Engine Break-In

Content Source: 2020 Indian FTR 1200 Owner’s Manual (9931115 R02) > Operation Chapter

IMPORTANT

The Owner's Manual for this vehicle contains warnings, instructions and other information you must read and fully understand before safely riding or performing maintenance on this vehicle.Always follow the warnings and instructions in Owner's Manual.

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Engine Break-In

The engine break-in period for your motorcycle is the first 500 miles (800 km) of operation. During this break-in period, critical engine parts require special wear-in procedures so they seat and mate properly. Read, understand and follow all break-in procedures to ensure the long-term performance and durability of your engine.

The more cautiously you treat your motorcycle during the break-in period, the more satisfied you will be with its performance later on. Overloading the engine at low RPM and/or running the engine prematurely at high RPM may result in damage to the engine components.

Observe the following precautions during the break-in period:

Upon initial start-up, do not allow the engine to idle for long periods as overheating can occur.
Avoid fast starts with wide open throttle. Drive slowly until the engine warms up.
Avoid running the engine at extremely low RPM in higher gears (lugging the engine).
Drive within the recommended operating speeds and gears. See Operating Speeds and Gears and Shifting Gears While Driving.

Operating Speeds and Gears

Odometer		Break-in Procedure
Miles	Km	Break-in Procedure
0-90	0-145	Do not operate for extended periods above 1/3 throttle or at any one throttle position. Vary engine speed frequently.
91-300	146-483	Do not operate for extended periods above 1/2 throttle or at any one throttle position. Vary engine speed frequently.
301-500	484-800	Do not operate for extended periods above 3/4 throttle.
At 500	At 800	Perform the break-in maintenance outlined in the maintenance section of this manual. Break-in maintenance should be performed by a dealership. Break-in maintenance must include inspection, adjustments, fastener tightening and an engine oil and filter change. Performing break-in maintenance at the required odometer reading helps ensure peak engine performance, minimal exhaust emissions and maximum service life of the engine.