Hey Dan, I'm the guy behind you test riding the FTR1200 lol. I rode the Springfield the next day and agree with everything you said.. smooth and powerful. I'm 6'3" and was very comfortable.
6'2", 270 lbm, and the Dark Horse is on my short list! Great ride, great engine. Any bike that makes me laugh when I open the throttle is OK in my book.
Wife got my a '19 chief darkhorse for my 30th, last year. I couldnt be more happier about 6 months ago i did a Ironbutt saddlesore 1000 on it. I added highway bars and a backrest. I rode that bike for 19 1/2 hrs with only stopping for fuel. I dont really have many complaints either, i was getting north of 50mpg in touring mode with the cruise set at 80. i almost got a harley, but i like being different and the indian just fit me better. I didnt go with a springfield, because i did not want saddle bags. Im a bare bones guy lol. I couldnt agree more with what you have said in this video. Indian is definitely here to stay and they seem to be giving harley a run for the money.
Test rode one at a demo day yesterday, she was a beauty to ride. The seat was excellent, the butt cup held me in nicely. Definitely my favorite bike, even after riding the challenger.
Just went to the Demo event in Salt Lake City today, rode the Bobber, The Scout 20, and the Springfield Dark horse. I was worried at first, I've never ridden a bike that big, but eventually decided to take it out. (I am 24, 5 foot 10, about 180 lbs) and holy cow. I fell in love with the Springfield. So comfortable, with power to match. I had no issues navigating tight turns and leaning. I'd definitely recommend to everyone with a license to take advantage of these demo days. Get out there and find a bike you love.
I went from a 2014 Victory Highball to the 2018 Springfield Darkhorse. I needed something more comfortable on the highway plus storage space and this bike was it for me. Initially the stock handlebars felt too weird for me because I was used to riding with apes. So, upgraded to 16" apes. Also, I had to get used to having floorboards now. Riding with pegs over 20+ years, I had to remind myself to put my foot down when I came to a stop.....since my feet already felt they were flat on the ground. I had a mental image of myself dumping the bike because of forgetting to put my foot down....🤣 but thankfully I got use to it pretty quick. Now I have hard bags to store my gear/lunch to and from work or wherever I go. Plus, the keyless locking system is cool.
Stuff happens. I pulled up to an intersection a couple of years ago behind a "seasoned citizen" on a shiny new Geezer Glide. We both stopped for the red light and he promptly fell over. I ran right up thinking that we had a medical emergency, possibly a stroke. Turns out that he was just day dreaming, or grooving to the music, possibly talk radio and being preoccupied he just evidently forgot to put his feet down. Never really sorted that out and I didn't inquire as he was already embarrassed enough for one day, but definitely occupied by somethin other than paying attention to the task at hand. I picked up his bike, picked him up and dusted him off and we all lived to ride another day, never the worse for wear.
I’ve been thinking about getting a new bike and have been looking at Indian for a long time. I’ve been riding on a Honda Shadow Spirit for years now, and for a guy that’s about 5’7 its been great! Unfortunately I’ve hit that point where I want more; power, capacity, etc. This looks about perfect for everything that I’m looking for, THANK DAN!
So obviously a lot has changed since this video came out lol. The newly designed Cheif really is the true gap filler between the Scout and the touring models. The Springield was (and I'd argue still is) a good option if you wanted more than a Scout, but didn't want a fairing. I went from a Scout to a SF DH in 2020 and have never regretted it. I'm not a big guy either, standing about 5'9" and weighing about 170. I've made some changes to the bike as I always like to modify my bikes, but those Springields are engineered so well that 90% of my modifications have been creature comforts. And I do everything on that bike, from big tri-state rides, to just running my kids to school. They love it because it's big enough that 2 of em fit on the back lol (at least for now). He's a big monster family bike that still gets countless comments and compliments wherever I take him. Fantastic platform from Indian.
Needed this vid Dan thanks. Lookin to trade my 2015 Harley Fatbob for the comfort longer distance and convenience of storage. Love the looks of it too!
Dan, I'm 5'6" myself, I had two Sportster's then moved to touring models 07 Road King and I was pretty flat footed then had a 13 Ultra Limited and that had me on my toes then got a 15 Ultra Limited Low and that was nice and nearly flat footed but sacraficed on rear shock travel b/c the Low was shorten one inch front and back so I purchased Progressive 412's 12 1/2" and it's tolerable now.
