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@Tetsaraku
3 жыл бұрын
Still waiting for Ryan F9 to give the final verdict. I'm guessing Harley is not keen on giving him a test bike.
@aaronkratzmann9703
3 жыл бұрын
Hahahaha. Why would that be I wonder? I have never hear done single "negative" thing Bret mentioned on about 50 other videos I have watched on this bike.
@RedEmpire36
3 жыл бұрын
I wouldn't be surprised if they did actually. One of Ryan F9s personal bikes is a Dyna.
@81722Les
3 жыл бұрын
Nobody gives Ryan a test bike, he did cover that in an old review he did. BMW hates him the most after he trashed the GS 1250....
@killdozer3464
3 жыл бұрын
Ryan won't get a test bike from Big Manufacturers. Just like Bret here, he is honest and shares what he really thinks, instead of just repeating what he is being fed from the press release. Also, Ryan really loves adventure riding / off road. You cant give him an "adventure Bike" demo, and then tell him to stick to the highways. It just aint gonna happen.
@williamrae9954
3 жыл бұрын
Not after the "Fatboy" comment,ha ha
@MasterNick7412
3 жыл бұрын
THIS IS A REVIEW. not just going over the spec sheet and marketing script from the ad campaign team. going over every little detail that we cant see without looking at it in person
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
I'm not much of one that likes spec-sheet reviews 😉
@klj2382
Жыл бұрын
gaybar fight, lol. Calm down boys.
@cfreeway8385
3 жыл бұрын
I’ve owned one since May, and in my 3500mi (1200 off road) experience has been nothing short of amazing. Having owned both KTM and BMW. I’m 5’10” 30 inch inseam and did not get the adaptive ride height with intention as I didn’t want to add version 1.0 of this new technology leaving all the risk of breakdown to the new motor. I’ve added the Low Boy seat, regulator protective skid plate, radiator guard, luggage, etc. I fine turned the clutch to my liking and did change the tires to improve off-road experience. I love the deliberate performance elements, low center of gravity, especially when I turned off the ABS off-road. In short, I encourage those interested to test drive, once the fine tuned adjustments to my riding style were made, it’s the best handling ADV bike I’ve owned and did I mention, that 1250 motor - when it wakes up at 3700 - 4K rpm, it’s like I am shot outa a cannon.
@elvulch
3 жыл бұрын
Best handling? How so? I’ve ridden both the HD and KTM 1290. The HD didn’t even come close to the KTM.
@mikemerrill175
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you. I want one.
@edroberts7344
3 жыл бұрын
I also own a Pan America and over 5k miles. Lots of forest service roads and fire roads. Really enjoying the bike and I have also had the GSA and KTM 1290. I have the radiator guard, headlight guard and heavy duty skid plate with luggage. I have laid it down in the sand. Bike held up great. No adaptive ride height. I’m 6’5” and have the tall boy seat. For me the perfect bike. I also live in Phoenix and rode this bike through 115 degrees during the summer with no issues.
@elvulch
3 жыл бұрын
If you think the Pan America is the best handling ADV bike you’ve ever owned, you must reach the limit of your riding skills well before coming close to the limits of an adventure bike.
@cfreeway8385
3 жыл бұрын
@@elvulch troll
@daleaxline6540
3 жыл бұрын
I own a pan am. I love the bike and Bret is spot on with his review
@davypig571
3 жыл бұрын
Good to hear from an owner. I still want one and don't know why I didn't get one this year 🤔
@davypig571
3 жыл бұрын
@Nombre Apellido I think most Harleys have them low behind the front tire where it's subject to everything the tire throws at it but it doesn't seem to be a problem. I think it is there for cooling purposes.
@highwayman1218
2 жыл бұрын
@@davypig571 Yep. Both of my HDs have em there. Been in the rain and wet plenty of times. Myself and no one else I know has had an issue. Its a non issue.
@rgh622
5 ай бұрын
@@highwayman1218 here we are 3 years into the HD Pan America and I keep hearing the same thing about the radiator and regulator being in a bad place. Yet, no one has had an issue with their bike when it comes to the placement of these two items. Still a non-issue!
@highwayman1218
5 ай бұрын
@@rgh622 Still really dig em.... Despite the chain drive being the fly in the ointment, I'm starting to get serious about selling my Super Tenere and replacing it with a black on black PA with spokes.
@mikec1254
3 жыл бұрын
looked like a fair and honest review. to many reviewers are biased toward what they ride. Great job on the review.
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
I try to be fair... It's not about what I like or don't like.
@freebehindbars8654
3 жыл бұрын
Biased by what name is on the check. Like Chase and those overpriced helmets.
@josmith4531
Жыл бұрын
And that is why I am interested in Bret's views.
@timarndt9328
3 жыл бұрын
I have the PA-Special, about to turn 5k on the odometer... I already "broke" the passenger grab rail. I was in Sturgis and HD had a PA owners ride. Was able to spend a morning talking to their engineers, designers, marketing guys and Jochem Zeitz (president). I asked about rectifier location, they said in 3 years of testing it has never been an issue. Also, the f & r brakes are linked above 25mph, below that they are independent. Yes the rear feel is non existent. I am still loving her and have a perma-grin after each ride. Nice video
@kingkrimson8771
2 жыл бұрын
Harley also claimed that a million miles of testing on the M8 engine never revealed a sumping problem but we all know how that turned out....
@tommykawasaki9676
2 жыл бұрын
I’m truly pleased HD introduced an adventure bike. I hope it helps maintain their business. It is very distinctive, nice looking, feature rich & appears to be very thoughtfully built. Hopefully it also has exceptional durability & longevity. Nice work HD !!
@advgirl
3 жыл бұрын
Spot on. That radiator design shut me right down when it got clogged with mud. Definitely needs a front fender extension at a minimum.
@aaronkratzmann9703
3 жыл бұрын
This way they can sell you one! Harley wouldn't miss an opportunity to sell upgrades. They are basically the Apple of the motorcycle world.
@fvgc454ss
2 жыл бұрын
I call bs
@kWebster907
2 жыл бұрын
@@fvgc454ss how so? You want to see photos of the radiator(s)? I was with another person also on a Pan America, and we both had problems due to clogged radiator.
