Harley-Davidson Pan America ride with my Dad and Neighbor│Orange County, CA

Matt Laidlaw takes a ride with his Dad, Jerry Laidlaw, and his neighbor Dave on a day-ride testing out the Harley-Davidson Pan America. Jerry rides the Pan America off-road for the first time and gives his thoughts how it compares to other Adventure bikes. Matt and Jerry discuss the right, and wrong, best riding applications for ADV bikes and where the Pan America fits into those practices. They also discuss some of the strengths and weakness of the Pan America as a whole as it relates to the riding capabilities.
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#​​​PanAmerica #HarleyDavidson #AdventureMotorcycle

[@danielvartanian9878]

Jerry Laidlaw also is a exceptional welder, watched him do some amazing things at the Rosemead store. No one had the guts or knowledge to weld gas tanks in the 1990’s. Jerry had it down to a science, like everything with him was not a big deal. Very humble man…

[@johnc6380]

It's always a pleasure to hear your dad's perspective and insight on anything HD! Would be awesome to see some more videos of you all tackling some trails.

[@davidgreaney7687]

I'd love to see more videos with Jerry Laidlaw in them.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks! Coming!

[@michaelgurgone1611]

I’m 66 years old and have a lot of off road, flat track and TT racing experience from my younger years. Though the years naturally I owned many street bikes like my current Low Rider, Electra Glide… I honestly have to say I have great interest in the Pan America platform because of its obvious on/off road versatility and getting to see the beauty of things off road the average street rider never sees! And it’s so much safer and enjoyable riding a motorcycle off road, then instantly having the capability of taking to the open highways, grabbing some food and staying in a comfortable hotel or just camping out. Next time I buy a new Harley Davidson I won’t be so undecided of which model I want, I am making a bee line to the Pan America and see how it fits me. I love what this bike offers.

[@WhiskyJackR]

Great video Matt. Really good to see your Dad out on the trails living life to the full 😎👍

[@chadmartin6334]

Anytime you can ride with your Dad is always special!

[@jackreece6303]

Great video. Always glad to see a great dad and son riding together.

[@pmdinaz]

Its awesome that ypur dad is healthy enough , that ypu still get to ride with him. I am jealous if I'm honest. Fantastic!!

[@Idahoshepherds83440]

Yes have your dad ride more with you. He totally has fun on a bike and it shows.

[@Bluis5445]

Ok but why did your dad have more swagger than all of you combined? He looked badass on that bike.

[@johnmyers8588]

Great video.....of course, invite Dad more often! 6'-8"? Damn.....surprised he wasnt complaining about his poor knees!

[@addicted2baseballrgd21]

I can't envision him on a Yamaha Tenere 700.

[@gilesforrest3945]

Great video and awsome to see Laidlaw Senior out and about and to get his opinion too. Let's see more of Dad 🙂👍

[@rodneybarcus2233]

Matt your dad is pretty cool so bring on the videos. That was funny when he asked that rider if they were okay and alter that he burns off.

[@grayghost1423]

It's so cool you get to ride with your Dad. Enjoy it, they are treasures! Great video.

[@mauriciocerritos4722]

Best way to chair beautiful moments in life with your dad. Another way in H.D lifestyle.

[@cperine39]

I like how Matt just sits quietly and listens to his Dad speak. You can see the respect. Would love to take a couple riding lessons from Mr. Laidlaw. That man knows how to ride! Love your videos Matt! Great family you have and the Best bikes!

[@darrellfolk5284]

I absolutely love this overview with you and Jerry!!

[@bryanrogers1939]

I've been watching your videos for years. Your detailed review on bikes have definitely helped me in my decision making to make purchases and be extremely happy with them. It was really good to see your Dad and hear his ideas on HD's new hotness of a bike. I straddle the fence on if this would ever be a purchase that I would make and while I am probably closer to your age, Matt, I think more like a person of your Dad's generation on these things. Also, I have a small link to your family but that is a story for another day. Thanks for the work that you do.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks for watching over the years. I appreciate your comment. The pan america is a great bike if utilized for its purpose of on and off road. It’s nice to have some off road experience too.

[@barguerpi5966]

Great vid💯. Family, good quality editing, inspiration, honest opinion and also proper spoken english. Rock on🍻

[@garyallen6486]

Great video- yes, “more Jerry”, please! Would love to hear some of his “war stories”- I bet he has some gems. Keep the great content coming, Matt!

[@jasenhaynes8046]

That’s awesome your dad went with you. And you two have motorcycles in common

[@Drunknmunk22]

Man, I’m definitely thinking about getting one of these! Seeing these videos makes it more appealing to me for sure 👍🏼

[@andrew56391]

Got mine a few weeks ago love it!!

