I’ve had over 50 motorcycles in my lifetime, what I have learned over these years are as follows : Less weight the better , 60-100 hp is plenty , simplicity with progressive braking , road handling , reliability , easy self service , parts availability , reputable manufacturers with many dealerships ! I’m close to 70 and no longer skirt the limits , my skills are only a memory ! What are the only bikes I own , BMW R90/6 and 82 BMW R100RS , Old like me but adequate ! I’m sure others have their favorites ! Those new to the sport , enjoy and be defensive, your life depends on it !
How can one get tired of it? It shakes you awake everytime you push the button.Then it wiggles to the side when you get on the gas. Then it does the snake when you brake hard and shift late. Every ride, people around me must think I'm insane, as I pat her on the tank and try to soothe that shrew..
The single analogue spedo on my r nine t pure is exactly what I love about it; the bike is made to just ride not to be monitored in unnecessary distracting detail.
I own both a 1200 scrambler XE and a 701 enduro... amazing bikes and amazing engines, but very different.. as a do it all bike, the XE is impossible to beat. And looks phenomenal to me.
Great test. Been a subscriber since the mid 70's. You even gave me a bike and a truck in 1999. Thanks again!! For me its the FTR. That's why I bought one last June. The tires roll over the winter damaged roads here in the north east better than the normal 17 inch. The 6 inch travel helps also. You didn't mention that. I got the base model that gives a lot of performance for the money. Its like a big bore dirt bike for the street. The Triumph comes close but does't compare in engine performance. The Monster is in another class.
With how successful their FTR 750 has been on the flat tracks, it makes sense to bring some of that to the street. Personally I was hoping and expecting something like that ever since Victory's Project 156 racebike for Pike's Peak. The FTR 1200 is a bit bigger and bulkier than I was hoping for, but it seems to work for it.
The original Indian heritage included innovations to motorcycle engine and design. Polaris were innovative with Victory Motorcycles. Seems they are continuing the Indian legacy along with Victory's legacy. Remember, they are diversified in the power sports business. Also, Indians were originally dominant in racing. The FTR pays homage to that history. Just watch, they diversified the Indian line for years to come.
I own a Triumph Speed Twin. If the Polaris production FTR 12 looked ANYTHING liked the concept I would own one. Underpowered? Check. Overpriced? You bet. 18 inch wheels that make it impossible to find real tire? Of course. It weighs 600lbs. It is plastic. KTM isn't even bothering to address it because it is such a dismal flop. The FTR750 looks great, the 1200 makes me throw up in my mouth. It's a canadian harley. Done poorly.
The FTR is one monster in the group along with the Ducati. It almost resembled my 2005 Yamaha MT-01 (a perfect beast of a bike). The Triumph is the gentleman’s scrambler of the group, so composed in every way (very British in deed), great stock exhaust sound, torquy, but smooth engine, it wins this comparison, just for the looks 😍 But in the end I would bring back home with me the BMW, real old feeling but modern solid bike, 110 Hp engine, LED lights, cornering lights, inertia measurement unit, cornering Abs, TC, cruise control, heated grips, drive shaft …Man with the long flat beautiful leather seat, that would be by far the bike for me of the bunch. Very useful and nice video. Thank you!🤙🤙
I'm 75 and I'm riding for my 55th year, currently have a 2009 BMW R1200R and 2016 Sportster Roadster, Love them both , easy to work on, dependable and preform and handle well!
Really odd choice of bikes. Seems like you were looking for heritage and retro but you choose the monster 1200 s instead of the scrambler 1100? Also, no Japan? Honda CB1100, Kawasaki Z900RS? Kind of feels like you all just had a garage full of bikes and wanted to go ride them. Works for me. I don't feel like I learned anything but I did enjoy it.
@Jeffrey Allen I am aware. I may be mistaken, but for most of that tenure it sported the air cooled, two valve, air cooled mill found in the scrambler. I have ridden neither a monster nor a scrambler, so my opinion probably does not matter much.
Yes, I also have an impression that the video is pointless. But watched it any way because the video is about motorcycles and it's raining outside so my Z900RS is in the guarage :D This comparisant was not only very strange, but there is no conclusion I could get from it of any kind.
It's funny how people have different experiences on these bike. Last year i rode the 701 and felt like I was on an 125cc i mean with a little more grunt, but generally weak and disappointing. The r Nine and the monster i rode this year. R nine felt like you said old and dated but on the other hand the monster felt like it had Adhd, twichy and not confidence inspiring at all. the duc and indian i still haven't tried but will if i get the chance. All of them are cool bikes just suited for different people! In my head their not comparable at all. Have great day, thanks for an informative review!
And a slightly larger, less explodey fuel tank. I have a Svartpilen 701 and love it, minus having to get gas every 60-70 miles of fun riding. My friend has the 890 R and that sound in the Svartpilen would cause quite a commotion in the trousers.
