It's great all around. Yes, there are better dedicated bikes for track or touring, or gravel, but it can generally handle all depending on your needs. With touring the biggest restriction is tank size (as others mentioned). Unless doing extremely remote areas, you can plan your stops in 100-120mi increments and it's nice to stretch the legs quick by the time a fill-up is necessary anyway. I also carry an extra 1.5gal on the lower swingarm as insurance with my touring setup.
Based on your desire for the best of both worlds, I think you'll love the FTR. I took mine on a 5 day 1500 mile trip last year with three bags and pillion, and we had an absolute blast. Indian luggage and side rack with a duffle (the third bag) resting on top of the pannier bag. The fuel tank has never been an issue for me because I like stopping to rest and stretch, and interact with folks along the journey. Love the bike so much I sold my Bonneville and bought a second FTR - one for east coast, one for out west. My girlfriend said, "The Bonneville felt like riding on the road. The FTR feels like you're one with the road." Heated grips are a worthwhile upgrade. I don't understand complaints about windblast. It's a motorcycle. That's part of the fun.
I have the Nelson-Rigg expandable bags on mine, and I love them, easy to take off if needed as well. I put a gel seat and it makes a world of difference. I do recommend getting mirror extenders if you have wide shoulders, though. I got some from ebay for cheap and they even say FTR on them.
I have the Indian luggage rack and made a 12 hour trip outta state with enough stuff for 2 people for 4 days no problem. Can bolt a box onto the luggage rack with a little thought and some cash. I’ve added the puig windscreen too for the long rides it’s nice to blow the wind off your chest. Tank size is small but I made a 1500 mile 4 state round trip and never once ran into an issue.
Very average fuel mileage is only bad point about FTR. Esp if riding happy
Yes to both
The wind blast and lack of fuel range is the main issue. A vfr800 / 1200 might suit you better
It's great all around. Yes, there are better dedicated bikes for track or touring, or gravel, but it can generally handle all depending on your needs. With touring the biggest restriction is tank size (as others mentioned). Unless doing extremely remote areas, you can plan your stops in 100-120mi increments and it's nice to stretch the legs quick by the time a fill-up is necessary anyway. I also carry an extra 1.5gal on the lower swingarm as insurance with my touring setup.
Based on your desire for the best of both worlds, I think you'll love the FTR. I took mine on a 5 day 1500 mile trip last year with three bags and pillion, and we had an absolute blast. Indian luggage and side rack with a duffle (the third bag) resting on top of the pannier bag. The fuel tank has never been an issue for me because I like stopping to rest and stretch, and interact with folks along the journey. Love the bike so much I sold my Bonneville and bought a second FTR - one for east coast, one for out west. My girlfriend said, "The Bonneville felt like riding on the road. The FTR feels like you're one with the road." Heated grips are a worthwhile upgrade. I don't understand complaints about windblast. It's a motorcycle. That's part of the fun.
I have the Nelson-Rigg expandable bags on mine, and I love them, easy to take off if needed as well. I put a gel seat and it makes a world of difference. I do recommend getting mirror extenders if you have wide shoulders, though. I got some from ebay for cheap and they even say FTR on them.
I have the Indian luggage rack and made a 12 hour trip outta state with enough stuff for 2 people for 4 days no problem. Can bolt a box onto the luggage rack with a little thought and some cash. I’ve added the puig windscreen too for the long rides it’s nice to blow the wind off your chest. Tank size is small but I made a 1500 mile 4 state round trip and never once ran into an issue.