@rodintoulouse3054
3 жыл бұрын
Love your reviews Brett. You always find things nobody else sees.
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
That may be a benefit of me not having time to watch other reviews 😜
@rogerw3818
2 жыл бұрын
"Adventure" bikes are the perfect street bike for me. The Super Tenere is the best of that group, so that's the way I went. Comfortable, roomy, powerful, proven reliability, shaft drive, center stand, and flagship level quality. With the addition of a Sergeant seat and Givi trunk, it is the most perfect motorcycle I have ever owned. 40K miles on it since I bought it new in October of 2017.
@dexxeve9420
3 жыл бұрын
I love how Bret pops into the scene in each cut
@TheEasyrider1200
3 жыл бұрын
I did a test ride last weekend at Wailin Wayne Weekend. I noticed the clutch seemed a bit off, too. Took me a while to realize the center stand wasn't the kick stand, LOL! Overall, a nice bike. If I owned one, it would be a touring bike I can feel comfortable riding down a dirt road with. I'll stick with my Africa Twin for the serious stuff.
@richardsprings1414
3 жыл бұрын
I'll keep my Africa twin Hardy's overrated
@aaronkratzmann9703
3 жыл бұрын
I reckon what you've stated there is their exact market. While it would be nice to be a totally sorted off road monster like KTM and BMW, in reality how many people with that sort of money want to ride big heavy bikes in the real rough stuff?
@mikemerrill175
3 жыл бұрын
My 450 KTM EXC would smoke em all once you hit the dirt.
@JumpingWatermelons
3 жыл бұрын
@@mikemerrill175 Sure would hope a 250 lb enduro bike could outperform heavy ADVs.
@aaronkratzmann9703
3 жыл бұрын
@@mikemerrill175 And a 600 super sport would beat it on the track. But thatøs not a relevant comparison either!
@MrSuryapratim
3 жыл бұрын
you're awesome! I don't know why I didn't find your channel sooner ... but I love the level of detail that you've managed to squeeze into this video! And thank you for not having a 10 second intro that I'm forced to sit through!
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
Welcome to the channel. Some of my videos have an intro but it is always related to the topic. I hate when people spend half the video telling me what they are going to tell me. I already clicked on the title... I know the subject.
@DarksideSleemo
3 жыл бұрын
@@BretTkacs Yes. You're so direct and to the point. I love how much detail you packed into such a short video. It's the first of your reviews that I've seen and I'm itching for more.
@BlackThor15
3 жыл бұрын
Finally, when a review is a review!! And that's only with 1x ride only, can't wait for the off road one! Thank you Bret!! 👍👍
@RenegateYT
3 жыл бұрын
I rode my PA through 105 degree inland empire temperatures. Honestly I cannot say I felt any major discomfort on the left side due to heat. If anything I felt that my right leg was getting toasty. Interestingly enough, I notice that while the bike Bret reviewed had the muffler guard installed it didn't have the radiator guard. Bret also didn't mention how an optional rad guard would protect the coolant system. It's also worth noting that the stock skid plate doesn't do much to protect the voltage regulator at all and so the optional plate, the one seen on the video, is almost an armor-like upgrade. One other point I feel that should be made is how hard it is to catch the side stand with your foot when setting the stand down. After 4 months riding I still have to look down almost every time first to find the stand.
@moconnor50
3 жыл бұрын
Well there it is! Thank you Bret for your review. I recently purchased a 1250GS and absolutely love it. I watch your videos regularly to help me improve and develop as a rider. Keep up the good work!
@matthewbutler3513
3 жыл бұрын
Loved the review. Great job on pointing out all the important details. Fantastic vid!
@nomadpi1
Жыл бұрын
Thk u for a brief, pertinent pointed explanation. This 79 yr old, thru the decades, off-&-on rider learned somethings.
@Racer57
3 жыл бұрын
One of the best motorcycle channels out there. Love the content.
@peterrobert3223
3 жыл бұрын
Sold my Tiger XCA1200 and bought a Pan special- agree with most comments, I find the Pan more nimble on road- already have a front fender extender ordered, I wonder if the regulator would have been better mounted under the headlight? Don't miss the quickshifter- I still remember how to change gears! So far happy with this choice!
@sgt.slaughter8170
2 жыл бұрын
Are you still liking it? I bought one today.
@peterrobert3223
2 жыл бұрын
@@sgt.slaughter8170 Yep love it- no problems, just some software upgrades and servicing!
@fragglerock689
4 ай бұрын
I had a quick shifter on two of my Bmw’s and lastly, my Triumph tiger and never use them because I know they say it doesn’t hurt the motor, but I don’t care what they say. In my opinion it does.
@jerseyjeeper1575
3 жыл бұрын
That radiator and angled plate under it is a dealbreaker…
@davidcolin6519
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah. reminiscent of the old Moto Guzzi design that threw every drop of water at the regulator. I'd have thought that HD had heard that it was a bad idea to pressure wash elect components, but apparently not! Seriously though, with the regulator in that position, you either have to put a cover over it and restrict cooling or you don't put a cover over it and run the risk of electrical failure every time it rains. And I'm really not kidding about this. There is a reason why pressure washing companies recommend that you don't pressure wash a petrol engined car in the engine bay, and this is it.
@Fee.1
3 жыл бұрын
@@davidcolin6519 regulator does what again
@loooooopy
3 жыл бұрын
@@Fee.1 takes AC from your alternator and turns into usable power for your bike, 12v. without it your battery will run out soon after its failure
@davidcolin6519
3 жыл бұрын
@@Fee.1 The regulator charges the battery, is responsible for the spark that ignites the flame. Basically, if you regulator is on the fritz, you don't go anywhere.
@verlinswarey507
3 жыл бұрын
Nah
@MotoSera
3 жыл бұрын
I'm pleased someone else finally noticed the bad position of the rad and reg/rec which I've been saying since I first saw it. Will be interesting to see how they hold up over time. Mind you, I expect 99% of those sold will never see dirt.
@jvc350
3 жыл бұрын
Just look at all Harley's and you will see that the regulator has been in that position for the last 20+ years. I've caked them with mud and crud with no issue. The V-Rod had the radiator in the same place. It's a non-issue. As Bret says it's a "perceived issue".