Dirt biked my whole life. Got a MT-03 a month ago. I absolutely love it but man I want that FTR 1200. What a beautiful machine. Well done Indian. More please!!
Svartpilen is super light! IMO it's one of the most interesting bikes if you don't need luggage and range. In tight twisties it'll be the fastest of these group. It has a bit cheep controls and dash though, which spoils initial impression.
Agree on the backroad agility, but single cylinders bikes suck on the highway. I had a KTM 690R. It absolutely killed it on the tight backroads. Other than that didn’t care for it as an all arounder.
I really liked this comparison, I was on the market for a bike and almost all these bikes were on my radar with the exception of the husky and in the end I rode the Indian FTR the Thriumph XE and the BMW Scrambler and in the end I bought the XE Triumph and I'll tell you why! it is just like you said " with that 21inch front wheel I went from foot peg to foot peg" it was unreal BMW GS have been dethroned big time because the XE handles better is lighter and with sooooooo much less complexity than the GS from its electronic suspension to you name it tech wise it's just far to much, most of us just wanna ride buddy so all we need is a seat bars and a motor and with the Triumph it is the package to beat from all views including cost.
Why are you comparing this Triumph to a BMW GS, when they actually test the natural BMW rival to the Scrambler in the R NineT? Triumphs rival to the Beemer GS is the Triumph Tiger, and the market that both the GS and Tiger are aimed at are a world apart from the Scrambler and R NineT. These latter two are fun bikes for long Sunday spins. The GS and Tiger are Adventure bikes for spanning the globe.
Great review! The BMW and the FTR are great for short trips, especially backroads, but the Triumph indeed is the better all around bike. Very comfortable, almost super-moto like. Although I would prefer the (2019 and later) XE version with the longer suspension, perfect for taller riders. The only thing I hate about is that exhaust. Fortunately, Zard makes a normal looking 2 into 1 exhaust. I need to try one.
After being out of motorcycling for the last 20 years I wanted to get back into it with as pure analog new bike as possible... 4,500 miles later on my 2020 RNineT Pure and I don’t regret the purchase at all. (I did have to change out the mirrors though, the factory mirrors were pretty much worthless.)
It may help that I agree with your assessments totally, but still a good video even if my favorite (Triumph Scrambler) had not been the favorite. Anyone can make their own choice even if its not yours. Glad you included the 701 BTW. It's a very worthy choice.
I have ridden an R Nine T Scrambler (Ti Akro headers connecting a Comp Werkes can) across country from PDX to MCO, and have now swapped it with a 701 Svartpilen (Leo Vince link pipe connecting an Akro can). I love both bikes! Sure, the engine is half the size, and I can't rip the throttle doing 120 and it still pull on the highway, but I don't miss the weight at all. With the 701, I have ridden to Barber on all backroads from MCO and never missed any power. As 44Teeth's review mentioned, "It's a scalpel," and you don't have to muscle it about. If we are talking sound, replicate my exhaust setup, and go watch the 450 class at the next flat track race. Then the next time you fire up your Swedish dame, you'll feel it in your giblets as you pull a wheelie off the line and remember that she's "ready to race," just like her Austrian cousin. Then again, I prefer riding middleweight bikes fast rather than big bikes slow. 😉🏁
I love comparisons of bikes that are all not in the exact same category. For example. I would like to see a Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Yamaha T7. Both different but both seem so damn good. It would be a fun long test to find out witch would be the best all round forever bike. Keep up the great work and if your hiring i am available to fill that position!
I own a Ducati 1200s and I would agree with their comments. Very feisty and aggressive. I like the look of the FTR, so it’s probably the only other of the pack that I would like to own.
Chose the r nine t urban for the ww2 airplane sound and the analog speedometer. Hard to describe the pleasure in both if you are from the PlayStation generation.
Nice review and all those bikes are amazing! I have the Triumph Scrambler XC and brought it for all the reasons mentioned. It has been an amazing commuter and weekend adventurer. As an aside, it also crashes well! I went over a blind and hit slip which was on the road, the brakes worked a treat and although I flipped over the bars and landed on my head and had the bike land on me, leading to a helicopter ride to hospital, the bike has taken bugger all damage to the point I probably wont claim any insurance.. You guys really should crash test these too :)
Finally a motorcycle channel that compares comparable bikes . You guys did miss the mark with the monster s , should have been the scrambler 1100 . I can’t imagine anyone taking that scrambler over the ftr
Analogue gauges, it's 2020... How is that even related? It's the best looking by far in that department, it fits the style much better than those silly TFT screens which unfortunately my GS also "features" now.
Thanks for the vid, I enjoyed the mag article as well. I had a similar shortlist a few months ago and ended up with the FTR. Was down to the R9T and that but the FTR just made me smile more. It’s great but not the most practical thing. The Triumph will be on the list next time as well as the Ducati Scrambler 1200.
