The Good & Bad │ Harley-Davidson Pan America 10,000 Mile Review

A Detailed ownership experience of the first 10,000 miles on a 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America. Nick Culver of Laidlaw's Harley-Davidson has used the motorcycle for various long distance trips and as a daily commuter since he bought his Pan America back in 2021. He has taken it on and off road and outfitted it with 3 different sets of luggage. Nick talks about the pros and cons of Harley's first proper ADV motorcycle and makes recommendations based on his experience.
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[@scootinflh]

The Pan American is a Swiss Army Knife of motorcycles, it does it all and master of none. I bought my PanAmerican after Matt Laidlaw did the first long video and went down to Lancaster Harley Davidson the next day and bought it sight unseen after seeing the video, I knew it was going to be a special motorcycle. I was right. I picked it up in June of 21 and have 16000 miles on it and have been across the country twice and everywhere in between. The only problem i have had have been software problems and it was fixed with a flash on the computer. One problem is I don't ride my other motorcycles as much cause the Pan American is that good. Harley Davidson has done their homework on this one. Ride Safe and Ride for Life.

[@twocupstwodrams7535]

I've done 600 mile days on Sportsters, hard tails, Softails, Dynas, Electra Glides and sport touring bikes. All the miles were memorable and worth it, but I always felt the least fatigued at the end of the ride on the sport touring bike. Vibration, wind noise, exhaust note, suspension and ease of riding played a role in my experience. Great review, Ride Free

[@Litehousenation]

🏜️

[@starseeddeluxe]

Honda ST1100?

[@j.7937]

Y’all are the reason I bought one. Loving it so far.

[@JS-nf1sn]

The fact that you guys didn't screw everyone during the Pandemic is going to pay off. When I buy a new Harley I'm going to call you guys and buy a plane ticket, ride it home.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks man.

[@stfuliberal]

100% agree. Only dealership I know of that does not mark up their bikes into the stratosphere.

[@Stevel_]

Yep, good business call for sure.

[@jamesmackinlay4477]

Hey that sounds like a good idea I might just do the same the hell with it.

[@adammorgan7874]

Absolutely! I want to buy a bike from them and ride it home to Indiana. The dealerships around here suck. Cali is my dream ride state, The PCH specifically.

[@DWRECKED91]

As a current or previous owner of a road glide, softail slim, and pan america special, everything said, and the comparisons of the bikes are spot on. The Pan Am truly is an awesome bike. I love mine.

[@warrenlovell3919]

We loved the Pan America so much - we bought 2!

[@MattLaidlaw]

👍🏼 nice. Thanks for the comment. I love mine too!

[@medicarewire7750]

I love my Pan Am so much that I bought a second one. Like Nick, my first Pan Am was a very early build, and one of the first delivered in Arizona. It had one software issue after another and stranded me more than once. The first time it stranded me was on the fire road between Jerome and Williams, AZ. I walked 14 miles before a rancher passed by and rescued me. As someone who uses the bike primarily for camping and off-road adventures, reliability is paramount, and so far my 2022 has been flawless. I currently own an M8 Softail, an M8 CVO bagger, and the Pan Am. The Pan Am is the first bike I've owned that I don't feel like I need to upgrade mechanically (engine, suspension, etc.). Once I got the ergonomics dialed in, for me, it is simply an amazing ride. If I had to choose a single bike to keep, out of the three I own, it would be the Pan America. It's fast, has amazing brakes, and handles well both on and off-road. Simply put, it is the most versatile bike in the H-D lineup. It takes me everywhere I want to go.

[@greenrush4313]

sure it does for sure shirley

[@starseeddeluxe]

Did they do a major recall and fix some of the early problems? Was there ever any official recall where they admitted fault like Tesla car company has done so well?

[@medicarewire7750]

@@starseeddeluxe No. The major fault is the battery. Once I swapped it out for a high-quality Lithium-Ion battery, all problems disappeared. I have not had another issue, period. It's a great bike.

[@wildstar365]

My 2022 PAS just turned 11600miles and it is definitely my favorite bike I've ever owned! It's just so much fun to ride on or off road. It's my first ADV bike and I'm completely comfortable on class1-3 off roads, I'm fine staying off class4 and up!! Only issues I've had were the dreaded radiator hose melting at the front cylinder exhaust header(happened at abt 8000miles) but got it home then repaired it. And just now the fuel pump started making the shriek of death at start up. It's already at dealership getting new pump under warranty to make sure I'm ready for riding season here in northeast!! The electronic features and the versatility of this motorcycle make it easily the best product HD offers. It's not for everyone, but everyone should try it!!!

[@grizzlymickey1194]

Thank goodness we work together because I can listen to you talk motorcycles all day, everyday.

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

Aww thanks Mickey.