My 2019 dark horse is a great bike. Very comfortable it handles great for its size love the keyless entry to unlock and lock my bags. Its a cruiser my dyna and my vtx are much faster but not even close to being as comfortable.
This bike is not about speed its about true lay back cruising on a sick looking bike. Got 2020 sage green; had vtx as well! Honda has always made better engines and reliable. But these Indians aesthetics are the best around
I went on a big demo ride in Arizona 2 years ago and rode like 6 different motorcycles and I Ike’s the Indian Chief Dark Horse (I know this is the Springfield). I was a incredible feeling riding especially since I ride sports bikes. I still want a Suzuki M109r because I want the power and I love the look but the Indian motorcycles are killing the cruiser category right now! If Indian comes out with a power cruiser to challenge the Rocket III, xDiavel, VMax, and Suzuki M109r.... It would be official lol
Have you tried the Harley Road King Special? If that bike also seems a wee bit too big, have you tried the Harley Heritage Classic or the Sport Glide. Both have saddle bags, are much lighter and are more comfortable than the Scout. I love Indian and the Scout, but ... Oh, and in the "duhhh" department, the bike will be heavier with a passenger. Just a reminder. Good vid.
I was looking at the RKS bikes today. I wish the darkhorse was more gloss, but I get it. It's different. But also the MSRP for the RKS is near 28k while the SFDH is 23k, I can get the Springfield with changes I want cheaper than the MSRP of the RKS. But I am still thinking between the 2 of them. Both look amazing.
Sounds like this would be a possible bike for for me as I'm 6,4 and 227 lbs. I've been also looking at the Chief Dark horse as well. And I'm not interested in a Touring bike. However I've notice the Springfield is a happy median a Cruiser and Touring bike. Thanks Dan for the information on this Bike.
So am I! Was pretty set on the Road King Special but the more I learn about the Springfield Dark Horse the more I am leaning Indian. What are your must-haves?
@@davevanbruggen4995 take it for a test drive, if u can find one; rode one on a demo ride, it was over. Had to get one, sold one bike and traded another for this girl. She handles like a 500lb through turns and twisties, plenty of power with 2 up, the modes are a pleasant feature, the aesthetics, I don't know how they can make it ride better? Even has adjustable air ride
It's not just about body size-it's usually better to start on something smaller and lighter. Get a cheap bike that you won't cry over if you accidentally drop it.
Short answer is NO. This is a 750+ pound bruiser. It handles like a lighter bike, but it's not. Find a used scout or scout sixty orsomething similar, I started on a scout which a lot of people think is too much for a beginner. But I'm safety freak who never pushed my limits and stayed within the speed limit. I still had a couple of close calls. Now I'm on the Chief Dark Horse which is like the springfield but without the bags and a couple other things.
It can be; with the proper techniques and safety. The 750lbs can be beat with core and leg strength any day of the week. The scout was to cheaply made, harsher suspension, for my 210lbs 5 11" frame. If u buy a smaller bike; guarantee in 6 months you will want a bigger bike. Just go with a big bike, no regrets
Hi dan, I have a Honda Rebel I just been riding for a year and now it’s time to upgrade but I’m debating between Indian scout sixty and Harley D. Iron 1200. Any comments! Or suggestions?
The scout sixty is the little one. It's only a 5-speed transmission and less power from the engine. It's a bit less money. I think you'll probably outgrow it in another year. Get the regular scout.
@@fenrizwulf6682 Agreed. I bought a Scout Bobber for my first bike and rode a Scout Sixty 8 months later for fun at a demo day. The Sixty is so under powered compared to the regular Scout and Bobber. A year and a half later, looking to upgrade to the Springfield.
I know this video old and I'm sure you have improved but just some advice be more confident in your opinion you always just like um maybe possibly could be. Just be like no it won't effect saftey but enjoyed the video regardless
Victory lost the company money, Indian makes them money. Sorry to disappoint you but your prediction is unlikely due to this thing businesses pay attention to. . . Mathematics.
Bikes? A few... s1000rr, s1000xr, the 1299 superleggera and a v4r. I repeat, bikes....I don't consider these low rev tractors (especially Indian "Motorcycles") bikes...
@@DanDanTheFireman Thanks for the review Dan. I've got the scout bobber with a Corbin seat, and mini apes. Super comfortable after I put more preload on the suspension. I've been looking at the Springfield Darkhorse but I think I'd opt for a quick release windscreen.
Hey Dan, I'm the guy behind you test riding the FTR1200 lol. I rode the Springfield the next day and agree with everything you said.. smooth and powerful. I'm 6'3" and was very comfortable.