Young man what an excellent video. You were so respectful and wise to sit and listen to the older experienced gentleman. Your respect for his experience makes me trust your opinion that much more. Well done sir
That was one of the best post-test analysis I've ever watched on RUclips. Well done. As you say, it is tricky to compare these bikes because you're looking at spirit and soul more than raw data and they're obviously all good bikes. Girlfriend would probably be happier on the back of the Triumph than the FTR judging by the foot pegs and seat design.
I have to wonder how much experience the younger riders like Michael really have with 'vintage' bikes? How many have ridden a R90S, a SOHC CB750, an original T6 Triumph Trophy, a Ducati GT750.
Maybe should have gone for the 821 Monster instead??? Cool comparison! Also this is the first I've heard the term 'flow motorcycle'....what does that mean?
7:30 - analogue gauges i.e. something that will be working properly in 20 years' time and still look amazing, too. Wanna know what TFT screens will look like in 20 years? Google '80s Digital Dashboards'... 😬
Old Soles, a difficult thing for "Manufacturers" to pull off with any bike designed by "Committee" as most bikes are nowadays, it sounds like one or two of them might just have done it. It's nice to hear someone talk about "Modern" bikes without "Banging" on about "Modes & Nanny Systems" imhho they have taken the "Skill" out of riding, to the point where almost every young rider just cannot ride a bike without them turned up to the "Max". I build for Pleasure & Pay & I recently built a bike for a young(ish) woman for her dad(81) I always insist that I ride with everyone that I build for but with a "Suprise" that's a little difficult, so I went to see his collection, this guy had some amazing stuff, the stuff that dreams are made of, from his collection I could tell he would be hard to please, so I built him a 90s Suzuki GSX750F in a Cafe Racer style, nothing like anything he had, I took every system off it, as always, FYI the ABS weighed 109lbs that's more than the weight of my beautiful wife, just think what that does to your power to weight ratio, I used a GSXR750 modified bottom end with a "Long Trow" extra gear for Touring & the OG top end that was Jetted & Ported with modified timing & valves, the in line 4 gives it a very low COG so you can really engage in the corners, a couple of weeks ago I was out riding with my family, we all race quite successfully including my Princess 10 & ride, as fast as we can as often as we can, I saw this bike ahead of us so instead of banging along I slowed to watch it, we pulled up & I recognised the guy riding it, this old guy could properly ride, we all have "Silverwear" & we hadto push to keep up, he had this "Massive" smile on his face & he could not contain himself when asked about it, he mentioned the words "Old Sole", & apparently it was his new "Go Too" bike, that he loves with a pasion, if I never get a compliment on one of my builds again I would be OK, I love bikes that capture the "Essence" of Motorcycling not the stunted carbolic self riding shite that is banged out today ridden by talentless monkeys that are a danger to everyone on the road especially themselves, but a bike designed to do what it does best, eat up the road, devour the corners & give the rider that feeling that cannot be described that nothing else can do quite like them. My current favourite is my Suzuki Gamma RGV500 it just devours all of those generic "LitreBikes" bought by people that have no place on them just to impress their friends.
I love the look of the Scrambler, but the restrictions that come with those high pipes mean I would choose a T120 instead. Got to be able to throw some saddle bags over the seat, or what's the point?
You guys are expert in this field , but according to me ftr wins modern bikers like me need practicability , aesthetic, comfort , cruising capability doses of all these things are equalized properly in ftr , i dont know which has greater sales in north america because the real winner is that which has maximum sales
Would love one.....but mid 30's mpg!! No Thanks! Have a 1200 Speed Twin which will not dip below 52mpg however hard I ride it. Great bike....after upgrading suspension,exhaust and gearing.
If it wasn't for the exhaust burns your leg when hot I would have bought a Scrambler XC last year.. tempted by the speed twin now though as same engine
I have had my XC since Dec. 2019. I did the Cat Delete. It did not make much difference. For heat IMO but it is not terrible. Just leave your exhaust side foot on the peg at Stop lights.
Couple of those other bikes like the 701 and FTR had some dirt tires on them, why not take those off road to comment on what they were like compared to the Scrambler?
I wanted to like the Svartpilen but I can not get past that tank. I was looking at it at the dealer but I have to say I'm really not a fan. I ended up with the FTR. The dealer actually had every one of these save that specific BMW.
Husky with 75hp and 73nm from a 690 single? 360lbs, super flickable and just downright gorgeous? I think it’s the clear winner here. Display isn’t great and you’d need a can to really hear that punchy single but other than that it’s probably the most fun you can have on a bike. All for less than 10k. Cannot beat that.
On my wish list : I would love to see an R80 boxer with a modern Ealres fork up front and the simple styling of the /2 ..SO a R18 with a 800 cc 200 mile range on regular gas.. My R 69S modernized ...