@MotoSera
3 жыл бұрын
@@jvc350 yes, big difference is the Pan America is meant to be an ADV bike and used offroad. Not like previous Harleys. Feel free to take a V rod across the desert or up a rocky mountain track and see how it holds up. I've had plenty of HDs over the years.
@fvgc454ss
2 жыл бұрын
@@jvc350 v rod radiator had the openings off to each side. The center of the radiator is covered and protected right behind the wheel.
@leonblack2651
Жыл бұрын
@@PeterAngles-ks9fp don't you have a gender re assignment surgery scheduled?
@elithegreat6463
3 жыл бұрын
This is a winner for H-D , but with a new platform and engine, it's good to wait IMO, until any Gremlins, issues or re-designs, and updates weed themselves out. In the meantime, my 2021 BMW R1250-GS will do me just Fine.
@EileenNovack
3 жыл бұрын
I just did a test ride at the IMS Carlisle, PA event. They gave me the standard version and I had little trouble getting on but found I was tippy toeing to touch the ground. I’m darn tall at 5’11” but still felt nervous about that. My current; and first bike is a CBR500R so much less power and a very different ride. Once underway I found the bike to be extremely nice. It was my first time riding any type of Harley and first time on any bike with this much power. They let us ride a good 20 minute route through a rural road going up a local mountain. I was worried about having to stop at a light and possibly dropping the bike, but found I was able to make it work despite not being able to flat foot. The power of this bike makes it seem that you could go anywhere with it. My confidence was soaring. After getting back to the demo area I did have a bit of difficulty getting off. I’m older and not as flexible anymore. I suppose if I had more time with it I would find a way, but it’s a concern at the moment. It was nice to meet and chat with you on Friday the 10th. I love your enthusiasm and expertise you show in your videos. Looking forward seeing more.
@a1scoot
3 жыл бұрын
Learn to get on and off with the kickstand deployed … it’s called the cowboy method and it works really well….
@mojomanmurph1925
3 жыл бұрын
Use the pegs to get on and off. There are videos of people doing this on all types of adventure bikes. It is awkward at first but you get the hang of it. Learn to keep one foot on peg and the other on ground when stopped. Works out well.
@ronr6605
2 жыл бұрын
@@a1scoot good move to jump on an Enduro avoiding a trampoline. well in that case w the kickstand directly mounted to the aluminium enginecase that might turn out expensive due to the flex swinging on it. teething problems and gen1 beta testers. guess they gonna make it better next year.
@1001CP
3 жыл бұрын
Man, when someone says "Waddaya think?" about a bike you give a GREAT review! I love that you give the goods/bads and shouldas WHILE being at ground level a lot of the time! Not busting on you because you give a review the way a good friend would IMHO and NOT the way the manufacturer would prefer. It looks like Harley has joined in the ADV family and I say welcome aboard. There are too many ADV bikes out there to be a snob (but there are some!) and this one is welcome in our group any time. Any bike is only as good as its rider, mostly! As always my friend, keep rolling and be safe in your travels.
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
I agree... Welcome to the party HD 🥳
@44MagnumFilms
3 жыл бұрын
I rode the Pan American within 5 minutes of taking out a Tiger 900 Rally Pro. "Deliberate" is an understatement. The PA felt like a Harley. I bought the Rally Pro.
@Dave-sw2dm
3 жыл бұрын
What other Harleys did you test ride?
@44MagnumFilms
3 жыл бұрын
@@Dave-sw2dm I have owned four Harleys.
@jvc350
3 жыл бұрын
@@44MagnumFilms Then how did it feel like a limited or a soft-tail? I've ridden Harley's for 20+ years and I own the PA. It's nothing like any other harley. In comparison, it's very nimble and feels lighter than 550 lbs.
@markjacobs3956
3 жыл бұрын
Comparing a Rally Pro to this thing is like comparing a thoroughbred to a Brahma Bull. 10000 super happy miles 50/50 riding my rally Pro in Colorado. If you gave me one of these I would sell it within 10 minutes and buy anything else in the segment including a Moto Guzzi
@patrickwhite1518
3 жыл бұрын
I've had a Pan Am since April. Buried it in the mud several times now. No issues with overheating even with the center of the rad covered in mud. Haven't had any issues with the regulator either with the stock skid plate. I have broken both of my rear handles however. No issues with the kickstand off road aside from the small footprint in the soft Fl sand. My biggest complaint is the heat. I had to half wrap the right side and put a deflector on the left. No issues wit the breaks, but the special does have linked breaking, so unless you were in Offroad + mode, you weren't using just the rear break which may explain why you weren't getting any squat. Engine guard is very tough, much stronger than the clutch lever that I broke on some hard dirt. The torque is controlled by the ride mode you're in, you get more HP and better response at high RPM in sport mode, but in Offroad mode, you get full torque to the rear at lower RPMs.
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the feedback
@MCCJustMotos
3 жыл бұрын
Pretty interesting and I agree on most of what you said but, after owning for a little bit on some things I disagree. Mostly on the easy natural sporty nature. It’s really really really good! It feels really natural. Not like I have to try to do it.. But, it took a bit to feel it. This bike has a LOT of feel! Surprising and delightful!
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
That's why this is an impression and not a review 😁👍
@davidspin5353
2 жыл бұрын
I test drove on in Lakeland Florida a couple months ago, loved it! Went to Berts Balckwidow to buy one, they wanted 5 grande over retail. To hell with that...
@yancywest
3 жыл бұрын
I own one and can tell you then crash bars are very capable. Lol. Also spot on concerning the stock grab rail on the rear. I pulled the fastener out of the plastic picking the bike up after confirming the strength of the crash bars. All in all great bike. Great review.
@johnb7014
2 жыл бұрын
It’s the best bike I’ve ever had. I love it keeps me wanting more ride time. Ton of power out of corners. Not done much off roading with the stock Tires.