[@Soliber]

I’ve had lots and lots of issues of error codes, not starting the first time and the adaptive ride height being stuck in the highest mode. Finally, the latest update fixed all that 😅

[@MattLaidlaw]

Glad the issues are resolved

[@cisa1622]

Harley and error codes are synonymous from my experience. Getting it correct is even tough coz nobody knows these . The dealers have no much experience.

[@Devastator123]

I havnt had one single issues at all

[@Soliber]

@@Devastator123 I wonder why some people don't have any issues at all. My own dealer said I was definitely not alone and forums on the internet seem to corroborate that. At least now it runs flawlessly 😄

[@Devastator123]

@@Soliber it’s like anything new you will have some issues at first, even new Toyota Tundras are having issues. At least Harley has dealerships for maintenance to fix these issues unlike every other bike brand in America that doesn’t have or very limited to!

[@urbangamehunter2531]

This is the most versatile bike Harley has ever done. Its a dual sport, a touring, a sport bike, and an adventure bike all in one. I tell my friends that its basically an all terrain Vrod. I absolutely love it!

[@rainsadventures8367]

I have a Yamaha Super Tenere which is in the same class as the Pan Am. The way I describe the bike to people, is that if you made a list of everything you wanted out of bike excluding looks, an ADV bike is the perfect bike for all around riding.

[@americandude3825]

The Super Tenere is my dream bike as well as a 2020 or newer Kawasaki versys 1000. Two different monsters. Lol.

[@rooseveltadvisors]

I just discovered this channel recently but I have watched a bunch of these videos now and Matt Laidlaw is far and away one of the best creators on KZbin. I really enjoy these videos. 👍

[@MattLaidlaw]

That a huge compliment. Thank you sir. 🤙🏼

[@rooseveltadvisors]

@@MattLaidlaw You deserve it! Keep up the good work.

[@leonardbartley5670]

Awesome video by the way as usual. You and Matt are the gold standard for motorcycle videos.

[@kawabungah20]

Great information in this very honest review. That must have been a nice 10,000 miles for sure! My '94 UltraClassic has served me well for 100,000 miles, mostly two-up backroads (and even some off-pavement that I wouldn't care to repeat). Now, at 75 yrs, I want something lighter and with fuel injection and ABS. Plus I want a more off-pavement capable machine. Naturally, I've considered the Pan American, but the Triumph Tiger 1200 with a drive shaft is attracting me as well. Thanks for sharing your views.

[@chaegardner3410]

I love the Pan America. The way it looks, the way it feels, but I’m going to wait till the V2 of the Pan Am. I’m hoping there are some changes. Throw in a shaft drive and make the left side of the bike look as amazing as the right and I’m in!

[@_G_R_]

pan am for asphalt) suspension travel makes me laugh. especially when compared it to triumph 1200 scrambler xe

[@freebehindbars8654]

What bike looks as good on the left as the right?

[@13_Cowboy]

I did have some downtime due to a frayed wire inside motor related to VVT, as did my first Pan America which to their credit, my dealer went to bat for me and got a replacement. That said, I agree with all the 'firmware updates' discussion. Keep taking it back until it's reliable. Now I have ~22,000 km/14k miles and it really the best motorcycle I've ever ridden, owned, test driven. I've taken it off road for days at a time while fully loaded for camping, and I've taken it on 800km/500mi days rushing back from an event on the highway let alone thousands of miles in tight swiss mountain passes, and just daily driving and running errands. I put some bags on it, a phone holder, a radiator protector, and a Zumo XT and I'm done. It's just great like it is (Special). Now I trust it and we've build a kind of relationship. I'm thinking about adding a cruiser to my stable also, but hopefully by the time the back account builds back up, I'll decide which one - one that does other things well, with as little overlap as possible, which is a true challenge. THAT I think it a testament to the Pan America.

[@13_Cowboy]

Update. Since I wrote this (now 26,000 km/16,000 miles) I've also had the stator (which resulted in a new battery) and fuel pump replaced under warranty. The clutch also started acting weird and was replaced but I rarely ride highway and spend 90% of my time in mountain passes and canyons. (Only) the stator left me stranded and ruined a trip. Still, I love it THAT much that it's still in my garage and gets daily love from me.

[@knappdaddy]

This is definitely my next bike, got to demo ride one and really loved it. Just wish they still did that orange color scheme !

[@paulwojnar2291]

I have owned and ridden many different brand and types of motorcycles in 51 years. For the past 30 years I have had a Harley next to whatever else I was riding ( dirt, sport, etc). That being said I must say that the 2022 PAS that I got in July of 2022 and quickly put 10,000 miles on sport touring, mountain twisty road riding, some commuting is bar none one the best all around bikes I have ever ridden. It is my 51st bike. I absolutely love it. I think it will be around for awhile for sure. Will it or should it replace Harleys core line of bikes. No. There is no need for that. They can do what BMW has been doing for decades. Branch out into other realms of motorcycles while continuing with your traditional machines. They definitely need to get all if their dealers to get on board. I read alot of customer issues more with their dealers being an issue moreso than the bike itself. Obviously Laidlaw HD is all aboard. My hometown dealer is also. Thanks for all of your informative broadcasts. Am a loyal subsciber. I be watching.