You did a big mistake by not adding ducati scrambler 1100 pro , its ridiculous to adding monster , just because technically its sounds good to compare ftr and monster its doesnt make any sense . But after all great comparison one thing thats missing is reliability ranking from consumer reports perspective.
Usually the company is told what the category is for the story and they send out a bike to represent. So I’m guessing Ducati sent them that one for review... just a guess though.
I love the single cylinder rotax in my 2007 BMW F650GS. Its a perfect engine and would have been fantastic in a sportier bike with a 6 speed transmission
I’ve had over 50 motorcycles in my lifetime, what I have learned over these years are as follows : Less weight the better , 60-100 hp is plenty , simplicity with progressive braking , road handling , reliability , easy self service , parts availability , reputable manufacturers with many dealerships ! I’m close to 70 and no longer skirt the limits , my skills are only a memory ! What are the only bikes I own , BMW R90/6 and 82 BMW R100RS , Old like me but adequate ! I’m sure others have their favorites ! Those new to the sport , enjoy and be defensive, your life depends on it !
I had an R100S '77 !!!
Great points bro. Agreed 100%.
"Be defensive." Don't think this is said enough.
So true Sir. I like you, look back on 6 decades of riding. Still love it, my body tells me now what to keep running and what to sell. THANKS4sharing.
all great bikes. Two years in, I still love my RnineT. Haven't gotten tired of it yet...
How can one get tired of it? It shakes you awake everytime you push the button.Then it wiggles to the side when you get on the gas. Then it does the snake when you brake hard and shift late. Every ride, people around me must think I'm insane, as I pat her on the tank and try to soothe that shrew..
Have you had a chance to ride a Triumph? A real one.
Thats the stuff got mine 2 months ago 1000km done its a beast on wheels. Love the feeling
@@duanedragon2
Ducati and bmw outperform Triumph.
The single analogue spedo on my r nine t pure is exactly what I love about it; the bike is made to just ride not to be monitored in unnecessary distracting detail.
The 701 Huskies are in the top 3 new bikes for me.
I own both a 1200 scrambler XE and a 701 enduro... amazing bikes and amazing engines, but very different.. as a do it all bike, the XE is impossible to beat. And looks phenomenal to me.
I bought an Indian FTR 1200 S RR a month ago. I live in New England and I already wish it was spring. This thing revitalized my love for riding!
This is my dream bike. Next year. Ride safe brotha.
Great test. Been a subscriber since the mid 70's. You even gave me a bike and a truck in 1999. Thanks again!! For me its the FTR. That's why I bought one last June. The tires roll over the winter damaged roads here in the north east better than the normal 17 inch. The 6 inch travel helps also. You didn't mention that. I got the base model that gives a lot of performance for the money. Its like a big bore dirt bike for the street. The Triumph comes close but does't compare in engine performance. The Monster is in another class.
Paso Robles, Santa Margarita, SLO, Pismo...amazing place to ride. Just left last year after 15 years. So many AMAZING roads, and 365 riding.
That Indian looks really good. I'm surprised they took a risk on such a big departure from their normal line up.
With how successful their FTR 750 has been on the flat tracks, it makes sense to bring some of that to the street. Personally I was hoping and expecting something like that ever since Victory's Project 156 racebike for Pike's Peak. The FTR 1200 is a bit bigger and bulkier than I was hoping for, but it seems to work for it.
The original Indian heritage included innovations to motorcycle engine and design. Polaris were innovative with Victory Motorcycles. Seems they are continuing the Indian legacy along with Victory's legacy. Remember, they are diversified in the power sports business. Also, Indians were originally dominant in racing. The FTR pays homage to that history. Just watch, they diversified the Indian line for years to come.
And a good one!
I own a Triumph Speed Twin. If the Polaris production FTR 12 looked ANYTHING liked the concept I would own one. Underpowered? Check. Overpriced? You bet. 18 inch wheels that make it impossible to find real tire? Of course. It weighs 600lbs. It is plastic. KTM isn't even bothering to address it because it is such a dismal flop. The FTR750 looks great, the 1200 makes me throw up in my mouth. It's a canadian harley. Done poorly.
@@duanedragon2 ok
The FTR is one monster in the group along with the Ducati. It almost resembled my 2005 Yamaha MT-01 (a perfect beast of a bike). The Triumph is the gentleman’s scrambler of the group, so composed in every way (very British in deed), great stock exhaust sound, torquy, but smooth engine, it wins this comparison, just for the looks 😍
But in the end I would bring back home with me the BMW, real old feeling but modern solid bike, 110 Hp engine, LED lights, cornering lights, inertia measurement unit, cornering Abs, TC, cruise control, heated grips, drive shaft …Man with the long flat beautiful leather seat, that would be by far the bike for me of the bunch.
Very useful and nice video. Thank you!🤙🤙
5th year owning my R NineT (I also have a Monster S4RS) and very happy with it.