@TheGuilleJunco
3 жыл бұрын
Great review, Brett. I tested one at my local HD dealer and had pretty much the same impressions you did with few differences. To me, the brakes were excellent. I like the progressiveness you can apply and, when needed, they bite like hungry crocs. I've heard about the engine being smooth from many other reviews and I have to say I didn't find that 100% true. The idle reminded me of a Yamaha Tenere 660, which is exactly like a tractor... It is true that once you're on the move, the engine is really sweet. The heat you mention though is way too much for my taste. I did a bit of traffic too and it was roasting. One thing you don't mention is regarding the electronics. I found traction control to intervene pretty late. While pushing it around corners, the back goes off if you're throttle happy and you'll have to correct it yourself if you don't want to go down. I come from a 2014 R1200 GS and must say I'd never change it for the Pan America despite the fact that I found it a really nice bike, specially for a first attempt.
@zxjockey
Жыл бұрын
I've been riding my PAS for over a year now, and many of your points are accurate. Fortunately, I have the same big hands so it all works. I will mention though, that there actually is a quickshift option for this bike. It's not a factory option (Although the 2023 might be), but a dealer option and a very quick install for your dealer. It's an UP/DOWN and works quite well. As to the ventilation down low, I've been out tempting fate in the very wet Berkshires a lot, and found my skid plate completely caked, with so far no ill effects at all. I did go with the same upgraded skid plate you have here, as the factory skid plate is more like a tinfoil hat. And yes, the crash bars are rock solid. Or so I've heard... The best advice for anyone getting a Pan America though, is lose the stock tires and put the Anakee Wilds on there. Mine climbs like a mountain goat with them. And to your point, the radiator guard is a must.
@bogdandanailescu
3 жыл бұрын
If it has a bit of orange, it's getting KTM issues along I guess: side stand mounted to the engine case & cooling fan on the left, roasting your knee :)))
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
🤣
@CsabaV
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Bret for the honest review. I have never ridden a Harley before (I'm not that type of motorcyclist) but the Pan America catched my eyes. So I have booked a 30 minute test ride and many thing you just said here were my concerns as well. I found it way too pricey for the package they offer. The most annoying things I found: Vibration, effort to get the bike turning, intense amount of heat, very short front fender (for an adv?!?!). Keep up the good work!
@mohamedabdalnaem9776
2 жыл бұрын
Damn!! First time to watch you and wish I found you earlier. Such a detailed analysis, Literally every other review is a time waste compared to this. Thanks for your extreme honesty and great job!
@BretTkacs
2 жыл бұрын
I avoid a spec sheet review and never watch other reviews. I am glad you enjoyed this 🤠
@TheBigdawg441
3 жыл бұрын
Not a Harley guy (Honda till I die) but everything you described as deliberate (with a negative connotation) is what I want in this style of bike.
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
It wasn't intended to be negative, only accurate. Sorry I came off that way.
@govtfunded
3 жыл бұрын
Real review from a real rider. Thank you!
@jayzenitram9621
3 жыл бұрын
Pack the radiator full of mud? Don't worry about that, only about 1% of these bikes are ever going to see a non-improved road.
@Sixbears
3 жыл бұрын
First review I've seen that mentions the potential radiator problem. Something to consider. Most water cooled scooters have better protection for goodness sakes.
@waynehollins2165
3 жыл бұрын
How about the kickstand mounted to the engine pan 🧐 come on hd not another oil leak just stupid location WOW
@Ritalie
3 жыл бұрын
They do sell a really nice radiator guard, which everyone installs.
@Rasckloc
2 жыл бұрын
You are absolutely right about the side stand. I have a 28.5" inseam at 5'5.5" tall. The simple solution is to weld a 2 inch piece of metal to the foot catch of the kickstand. SOLVED this bike for me. :)
@ChrisZBr0wn
3 жыл бұрын
Someone needs to get Ryan's hands on one next! Canadians, let RyanF9 ride your new hog!
@glinleyt
3 жыл бұрын
Automatic height adjustment when stopped! LOL But thank you Bret for consistently original content in your reviews and an unusually spelled name. First and last!
@_Zaid
3 жыл бұрын
I test rode one last week and I am nodding at every one of your comments. I think this is a good street touring bike. I didn't get to ride offroad so I eagerly await the first wave of brave owners to report more. I think with a few iterations Harley has a real shot of seriously competing with the big players on ADV. Naysayers are underestimating how many potential ADV riders want an American bike with a huge dealer network and easy financing.
@YSPDJapan
3 жыл бұрын
Yes. I saw the radiator and the electronics hub right next to the bike. My first thought was, "I'd literally cake that with mud immediately after hitting the trails." But that's the thing: normal people buying a 600 lb HD ADV bike are not touching mud. Ever. So it's a non-issue.
@markh.harris9271
Жыл бұрын
You may be interested to know that Harley-Davidson listened to you. For my 2023 Pan America: They moved the forward cylinder exhaust manifold (and lower radiator hose) so that they don't touch. There is now a radiator guard, The most useful feature for the new 2023 is the air deflector for the radiator fan; now when the radiator fan kicks ON instead of blasting the rider's leg with 200+ F airflow, the deflector redirects the airflow out to the side and away from the rider's leg. My 2023 Pan America is NOT deliberate; the bike is nimble in the corners and low speed manuevering is a dream. Likewise the brakes are NOT deliberate. They work well with great feedback. marcus
@2wheelsrbest327
3 жыл бұрын
Wow ! Bret I have viewed many great reviews on the PAS having brought one here in the UK , and Snowbird on YT as a great remedy for the hot exhaust cover issue , but your review must be up there with the best of them. I never knew that the side ( Jiffy ) stand was attached to the engine and that is worrying. With regard to the heat off of the exhaust I fitted the Screaming Eagle CF cover but I cannot say its made that much difference. With regards to the radiator your so right about it getting easily damaged and dare I say it to prevent this happening given the guard here in the UK costs £170 I have ordered one from Aliexpress for £35. That should be ok for me as rough stuff to me will be a gravel car park. Your comments about the brakes is also so right because you do have to yank them on hard. Prior to buying my PAS I owned a 1200GS and had taken a 1250GS for a test ride and quite liked it particularly the braking efficiency but then I road tested the PAS and felt you got more for your money. Initially for the first 4 weeks of riding the PAS I was missing the low down torque of the 1250 Boxer engine & indeed nearly traded the PAS in for one But I persevered and I have got to like the induction sound which compensates for the low down torque I am missing. But that said after viewing your video I am once again wondering whether I have done the right thing in buying it. For the record it didn't help mine breaking down at 27 miles with a minor fault. Just like with the side stand HD did not do enough research on fitting the exhaust heat shield as if you look at it it actually touches the exhaust at the top and has a wide gap at the bottom. The lugs should of been welded on equidistance top & bottom. To be fair to HD I think they have entered the Adventure market at the right spot given that its competitors are a lot more expensive but do not have the innovations that the PAS has. You can expect to see the later ones at a higher price point that's for sure. Given all of this one of the main reasons I may keep it is belonging to the HD community and being able to attend so many more gatherings than if I rode another bike. Our dealerships in the UK are second to none when it comes to other motorcycle marques. Given I seem to want more low down torque I may just find myself riding a Proper Harley very soon then. Ride safe Bret and of cause you now have another Sub. Ted
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
Wow, you had a lot to share. Good information, I love hearing from owners that have real saddle time. Welcome to the channel
@QuackLoud
2 жыл бұрын
You can count on Bret - this is the first review I've read that addresses any problems or issues with the Harley. Everyone else seems to turn a blind eye towards this bike. Thanks Bret.
