Content Source: 2020 Indian FTR 1200 Owner’s Manual (9931391 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.

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

Starting the Engine

The starter interlock system allows the engine to be started only when the transmission is in neutral, or when the transmission is in gear with the clutch disengaged (clutch lever pulled in).
  1. Perform the Pre-Ride Inspections. See Overview. Properly secure any cargo.
  2. Straddle the motorcycle and bring it to the fully upright position. Retract the sidestand.
  3. Turn the ignition key to the ON position.
  4. Move the engine stop/run switch to the RUN position.
  5. Shift the transmission to neutral.
  6. Apply the front brakes. Disengage the clutch (pull the clutch lever fully toward the handlebar).
  7. Press and release the starter switch to start the engine. The starter motor will crank until the engine starts, but no more than 3 seconds. If the engine does not start, wait five seconds, then try again.
  8. If starting a COOL engine, DO NOT open the throttle while starting. Idle speed is computer controlled and will adjust automatically. Allow the engine to warm up for 30 seconds minimum at low RPM after starting. Do not run the engine above 2500 RPM. If starting a WARM engine, DO NOT open the throttle while starting.
  9. If either the check engine indicator or the low oil pressure indicator remains on after the engine starts, stop the engine immediately. Refer to the low oil pressure indicator information on MFD Tell-Tales.
    NOTICE
    Operating an engine with a misfire or non-firing cylinder can overheat the catalytic converter, which could result in catalytic converter damage and loss of emission control. DO NOT OPERATE the motorcycle if a misfire or non-firing cylinder exists.
  10. Leave the throttle closed and allow the engine to idle. Idle speed will gradually slow to normal as the engine warms to operating temperature.
TIP
Do not rev the engine or put the transmission in gear immediately after starting the engine. Allow the engine to idle for about 30 seconds after a warm start or at least one minute after a cold start (longer in cold weather). This will allow oil to reach all areas before the engine is put under load.
NOTICE
Do not run the engine at high RPM with the clutch disengaged or the transmission in neutral. Maximum safe engine speed is 8300 RPM. Never exceed the maximum safe RPM as this could result in serious engine damage.

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