[@RB-gx4qg]

Laidlaw with the stache!!! Looking like an official Harley dude.

[@anobjectivereview]

Great long-term review. I've been trying to decide to make this change as I currently have a 2018 Milwaukee 8 FXLR that I love, but I used to have a Versys and really enjoyed the upright riding position (I'm 6'5"). Cheers and keep up the amazing work!

[@RandyCRR]

Good review of the PA. I almost hurled at the end. Was that the ghost of Chris Farley at the end?

[@Rockindaddy1962]

Very good review. I have had my Pan America Special since fall of ´21 and just love that bike. A good friend of mine has a Honda Crosstourer, and with my 2011 Street Glide I struggle to follow him on twisty roads, but on the Pan Am I keep up like nothing. Not a bad word regarding the Street Glide, but of course the Pan America is in a different league on those curvy roads. The Street Glide is the most comfortable one on the long rides, but with the Pan Am I look for the roads I avoid with the SG.

[@HikerDave57]

I ride and tour on a Honda NC750X but test-rode the CVO Pan America last week for fun. I expected an unwieldy beast but I was wrong; this thing is super easy to ride despite the higher power and weight. I could hardly believe it. Best part of the bike is not the power it’s the suspension. It soaks up -everything-. I’m 66 years old and not as strong as I used to be; no way would I buy an 800 pound bagger but this thing would be perfect for me.

[@Drumfisher215]

Great bike, absolutely love mine. I have 10,000 miles on my ‘21 as well. Couple issues that were resolved were the ARH not working so my dealer replaced the front fork under warranty, and had my starter clutch replaced under warranty which eliminates that hard start issue. I agree with your point about the Bluetooth as mine cuts out as well but it’s not to the point where it totally disconnects. Overall I would recommend this bike to anyone.

[@bikerintheblood]

Just going over the adventure touring playlist in anticipation of the new CVO Pan American in 2024. Great vlog, especially the guest appearance by Andrew at the end. I think we all miss him.

[@DjVendetta]

Can we possibly get a review on the auxiliary lights? I can’t seem to find one on KZbin.

[@michaelrocole7174]

That was spot on , 80-20 this is exactly why I went from a CVO Limited Road Glide to a Pan America Special so when I hit those roads with loose gravel or dirt just forge on and then back to touring.

[@bartlawhorn2762]

On my second PAS and both of them their fuel pumps went out. With that said if you hear your fuel pump you need to get one on order since they’re six months on backorder.

[@ScottSilverOG]

I have been keeping an eye on these and been following you for a bit so glad you put this out. I have wanted on and now I want one more. I have some hip issues and never rode with my legs back full time, I sometimes put them on the passenger pegs, so I hope that isn't a issue. Thanks for a honest and awesome review.

[@HorseBodyDogMind]

I've found that if your phone and headset are paired as well as to the bike the connection starts to compete, after I unpaired my phone from the headset it would then recognize the PA TFT instead.

[@bruiser6479]

Interesting review. I have only recently purchased my first ever Harley ( a Road King) after 40 years of riding. As someone whose previous bike was a 660 Tenere (I live in Australia), I had never considered the Pan America as a serious Adventure Tourer for Australia. Now that I own a Harley I have become more open minded about them. I think the observations that the Pan Am is a versatile touring bike is a good one. I view it as a competitor to the 1200 Tenere, the big KTMs and the 1250gs Beemers. For the remote area dirt touring that I have done, I wouldn’t choose any of these big bikes. The 700 Tenere or something smaller would be my choice. We have lots of soft sandy roads here in Western Australia, so smaller lighter bikes are a much more sensible choice. Having said that, your review is great marketing for the Pan Am, not just for Harley buyers. I found your comments about Pillion comfort very helpful. It convinced me that I would seriously consider a Pan Am if it was a bike just for me to go on, as it would be a great 80/20 touring bike. As I want my wife to come on the bike with me, the pillion comfort of the Road King is very important. A factor to consider for pillion confidence is also the pure mass and low seat height of the Road King. Taller bikes are more disconcerting for pillions like my wife. Thanks for the review. I really appreciated Matt’s observations about the bike given his experience as a dirt bike rider. When the road gets tougher, a smaller lighter bike is a lot more enjoyable.

[@StanfordC95120]

Nick and Matt, the reflections you have are right on. For two-up, the Pan Am is not great, especially if your girl-friend, like mine, is your doctor, she rides her own bike, but on balance, it is a great bike!!! And, you guys at Laidlaw's are a fabulous place to buy a Harley Davidson!!