@timlindgren8264
3 жыл бұрын
Honest first impression, thanks Bret & Todd. 👍 😎
@Docknivesday
8 ай бұрын
People dont give this bike the credit it deserves. I love the channel and rarely if ever disagree with what he has to say but the Pan America has been my favorite ADV yet. Ive owned them all. That being said something’s could be better and something’s are much better. I feel less fatigue after riding all day on this mammoth than any other adv I’ve owned and I’ve had a lot over the last 20 years. Bret go long distance and spend a couple of days riding this one and I bet you will have a change of opinion on some stuff. Great video as usual
@venkatesh-iyer
2 жыл бұрын
Finally an honest review with stuff that most reviewers don't talk about. Love your content.
@Dr.Twisty
3 жыл бұрын
One thing I noticed on my demo ride was that while standing the gyroscopic effect of the motor makes it difficult to initiate turns with the feet compared to the GS boxer. I was very impressed with the suspension of the bike on asphalt-really good. But no quick shifter or autoblipper? That’s a no go for me right there. That’s got to be on a bike this expensive.
@nevillegreg1
2 жыл бұрын
I dropped my PA over a set of wet and very slippery smooth clay undulations on a forest road. I lifted the bike up with one hand on the handlebar grip and one hand on the plastic grab rail. No problem with the grab rail. It looks like to me that the plastic grab rail on the bike you featured was not properly bolted on. I can tell you that the rear brake is far superior than what's on the M8 Softails, in fact, I like what Harley has done with the rear brake on the PA, particularity in slow maneuvering control situations. Quick shifter is now available on 2022 models. There is an aftermarket hot air deflector available to divert the hot air from the fan, shame Harley just doesn't include one. The crash bars, well, don't judge a book by its cover. They appear robust, but even at a relatively very slow speed drop, they will bend/buckle backwards and take the plastic case/vent/whatever called that are on the side of the radiator with them. They need to have a connecting brace to go around the front of the radiator similar to the KTM 1290 bracing. Other than that, it's a very enjoyable bike to ride.
@RadialHead
3 жыл бұрын
It's almost like they had a list of things you shouldn't do when designing an 'adventure' bike, & accidentally included them instead of excluding them. Revy engine? Check. Wooden brakes? Check. Low-slung vital electronics? Check. Weak sidestand? Check. Blast heat at the rider? Check.
@pattaber871
3 жыл бұрын
"Deliberate" = you have to ride it?
@scoobymoto9858
3 жыл бұрын
Love the pan American. One day I’ll get one.
@a1scoot
3 жыл бұрын
Had the chance to ride one a few months ago at a demo day….Enjoyed it as I am a dirt rider as well so I felt right at home on it…..Sold my Goldwing F6B and picked up a well equipped 2018 Super Tenere ES and have enjoyed the hell out of it riding 4000 miles in the past couple months. Wanted proven reliability so the Yamaha made sense to me.
@highwayman1218
2 жыл бұрын
Cant go wrong with the S10. Its a great bike.
@keyboarddancers7751
3 жыл бұрын
HD seem to have found the answer to big ADV questions which were being asked ten years ago!
@andrewshore262
3 жыл бұрын
Already clocked the position of the rectifier / radiator / very short mudguard it’s just waiting to be battered by rocks & dirt. Some great observations right there, I have to say though I really like the bike 👍🇬🇧
@PetrolJunkie
3 жыл бұрын
I was waiting for the Bret Tkacs on the HD Pan. Am. Managed to cover a lot of the reasons why I decided to pass on the bike. To be frank about it, the HD is a brand new design. BMW has a bike that has been tweaked and refined over many years. KTM is refining its offerings every year making its bikes better and better. That list includes every single manufacture in the segment, except maybe Royal Endfield. (Laughs) That's a hallmark of the ADV segment of the market, a constant loop of feedback and changes that over time polish each bike's design until it's ready for a complete redesign. If HD falls in line with it, they have a solid platform to start tweaking and refining, lots of opportunities to polish. It's also an example of why I refuse to buy the first year of anything, the next couple of years are spent fixing everything the engineers somehow overlooked and the reviewers and general public find.
@stromtrooper4478
2 жыл бұрын
In researching adv bikes, the bmw has the lowest reliability ratings in every comparison. I had a mechanic and salesman at a beemer,ducati,triumph shop tell me the beemers had the most warranty repair returns also. Cracked fork tubes,driveshaft failures,transmission failures,electrical issues with the huge ever increasing complex spaceship systems. Way to much money for a bike that has been around this many decades.
@PetrolJunkie
2 жыл бұрын
@@stromtrooper4478 Given how people ride the motorcycle there are bound to be more issues. A lot of it is poor maintenance. I beat the crap out of mine, but I do all the maintenance myself and honestly I haven't had any issues that are not the result of my errors while riding. I suspect many of the "warranty" claims are the same situation except folks are looking for someone else to foot the bill. Doesn't that change the way you look at those stats a bit?
@Petesmotoadventure
3 жыл бұрын
Reasonable review. I have the same questions about the battery and radiator placement. I have spoken with 2 owners and both have radiator damage already. One has the optional guard. The aftermarket has already made a larger fender. I am on the fence about buying one. As I would be a first time ADV owner.
