2020 Indian FTR 1200 Rally First Ride Review

[Hugh Janus]

2020 Indian FTR 1200 Rally has an MSRP of $13,499. (Jeff Allen /)

When Indian first debuted the FTR 1200, we knew it was only the beginning for that platform. Four accessory collections first appeared in 2018 to hint at what the company might be working on for production, and now, after teasing us with a Europe-only release, the FTR 1200 Rally has arrived Stateside. The Rally model converts the flat-track-inspired base model to a factory scrambler, largely in appearance, but with some nice functional benefits as well. It’s the first step toward expanding the platform and a good step in the right direction.

Ample cornering clearance makes the FTR 1200 Rally a blast to send through some canyons. (Jeff Allen /)

As we have come to expect from scrambler models, the Rally comes equipped with wire-spoke wheels, chunky tires, and, of course, a brown seat. The bike is only available in one color scheme called Titanium Smoke: a matte metallic silver with red accents on the gas tank and around the rims of the wheels. The paint looks great and feels high quality. There’s something about the matte finish that says it won’t damage easily; like I can go hit some dirt without worrying about a little nick here and there. Similar to the base model, the engine and surrounding components are blacked out.

The unique Titanium Smoke paint on the FTR 1200 Rally’s gas tank. (Jeff Allen /)
If you like wheelies, the FTR is the bike for you—easily picking up the front end with an aggressive twist of the throttle. (Jeff Allen /)

While the Dunlop tires used on the base model were intended primarily for street use, Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires with their larger tread blocks actually gripped better on the tarmac and the short section of hard-packed dirt we hit than the DT3-R shoes on the base model. Primarily, the wandering tracking issue that was caused by the flat-track-inspired tread pattern and striations on the highway has been eliminated with the new tires. With the Rally sharing the same engine and mapping as the FTR 1200 S (tested at 111.2 hp and 79.8 pound-feet of torque on the CW dyno) and not equipped with any traction control, it’s still easy to break these tires loose and remind yourself of its tire-sliding roots. Unfortunately for those who do intend to scramble on this scrambler, the equipped ABS is not switchable and is tuned for street use.

Dual 320mm front disc brakes come standard with Brembo calipers. (Jeff Allen/)
I would be hesitant to ride more technical off-road sections, but hard-packed dirt was fine. (Jeff Allen /)

Built on the base FTR 1200, the Rally misses out on benefits included on the S model like fully adjustable suspension, LCD touchscreen, ride modes, and traction control. The screen and three ride modes go a long way toward making the bike feel modern and premium, so analog gauges and fixed suspension are a harsh contrast. The Rally doesn’t feel cheap—just a little dated. Indian has set up a strange buying structure for its three FTR 1200 models: The Rally and base model sharing the MSRP of $13,499, but 2019 models have a $2,000 rebate offer, which doesn’t include the Rally. So while pricing is technically the same, the Rally will cost you an extra $2,000 for now.

Analog gauges seem dated on a $13,499 bike in 2020, but it’s okay, there’s a USB charger too. (Jeff Allen /)
The low wind deflector helps reduce wind buffeting to the chest. (Jeff Allen/)

While out testing, the FTR 1200 Rally amplified a Mad Max feel of the current pandemic and quarantine with its scrambler style and deep exhaust note. Open roads and the lack of police traffic enforcement encourage the natural hooligan spirit of this motorcycle, begging to be backed into a corner and wheelied out. At low rpm, steady throttle application results in irregular pulsing in the engine, but under increasing throttle, the bike is crisp and quick to react. It doesn’t like to be ridden slow. It likes to eat gas. Rolling on the gas in sixth gear on the highway, the bike pulls hard all the way to triple digits—though the vibrations at that point may rattle your fillings out.

The deep, rumbling exhaust note of the FTR is satisfying each time you crack the throttle. (Jeff Allen /)

The FTR 1200 Rally costs more than the base model only because of timing and promotional offers. It hits scrambler style on the head, but the street-tuned ABS adds a challenge to any real scrambling. Is it cooler than the base FTR 1200? Yes, absolutely. But is it $2,000 cooler for what is essentially just a stylish accessory package? You be the judge.

2020 Indian FTR Rally Specifications

MSRP:	$13,499
Engine:	1,203cc, 60-degree, liquid-cooled V-twin
Bore x Stroke:	102.0 x 73.6mm
Compression Ratio:	12.5:1
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/chain
Fuel Delivery:	Electronic fuel injection, 60mm throttle body
Claimed Horsepower:	123 hp @ 8,250 rpm
Claimed Torque:	87 lb.-ft. @ 5,900 rpm
Frame:	Tubular steel trellis
Front Suspension:	43mm inverted cartridge fork; 5.9-in. travel
Rear Suspension:	Monoshock, adjustable for preload and rebound; 5.9-in. travel
Front Brake:	Brembo Monoblock 4-piston calipers, dual 320mm discs w/ ABS
Rear Brake:	Brembo 2-piston caliper, 260mm disc w/ ABS
Tires, Front/Rear:	120/70-19 / 150/70-18
Rake/Trail:	26.3°/5.1 in.
Wheelbase:	60.0 in.
Ground Clearance:	7.2 in.
Seat height:	33.1 in.
Fuel Capacity:	3.4 gal.
Claimed Wet Weight:	527 lb.
Availability	Now
Contact:	indianmotorcycle.com

Gearbox

The FTR 1200 Rally is available in dealerships now. (Jeff Allen /)

Helmet: Shoei Hornet X2

Jacket: Alpinestars Oscar Enduro

Pant: Tobacco Black Selvedge Riding Jeans

Gloves: Alpinestars Oscar Rayburn Leather

Boots: Sidi Scramble Rain

Source

[Gnomad]

We've been very impressed with Indian motorcycles, I tested a Scout and we hopped on a Roadmaster at Sturgis, the bikes performed well and looked good and we have sprya been looking for a Roadmaster. If you kids get a chance for a test ride, take it. It will be an eye opener.