Content Source: 2020 Indian FTR 1200 Owner’s Manual (9931391 R02) > Pre-Ride Inspections 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.

Click the CONTENTS link above for the Table Of Contents, or download a full PDF of the Owner Manual in the Owner Support area of Polaris.com

Overview

To keep your motorcycle in safe operating condition, always perform the recommended pre-ride inspections before each ride. This is especially important before making a long trip and when removing the motorcycle from storage.
WARNING
Failure to perform the recommended pre-ride inspections could result in component failure while riding, which could result in serious injury or death. Always perform the preride inspections before each ride. When inspection reveals the need for adjustment, replacement or repair, perform the service promptly, or see your authorized INDIAN MOTORCYCLE dealer or other qualified dealer for service.
WARNING
Read the entire Instruments, Features and Controls section of this manual before riding your motorcycle. A complete understanding of the features and capabilities of your motorcycle is essential to its safe operation. Anything less may result in serious injury or death.
You must be familiar with all instruments and controls to perform the pre-ride inspections.
NOTICE
During the pre-ride inspections you may use products that are potentially hazardous, such as oil or brake fluid. When using any of these products, always follow the instructions and warnings on the product packaging.
When inspections reveal the need for adjustment, replacement or repair:
  • refer to the maintenance section of this manual
  • refer to the INDIAN MOTORCYCLE Service Manual
  • or see your authorized INDIAN MOTORCYCLE dealer or other qualified dealer

Electrical Inspections

Turn the ignition key to the ON position and move the stop/run switch to RUN before performing the following electrical inspections. Return the ignition key to the OFF position after completing these inspections. If inspection of any electrical item reveals component failure, repair or replace the component before operating the motorcycle.

Item

Inspection Procedure

Headlight

Start engine to activate headlights. Once headlamp illuminates, switch to high beam. Verify that the high beam indicator comes on and that lamp brightness increases.

Taillight/Brakelight

Verify that the taillight and license plate light illuminate. Verify that the taillight lamps increase in brightness when the front brake lever is applied and also when the rear brake pedal is applied.

Turn Signals

Move the turn signal switch to the left. Verify that front and rear left turn signals flash, as well as the corresponding light on the indicator panel. Move the switch to the center position and push it inward to cancel the signal. Verify that the signals and the indicator light stop flashing. Repeat the procedure for the right turn signals.

Hazard Warning Flashers

Press and hold the hazard warning flashers switch for 1-2 seconds to activate the hazard warning flashers. Verify that all four turn signals flash, as well as the lamps on the indicator panel. Turn the hazard warning flashers off. Verify that all signals and indicator lamps stop flashing.

Horn

Press the horn switch. Verify that the horn sounds loudly.

Neutral Indicator

Place the transmission in neutral. Verify that the neutral indicator lamp illuminates and that the letter "N" displays in the gear position display.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator

Start the engine. Verify that the low oil pressure indicator is not illuminated.

Engine Stop/Run Switch

Start the engine. Move the stop/run switch to the STOP position. Verify that the engine stops.

General Inspections

Item

Inspection Procedure

Engine Oil

Check the oil level.

Fuel

Check the fuel level

Coolant Level

Check the coolant level in the recovery bottle.

Fluid Leaks

Check the vehicle and the ground/floor for any fuel, oil, coolant or hydraulic fluid leaks.

Tires

Inspect condition, pressure and tread depth.

Brake Operation

Inspect pedal and lever movement.

Brake Fluid Levels

Check front and rear brake fluid levels.

Brake Components

Inspect hoses and connections.

Throttle

Inspect hand grip and throttle movement.

Clutch

Check lever operation and freeplay.

Front Suspension

Check for leaks, debris and damage.

Steering

Check for smooth operation by turning handlebars full left and full right.

Rear Suspension

Check mounting and inspect for leaks.

Rear Drive Chain

Check for wear or damage.

Side Stand

Verify smooth operation, inspect pivot bolt and spring.

Fasteners

Inspect for loose, damaged or missing fasteners.

Mirrors

Adjust for proper rear view.

Heat Shields

Ensure all exhaust heat-shields are present and in good condition.


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