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
The right bike always depends on what you want it to do for you.
@brad4690
3 жыл бұрын
Did a demo on this on Saturday after you and I had been oogling the Tiger 1200 prototype over by Truimph's tent. I did really enjoy that engine but that heat off it was excessive even on a 75 degree day. I had the same impression of the brakes as well, it was odd. I also wondered why that screen had so much wasted space around the tach and now I know. A decent first attempt by Harley but it wouldn't be on my short list for a new ADV. Was cool meeting you at the show and thanks again for the content.
@TheBigdutchster
3 жыл бұрын
Out of curiosity, what was this event that you were at?
@brettdavis80
3 жыл бұрын
@@TheBigdutchster It was the Progressive IMS motorcycle show at the Carlisle fairgrounds in Carlisle PA this past weekend Sept 10-12. I was there myself and if you look closely starting at 11:06 you can see me at my bike off of Bret’s right shoulder getting ready to leave the show. At least the ending here was video’d Sunday.
@TheBigdutchster
3 жыл бұрын
@@brettdavis80 Thanks for your reply. I';ve never heard of a motorcycle show and would like to attend one at some point.
@enduromotorradtouren
3 жыл бұрын
Interesting points that you pick up, Bret. Others might skip these details, but for me they matter most for longterm happiness. Thanks, much appreciated Günter from Nürnberg/Germany
@vironpayne3405
Жыл бұрын
I saw my first Pan American in person and then viewed 4-5 reviews. All I can say, "Its not for me." I have a 2018 KLR650 with >$2000 worth of upgrades. Overall, I love the bike. I've done >600mi in one day with the stock seat running on mostly on the Interstate at 75mph-80mph. The bike did great, much better than I did. It wasn't my original plan to burn up interstate miles, but I was in Birmingham, AL and it was the weekend that tornadoes slammed Mississippi and I was headed home to Florida. By the time I was far enough south to miss the storms I only had about 200mi to get home. My off road skills are weak, so I cannot imagine riding a Pan American in some of the Florida sand and mud that I run into. The KLR with 50/50 tires does ok, but it is still a lot of bike in the sand and mud. If I did anything different I would go with a lighter bike, but I am not sure there are smaller bikes that can do the interstate well. When I bought the KLR I had actually gone into the dealership to buy a new 2022 Himalayan. I had a KLR before and decided they were too much bike for my 32" inseam. This one was setup about an inch lower and it has made all the difference.
@GoodkatNW
3 жыл бұрын
23k bike and they don't have metal grab rails? That's a strange miss. Imagine lifting this thing when you still have luggage on the racks. Seems like an odd omission, but perhaps they expect the majority of the riders to use it like most people use the GS/GSA; as a long distance road bike.
@garyallmond6535
3 жыл бұрын
I have a BMW R1250GS (low chassis) and recently added the PAS to my stable. I like both bikes, they each have strong suits, as well as weak suits. Having 40,000 on the GS, and only 1,000 on the PAS, I don't have a detailed comparison, but did post a comparison on my blog. As long as I can put miles n both of them, I plan to keep both.
@goodrumlv
3 жыл бұрын
Poor PanAm. Bret got you in the friend zone. I was just waiting for him to say, “she’s got a great personality”! Harley, he’s just not that into you. This bike is an eye sore for me. Thanks again for a great video Bret!
@sgtunix
3 жыл бұрын
Hahaha... I was also waiting for that. Hilarious. Bret did a great review though, but it's clear that this is kind of a "compromise" bike. There's very little reason to buy one, unless you absolutely want a Harley.
@jayzenitram9621
3 жыл бұрын
I agree on the "eye sore" part. It's among the most hideous bikes I've seen in a while. You've got to be a diehard harley guy to appreciate the looks.
@FastRu-kl7iy
3 жыл бұрын
Best regards to Todd! He got best HD ever made, hope his next bike would be Multistrada V4S. Nice review, as usual Bret✌🏻
@thanosetsitty1896
3 жыл бұрын
I was looking forward to you doing this review on this bike. All in all sounds like Harley is not that far off with their first shot at adventure bikes.
@nick4506
2 жыл бұрын
I'm excited about the center stand comeback. I have an old bike that has one at my college now, and it makes maintenance a breeze instead of a chore. I've changed the rear shock twice with the tools under my seat. stuff that you would dream of doing in a garage I do in the parking lot. the other bikes in the class call themselves adventure bikes but the BMWs got that proprietary oil fil plug and ktm makes you use snap ring players to fish out the oil filter, these aren't designed to take maintenance on the move. this optional center stand is a step in the right direction for the industry. and the sad part is BMW used to be the leader in this respect the old 1150 rt will sit on the center stand with both wheels off the ground.
@user-cx2bk6pm2f
2 жыл бұрын
This may be one of the best bike reviews I've ever seen!
@donniemullins2719
3 жыл бұрын
Honestly, This bike is A "Touring/ADV" meaning 90/10 or 80/20 at best road to off road. It's meant for fire, dirt and well defined trail roads. So when you review it put it in it's proper perspective and you will find the "perceived" or Wait and see issues not as important. I honestly don't think HD will get a fair shake most reviewers that are more interested in finding something to set their review apart or it's great first start but mine is still better attitude. Am example of this is the "backwards" compliment about the fact they use similiar brakes as others and so it's a kudo. I guess they should have just made a KTM or BMW clone and then they would be what you like instead of trying to meet the market standard and bring something new with their own spin. No bike is perfect but let's compare their 1st try to that of the KTM and BMW and you will have to agree they did a hell of a job, where most don't want to even in this market because they love their BMW or KTM!
@G.Wagner_HD_Pan_America-Greg-
2 жыл бұрын
Well at least you got your speed shift option now... just got my Pan America today and I can't wait to get it out there!