I am 6'3" 250lbs and I have test road the Springfield and felt it was very comfortable as well. This may be my next purchase.
Did you get a chance to compare it with the Chief? I'm considering either of them ... Thanks!
@@seanscanlon470 No I didn't get to compare. I only rode the Springfield, Scout Bobber and FTR. Good luck!
6'2", 270 lbm, and the Dark Horse is on my short list! Great ride, great engine. Any bike that makes me laugh when I open the throttle is OK in my book.
Wife got my a '19 chief darkhorse for my 30th, last year. I couldnt be more happier about 6 months ago i did a Ironbutt saddlesore 1000 on it. I added highway bars and a backrest. I rode that bike for 19 1/2 hrs with only stopping for fuel. I dont really have many complaints either, i was getting north of 50mpg in touring mode with the cruise set at 80.
i almost got a harley, but i like being different and the indian just fit me better. I didnt go with a springfield, because i did not want saddle bags. Im a bare bones guy lol. I couldnt agree more with what you have said in this video. Indian is definitely here to stay and they seem to be giving harley a run for the money.
Test rode one at a demo day yesterday, she was a beauty to ride. The seat was excellent, the butt cup held me in nicely. Definitely my favorite bike, even after riding the challenger.
Just went to the Demo event in Salt Lake City today, rode the Bobber, The Scout 20, and the Springfield Dark horse. I was worried at first, I've never ridden a bike that big, but eventually decided to take it out. (I am 24, 5 foot 10, about 180 lbs) and holy cow. I fell in love with the Springfield. So comfortable, with power to match. I had no issues navigating tight turns and leaning. I'd definitely recommend to everyone with a license to take advantage of these demo days. Get out there and find a bike you love.
My dreambike!
One day..
But for now I am very happy with my 1st bike, a Honda Shadow ACE VT750
Loony1979 shadows are great bikes. I had 3 of them
I traded my 07 Honda VT 750 Shadow in for the 2019 Scout,and I am glad I did,I love the Scout.
@@vertigo2112 Yea my friend I really love it.
LMBO! I GET WHAT HE'S SAYING THOUGH. LOL!
I went from a 2014 Victory Highball to the 2018 Springfield Darkhorse. I needed something more comfortable on the highway plus storage space and this bike was it for me. Initially the stock handlebars felt too weird for me because I was used to riding with apes. So, upgraded to 16" apes. Also, I had to get used to having floorboards now. Riding with pegs over 20+ years, I had to remind myself to put my foot down when I came to a stop.....since my feet already felt they were flat on the ground. I had a mental image of myself dumping the bike because of forgetting to put my foot down....🤣 but thankfully I got use to it pretty quick. Now I have hard bags to store my gear/lunch to and from work or wherever I go. Plus, the keyless locking system is cool.
Stuff happens. I pulled up to an intersection a couple of years ago behind a "seasoned citizen" on a shiny new Geezer Glide. We both stopped for the red light and he promptly fell over. I ran right up thinking that we had a medical emergency, possibly a stroke. Turns out that he was just day dreaming, or grooving to the music, possibly talk radio and being preoccupied he just evidently forgot to put his feet down. Never really sorted that out and I didn't inquire as he was already embarrassed enough for one day, but definitely occupied by somethin other than paying attention to the task at hand. I picked up his bike, picked him up and dusted him off and we all lived to ride another day, never the worse for wear.
I’ve been thinking about getting a new bike and have been looking at Indian for a long time. I’ve been riding on a Honda Shadow Spirit for years now, and for a guy that’s about 5’7 its been great! Unfortunately I’ve hit that point where I want more; power, capacity, etc. This looks about perfect for everything that I’m looking for, THANK DAN!
So obviously a lot has changed since this video came out lol. The newly designed Cheif really is the true gap filler between the Scout and the touring models. The Springield was (and I'd argue still is) a good option if you wanted more than a Scout, but didn't want a fairing. I went from a Scout to a SF DH in 2020 and have never regretted it. I'm not a big guy either, standing about 5'9" and weighing about 170. I've made some changes to the bike as I always like to modify my bikes, but those Springields are engineered so well that 90% of my modifications have been creature comforts. And I do everything on that bike, from big tri-state rides, to just running my kids to school. They love it because it's big enough that 2 of em fit on the back lol (at least for now). He's a big monster family bike that still gets countless comments and compliments wherever I take him. Fantastic platform from Indian.
