So, what does the launch of Harley-Davidson’s new Pan America motorcycle this month mean for the adventurous rider?
The following written content by Sanna Boman
When I got my first adventure motorcycle last year, I didn’t fully realize just how on-trend that purchase was. Amid years of flat or declining motorcycle sales across large segments of the industry, adventure motorcycling—also known as ADV or adventure touring—is on a steady upswing.
The main draw of adventure bikes is their ability to go anywhere. These motorcycles are designed for long-haul touring, exploring unpaved trails and backroads, and carrying all the luggage and gear needed for a proper off-the-grid adventure. And the ability to disappear to a remote location for days or weeks at a time has become especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Some people crave freedom and seeing the places that many others don’t,” says Jim Hyde, owner of Rawhyde Adventures, an adventure motorcycle lifestyle company focusing on training, tours, and events. “Being in nature, just getting outdoors and getting away from the chaos of the city and the noise—that’s the draw.”
In mid-April, Rawhyde’s Zakar venue in California hosted the official press launch event for what is arguably one of the most noteworthy things to happen in the ADV space in years. With its new Pan America 1250 motorcycle, set to launch in the U.S. in May, American biker giant Harley-Davidson is entering the adventure field.
Barriers to entry
I’ve been a Harley-Davidson owner and rider for many years, but when the pandemic hit and I wanted to escape crowded cities and highways, I turned away from the brand for the first time. Instead I purchased a Royal Enfield Himalayan—an affordable and lightweight on- and off-road motorcycle capable of taking on almost any type of terrain.
For decades, Harley has been known for making cruiser motorcycles that appeal to a certain demographic. When most people picture a stereotypical Harley rider, they’re likely conjuring up images of tattooed, leather-clad baby boomers cruising down the highway on motorcycles with oversized windshields, tall handlebars, and loud sound systems. But with the upcoming launch of the Pan America, Harley-Davidson is showing that it’s willing to adapt and appeal to a new audience.
The Pan America, built from the ground up as a brand new product for Harley, features some innovative technologies not found in its competitors—most notably Adaptive Ride Height (ARH), which automatically lowers the rider’s seat as the bike comes to a stop. Adventure bikes have historically been out of reach for shorter riders due to their tall seat height, so this feature could prove to be a real game changer in the industry. Read more from Roadtrippers.
