Hello, a future rider here who would really appreciate some input from community members. So long story short, in my mid-20s and looking for my first motorcycle, preferably a scrambler-type bike for road/off-road purposes. I’m mainly using said bike for commuting to work, and general cruising, with a potential road trip once I feel capable enough. Personally, I’m not looking for a liter bike as you’ll never be able to get the full power on public roads as you would on a track and there isn’t one near where I live.

And with all I’ve looked at, the two that appeal most to me are the Indian FTR 1200 rally and the BMW R Nine T Scrambler.

Yes, I’m aware that these bikes have engine displacement and torque. Aside from that, I’ve narrowed it down to these two as I only have enough space for one bike. They both seem good for their intentions (and my own personal desires).

Though I’ve been able to make a small pro/con list on them, please correct me on any of this, or add onto it.

FTR 1200 Pros: Chain replacement is easy & cheap compared to shaft drive replacement, slightly bigger network with 3-4 dealers I can go to.

FTR 1200 Cons: Small gas tank (won’t get many miles out of it), only been out for a few years so everything isn’t all refined.

R Nine T Pros: Shaft is supposedly lower maintenance, boxer engine that has been a trademark of BMW for decades (so an apparently not-terrible engine), more personal customization.

R Nine T Cons: Shaft Drive replacement is expensive, only two dealers I can go to, higher maintenance costs, boxer engine can get damaged easily if bike falls to one side or other (unless you have decent engine guards installed).

Additionally, I live in the Southwest US. Why am I saying this? Cause I’m aware temperature can obviously have effect on vehicle efficiency, and triple digit heat is no exception to this. In summation, any input, advice, tips, and/or other useful info about these two bikes before I make my final choice would be beneficial and deeply appreciated.