Wich colour is your bike?
@@orhancebi5288 black. It's the dark horse variation
bought one this year..Love it..just my opinion..it rides better than a road king..
Love my 2020 Springfield dDark Horse with stage 2 everything installed. i`m 5 ft 10.
Needed this vid Dan thanks. Lookin to trade my 2015 Harley Fatbob for the comfort longer distance and convenience of storage. Love the looks of it too!
Ha, I'm looking to get out of my 14 fat bob for more comfort! No more harleys for me
Dan, I'm 5'6" myself, I had two Sportster's then moved to touring models 07 Road King and I was pretty flat footed then had a 13 Ultra Limited and that had me on my toes then got a 15 Ultra Limited Low and that was nice and nearly flat footed but sacraficed on rear shock travel b/c the Low was shorten one inch front and back so I purchased Progressive 412's 12 1/2" and it's tolerable now.
Dan they do have reduced reach controls and seat which would probably eliminate the need of mid controls..
Game changer if the Thunderstrokes were liquid cooled.
I'm 6'2" around 350 and I'm always wondering what bike is good for me and this helps, Thanks Dan..... Oh and I'll be a first time rider LOL
Don't look at getting this first though, cause it's flipping expensive for a first timer. Plenty of used cruisers on the market for under 5 grand!
@@JelloThatsMellow thanks for the heads up
So did you get it?
I’m 5’1 and I have it
Once you get used to the forward controls, you won't want to change them.
Have forward controls, road a Harley with mid controls and felt cramped
Man, that right mirror vibration
I just got my new to me Springfield dark horse with the stage 2 cams. If there is a better scooter I wanna ride it.
i love mine..same stage 2..i will NEVER go back to HD.
I’m 5’1 female biker and I have the Springfield dark horse
That's great to hear! Congrats! I gotvthe sage green
@@cesarr5006 sweet!
I don't know why I'm still with my cbr250r.
gotta upgrade soon.
My 2019 dark horse is a great bike. Very comfortable it handles great for its size love the keyless entry to unlock and lock my bags. Its a cruiser my dyna and my vtx are much faster but not even close to being as comfortable.
This bike is not about speed its about true lay back cruising on a sick looking bike. Got 2020 sage green; had vtx as well! Honda has always made better engines and reliable. But these Indians aesthetics are the best around
I got one, and love the bike.
I went on a big demo ride in Arizona 2 years ago and rode like 6 different motorcycles and I Ike’s the Indian Chief Dark Horse (I know this is the Springfield). I was a incredible feeling riding especially since I ride sports bikes. I still want a Suzuki M109r because I want the power and I love the look but the Indian motorcycles are killing the cruiser category right now! If Indian comes out with a power cruiser to challenge the Rocket III, xDiavel, VMax, and Suzuki M109r.... It would be official lol
I loved this bike. Its this or the sport glide. What do you think?
Man same for me
Too bad you did not put it in Sport mode--that bike will fly!
Kinda wondering why that guy ahead of you keeps hitting the turn signals 🤨
Do you have an awesome sound quality may I know what kind of Bluetooth your using
Dream bike!
Got one..stage one exhaust..and stage 2 cams..
Have you tried the Harley Road King Special? If that bike also seems a wee bit too big, have you tried the Harley Heritage Classic or the Sport Glide. Both have saddle bags, are much lighter and are more comfortable than the Scout. I love Indian and the Scout, but ...
Oh, and in the "duhhh" department, the bike will be heavier with a passenger. Just a reminder. Good vid.
I was looking at the RKS bikes today. I wish the darkhorse was more gloss, but I get it. It's different. But also the MSRP for the RKS is near 28k while the SFDH is 23k, I can get the Springfield with changes I want cheaper than the MSRP of the RKS. But I am still thinking between the 2 of them. Both look amazing.
IN THE BIKE
That's a 2019 in the thumbnail btw
Sounds like this would be a possible bike for for me as I'm 6,4 and 227 lbs. I've been also looking at the Chief Dark horse as well. And I'm not interested in a Touring bike. However I've notice the Springfield is a happy median a Cruiser and Touring bike. Thanks Dan for the information on this Bike.
that right hand mirror is a blur from the vibrations.
Very nice bike, but I can't afford it!
My dream bike. I would just modify it to make it louder 🎶 🔊
Yes, definitely! But believe me when I say the sound great stock. Much better than a stock Harley.
take out the baffels.
My next bike.
How do you find these demo rides?