[@georgepierce3595]

Great to see you and your Dad riding together!!! I’m 64 years old and thought I was too old to ride a bike like the Pan America but after watching your dad I’m having second thoughts!!

[@StanfordCrane]

Awesome video Matt and Jerry, thanks for sharing a good time!

[@ntdfmaverick]

Looks like a ton of fun, and awesome to hear the experienced perspective!

[@whskywolf]

Every time I see the Pan American I like it even more, definitely not a cruiser, but for camping trips or off the normal roads it be great, we still have a lot of gravel roads here in KY and it give some more areas to explore on a bike.

[@douglascorbello6204]

Yes, Jerry buy one. Seeing you and your son out on a adventure makes me want to buy 2 PA Specials. 1 for me and 1 for my son. Looking forward to see the on going saga of "Where the roads don't go".

[@gunner9010]

Nice to see dad out and about. Great to see HD venturing into the off-road and bringing tech into the Sportster S. Exciting times. I'm still a Heritage chrome guy though. lol

[@josephtizol9695]

Great video. I enjoyed the other “family video “ about the H-D revival bike and this one was great as well. You’re father does a great job breaking the bike down. I was going to retire my 93 FLHTP in 2 years when I retire and buy a new bagger but now I’m considering replacing it with a Pan-America. Oh also loved the aerial shots Matt

[@jimlebiedz5723]

Love your dad! Totally want to see more of him in your videos!

[@karenshoucairmcgray4902]

Absolutely would love to see your Dad in more vids! You and your Dad are two peas in a pod Matt, and yes he should get a Pan America. Nice bike!

[@brents1643]

Just bought 1. LOVE IT

[@DeafStunts]

Thanks for great Insight and great video ! 👊🏼💯

[@nacona5114]

Great video once again Matt! The more I see and learn about this bike the more I am talking myself into buying one. This is a perfect bike for those of us who live in the desert. It is a street bike as well as an off-road bike. I like the looks of this bike and the durability of the design for going off-road. With its mind-blowing features like its adaptability to the various terrains, right down to the sturdy kickstand its extra features Harley did on this model. This is so worth the money, it is the most versatile bike and I think Harley batted it out of the park on this one! Love Silverado Canyon used to ride there in the 70s and take in four corners. Another cool ride is the back road Hwy.18 up to Big Bear.

[@jamestorregrossa3041]

Great presentation, thank you my friend.

[@FXDLSBrooklyn]

Definitely keep the off-road videos coming with Jerry!

[@thomasangelo4219]

Really nice seeing you ride with your dad. You can see he's an accomplished motorcycle rider. Looking forward to more videos like this. The Pan American looks like a big hit for H.D.

[@netguru1234]

Loved having your Dad in the video…wonderful video.

[@charlesblount6858]

Jerry! Jerry! He talks my age. Thank you sir for being with us.

[@BikesNThings]

Having had the chance to ride the pan-am, I just can't get the idea out of my head of trading my FXLRS for one. I mean I could live on that pan-am for sure, a lot more comfortably than the FXLRS. It really is an adventure bike built for our lovely continent. Always nice having your dad bless us with his knowledge and input too. Great video as always Matt.

[@hotdotdog]

Good to see Jerry

[@guns4uandme]

One of most awesome rides ever seen you do, especially with your Father👍he is a really cool dude!! Guessing he is in his 70’s like me, very impressive rider and great at expressing his review of the cool new HD! Like to hear more about his bio, how he became a HD dealer and his riding experience an accomplishments. You are fortunate have such a cool dad👍❤️

[@MattLaidlaw]

I'm very fortunate. The plan is to definitely include him in more videos.

[@dmenace265]

I don’t know, everything I’ve heard about that motor I absolutely LOVE! Just in a street bike! Sorry I’m not going OFF-ROAD on a 600lb. Bike.

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Cool video Matt! Yes your pop’s should ride with you more often in your video.. Ride safe and thanks for sharing..

[@browngreen933]

Good honest talk of the capabilities and limitations of PanAmerica. Yep, a great highway and decent Jeep trail bike, but risky in the rough stuff. You don't want that batch to fall down in the rocks downhill or in a gully--especially if you're alone. Already I'm hoping for a mini version.

[@mackmpc]

Great video Matt. Good to see you dad out on a PanAm also. Heather wants one!

[@dna971]

Of course Jerry needs one! It will be my other Harley and I’m guessing many Harley owners will want to have one - after watching this video. Love my wide glide and it’s a keeper for life but the PanAmerica will be my touring bike instead of a bagger for sure.

[@wooddawg4868]

The Pan America is a segment that go everyone’s attention two fold. The 1st being the adventure bike entry in a big and thought out way. Secondly, the new engine technology that was introduced in a way to let everyone know what was coming as far a a new power plant that’s in the works that’s smooth, liquid cooled, fully counter balanced, latest electronics, and injection oiling system, single oil fill and single draining with less problematic 1950’s/1960’s parts.