As a proud Brit I know which one I'd go for.
The Indian.....it's a thing of beauty.
Pricey though.
Really? Triumph is so much more beautiful
The analogue dials are the perfect choice. No screens for me.
Same I can deal with screens just put them inside 2 dials
Couldn't agree less. I hate the boomer-esque analog gagues.
@@tinman3586 I adore them. They’re flawless. There are amazing ways to integrate both. Like the Lexus LFA and RCF etc
I like both types of gages but on a retro analog makes sense...not a deal breaker for me.
I'm 75 and I'm riding for my 55th year, currently have a 2009 BMW R1200R and 2016 Sportster Roadster, Love them both , easy to work on, dependable and preform and handle well!
Really odd choice of bikes. Seems like you were looking for heritage and retro but you choose the monster 1200 s instead of the scrambler 1100? Also, no Japan? Honda CB1100, Kawasaki Z900RS? Kind of feels like you all just had a garage full of bikes and wanted to go ride them.
Works for me. I don't feel like I learned anything but I did enjoy it.
@Jeffrey Allen I am aware. I may be mistaken, but for most of that tenure it sported the air cooled, two valve, air cooled mill found in the scrambler.
I have ridden neither a monster nor a scrambler, so my opinion probably does not matter much.
@Jeffrey Allen Gsxr750 has 35 years of production. That doesn't make it a retro bike.
Jeff Keene I don’t think it was odd at all I myself was looking for another bike and all These bikes were on my radar with the exception of the 701
Yes, I also have an impression that the video is pointless. But watched it any way because the video is about motorcycles and it's raining outside so my Z900RS is in the guarage :D This comparisant was not only very strange, but there is no conclusion I could get from it of any kind.
@Jeffrey Allen A brand new 2020 katana is more retro than the monster.
Kinda curious why you'd pin the FTR and R nine T against the Scrambler 1200.
Wouldn't the Speed Twin or Thruxton R be the obviously closer comparison?
FTR is amazing the torque is a addictive joy
It's funny how people have different experiences on these bike. Last year i rode the 701 and felt like I was on an 125cc i mean with a little more grunt, but generally weak and
disappointing. The r Nine and the monster i rode this year. R nine felt like you said old and dated but on the other hand the monster felt like it had Adhd, twichy and not confidence inspiring at all.
the duc and indian i still haven't tried but will if i get the chance. All of them are cool bikes just suited for different people! In my head their not comparable at all.
Have great day, thanks for an informative review!
R nine t all day long. Shaft drive, a big boxer, analog gages insane amount of customizing options oem and aftermarket.
Wishlist: Svartpilen and Vitpilen with the 890 KTM parallel. That´s all.
And a slightly larger, less explodey fuel tank. I have a Svartpilen 701 and love it, minus having to get gas every 60-70 miles of fun riding. My friend has the 890 R and that sound in the Svartpilen would cause quite a commotion in the trousers.
It's coming! It will be the 901 line up👍🏼
@@patricksandeberg8184 That's good news!
I guess it will come after the Norden 901
Now it’s official, 2023 end of the year… it’s an 890 R twin 121 hp 99 torque.
I actually dig analog gauges on motorcycles, easier to see with the sun shining over your shoulder than digital.
Dirt biked my whole life. Got a MT-03 a month ago. I absolutely love it but man I want that FTR 1200. What a beautiful machine. Well done Indian. More please!!
Svartpilen is super light! IMO it's one of the most interesting bikes if you don't need luggage and range. In tight twisties it'll be the fastest of these group.
It has a bit cheep controls and dash though, which spoils initial impression.
Agree on the backroad agility, but single cylinders bikes suck on the highway. I had a KTM 690R. It absolutely killed it on the tight backroads. Other than that didn’t care for it as an all arounder.
Ducati scrambler desert sled? What happened? Where is it?
I really liked this comparison, I was on the market for a bike and almost all these bikes were on my radar with the exception of the husky and in the end I rode the Indian FTR the Thriumph XE and the BMW Scrambler and in the end I bought the XE Triumph and I'll tell you why! it is just like you said " with that 21inch front wheel I went from foot peg to foot peg" it was unreal BMW GS have been dethroned big time because the XE handles better is lighter and with sooooooo much less complexity than the GS from its electronic suspension to you name it tech wise it's just far to much, most of us just wanna ride buddy so all we need is a seat bars and a motor and with the Triumph it is the package to beat from all views including cost.
Why are you comparing this Triumph to a BMW GS, when they actually test the natural BMW rival to the Scrambler in the R NineT? Triumphs rival to the Beemer GS is the Triumph Tiger, and the market that both the GS and Tiger are aimed at are a world apart from the Scrambler and R NineT. These latter two are fun bikes for long Sunday spins. The GS and Tiger are Adventure bikes for spanning the globe.