Do you like it? Do you want it? Do you have the means to purchase it? Get it.
I'm between a Springfield and a Road King ugh..
So am I! Was pretty set on the Road King Special but the more I learn about the Springfield Dark Horse the more I am leaning Indian. What are your must-haves?
@@davevanbruggen4995 take it for a test drive, if u can find one; rode one on a demo ride, it was over. Had to get one, sold one bike and traded another for this girl. She handles like a 500lb through turns and twisties, plenty of power with 2 up, the modes are a pleasant feature, the aesthetics, I don't know how they can make it ride better? Even has adjustable air ride
I like the classic look and build of the road king.
That is not a giant scout. Totally different bike. That’s like saying a road king special is a giant sportster
Do you see this bike as a good starter bike? I'm 6' even and 180lbs.
Not a beginner bike.
It's not just about body size-it's usually better to start on something smaller and lighter. Get a cheap bike that you won't cry over if you accidentally drop it.
Short answer is NO. This is a 750+ pound bruiser. It handles like a lighter bike, but it's not. Find a used scout or scout sixty orsomething similar, I started on a scout which a lot of people think is too much for a beginner. But I'm safety freak who never pushed my limits and stayed within the speed limit. I still had a couple of close calls. Now I'm on the Chief Dark Horse which is like the springfield but without the bags and a couple other things.
It can be; with the proper techniques and safety. The 750lbs can be beat with core and leg strength any day of the week. The scout was to cheaply made, harsher suspension, for my 210lbs 5 11" frame. If u buy a smaller bike; guarantee in 6 months you will want a bigger bike. Just go with a big bike, no regrets
What about the power? No word on the power
umm i pi$$ off a lot of HD owners when they want to "race"..hahaha.
Hi dan, I have a Honda Rebel I just been riding for a year and now it’s time to upgrade but I’m debating between Indian scout sixty and Harley D. Iron 1200. Any comments! Or suggestions?
Get the sixty
Sixty is smoother, better handling and has more power.
The scout sixty is the little one. It's only a 5-speed transmission and less power from the engine. It's a bit less money. I think you'll probably outgrow it in another year. Get the regular scout.
@@fenrizwulf6682 Agreed. I bought a Scout Bobber for my first bike and rode a Scout Sixty 8 months later for fun at a demo day. The Sixty is so under powered compared to the regular Scout and Bobber. A year and a half later, looking to upgrade to the Springfield.
Avoid harley
How about a pic of the bike, from side? Doesn't Dan work for Indian?
I don't work for Indian
It's not a giant Scout it's a stripped down Roadmaster. Same frame, same suspension, same engine. It shares absolutely nothing with the Scout.
I'm getting a supercharger for my Springfield!
I know this video old and I'm sure you have improved but just some advice be more confident in your opinion you always just like um maybe possibly could be. Just be like no it won't effect saftey but enjoyed the video regardless
Him: "I'm 5ft 6in"
Me: pictures Marcus from Bad Santa
This bike is around.....25k? It is not for me lol. My bad 22,500. If the bike can find a job for herself I would think about it.
Find a job? What you mean
Polaris will leave owner's without support so you are taking a huge risk if you buy and keep a bike for 10+ years. Ask anyone with a Victory.
Victory lost the company money, Indian makes them money. Sorry to disappoint you but your prediction is unlikely due to this thing businesses pay attention to. . . Mathematics.
Wow stupid & ignorant...grateful combo!
Hahahaha good one
Matt is that you?
M P hahahaha😂
The word "comfy" should NEVER be used in a motorcycle review!...
That's what I'm looking for!
Use me as a like button
All that talking and nothing said
No thanks, went with the 2020 Low Rider S with a cam... 650lbs and 135ft/tq.
NewOscarGuy 😂😂😂😂 man who you lying to!??
Lol hahaha NO!
hahahahahahah damn that was a good joke
Just no!! Shitty bikes all in all..
K
How many have you owned
Bikes? A few... s1000rr, s1000xr, the 1299 superleggera and a v4r. I repeat, bikes....I don't consider these low rev tractors (especially Indian "Motorcycles") bikes...
@@DanDanTheFireman Thanks for the review Dan. I've got the scout bobber with a Corbin seat, and mini apes. Super comfortable after I put more preload on the suspension. I've been looking at the Springfield Darkhorse but I think I'd opt for a quick release windscreen.
@@chrisballis5312 sure, those are all good bikes, if you like expensive repair bills... and a lot of them.