At L’Automobile Magazine, we are the kind of good student, we revise before the quizzes. Before getting on a big American engine, I therefore take out my dictionary. “Harley-Davidson, definition: two-wheeled tank powered by a huge air twin of around 80 hp. Non-existent ground clearance, impossible angle grip, engine vibrations to remove the implants, maximum speed 3000 rpm. Mainly used to go straight. ” Yes but now, since 2019, the Milwaukee firm wants to break these stereotypes. After the LiveWire electric roadster, here comes the Pan America maxi-trail. Does its unique style appeal to you? It is because you are not yet in the saddle.
Sweetness …
Contact. The new 1250cc liquid-cooled twin engine snorts with a metallic noise far from the backfiring of tumbled twins. From the first meters, this American surprises. Natural driving position, progressive clutch compensating for a somewhat hard gearbox selection, flexible engine, just like the suspensions, excellent balance at low speed … this Pan America is not intimidating for a penny and frees itself from everyday journeys with ease. But we discover an unexpected function: pressure cooker! Even without fairings, the new 1250 has calories to spare, so that when stationary, a strong heat rises up along the thighs. Nice in winter, sauna atmosphere in summer.
… and virility!
Luckily, this Harley isn’t at her best in town. Its twin-cylinder needs space to let its 150 hp gallop. Engine mapping on Sport, we take advantage of frank revs and a muscular thrust up to 8,500 rpm. On all gears, at all speeds, the 1250 resumes without being asked. In tune with this elastic and efficient engine, the chassis of the American is ultra-healthy. A little less lively from the front end than a BMW R1250 GS or a Ducati Multistrada V4, the Pan America requires more involvement from its driver at the start. But, after a few turns, this slight laziness fades in favor of a very good course holding.. On the corner, taking the brakes or accelerating again does not cause any disturbance, even with the original mixed tires. And the pleasure of increasing as the kilometers go by. The picture would be perfect if the protection offered by the original screen was better and the finish more polished. For the rest, this Pan America, powerful and packed with technology, skillfully brings Harley into the demanding world of maxi-trails. Sacrilege, the purists will say. But the Cayenne saved Porsche well …
Verdict
This Harley may not appeal to purists of the brand, but to other bikers looking for an original maxi-trail and packed with technology. Its strong point? A selling price significantly lower than the competitors, with even more equipment provided. But beware of the price of accessories …
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