@@GarryMcGovern It's like cross shopping a Subaru Crosstrek against a Mercedes 6x6.
Great review! The BMW and the FTR are great for short trips, especially backroads, but the Triumph indeed is the better all around bike. Very comfortable, almost super-moto like. Although I would prefer the (2019 and later) XE version with the longer suspension, perfect for taller riders. The only thing I hate about is that exhaust. Fortunately, Zard makes a normal looking 2 into 1 exhaust. I need to try one.
Haha, the burn your leg exhaust was a deal breaker for me with the Scrambler.
After being out of motorcycling for the last 20 years I wanted to get back into it with as pure analog new bike as possible... 4,500 miles later on my 2020 RNineT Pure and I don’t regret the purchase at all. (I did have to change out the mirrors though, the factory mirrors were pretty much worthless.)
The BMW sound gets me everytime. I don’t love the bike, but it sounds like an old warplane. Dope.
It may help that I agree with your assessments totally, but still a good video even if my favorite (Triumph Scrambler) had not been the favorite. Anyone can make their own choice even if its not yours. Glad you included the 701 BTW. It's a very worthy choice.
I can't get the scrambler xc out of my mind.
I love my XE, it's good at everything and looks good doing it.
That's my ride and I love it! Just keep in mind it's not perfect... the exhaust produces a lot of heat.
Buy it hehehe
It is a terrible street bike. It is also really bad at off-road.
I have one and love it. Just know the exhaust gets hot and when you are at low speed it’s noticeable.
Finally, a down to earth synopsis of a mostly intangible quality of motorcycling. How they speak to you. Do more like this. Please. And thank you.
Between the Indian and the Husky I think two of the most beautiful bikes on the market are in this review.
I wish ya'll would have used a Ducati Scrambler 1100 instead of the Monster... otherwise 👍
Yes, and also a Guzzi
@@agustincuevae Guzzi would've been cool to see.
I can't believe how BMW made one of the worst sounding engines of the past few decades sound so amazing.
Such a sucky motor blurk
I have ridden an R Nine T Scrambler (Ti Akro headers connecting a Comp Werkes can) across country from PDX to MCO, and have now swapped it with a 701 Svartpilen (Leo Vince link pipe connecting an Akro can).
I love both bikes! Sure, the engine is half the size, and I can't rip the throttle doing 120 and it still pull on the highway, but I don't miss the weight at all.
With the 701, I have ridden to Barber on all backroads from MCO and never missed any power. As 44Teeth's review mentioned, "It's a scalpel," and you don't have to muscle it about.
If we are talking sound, replicate my exhaust setup, and go watch the 450 class at the next flat track race. Then the next time you fire up your Swedish dame, you'll feel it in your giblets as you pull a wheelie off the line and remember that she's "ready to race," just like her Austrian cousin.
Then again, I prefer riding middleweight bikes fast rather than big bikes slow. 😉🏁
Fun review, would of liked to see the Moto Guzzi V85TT though , I think it fits in with theses bikes
Or the new V7!
From the "old souls" I would choose between CB 1100 EX, W800 and the Interceptor 650, depending on budget.
Test rode the Indian, a revelation, did what you told it and quick turned on a dime, fantastic FFS, trying to work on the purchase 😍
Nice comparison. I love each of these bikes. Would be happy to live with any of these as my only bike. I really like the simplicity of modern retros
Still would've picked the Husky 701.
Light, strong, comfortable and beautiful!
the fact that the 701 is 1/2 to 2/3 the price of every other bike on here should say a lot even if it is a bit outclassed.
@@Zenaur aaaaand that to! Agree! That's pretty important to 🤑
Don't really know what you're trying to say in this review. I think it's like trying to compare a Panigale V4S to a Motorad R1250GS.
The R nine T was the motorcycle I saw as a kid and was like “okay, bikes are awesome!!!”; now I’m more into the monster though
I love comparisons of bikes that are all not in the exact same category. For example. I would like to see a Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Yamaha T7. Both different but both seem so damn good. It would be a fun long test to find out witch would be the best all round forever bike. Keep up the great work and if your hiring i am available to fill that position!
Great comparison, interesting line up for sure. But just for the record, you can ship the FTR to me when you're through wringing it out.
I own a Ducati 1200s and I would agree with their comments. Very feisty and aggressive. I like the look of the FTR, so it’s probably the only other of the pack that I would like to own.
With a 17 inch front wheel and proper tires, the FTR1200 would be the perfect motorcycle.
Ask and you receive
Look at the new 2022 model
Chose the r nine t urban for the ww2 airplane sound and the analog speedometer. Hard to describe the pleasure in both if you are from the PlayStation generation.
These were all the bikes I was deciding on last year (sub Thruxton instead of Scrambler) and ended up going with a Harley Davidson Fat Bob 114.
Why the major downgrade?
