2020 Indian FTR Rally vs. Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC

[@maximusmax4557]

Triumph Engineer 1: "Guys! When we put the Speed Twin tank on the Scrambler, the forks bang into it! We'll have to go back to the drawing board with this one!" Triumph Engineer 2: "Nah. Put some big-ass dents in it." Triumph Engineer 3: "I'll get my hammer."

[@larrynorsworthy8582]

It fixed it didn't it?

[@turbolaserwhack9214]

If in doubt give it a clout'. ...As the English say.

[@thomasreynolds1530]

such a practical fix could have only came from the mfg line techs

[@scottieray]

I own an FTR Rally. It's seriously fun for the roads I ride in Arkansas. The bonus of being able to take it down any random dirt road is icing on the cake. It's not a hardcore ADV ride, but it's very capable all around motorcycle. I have side bag/rack and rear rack and a weekend camping trip is very enjoyable.

[@theLutheran1]

I’m eager to run my 2019 FTR S in West and NW Arkansas. Mena to Eureka Springs is calling to me.

[@scottieray]

@@theLutheran1 Many good roads to choose from on that ride.

[@Wolf-mx7xx]

Really looking at getting this bike . Question: I'm 5'8" - is the seat height an issue?

[@scottieray]

@@Wolf-mx7xx It could be if you are looking at Rally version.

[@Wolf-mx7xx]

@@scottieray And that I am. Man, I really do like the T.S.....but for the $$$, it seems like a headache and a half.

[@zebulbaa]

heard many good thing about the triumph but gotta say that Indian looks really good

[@theLutheran1]

An FTR skid plate is definitely needed

[@paulregner5335]

I've owned a 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200XC since early June of this year. I bought the bike from a Triumph dealer in Brea, and it was a press fleet bike with 1850 miles on it (I couldn't find ANY visible evidence that the bike had been flogged, or even laid-down by whoever had ridden it in the motorcycle journalism industry). This means I got a bike that was just barely broken-in, with a complete new warranty, at 2/3 of the MSRP. I put 400 miles/week on my Scrambler just in commuting to work and back (I live in Landers, California and work on board the Marine Corps base at 29 Palms), and probably an additional 150 miles/week in recreational riding. My Triumph is the best money I've spent in decades. The Scrambler is terrific on dirt and other unimproved roads, and surprisingly awesome on asphalt (note: it was good with the Continental TKC80 tires that came on it, but even better with Shinko 705's I put on it around the 5k mileage mark). The parallel twin on the Triumph is a work of art, and really pulls regardless of what gear you're in. The bike is as comfortable as any "naked" adventure-style bike can be. At 6'4" tall and 205 pounds I've found the riding position of the 1200XC to be perfect for me, with the bike feeling "lighter" on the road than it's actual weight would lead you to believe. The level of tech on the Triumph is extremely impressive as well. Some people may turn their nose up at the Triumph as it is actually manufactured in Taiwan. I'm not particularly bothered by this, as it's built to Triumph quality control standards and technical specifications, and "building to spec" is something they're good at in Taiwan. I could go on and on, but the bottom line is that in my experience you can't go wrong with the Triumph.

[@peterhatfield5632]

Pedant alert: made in Thailand.

[@josephfelder33]

Thanks for the write up. I currently have a Kawi Vulcan S, but my wife took the MSF Rider Course and got licensed, and wants to ride it herself, so I have been browsing some of the other bikes out there so I can pass mine on to be her dedicated bike. I love the style of the Triumph Scrambler, and the 1200 sounds like the sweet spot for performance vs usability in almost all terrain/conditions. You have helped me decide on the Scrambler. Cheers!

[@jayzenitram9621]

Quick question: How hot does your right leg get riding the Triumph?

