Jetgala - FALL-WINTER 2022

67 H A R L E Y - D A V I D S O N As a rider who considers riding in city traffic already an adventure, taking a high-powered motorcycle over a slalom dirt track, through deep puddles, and over loose gravel is probably asking for trouble. But I threw caution to the wind and embarked on the Dirt aspect of the Xperience with abandon – even though I must admit that the thing I abandoned most was probably my good sense. Thankfully, the bikes we rode through the carefully curated off-road circuit were the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250s. Large as the bike may be, it handled beautifully, even in my novice off-road hands. I took the number one-selling motorcycle in North America (and also the winner of the Best Adventure Bike and Motorcycle of theYear by Motorcycle. com) through the off-road circuit without breaking a bone or even getting wet.That, in itself, is more credit to the prowess of the bike than any skill of mine. Falling for the Nightster Launched in 2021, the 2022 Pan America 1250 possesses several upgrades that ups its capabilities.The latest model featureTFT displays for improved visibility, extended Vehicle Hill Hold Control from 10 seconds to three to five minutes under normal conditions, and also a new Fastback Blue/ White Sand two-tone colour option. With two of the three categories done, and still in one piece, I looked forward to the final Track section of the day’s events. The Bira circuit is a 2.4km track that tests every aspect of your road handling skills. There are sweeping turns, quick kinks, hairpins, and a long straightaway to let the bikes stretch their legs. I took the opportunity to hop onto the exciting Nightster again, this time to test its ability when pushed a little bit. It didn’t disappoint. The 975ccV-Twin had all the power you need, and the 90hp (at 7500rpm) was more than enough to help you pull out of the tightest corners on higher gears. The combination of the Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection helped to smoothen out the gear changes, while the 41mm SHOWA Dual BendingValve forks, and rear suspension with its dual outboard, direct-acting, emulsion technology shocks made for a smooth ride, even over the bumpier sections of the circuit. The Better Match Harley-Davidson also had several Sportster S models available for anyone keen on really taking on the Bira at speed. Powered by the 121hp Revolution Max 1250T engine, this was the most ideal bike to take to the track. But for me, the Nightster proved a better match, especially if my dreams of taking on Valentino Rossi in MotoGP is now long gone. With the introduction of the new models over the last two years, Harley-Davidson has made a statement that it’s breaking out of its old mould to take on new horizons in motorcycling. The Harley-Davidson D.R.T. Media Xperience is evidence that it will be a brand to be reckoned with regardless of the type of road you ride on.