Danielle Koran the others weren’t as versatile when it comes to bombing around town, curvy mountain roads, or weekend tours with a passenger.
Nice review and all those bikes are amazing! I have the Triumph Scrambler XC and brought it for all the reasons mentioned. It has been an amazing commuter and weekend adventurer. As an aside, it also crashes well! I went over a blind and hit slip which was on the road, the brakes worked a treat and although I flipped over the bars and landed on my head and had the bike land on me, leading to a helicopter ride to hospital, the bike has taken bugger all damage to the point I probably wont claim any insurance.. You guys really should crash test these too :)
Ha, Hell of a way to prove its ruggedness. Hope you ok now fella.
I think they missed the boat having the Ducati Monster and not the scrambler if the theme is Retro bikes.
exactly.
Would be cool if they said the price difference as well.
It’s hilarious because he even says desert sled in the video and one of the Ducati scrambler’s is called the desert sled
Finally a motorcycle channel that compares comparable bikes . You guys did miss the mark with the monster s , should have been the scrambler 1100 . I can’t imagine anyone taking that scrambler over the ftr
I rode both and bought the xc. No regrets here! Have you ridden both bikes?
I like all of them. I went with FTR
Analogue gauges, it's 2020... How is that even related? It's the best looking by far in that department, it fits the style much better than those silly TFT screens which unfortunately my GS also "features" now.
Nicely done gentlemen. Great to see Mark out and about too.
“It’s not derivative of anything”
I dunno, it’s basically a 690 Duke with some fancy bits tacked on.
He’s talking style...
The Svartpilen 701 looks like they liken the concept but wanted in-house engine version on the Nuda 900R, in the city it will be a blast..
Are you serius? What is wrong with analog gauges?
Would've liked to see the Yamaha XSR900 thrown in the mix...
Thanks for the vid, I enjoyed the mag article as well. I had a similar shortlist a few months ago and ended up with the FTR. Was down to the R9T and that but the FTR just made me smile more. It’s great but not the most practical thing. The Triumph will be on the list next time as well as the Ducati Scrambler 1200.
Just Love All Of Them...! A Bike In Between The Legs Is Simply The Best Feeling Ever...
Except maybe, having a women between the legs!😁
🤣🤣 My Wife Agrees To Your Reply...👍
lanceolot22 I prefer being between the legs of the women 😂
JJ N Either way makes me happy! 🤣
Why not include the Yamaha XSR900?
Its not a scrambler. Ground clearance too low.
Husky does it for me!
Young man what an excellent video. You were so respectful and wise to sit and listen to the older experienced gentleman. Your respect for his experience makes me trust your opinion that much more. Well done sir
That was one of the best post-test analysis I've ever watched on RUclips. Well done. As you say, it is tricky to compare these bikes because you're looking at spirit and soul more than raw data and they're obviously all good bikes. Girlfriend would probably be happier on the back of the Triumph than the FTR judging by the foot pegs and seat design.
You are right, my wife encouraged me to get the ftr and will only ride on the back of our triumph street twin.
In the end buy a XSR900 or Z900RS ;)
I have to wonder how much experience the younger riders like Michael really have with 'vintage' bikes? How many have ridden a R90S, a SOHC CB750, an original T6 Triumph Trophy, a Ducati GT750.
Maybe should have gone for the 821 Monster instead??? Cool comparison! Also this is the first I've heard the term 'flow motorcycle'....what does that mean?
Thanks for leaving the exhaust notes in the video.
What an odd choice of bikes. Why not the duc scrambler 1100? Either way good vid.
I would love to see an FTR comparison with stock tires vs real sport rubber.
the new ftr is out has more street inspired wheels and tyres check the indian website
So the new 2022 ftr1200
Why isn't the XSR 900 here if the Svartpilen was included?
Exactly! In addition, the Kawasaki Z900 as well.
Sounds like a non-Japanese line up pretty much
Its not a scrambler. Ground clearance too low.
Just picked up an FTR but would like to try the Ducati M.