[@paulregner5335]

@@jayzenitram9621 The heat issues aren't as bad as you might think. Prior to de-catting the exhaust (which lowered the radiant temperature by an average of 50 degrees Fahrenheit), the exhaust was managing to blanch the dye in a two-inch spot on the right leg of all of my denim trousers I would wear riding (abrasion from the wire screen in the heat shield may have also contributed to this phenomenon). However, I found that even during peak summer temperatures the heat from the exhaust wasn't too noticeable as long as I had 4-5 mph (or more) of airflow. The only time there is noticeable discomfort is when I'm stopped in traffic at a light or intersection. I have found that if I stand myself up with my left leg and keep my right foot on the peg, it helps to mitigate the heat issue while stopped. It hasn't even come close to being a detriment to me, nor has it tamped down my enthusiasm for the Scrambler. I hope this satisfactorily answered your question.

[@jayzenitram9621]

@@paulregner5335 Your answer was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you.

[@tyegunn]

I’m 6’2” 245 ...could you fly me out there next time so I can review the bikes from a bigger person’s perspective. Thanks 👍🏼🤘🏻

[@BRAINFxck10]

If you like tech the FTR 1200 S has a touch screen with different traction control settings it's a better road bike but I wonder about the long-term reliability of touch screens on motorcycles

[@Ichibuns]

Also, if it houses your odometer, it could cause issues down the road. Get it replaced and do the paper work and it would still be hard to sell it for what it's actually worth

[@MarmiteTheDog]

FFS get some presenters who know what they're reviewing, the prices, the specs and where they are located. Painful to watch.

[@johnsumser9743]

I agree. This looked like a first draft with zero editing.

[@stopper90004]

Awful video. The clueless old coot just rambles on without providing much concrete data. Steve Kamrad's videos are where you'll get some good insights on the Triumph scrambler

[@tokyosmash]

I’ll give the FTR rally one thing, it sure is pretty.

[@dmelson7502]

Other than that turd over the back wheel, agreed.

[@tinmisuun]

Love the way that FTR looks! Nearest Indian dealership is 2200 miles from me. It would be fun to ride one up here to AK.

[@sudmuck]

I'm in Alaska too, there aren't any dealerships up here?!?

[@snickrologen]

It seems like the Triumph is getting good grades no matter what magazine who’s testing! Must be a great bike!

[@larrynorsworthy8582]

It is. I love my street twin. I've had most bikes.

[@stopper90004]

Yeah, my xc is more fun than my ktm 690 off road, and way more pleasant on freeways

[@blackhillsdualsport]

You really like it more than a 690 off road? How’s the suspension hold up on the XC?

[@jhhi44]

I have the xe and it is a fantastic bike!!

[@Not_Sure-2020]

I'd ride my FTR on a dirt road but wouldn't go true "off-road". If for no other reason, when off-road, I stay on the pegs and keep the balls of my feet on the pegs. Since this bike is so heavy, I need every advantage I could get. On the FTR, my right heel hits the exhaust and it feels uncomfortable standing on the pegs on the arch of my feet. I also agree with the video on the battery, casings, and oil filter looking very vulnerable.

[@skandix]

"vs" implies a winner to be chosen, next time use "and" in the title.

[@j4zzx297]

They did say which they preffer? If your going off road get the triumph, if your only staying on the road get the indian. They can only give the features and reasons why they would pick it

[@dmelson7502]

I will join you fellow sailor of the internet, in your quest for non-inflammatory and semi-realistic headlines. (Drops to one knee, removes helm and holds sword before him as if a crucifix) may I join you in your holy quest sir?

[@skandix]

@@dmelson7502 Great see you at the Thrown.

[@skandix]

@@j4zzx297 That is no a "VS" title.

[@musguelha14]

They never tell you a winner. No magazine will ever tell a bike is better than the other, they'll always find excuses for the worse one. It's hard being objective when half of your magazine/website is just ads for the brands you're testing, and that's most of your revenue.

[@hacksaw4966]

Love the videos guys! Keep up the good work and the great reviews!!

[@Firestorm637]

Indian much heavier. I always try for lighter bikes with the best horsepower dyno curve from factory. The Indian makes way more horsepower with the added weight vs the triumph. All these bikes nowadays are all great so it ends up what your personal preference.