[@kurtgranlund496]

Amazing views. Great camera work as always!

[@kevinhogan2975]

Matt, While your vids are generally excellent, this one was very cool! I really enjoyed the father/son ride and bonding. That your Dad, Jerry, is an accomplished off-roader, rider, and cool in his own right was great. I’d definitely like to see more content like that. I never got to share rides with my dad (or my Godfather/Uncle) as they both rode prior to my tenure and both passed-on (‘14 and ‘97, respectively). My little brother and I rode extensively, but he also left us in ‘14. I’m retiring from 30-plus years of public service in ‘22 and taking my show on the road from NJ to AZ, where my new life and a future new wife awaits. I’m definitely making a b-line road trip for Laidlaw’s H-D once out there for good! Cheers, Kevin

[@vtwinsrbest]

Thanks Jerry. You guys make a great team!

[@Steve-ec6ed]

Love the vids with you and your pops

[@Johnthebruce]

I'm trying one out tomorrow Looking forward to seeing how it compares to my last ADV bike

[@MattLaidlaw]

I'll be curious to hear your thoughts and impression

[@Bikerbug2020]

Best bike that Harley is building too date… kudos to Milwaukee.

[@luisoutumuro424]

Always great to see your dad! Jerry also mentioned Mexico and Baja... how about the Laidlaw's Crew going on Biltwell's El Diablo Run in San Felipe, Baja.

[@MattLaidlaw]

It's on the bucket list for sure. I'll need to do it next time maybe

[@prettycoolhuhk4805]

Matt, Definitely more ADV vid's. Yeah, Jerry needs a pan america. Thanks for posting & Stay safe

[@williamhyland4253]

I have the orange one as well and was curious to how it would look with the black front instead of the white. Glad to see that you switched it out. Not sure if I like it better than the white. But it’s cool how easy it is to pull it off and switch if you feel inclined.

[@SeekTheOpen]

Love the orange & black combo!

[@MattLaidlaw]

We did some mixing and matching on that one. 👍🏼

[@caruser4]

I was expecting to hear cash register sounds when that bike hit the ground 😄 Glad to see the crash bars came through

[@filmcostar]

truly amazing

[@kennykerns3325]

Great video with you your dad!

[@djmysticalone321]

Awesome video Matt

[@mrbjay5443]

I love that bike I was thinking of a touring bike but the more I think about it the Pan America is for me. What a bike! I come from dirt riding them I had a street bike for years.

[@StephenSpark]

I'd love to see more "Riding with Jerry"!

[@free2chasehappy]

Your dad is 6'8"?! I need to find out what the Laidlaws eat for breakfast! Haha. Great vid having your dad over, give different perspectives on the Pan Am.

[@13_Cowboy]

Need more Jerry and more Pan America content! 😎

[@AlexisDorofeev]

Hello Matt Laidlaw. Guys, i congratulate all the employees of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and absolutely every biker and motorcycle on Earth with the celebration of the 118th anniversary ​of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company:) Harley-Davidson Motor Company and their motorcycles Harley-Davidson are still the best in the world!

[@genekelley7579]

🛑🛑 Matt…..Great Job on the video👍 Enjoy the time with your dad. It is “great to share” similar interests and make memories.

[@scootjockey]

I did not get the PA and stuck to my fxbr 2019 breakout but i did ride it a great bike.

[@NorCal-refrigeration]

Awesome video 🤘⚡️🤘✨

[@leonardbartley5670]

Great video Matt, Good to see your dad still at it. The drive chain on the Pan America is it a standard size or is it a Harley exclusive , finally saw the bike in person and the drive chain looked huge almost looked like a piece off of an industrial machine..

[@MattLaidlaw]

I’m not sure about the length to be honest

[@johnnynitro7523]

Great background music Matt...!!!

[@hooverfanhooverfan6586]

I Might buy one! Love, love

[@mickeyroberts77777]

Great video Matt! Jerry needs to buy a Pan America and then you guys need to make a series of videos with the Pan America. Your dad is great in the videos, I keep thinking of the one with the Fat Bob, now that was funny! Famous quote from Jerry, "I'm not going on KZbin!" Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!

[@yodo6414]

Livin the life, Nice pan american, keep vids coming, your the best on my opinion on KZbin on motorcycles.

[@WorldGoods]

What a cool jacket your dad has

[@ernieme101]

great video , sweet ride , really cool dad. :)

[@Firestorm637]

Great video! How about the Sportster S review

[@ramonburgos6351]

What a blessing for you to be able to ride with your father!! What’s the status of getting bags for this bike?