What’s a “flow” motorcycle
7:30 - analogue gauges i.e. something that will be working properly in 20 years' time and still look amazing, too. Wanna know what TFT screens will look like in 20 years? Google '80s Digital Dashboards'... 😬
Old Soles, a difficult thing for "Manufacturers" to pull off with any bike designed by "Committee" as most bikes are nowadays, it sounds like one or two of them might just have done it. It's nice to hear someone talk about "Modern" bikes without "Banging" on about "Modes & Nanny Systems" imhho they have taken the "Skill" out of riding, to the point where almost every young rider just cannot ride a bike without them turned up to the "Max". I build for Pleasure & Pay & I recently built a bike for a young(ish) woman for her dad(81) I always insist that I ride with everyone that I build for but with a "Suprise" that's a little difficult, so I went to see his collection, this guy had some amazing stuff, the stuff that dreams are made of, from his collection I could tell he would be hard to please, so I built him a 90s Suzuki GSX750F in a Cafe Racer style, nothing like anything he had, I took every system off it, as always, FYI the ABS weighed 109lbs that's more than the weight of my beautiful wife, just think what that does to your power to weight ratio, I used a GSXR750 modified bottom end with a "Long Trow" extra gear for Touring & the OG top end that was Jetted & Ported with modified timing & valves, the in line 4 gives it a very low COG so you can really engage in the corners, a couple of weeks ago I was out riding with my family, we all race quite successfully including my Princess 10 & ride, as fast as we can as often as we can, I saw this bike ahead of us so instead of banging along I slowed to watch it, we pulled up & I recognised the guy riding it, this old guy could properly ride, we all have "Silverwear" & we hadto push to keep up, he had this "Massive" smile on his face & he could not contain himself when asked about it, he mentioned the words "Old Sole", & apparently it was his new "Go Too" bike, that he loves with a pasion, if I never get a compliment on one of my builds again I would be OK, I love bikes that capture the "Essence" of Motorcycling not the stunted carbolic self riding shite that is banged out today ridden by talentless monkeys that are a danger to everyone on the road especially themselves, but a bike designed to do what it does best, eat up the road, devour the corners & give the rider that feeling that cannot be described that nothing else can do quite like them. My current favourite is my Suzuki Gamma RGV500 it just devours all of those generic "LitreBikes" bought by people that have no place on them just to impress their friends.
Where is Moto Guzzi? A classic prime example of an 'old soul'!
I love the look of the Scrambler, but the restrictions that come with those high pipes mean I would choose a T120 instead. Got to be able to throw some saddle bags over the seat, or what's the point?
Best comparison I’ve seen from you guys. All are great bikes just some do things better than others.
Nine T rules
You guys are expert in this field , but according to me ftr wins modern bikers like me need practicability , aesthetic, comfort , cruising capability doses of all these things are equalized properly in ftr , i dont know which has greater sales in north america because the real winner is that which has maximum sales
Would love one.....but mid 30's mpg!! No Thanks! Have a 1200 Speed Twin which will not dip below 52mpg however hard I ride it. Great bike....after upgrading suspension,exhaust and gearing.
If it wasn't for the exhaust burns your leg when hot I would have bought a Scrambler XC last year.. tempted by the speed twin now though as same engine
I have had my XC since Dec. 2019. I did the Cat Delete. It did not make much difference. For heat IMO but it is not terrible. Just leave your exhaust side foot on the peg at Stop lights.
Couple of those other bikes like the 701 and FTR had some dirt tires on them, why not take those off road to comment on what they were like compared to the Scrambler?
I wanted to like the Svartpilen but I can not get past that tank. I was looking at it at the dealer but I have to say I'm really not a fan. I ended up with the FTR. The dealer actually had every one of these save that specific BMW.
Great line-up. Almost all bikes I would, or actually do consider buying, appreciated!
Awesome soulful review ha. The Triumph is the sleeper it seems - good for them!
Husky with 75hp and 73nm from a 690 single? 360lbs, super flickable and just downright gorgeous? I think it’s the clear winner here. Display isn’t great and you’d need a can to really hear that punchy single but other than that it’s probably the most fun you can have on a bike. All for less than 10k. Cannot beat that.
Just hit 900 miles, engine feels really good now, once I was able to go past 6k rpm's the bike came alive and is major fun.
I have love for all of these bikes.
On my wish list : I would love to see an R80 boxer with a modern Ealres fork up front and the simple styling of the /2 ..SO a R18 with a 800 cc 200 mile range on regular gas.. My R 69S modernized ...
Love my Monster 1200 S
I did not learn anything. Wasted time. It’s like you are afraid to downgrade a bike for fear of loosing ad fees
I’m curious what you guys think of the 2022 ftr1200
You did a big mistake by not adding ducati scrambler 1100 pro , its ridiculous to adding monster , just because technically its sounds good to compare ftr and monster its doesnt make any sense . But after all great comparison one thing thats missing is reliability ranking from consumer reports perspective.
why was the ducati monster and not the scrambler put in this comparison?
Usually the company is told what the category is for the story and they send out a bike to represent. So I’m guessing Ducati sent them that one for review... just a guess though.
Thank you for telling me about Los Alamos in this video. Will have to hit that place up soon
Lots of good riding in that area. Sipapu, Taos, jemez. Amazing places to ride in NM
Svartpilen 701 the hipster's 690 Duke.
Thanks for a very interesting comparison. Great to hear your different views without too much tech talk!
Need more videos like this.
Why not the ducati scrambler 1100
I love the single cylinder rotax in my 2007 BMW F650GS. Its a perfect engine and would have been fantastic in a sportier bike with a 6 speed transmission
Ftr 1200 for me. Especially the new 2022 version