting Harleys to ride.


The H-D Pan America Special is also Harley's most versatile motorbike. It is classified as an adventure touring bike. This bike can do both on and off-roading. It may not be ideal for challenging off-road terrain but is ideally suited for long-distance motorcycle touring. You can cover long miles on the H-D Pan America 1250 Special with comfort and style.


Above all, the Revolution Max 1250 engine is exceptional. The 150 hp horsepower can make the Pan America 1250 Special run at greater top speeds. It can be an ideal bike for city traveling, highway riding, and adventure touring . You can do many things with this bike without compromising safety, performance, and comfort.


However, one thing that can stop you from buying this impeccable Harley motorbike is its price. It is expensive compared to its competitors, and if you prefer to stay on a budget, you may need more than the 2024 H-D Pan America 1250 Special.


Also, it is not a beginner bike . If you have just started riding a motorcycle, the H-D Pan America is not for you. It requires specialized skills and expertise to ride this bike.

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