Harley-Davidson may have built the Pan America as a dual-sport, adventure machine, but for some, 'dual' is open to interpretation. The common trait of ADV bikes is their ability to perform both on and off-road. Yet, for one Dutch enthusiast, going off-road had more to do with getting on the race track, rather than a weekend of chawing down dirt.
'Trackday' on a Pan America might raise some eyebrows, but the associated promotional literature does state that the versatile machine is a “two-wheel multi-tool.” Owner Bas Leek took the Motor Company's claim quite literally. To get his unique Pan America x Supermoto project rolling he reached out to& West Coast Motors Harley-Davidson in& Alkmaar, Netherlands, just outside of Amsterdam.
Enthusiasts with a penchant for Harley-Davidson's more traditional designs were a bit skeptical of the Pan America when it was first released. Newcomers to the 'family-like Leek saw only potential in the multi-functional platform. He summed up his motivation in a Hot Bike feature from March 2022. “I wanted a Harley that could do track days and long trips.”
The culmination of Leek's vision might be the only Supermoto Pan America in existence. One slight hiccup in his plan to both tour Europe and go racing was the rolling stock setup and suspension. Leek qualified, “The Pan America was already a good base point except for the wheels. I needed 17'' wheels for different tire options, especially for track days.”
Aside from Leek's particular considerations, his underlying intent was to build a machine that was made for “maximum fun.” With this worthy aim in mind, a set of carbon fiber Rotobox Bullet wheels were sourced for the custom build. Leek explained his choice, “They’re reliable and stylish and the 17'' wheels serve a practical purpose for tire availability.”
The Pan America x Supermoto build did not eliminate it from off-road use. It is even more suited for the dirt. Supermoto began as Superbikers, an annual race that debuted on ABC's Wide World of Sports in 1979. Conceived by racing promoter Gavin Trippe, the new class combined road racing, motocross jumps, and the dirt sweepers of flat track racing.
Superbikers was a hit and evolved into the Supermoto racing series of today. Along with its rise in popularity came a whole new breed of bike—one equally at home on dirt and pavement. With the rims sorted, Leek installed a set of 17'' Michelin Power Cup 2 tires. To correct the front ride height, longer tubes from HK Suspension, with Wilbers internal springs, where fitted.
An Öhlins shock replaced the stock rear unit. Clubstyle Europe carbon fiber components were liberally added to the bike. A new Screamin’ Eagle exhaust was fitted and lifted for more clearance, along with Thrashin’ Supply footpegs. Custom paint was applied, with a few red accents to match the frame. Ready for track days or touring, this two-wheel multi-tool does qualify as maximum fun!
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