[@miken966]

The first HD that I've wanted to own since the V-Rod disappeared.

[@mrxr-750]

Bought a ‘21 late August of 21. My demo ride was 80 plus miles and fell in love with the bike, incredible machine, but…gremlins shortly after purchase left the bike being picked up by dealer at Factory direction three times. Factory support solving issues outstanding, dealer support horrendous, which I believe was lack of experience, lack of willingness and overall disinterest. Off road on my KLR is uneventful, on the same trails the P.A.S. Is quite the challenge. Most likely me not understanding the ride mode configurations and using optimum modes. I’m an experienced off road rider, not an experienced electronic off road rider, and think it’s more unfamiliarity with bike than bike capability. GPS/paring useless. Zumo XT was installed and over 12K in accessories. Seriously pissed the quick shifter can not be installed. Currently own Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha and numerous Harley’s, including Livewire. My P.A.S. May or may not be sorted out and I’ve developed a trust issue with the bike after being stranded early in ownership. Livewire has more miles on it in two months than P.A.S. in 18 months. Currently 1250 miles on P.A.S. Owning this bike is like marrying the woman of your dreams. Life is perfect until one day you come home and you learn she filed for divorce. After the shock wares off and enough time goes by you get on with your life, one day there’s a knock on the door and she wants to come back….and you just can’t quite get there again.

[@mullman]

I loved my stage 3 Sportster years ago among 21 bikes in 45 years of riding, but my ‘22 BMW GS1250 is the best thing under the Sun. 18K in 11 months and it’s been perfect.

[@2kanchoo]

I think most people arent limiting the pan America out of touring in their mind. They want a full bagger with the rev max because they want the look, wind protection, seating position of a full bagger with the power of the rev max. Great video great tache.

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

I think the moco would be better off putting the 131 in the baggers, like the full fledged stage 4, that way you get nearly the HP of the revmax, with significantly more torque and the maintained character of the milwaukee 8 which is better suited to the Grand American touring style of bike where character is of the utmost importance.

[@2kanchoo]

@@TH3G0ODGUY I agree especially since they took away any specialness engine wise for the cvo's by putting the 117 in almost everything.

[@ridingwithyogurt]

100% spot on, Great description of the Pan America. Great video. 👍🏻

[@monkmoto1887]

i worked at a harley dealer for a week as a salesman (worst mistake of my life) and the pan america is basically the only bike in the line up thats worth its price. its actually a really nice bike. kind of reminds me a ktm super adventure. nice thick and good looking swinging arm. best motor in harleys line up. but yeah... the nightster is a nice little cruiser but too expensive. the touring frame bikes are the worlds biggest rip off and i take pity on the souls who waste their money on a limited or special harley bagger or RK

[@vmotobiker]

😂

[@redramroyal54]

Sorry bro but I don’t agree with your 80/20 duel sport comparison. Any of the big bore duel sport bikes don’t make great single track bikes but I’ve hit some aggressive trails on my PAS where I would never consider taking my Ultra on. Huge difference on the bikes. Awesome that you want to consider your PA as a touring bike. To each his own but the ride is more upright where a touring bike tends to be more laid back. Put some real rubber under your bike. HD built a fully capable dual sport platform. Give it a try. Ride on👍

[@leonardwalker3765]

I too had connectivity issues. Upgrading my phone solved my issues I Phone -8 to I-12.

[@MikeWallace-wz3bb]

Great video Matt!!! love the Pan America! and thank you Nick for your input always classy!!!!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks Mike!!

[@juliozapata5032]

Matt and Nick are going strong with the cop style mustache. 👨

[@MattLaidlaw]

That a distinguished gentlemen’s mustache.

[@paulwojnar2291]

I would love to see a Pan Am with Buell S3 type body work w/hard sport bags. I would trade my current PAS for one of those. Also put belt drive on it as it is a road machine.

[@themotorcyclingmouse392]

Love your vids Matt! Y'all have definitely solidified a couple Harley purchases for me. How would y'all say the Pan Am would do on the beach for shoreline camping trips... would you stick to the more frequently traveled packed sand on it, or can it handle the more loose stuff? Thanks!

[@andynorrie-gi5pr]

Great review. I am at 20k miles now and would gladly get a belt kit if offered. 95% on road for me. I have had to change the chain, sprockets and Cush drive. It’s an awesome bike.

[@robertdaley1194]

Great review, also cowboy Taches are back.

[@adventuretoshare]

Curious to know if the replacement fuel pump is less noisy. I have a 2021, and despite a few annoyances like requiring a new engine, I still love the PAS, but have to say the fuel pump being noisier than the engine is a little concerning.