@williamohrt554
2 жыл бұрын
I bought a 2022 Pan America and absolutely love the bike. However, I don't like the kickstand because it won't retract or go down if the center stand is down. The two stands simply will occupy the same space at the same time. Not a huge deal but I think that design is not the best. I love the automatic suspension action because I only have a 30" inseam; without that feature I simply wouldn't want to ride an adventure bike. This feature is a game changer for short riders like me. I also notice the engine heat issue that Bret mentioned. Its a real issue but there is an aftermarket heat deflector available which I plan to try (hope it works). I am an experienced heavy weight Harley Davidson rider and I find the Pan America very easy to ride so I don't necessarily notice Bret's "deliberate" shifting/braking issues but that is probably because I haven't owned a BMW or other high end adventure bike. Lastly, I don't like the stock tires because they really are not good in sand or mud but, then, neither am I.
@olegyd
3 жыл бұрын
When you get use DCT system you really don't wonna drive bikes with, clutch 😂😂😂 anymore
@LowenKM
2 жыл бұрын
Good review, and yeah, lack of 'feedback' on any bike is a real deal-killer (especially if it involves the brakes... lol)!.
@ollieross1384
3 жыл бұрын
I believe the big KTM’s have their kickstand mounted to the lower engine block as well. A lot of relocation kits available for that like BDCW. However I agree it is something of concern.
@iivaridark6850
3 жыл бұрын
Yes but look at it closer...
@DJPTEXAS
3 жыл бұрын
So does my Multi Strada......
@waynehollins2165
3 жыл бұрын
Maybe 😏😂 a hd oil leak kickstand ha come on hd oil leak again wow
@kennethwalton5582
2 жыл бұрын
Fantastic review, you definitely brought up some different thoughts than other reviewer that I’ve seen on this motorcycle. Thanks
@rso1411
3 жыл бұрын
Great review Bret. I love my PA and I don't mind the radiator where it is, but the short front fender just irritates me. I mean, wasn't that obvious? The navigation system fails also, so I bought a Garmin and hardwired it to the bike. It's far from perfect, but for their first outing with an Adventure Bike, I think they did an awesome job. I'm going to Alaska (Deadhorse) in June if you want to come along.
@davidfalgout7304
3 жыл бұрын
Bring a friend and one of you carry a rope. The PA will fail due to radiator or regulator failure!
@Fee.1
3 жыл бұрын
Is there a website for getting started with dirt and adv riding in your area/state for people with no friends ?
@rso1411
3 жыл бұрын
@@davidfalgout7304 I hope you're wrong, but I'm going to find out. :)
@thebigempty_5792
Жыл бұрын
The whole bike looks really good - it's a huge design separation from the bird beak front ends of the BMW GS and Triumph TIgers
@motoryzen
3 жыл бұрын
1:32 to 1:41 This something Revzilla's review(s) of the Pan america..missed. *scratches chin*..Leave it to Bret to find such things and address them. MUCH..respect to ya man!!
@riveraluciano
3 жыл бұрын
Yup, spurg, Ari and Zack are all rather tall (I think over 6 foot). I do wonder though, doesn't the bike have this hydraulic system where it lowers itself for shorter riders?
@shadowrider7072
3 жыл бұрын
@@riveraluciano It does, and I own one.. and I'm also short. The adaptive ride height adjustment lowers the entire bike to the ground, but the distance between the seat, foot pegs, and side stand are static. The adaptive height is great for getting a leg on the ground, but if you struggle to reach the side stand, you will ALWAYS struggle to reach the side stand. It's just really far forwards and hard to get to for somebody with a short inseam. On a related note, I was just having a conversation with some friends about how it seems almost all motorcycle reviewers and content creators seem to be abnormally tall people. Often over 6 feet tall, and quite often on the slim/lanky side to boot. Makes it hard to get a perspective for us people built like an old wooden whiskey keg.
@motoryzen
3 жыл бұрын
@@riveraluciano I was referring to the kick stand statement Bret made
@riveraluciano
3 жыл бұрын
@@motoryzen I realized, but thought that with the reduced height, a shorter rider would have less difficulty, though didn't really think much more than that.
@kaguario
3 жыл бұрын
I've tested this bike a few weeks ago. Bloody hell this bike runs hot, especially on the exhaust side. Even with thick adv boots it was frying my right foot.
@jayzenitram9621
3 жыл бұрын
And they tuck that rear cylinder right up against your nuts too.
@tjrenegade9807
3 жыл бұрын
I rode one at Dirt Daze this past August. I was impressed with the engine and overall feel of the bike but a lot of the things you mentioned bugged me as well. I think HD did a good job for a first attempt but its not there yet. Also I would wait several years to see what tech issue arise and how they handle them. I saw no need to trade my Super Tenere in for one anytime soon.
@rob1399
2 жыл бұрын
at the end of the day I applaud HD for trying something new... about time!
@ncgsc
3 жыл бұрын
100% no B.S review. Just the way it should be.
@rmspeedy1775
3 жыл бұрын
I had a 2018 BMW F800GS, I traded it in for the Pan American Special, leaps and bounds between the 2 bikes. I got the Harley, and I'm loving it. Have to train myself to handle the controls since I have small hands, but you over come and adapt. Finding new ways to over come the challenges of a bigger bike. I'm having a blast on it. Great video, been a fan for some time now.
@mattman3495
3 жыл бұрын
I'm sure those will become issues in a real world torture test off-road.
@rodrigofabregas7756
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you Bret for this very nice review, I like the Panamerica...will like to test ride it some day. I think that issues that you pin pointed in the radiator they can fix it with just a longer front mudguard, I like that autoleveling and lowering when stopped...because I'm 5'7"...and that's and issue in my 1290 SAR...😁, I lowered it about 1", and reach the floor just with my foot finger tips!.
@olenilsen4660
3 жыл бұрын
I would be really surprised if HD got this bike right from the very beginning. All things considered, it might just have its place in the adv segment. Also, I see a lot of adv bikes around, that´s never had anything but road tires on, so theres that as well. I welcome another bike for me to choose from, and wish them luck. If there are big flaws, I´m sure they will be addressed soon enough and fixed on the next version. Thanks for another great video, Bret!
@ExpeditionaryRanger
3 жыл бұрын
Who the heck did Harley consult when designing this bike? Certainly not a Bret type!
@csolivais1979
3 жыл бұрын
I'm sure they consulted somebody, but let's be honest, 90 to 95% of the riders who buy this bike never take it more "off road" than a gravel road or fire lane.
@user-us1hx2cx3j
3 жыл бұрын
AT LAST, a non BS review of the Pan America that does not just gush praise over this bike!