[@khakimzhanmiras]

The ftr is a mean machine. Their target market is guys who can actually ride (not me)

[@frankmaggerise1126]

I just test rode the FTR Rally at the local dealership and I agree it is a blast. I own a Triumph, I have to say the Indian was awesome! I would compare it more to a Triumph Speed Triple then the Bonneville 1200 Scrambler though.

[@lodendadul2978]

Always glad to get a quality video.

[@Wolf-mx7xx]

I keep on hearing about heat issues (exhaust) on the Triumph Scrambler - anyone have any experience/thoughts about this?

[@ThrillaPark]

My time is priceless tho. You guys are a great resource but you need to hire a good content producer to direct and polish your videos more. They need it.

[@musclenugget92]

Nah. Theres more information in these conversational videos

[@Rawkus919]

I feel like the Indian needs a proper rear mud/stone guard

[@BlackdogADV]

I’m thinking the FTR Rally would make a good adventure bike.

[@MarkissAurelius]

The Indian is a badass hooligan, American-made muscle car throwback. I love everything about it. The Triumph lacks the style. So between these two bikes specifically, I gotta go with the FTR RALLY!

[@gurpreetbanwait6097]

What not u compare indian ftr 1200 base with bmw r9t scrambler , that would be neck to neck comparison, i wish u do that quite early

[@WatchJoelTV]

where is this area? and can you ride off-road for free?

[@davidelizabeth4933]

Well done, gentlemen.👍

[@ryneprince7113]

You guys should do another m.k ini bike shoot out and include as many as possible. So many available now that seem decently reliable

[@dmelson7502]

I'm scrambling on a Bonneville t120 now and I'm not sure that I would want that amount of weight several inches higher (500lb range).

[@t4ketsuru]

how tall are you guys im interested in both of them im about 5'7" at best(172cm)

[@Land-Shark]

Mo-"j"ave Dessert had me actually LOL'ing! Thanks, John! :)

[@johnburns8956]

a ways south of Yosamight Natl Park

[@mcr0741]

@@johnburns8956 lol, it keeps getting better. 🤣

[@viperq]

I'm a fan of both bikes.

[@Kr1zToV]

"since 1994" that's when they got their audio equipment it seems

[@A.Spivey]

Awesome Video! Johnny Burns Forever!!

[@ianhoodless4903]

top job guys!

[@mrmotoman17]

You guys consistently make some of the lowest quality videos of anyone in the motorcycle review market. Audio is terrible, you don't even know the year of the bikes you're reviewing, and the hosts just talk to each other off-script for 13 whole minutes.

[@derrickfernandes600]

Bro can u help me to decide a bike from Honda x blade , BAJAJ pulser160 , Yamaha fz s f1

[@1rudrakshsharma]

Go for TVS RTR 200 4v

[@repetitivemotion]

The Indian looks awesome. I want it and I don’t care how it rides

[@amoore2165]

Cool video. I like that FTR.

[@expatbiker6598]

They tried to favour the Indian with better tyres without scramble XE. I'd still choose three XC.

[@isoplus3513]

FTR 750 Please!!!

[@dmelson7502]

But you got to style it like the actual flat track model. I like what they did with it but if it was more like that concept it would be in my garage right now.

[@wwfww]

Just another triumph, not just another indian! Respect

[@fivespeed3026]

I wish Indian made a FTR-R. Give it standard sized sport tires, maybe make some suspension adjustments and I’d be very interested in buying one.

[@nativeoutdoors1780]

Indian needs to make an America sport bike

[@rommelr12]

Triumph parallel twin in a Scrambler is very unstressed easy loping motor yielding good torque but not much hp at top end which should be reliable

[@nataliefenelon4796]

Awesome!!

[@coltonwancho6571]

Crying about cruze control. Time to retire these guys. The have become snobs and should not be doing reviews.