[@noelbowerman1562]

With regards to the chain ,fit a good x ring chain ,keep the adjustment on a long travel bike ,slightly on the loose size ,then you can virtually forget about it ,except for lubrication. I'd be lucky if I have to adjust my chain once a year. My last chain and sprockets lasted almost 40000kms .

[@AlexFuturemark]

Totally agree with the audio/hand control comments. I thought it would be so cool but it’s super inconsistent

[@RandyLahey-re8nu]

Thinking about pulling the trigger on a pan am. Just can’t get myself to commit yet. This video certainly helped. Really would love to see you do a review on the new CVO pan as well. Great video on this one too.

[@bigjoe6814]

Agree 100% on the two up riding on the Pan..excellent when I’m solo ,very comfortable with my wife pillion.. very uncomfortable for her,I installed the factory rear box and pad to offer her some comfort but this sits her way to forward making my ride experience not good..simple solution would be a descent rear back rest like the one for the sportster S..so it’s back on the street glide two up and solo fir me on the Pan..still an excellent bike all round

[@MattLaidlaw]

Great comment. Thank you.

[@rideon41]

My wife grew up riding sportbikes with me, so this might be a little biased, but she is much happier on my Pan America than a Road King, both with backrests. Couple that with the PAS awesome long-travel suspension, and we can easily do 600 mile days on it, whereas with the Road King were were both done around 400. Granted, it was stock, but so is my PAS when it comes to comfort stuff...

[@arnesobolewski1584]

Hey Hey Matt 😀 ... That was an awesome Video and Review ... All what you Two sayed over the Pan Am and Cross Country Toures with it + Equipment Management for Travel and Sport is on Point ... so I can underline all your Words with my owen Experience of mixed Traveling ☺👍 ... Thank you two very much ... So have ever a safe and happy ride too 😊 ... I like the End of this Video, it Shows that we ( HD Tour Rider ) are a funny and happie Communety too 😉😅

[@bobmcginn7417]

nice 6 pack

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

Rome wasn’t built in a day. Andrew has put in the time.

[@scootjockey]

Thank you for the vlog i bought my PAS last year done about the same milage in Kilometer ,had LOADS of problems sorted by the dealer would i by again NO !The bike is not light at over 260 kg with bags and pillion it,s a struggle off road and that not being heavy off road sand etc, the screen is too floppy i put 8,000 euros on it just to get it to work, ie mapping, screen , filter , exhaust, belly pan , fottpegs, the list goes on. Even though these words are negative i still have fun on it when it works the ARH when it throws a wobbler can be shit when you are fully loaded and of camber if i did not have the support from the dealer i would have sold it .Been riding HDS for a long time and would like to end my career with the mark here is hopeing that the next "enduro" :-)) 975? works!! The software gremlins are all present even if you can delete them they are still annoying ,the radiotor hose pipe melted through on the first day the batterie is too small and regulary drops to 12 v on idle (new batterie ) still crap Harley Davidsons always have discrepncies and i thought with the new engine new bike it would be solved to a certain extent alas no .

[@krskadave]

Great video, Nick! I haven't bought one, but I am tossing around the idea. R1250GS or Pan Am special. I like the idea of not having valve adjustments.

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

Thanks for watching! I don't have tons of experience with the GS, but I know its a great bike! Test ride them if you can!

[@cisa1622]

Sharing my experience with buying new models from Harley-Davidson. Harley is now very stock market driven . Please wait it out until some good share is achieved. The second thing you need to consider is how easy it is to pick up from the ground. GS by design is easier to pick it up from the ground. I have heard the radiator hose of PanAm expands and touches the exhaust pipes to burn itself. The sad part is Harley typically never acts quick to resolve customer issue and many online search says people are not happy with the issue. Then the electronics mate. BMW has experience over years with that and certainly has an edge over harley. BMW has active cruise control I think . This will help you maintain the distance easy with vehicle in front of you- makes a big difference in long distance. The heat near the groin in harley design in know to all ( just need to buy a heat shield). Revolution engines of Harley-Davidson is very good and BMW boxer shift cam technology engine is also good.Lastly test ride both at least twice and buy the bike you love . That is what matters the most.

[@THELASTRID3R]

If you’re comparing the 2, my opinion is that the GS is the way to go. It’s a proven Bike, BMW dealers are easy to work with. You get a 3 year 36k mile warranty with road side assistance. The extended warranty is $1300, gives a total of 7 years unlimited miles with roadside. (US pricing in the North East).. Shaft drive is better long term than chain, 1300GS’s are coming out this year, you can get a great deal on 22/23’s.. plus BMW does 2.9% financing on 22/23 GS’s..

[@harryhowell5644]

Love the pan am. If I were younger I would definitely want one!

[@robertdaley1194]

I had a 2018 Streetbob with 2000 miles on it,it had a duff battery,dealer replaced it.

