Featured Indian Ftr 1200 Vs. Speed Triple Rs -- Triumph Wins!

Indian Motorcycles of Tucson had a demo day today so I rode over to check out the scene. I've been intrigued by the 2020 FTR 1200 flat track race replica bike so figured I'd take it for a spin. Though it's a cool bike, my 2019 Speed Triple RS wins hands down! The egros are quite similar between the two bikes and of the bikes in my garage, it most closely resembles my Speedy. But when the day (or test ride) was done, I far prefer my Speed Triple. I particularly like my Triumph's engine character much, much more than that of the 60º V-Twin of the Indian. The area on either side of the seat where my inner thighs are near the bike was much warmer (nearing hot) than seemed right to me. And, though Tucson is often very hot, today wasn't one of those days.

Oh well, now I know and I don't need to continue to "wonder" or drool over that bike. My Speed Triple is certainly safe from a trade in towards the Indian FTR 1200! And it was just plain fun to test ride, which I love doing. I also rode the 2020 Scout Bobber which I liked ok other than the foot controls being way too far forward for my taste. I wanted to ride the newest bike in Indian's lineup, the Challenger. I call it the Indian "Road Glide". I have a H-D Road Glide so was interested in comparing the two. But that bike was signed up for every test ride session until the end of the day by the time I arrived at the dealership at 10:00am! Here are some photos from the day.

 

So do I Mnbrennan. But I didn't like how it was to ride it nearly as much as I like how it is to look at it unfortunately. Well, maybe fortunately, depending on one's perspective! My garage is full at the moment so if I'd have loved it I'd be looking at replacing something I already own. Sigh. So many bikes--so little space (well, and $$ too).

 

Yep, I was actually glad that I didn't like the FTR1200, Billy! I think we're cut from the same salesman's dream cloth. I'm sure they can just feel my eagerness and are ready to come in for the kill. On more than one occasion I didn't really have it in mind to get a new bike--but did. Those darned test rides are my weakness. Still...I continue to do them "just for fun".

 

Which doesn't float your boat, mark, the camel or the Indian FTR1200?

 

You are right, Joe. That was a nice camel and the Indian does look cool. But I'm definitely keeping my Speed Triple and can't quite imagine ever not having a Triumph in my garage. Don't worry, I have no intention of not speaking to or sharing stories and photos with you and the rest of my Forum friends. At least as long as you'll all continue to have me, female Yank that I am!