[@EC-ol8nz]

When u get older ya gotta. Its called arthritis 😁

[@Bow-to-the-absurd]

.... Play the best.... Song in the world..... Or I'll eat your souls......

[@Meerkoenig]

sorry guys - there is nothing „soft“ or „soaking up bumps“ in the Scrambler… just did 12.000 miles on my XE during the first year - maybe I just have to keep searching?

[@crippleguy415]

I want them both . 😍

[@thelonewanderer69]

I came here as I really like the idea of a scrambler. Make something custom like Deacon's motorcycle from Days Gone

[@tinman3586]

They need to update that instrument cluster on the Indian, it's not 1984 anymore guys.

[@boomer8393]

I was excited to watch this review. At 57, I'm contemplating risk vs reward? Drivers today are so distracted and impulsive, commuting seems more kin to Russian roulette, than riding? Another thought, when you're providing for the entire family, finances must be considered carefully, and these two beautiful machines seem to beg the question: Are you all-in..?

[@angelsuazo1978]

All comments no action show me what bike is better. That way I can have the data before I ride myself

[@motodrang4287]

weird comparison to me, off road spec indian vs road spec triumph scrambler. Really shoulda been the XE for the purpose here.

[@Firestorm637]

If your really going off-road nothing beats a 2 stroke at half the weight of a 4 stroke. Light 2 strokes in the dirt no comparison with a slow, top heavy 4 stroke. Easy maintenance on a 2 stroke and you can beat the hell out it.

[@AbnormalWrench]

I think you're slightly missing the category of bike that is being reviewed here. These are not dedicated off road bikes, in case that needed pointing out.

[@amoore2165]

I think the motocross world disagrees right now. If that were true the top pros would be on 2 strokes. James Stewart ran a 2 stroke against 4 strokes (because Kawasaki didn’t have a 4-stroke yet) and he felt he was at a severe disadvantage. Said he had to ride the wheels off of it to try to keep up.

[@quidestnunc9238]

Will Little John and Earlobes PLEASE STOP interrupting one another. Too much Caffeine !!!

[@muhammadalkhatib3752]

Old dude talks too much. He's doing a monologue. Let the other guy speak! :)

[@zachcd390119]

I love that Indian. So good looking, a crazy man's bike, and sounds amazing with an aftermarket exhaust

[@dandersonjr]

The only real thing I don't like about the Indian is the rear fender or lack there of.

[@ljubott]

👍 # 302 👍

[@skg901]

That Indian is more of a flatracker...

[@chuckbaker8413]

I’m 6’3 and 245… Not sure if I fit on the Indian comfortably… wha do you think…no Indian dealers around here… San Diego or Fresno… I’m in Santa Barbara…7 hour drive either way so I can’t check out the Indians…

[@ronancolleoc9827]

Try Corona or Westminster

[@OathForFew]

Love that Indian

[@ghosthunter8664]

🙂💞💞🤗🤗🤩🤩🌝🌝I like the ftr💞

[@tedbaxter5234]

Pro-Tip: if in doubt, look at the bikes badge for year information.

[@1990-t1j]

Indian for me. And I'm English.

[@DarthSpaceBall]

Any offroad play on a Scrambler requires a Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE, not an XC. XC is too streetbike. And the XE smokes the XC on the street as well. 11/10 better bike.

[@lawdayl]

I have an xc. It's much better on road than xe as most professional reviewers testify and handles dirt roads and fire trails better than I expected for its weight.

[@daveo9844]

XC is a better road bike than XE no question.

[@omahaadventureriders8017]

I was looking forward to the Scrambler beating out the FTR, because I know its that good. However, I had to stop watching when the riders didn't know what engine was in the Triumph Scrambler or have much a Speed Twin cost. Cringe worthy 😬.

[@ChrisCopeful]

I'm liking the long hair, guys.

[@abhishekatcardiff]

This John Burns guy is too damn slow man. Riding and speaking as if he has all the time in the world 🙄 Get some better riders.