[@ericg5416]

Terrific review… I also have an early build and had some of the same problems but all seem now to be worked out. Rode mine across the country on Route 66 - stator went out when I hit Santa Monica - thankfully Laidlaws had the only replacement stator in LA Metro and got it fixed on a Saturday at Bartels.

[@user-bl8bn4kb8m]

Rodes are the destination!! Love my pan am. Best bike harley makes.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

Impressive Modern Motorcycle. Too Big too Heavy and too expensive for me. I am looking at the Yamaha T-700 and the Honda alpenstar..

[@PowerYacht]

The Limited would be a bit of a problem in the mountain passes of the Alps. So in Europe adventure bikes all the time. I just made a step after two HDs for Ducati Multistrada 950s and I agree with many things of his saying. What I miss is the custom aspect, there is not much you can with Adventure bikes beside bags, seats and crash bars.

[@trailblazeratv6306]

I wonder now it compares to the new TransAlp ?

[@robbyclark6915]

I love the versatility of this machine! I’m getting a second bike to go with my ‘21 FXLRS sometime later this year or early next year, and watching this video is answering a lot of questions and concerns I’ve had about this bike. I’ve watched it keenly since it’s release and I’ve basically wanted one from the start. I bought a LRS instead however, but knowing I’ll have the ability to pick up a second bike sooner than later has me once again eyeing the Pan America. I’m still not completely sold on it, but the tremendous versatility of this bike is impressive and impossible to ignore. Great review! Nick’s closing remarks says it all, that it’s his favorite bike he’s ever owned and if something happened to his, he would immediately replace it with another.

[@johnshell118]

How ‘bout putting the RevMax into a sport touring or a Sport bike (naked or full blown sport) instead of a bagger!

[@JA-zh5xi]

I would buy a full fairing sport bike in a second!

[@rideon41]

Great video! Just wondering, have the dealers given HD feedback about wanting the shaft drive over chain on this bike? I love my PAS, but really wouldn't mind a maintenance-free shaft, and I know most of people I know that have one feel the same...

[@rgh622]

That's the worst idea I've heard for a PA mod. Loss of power from engine to rear wheel, heavier, not well suited for repeated suspension compression and rebound, and far costlier.

[@rideon41]

@@rgh622 Yeah, who would want a maintenance-free solution on an adventure bike... Worst idea ever! I love cleaning that chain every day after a long ride, what else would I want to do!

[@FrayedString]

@@rgh622 Yet somehow the BMW 1250 GS Adventure makes it work...

[@sadletrampsscooby]

I have had loads of Harley’s so I bought a pan am but kept getting error codes incl going into limp mode with a 180 round trip to my local dealer I got fed up so traded it in love my big twins but the revolution is not for me so went back to ducatis

[@URBANAMERICANTAC]

Nice. I love my Pan Am. With the exception of the constant warning lights and electrical glitches that hound mine. That and it refuses to start under 40 degrees. Just came back from Daytona. Straight 1K miles there and than another 1K miles home. Only complaint was the cold this time. 33 degrees with heated gear and I still was getting cold. Great bikes I can ride all day and then some. Edit: I also do not connect to the bike via Bluetooth. The experience was so consistently bad I just refused to do it anymore. There was also a lag from the phone to the bike to the sena it seemed.

[@MattLaidlaw]

I appreciate comments from actual pan america owners. Thank you for taking the time.

[@hughmac7423]

I fully agree with what you are saying, the Pan Am is 80% road and 20% dirt. I've had one since March 2022, it is fantastic on the road, for touring, commuting and twisties. It is fine on dirt roads, but is a handful on off road track, I've tried it, it will do off road tracks, but is a lot of work and exhausting. I'd rather have something smaller for off road, but then 90% of my riding is on roads. I did find the stock seat a bit uncomfortable on a long ride, replaced it with a Sargent seat, much better. I found the footpeg position tyring on my legs on a long ride, fitted highway pegs, problem solved. The only problem I had was the starter clutch, affecting starting, replaced with an updated starter clutch, and fixed.

[@xSKUSTOMZx]

19:25 I have this same issue. I've tried multiple different coms units and they all have the same disconnecting issues. Not being able to pair the phone to the bike also denies the use of Navigation which is also a bummer. I hope they are able to sort this out soon. Is it possible to upgrade the bluetooth antenna for better reception?

[@StanfordCrane]

Nick and Matt, great job, Andrew, not so much, lol. You are spot on. I love my Pan Am that I got from you guys and haven't had a bit of trouble it, save two rear flat tires, but that's just crappy CA roads here in the Bay Area littered with junk. I'd add that the range is great for a bike with this much performance.