[@KGPatriot-fv8xz]

Hi there. Just bought a Pan Am. Love the bike. Your video was great. Where in Orange Country is that trail? I would love to visit your shop and ride that trail. Thank you.

[@oldhead_]

Just loved this video..nothing quite like Father and Son quality time together and “Jerry” got a kick out of you calling him that! Haha You both have no problems giving honest opinions on the Dirt Glide so why not touch on the real problems folks are having with it?..and plans to address them in the next gen..(quick shifter/ auto blip please?! Lol) but yes, bring Dad along more..no resemblance at all btw..haha

[@Stevel_]

Looks like a nice ride! Lots of dust; easy to forget about that when you are mostly on pavement.

[@9ictv2]

It would be great if your dad will join you for some more rides and videos…the more the better! Hope he will agree!

[@Axl_colts]

Hey Matt! Are u going to make a video on the new sportster s anytime soon?

[@thepieman2742]

Cool!

[@AkaBull]

Good on ya mate 👏 👍

[@hoss6048]

Yea put Jerry in there more often..great added perspective!

[@MattLaidlaw]

I'm going to try to get him in more videos.

[@hexhead5732]

Looks like HD hit it out of the ballpark with Panamerican all the videos I've seen on this bike have all been highly rated as a ten good job Harley Davison I think Harley Davidson should give Jerry a brand new bike

[@jimmin9802]

This is what these big adv bikes are for, lots of peagravel unmaintained trails in alabama south ga that i am having a good time on that i would hate to bring my ultra on! Harley needs to work with a boot manf like gaerne and market one of their enduro boots like the fastback.

[@charlescheeseman3430]

Matt, 2 words.......Idaho BDR! Great video thanks.

[@stuandjussi]

Nice Video Matt Can a short guy ride this bike? 29” inseam.. can you get a lower seat and set up? I ride a slim and a Honda CRF250L Thanks Stu

[@edwardkheyfets3390]

Its a really nice bike, I had a GS and Africa Twin before. I have a 2019 Street Bob now, thinking now maybe should have got the Pan Am instead (maybe). Wonder which bike you will ride more? Should come up to Canada and ride in BC and Alberta, many awesome roads.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Maybe just get both. haha

[@ShineBright__]

I confirm the beautiful roads in BC specially down in the kootenays

[@mojomanmurph1925]

Go test ride one then make a decision.

[@jpulizzano]

nice video

[@browngreen933]

Is Grandpa Laidlaw still around? If so, I'd love to hear a round table discussion between all 3 generations comparing and contrasting the PanAmerica to the K-Model and Sportster XLCH which were used for scrambles, TT racing and enduro riding.

[@MattLaidlaw]

He is still around. I will try to include him in an upcoming video

[@browngreen933]

@@MattLaidlaw Thanks, that would be great.

[@mingzhi02148]

I had the same bike as your dad, but I traded it in for LiveWire. The engine is running hot sometimes and I feel a lot of heat around my ankle. I don’t know if that’s a design flaw. LiveWire fits my riding style better.

[@AdventureGlide]

My Pan America Special overheated and blew the engine at 5,000 miles halfway through a 2,500-mile trip. The bike has now been in the shop for three weeks, and today, I finally got an update on the cause. The Tech tells me the manifold going from the Oil Pump to the engine's top-end came loose. They are still waiting for Harley Corp tech support to get back with further instructions. I love the bike, but it doesn't seem like the dealerships want anything to do with servicing and repair it. I hope Harley takes care of me, but I'm skeptical due to being in the shop for three weeks and not getting any update other than they are waiting on Harley's tech support. I did ask the Tech how much internal damage there was, and they said Harley had not instructed them to make any more tear down; they just wanted pics of the cause. However, the Tech did tell me that they did a compression check on the cylinders, and they are entirely different front to back, and there is coolant in my engine oil. Fingers Crossed!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Dang man. This is the first engine failure I’ve heard of. I’m sure they will get you fixed man. The thing that sucks right now is parts availability.

[@AdventureGlide]

@@MattLaidlaw The dealership informed me yesterday afternoon. Harley is shipping a new motor asap, and they have the engine ready to ship. Snake River Harley Davidson in Twin Falls, ID, also told me that it's their number one priority to get my bike back on the road. It was a slow-going first three weeks in the shop, but things seem to be moving now.

[@CarlosThomas]

It was unfortunate to see the dropping of the bike on the left side damaged the clutch lever like that. Not sure what Harley was envisioning with the basic plastic "break away" hand guards. Harley needs aftermarket hand guards, which in reality if they are advertising this as an Adventure Touring machine needs to have various parts of the bike hardened.

[@tippytailmckitty2658]

Nothing beats suspension travel on bad roads.

[@gfunk63901]

Dave!!!