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
Not trying to be good or bad, just sharing what I notice 😉
@omnivore2220
3 жыл бұрын
“When you decide to break, you need be deliberate, about breaking.” Yes, well that’s true of my 1982 Honda with cable operated drum breaks too, and it’s equally true of my Kawasaki with dual rotor hydraulic front brakes. It’s just that you pull slightly less hard on the lever of the Kwai, but either bike stops equally well. Point is, I believe there’s far too much of this sort of talk about motorcycle breaks- “Are these breaks capable of stopping the bike?” It’s an oft repeated sort of meme, and it needs to die. Of course they’ll stop the bike. You can even lock up your front and dump the bike in a panic if you’re not careful. It’s just dumb, and this over-obsession on brakes needs to end. Be the change! Sure, some breaks will lock up your front wheel with a feather light touch on the lever (apparently, and apparently that’s what every motorcycle writers ever, and every yoububer, want). There is apparently no brake that’s ever powerful enough with a light enough touch of the lever, ever, ever, ever, so the more sensitive and grabby the brake, the better, always, no exceptions. But somehow I fail to see that as a feature. So now that brakes are all double front disk with dual eighteen pot calipers, you need to have ABS or you’re in danger of dumping the bike every time you touch the front brake. Is that where we need to be before bike reviewers stop asking, “Will these brakes stop the bike?” Maybe they’ll, reluctantly, quit saying that when the wind pressure on the front break lever locks up you front wheel or activates ABS at 55 MPH, so then we’ll need windshields for our break levers, and I bet EVEN THEN the bike reviewers would all pretend to wonder, “Will THESE breaks stop the bike”?
@DefZen343
3 жыл бұрын
always made me wonder this when i hear reviewers complain about single disks 😅 locking up the front tire on a heavy cruiser with 1 disk is pretty easy with 2 fingers, I guess most reviewers love sport bikes and like braking with 1 finger 😅 i think majority of people on bikes would accidentally snatch brakes that light in a panic situation 😅
@carlhaakmeester2869
3 жыл бұрын
Brakes ;) Not breaks
@_desertork1839
3 жыл бұрын
I understood that the brakes have no modulation, there's not a lot of feel to them or not a lot of travel, that's why you either brake or not, you can't feather them. At least that's what i understood, i come from mtb and like you say you can lock brakes with any type of brake but the difference is the way there, better brakes allow you to apply pressure in a linear fashion and have a lot of travel until it locks up, bad brakes act like a switch and don't have any sort of nuances. Also if you need to apply a lot of force in order to brake you lose feel, if you can brake with one or two fingers instead of 4 you gain a lot of precision and i don't understand how that's a bad thing.
@verlinswarey507
3 жыл бұрын
I’ve never got the whole “brakes” thing either. It’s a tiny little motorcycle,not a loaded log truck!
@DefZen343
3 жыл бұрын
@@_desertork1839 that would be strange, even my Harley branded brakes dont feel bad and i can feather them easily, there is a lack of initial bite but i kinda like it that way. The PanAm has fancy looking Brembo brakes 😲
@michaelahr1
3 жыл бұрын
Looks like just a ADV styled touring bike to me. Great video, thank you for all that you do!
@81722Les
3 жыл бұрын
"Deliberate" is the best way to ride in my opinion. none of the wishy washy riding some bikes feedback to ride
@ldcrallye
3 жыл бұрын
The side stand: use with caution. I kicked in the side stand and did not check if it is fully engaged, and leaned the bike left side and fell over with the bike. I recommend to have a sensor indicating the side stand is out. The rubber limiter is way to soft the the side stand springs back half way. Next point: the crash bars are working well, as I dropped the bike on hard ground. They bend a bit in when you crash it hard, but you see it hardly. Of course the clutch lever broke at the defined, notched point, so I could ride easy some days until the spare part was delivered. 169$. I installed a rush free metal mesh (square 4 mm) with some distance to the radiator to have dirt blocked and space behind to dampen incoming rocks, bricks, bullets etc to the radiator. Temp behaviour seems identical. The horns are from a toy bike, so 2 Hella horns are now working in this place, mounting options there are generous. Haver not yet figured out how to remove the fuel tank... Heat on the left side is remarkable, but bearable. On the right side heat comes from the collector, not the single pipes. I think a heat deflector at the lower part will be a relief. But also here, it is OK if you are not standing in traffic jam for minutes. Just spread your legs out. Like Bret says: this is the sword of Conan, if you handle it with guidance and you deliver the commands, the bike delivers. It is super super precise in the city in the rush hour, you can manoeuvre between cars super precise. Personally the fist gear could be a bit shorter and the 6th gear could be a overdrive cruise gear. 5th gear is waaay sufficient to dust any car, anytime, any condition. It is a Conan Bike with manners. Bret described it precise, good job!
@gasdive
3 жыл бұрын
I have no idea why I watched this. Just looking at the bike telegraphs that it's not the bike for me loud and clear. I guess I'll just watch anything Brett puts out.
@michael-michaelmotorcycle
3 жыл бұрын
2 weeks after I bought my 21 890r I sold my 17 streetglide to a harley dealer. While waiting on my check I hopped on one in the showroom. It seemed clunky just sitting still. Too wide, too stretched, too low, too plastic-y. Definitely not a bad looking bike but I think they missed the bus to lure in already established off road riders and might barely get regular harley riders onto the dirt. But those guys are buying side by sides and diesel trucks, not adv bikes. Most of these will become decked out as mall-crawlers, just like many jeeps.
@craigwilliams1073
2 жыл бұрын
Wow, that's one of the best reviews I've seen on the Pan America!!! Thank you!!!
@GSXR1300X
3 жыл бұрын
That looks like the Carlisle, PA IMS. Yes / no? I was out there on Friday and Saturday. Took the PA for a demo ride. loved it and i'm not a HD fan.
@BretTkacs
3 жыл бұрын
Yes it was Carlisle, I was presenting there and the next three IMS shows
@GSXR1300X
3 жыл бұрын
@@BretTkacs dang it. We could have met up.
@williamdickson9908
3 жыл бұрын
Nope, nope, nope. Get the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro instead. Leave the "Dirt Glide" at the dealership.
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