[@andromedach]

So how long before HD confirms a 121ci CVO with mono bloc brembo brakes, upside down forks, and powered windshields? Seriously, I would love to see Harley use Revolution Max and create a competitor to BMW's legendary RT

[@mikeferrini8884]

No offense intended, I feel like these reviews all come from people who got off a T-sport. How does it compare to the BMW or the KTM's or the Honda Africa Twin? Those are the bikes that are in this comparison range.

[@KellyShea-vu4jg]

So you mentioned you were soaked on your ride to tombstone was it your bags or your clothing you were talking about?

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

Just me. Bags were perfectly water tight! But 11 hours of straight rain meant my rain gear ended up failing me. I kind of failed it too though to be honest, as I didn’t utilize what I had as efficiently as I could have!

[@mtericktucson]

Love mine, 2022 1250 Special. Had a coolant leak at a lower radiator hose, both lower hoses were replaced under warranty. It was said that the hose diameter was likely too large for the clamp to seal it.

[@mtericktucson]

I had the exact same thing happen to mine 2022 1250S, they warrantied it.

[@rodleithner7931]

I may be a little off track on this vid but I want to say. You as a MSRP only dealership is fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I live in Indiana and from what I can tell we just don't have that here. EXP. I looked at a new 2023 Breakout vivid black selling price $24545.00 and a new Fat Boy 2023 selling price $24995.00 vivid black. Wish you were out here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@kgsarian]

Thanks for the informative review. As a beginner rider, I am looking at getting the Pan Am or Lower Rider S. If the majority of my riding will be for commuting, which bike would you recommend?

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

Both are great bikes, I prefer my Pan Am for comfort and performance, my Low Rider S for style and character. If you get the Low Rider S for commuting I would make sure it has ABS though! ABS makes commuting in socal much safer!

[@nevillegreg1]

The PAm is a great touring bike, especially if you prefer a bike that doesn't weigh so heavy as a HD tourer, and especially if you regularly ride with a passenger, coupled with all the gear that goes with 2-up riding - weight becomes a factor. I agree that a HD tourer is more comfortable for a passenger (assuming you spend the money on a decent passenger seat and backrest). Noting, however, the suspension on the PAm is superior and more comfie for both rider and passenger than a tourer so after a day in the saddle, suspension makes a difference if the road has been bumpy. Also, there are after market backrests for a passenger that HD does not offer for the PAm. I just decided to balance comfort with the weight and being able to taking some fire trails on our adventures and ended up with a PAm. No regrets. But I disagree with you about wind protection. It sucks for the passenger. My wife is shorter than myself, however she sits 3" taller than me when on the bike. At highway speeds the passenger feels like they are being hit by a freight train, wind blast and wind noise is unbearable, even with the taller HD 18" windscreen. Again, the aftermarket has come to the rescue. The Madstad windscreen system is solid and provides superior wind protection for both rider and passenger, and in particular, has fixed the wind blast issue for the passenger. With the Madstad 18" screen I can still look over the top of the screen and we are protected from wind blasts. Harley's adjustable windscreen system on the PAm is poorly designed, apart from being so flimsy, in positions 2 and 4, it actually lowers the windscreen height as for no explained reason, in these positions the screen tilts back and down, deceasing wind protection instead of increasing it (just stupid). Other than the stock windscreen and the uncomfortable heat generated by the cat convertor - with no available heat shield if you are running the heavy duty bash plate, the PAm is a fantastic bike and tourer.

[@Firestorm637]

Agree it would be a great touring bike and not afraid to go down fire roads. 150 pounds and 550 awesome power to weight for the freeway.

[@mraycgz]

One thing, every bike can be an adventure bike. Every bike. It’s all up to what you do with it. But I love my factory Harley adventure bike. I was on the Pan Am from day one. Pre ordered and waited and went through a few hiccups but it’s my favorite bike too. And I traded in a Ktm 990 adventure on it.

[@twocupstwodrams7535]

Bluetooth units are still wanting.

[@Ed-ty1kr]

Once again... H-D fell short on the Sportbike. And Buell did the Ulyssees, but he also gave you a proper sportbike, and even a race version and a streetfighter. So now H-D got this Pan Am, and the Sportster-S, they got a motor... yet nothing for the guy that might do a few weelies, and drop down to drag a knee. Nope, no, no way said H-D. What are they so scared of, I feel like this is beyond just prejudice... no no, they're scared. Why?

[@paulwojnar2291]

I agree Ed-ty I would love to see PA power in a Buell S3T body type sport tourer. I would be on it in a heart beat.

[@mrwhite2628]

Really great review! I've been watching the PA pretty closely. As mentioned, comfort is key when talking touring. That means and electrical system that will handle the extra load of heated gear along with extra lights and such. If you have to "stay on top of the battery" with a tender. It sounds like it will barely keep up with what it has already. Either that, or the battery is plain old too small. And won't handle the parasitic draw that all the modules have. That hasn't been the case with any of my current Harleys or Goldwings. Nor is it the case with my Versy 300. After several hundred thousand miles of touring on both Ultra's and Goldwings. I couldn't imagine doing it on an adventure bike. But it sure could simplify things for me. I currently tow the Versy behind the Goldwing on a Jet-ski trailer to scratch both itches. I'll keep an eye on the PA. It is the one Harley that peaks my interest these days.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yea the battery is probably too small. The bike has always started for me but that is one thing that gets people who don’t watch it closely.

[@charlesblount6858]

Could you share a link to the bags you were liking? Great video - thanks

[@Acmegamer]

I test rode one, it was a really nice bike. Handled well, was comfortable and had decent protection. I also liked the layout of the controls and overall feel. What I didn't like was the heat that came off and onto my right leg. That surprised me a bit. Down here in the South the ambient heat and humidity are a potential issue that you need to be aware of and deal with. My previous Road Glide Special was a total heat beast, my 2020 is much better about how it bleeds off heat. If I were to consider a Pan American I'd have to figure out a way to get that heat down and away from my leg. Appreciate the video review and information Nick! Keep up th great work along with Matt.

[@FrayedString]

2023 model years have some new heat mitigations. There's a shield on the catalytic converter to keep some heat off the right foot, and a new plastic deflector installed behind the radiator fan to direct the heat from the radiator away from the left leg.

[@Acmegamer]

@@FrayedString Ah, now that's a good improvement. I'll have to take one the 2023's out for a test ride!

[@jcatsby]

Great video! Do y’all nut and bolt check every Pan America that comes in? I’ve known several owners across the country that brought their bikes home and the factory left several bolts loose. Scary stuff.

[@dwaynejones8669]

How would you say it handles with a passenger?

[@user-bl8bn4kb8m]

I want to ride mine to sturgis too… California to sturgis on a pan am ..

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes sir, Nick is planning on doing it.

[@user-jv7zp9sc8q]

I would never regret to sell out my BMW GSA to purchase the PAS 2021, even though there were some issues concerned. Simply I love American design and appreciated the Harley's Engineer team who bring on the table their great efforts.

[@timmarlin9481]

The concept works out here. Anyone who is a critic needs come ride Western United States

[@MattLaidlaw]

True.

[@bjw2728]

I'm thinking the same thing. I'm in south central Montana, gotta be able to do 80-90 down the highway, then get off road if you want. I'm not personally interested in hard core off road, technical riding. Adventure bikes are perfect for the west, and I've had great luck with Harley... it's what I love to ride. And yea... if I have to explain it, you wouldn't understand lol. Anyway

[@grootsgracemission]

Matt, I’m 6’7” and would love to know what you did to your PanAmerica to make it comfortable. Please share some wisdom.

[@MattLaidlaw]

The sundowner seat and the highway pegs (aftermarket) were the big two things. I also did the taller windshield (Hd one) and the tall risers.

[@ohcysp0248]

I used to tour on a klr650. Any adventure bike can be a touring bike

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

Very true! People have ridden across the country on rigid choppers! I’d rather do that on my pan am though 😂

[@ritterthenailbender]

That was well produced.

[@roadglide1142]

I just picked up a Kawasaki KLR 650 to go off road / trail riding where my RGL won’t take me . I didn’t feel like spending $18-20K for a Pan American. The Kawasaki has it all for $7K . Will go anywhere a Pan America will go just not as fast . Lol 😅weighs 486 Lbs .

[@yanceyboyz]

Was the KLR brand new for $7000? That seems incredibly good value compared!

[@roadglide1142]

@@yanceyboyzYes now I have the KLR and yesterday I picked up a 2024 CVO Pan American

[@dougiequick1]

BTW sorry but tht last people I trust are ones selling the brand in question ....i dont think they are even capable of being unbiased even if they tried lol

[@splodge5714]

Wouldn't a better comparison be to a BMW R1250GS than a Limited?

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes, for sure but the point was to compare a ADV bike to a grand touring motorcycle. Help people decide within the HD lineup.

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

I don't have a huge amount of seat time on a 1250GS, so I'm not a good person to compare those two. But for many, a full dresser is a known quanitity. So if I use it as a reference point for touring, people will have a decent idea as to what to expect from the bike.

[@robertdaley1194]

I have a 21 Heritage I can flatfoot ,but I have never used Cruise Control.

[@DaBurntToaster]

i'd love to get one of these, but I fear harley, being harley, will dup this model because it doesnt sell well because its not what people see a harley being. I want to buy american made, but I dont know if I can trust harley to support this bike in the mid to long term

[@thomasangelo4219]

A very versatile motorcycle And it looks great One of the best bikes In the lineup

[@TH3G0ODGUY]

I couldn’t agree more!

[@ridewithted2003]

Great review. Having ridden the bike just once (demo)....in traffic and on a highway... I can say that it was comfortable and had plenty of performance.