Indian FTR : In the world of motorcycles, where power meets style and heritage blends with innovation, the Indian FTR stands tall as a testament to American engineering prowess. This isn’t just another bike; it’s a statement on two wheels, a machine that commands attention and respect wherever it rolls. Let’s dive deep into the world of the Indian FTR and discover why it’s being hailed as America’s most powerful and stylish motorcycle.
The Birth of a Legend
Reviving an Icon
The story of the Indian FTR is intrinsically linked with the rebirth of Indian Motorcycle, America’s first motorcycle company. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has a rich history that rivals that of Harley-Davidson. However, the company faced numerous challenges over the decades, leading to its eventual demise in 1953. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Indian Motorcycle was resurrected in 2011 under the stewardship of Polaris Industries.
From Track to Street
The FTR’s journey began on the dirt tracks of American Flat Track racing. Indian’s dominance in this arena with the FTR750 race bike led to calls for a street-legal version. The company listened, and in 2019, the FTR 1200 was born. It wasn’t just a watered-down race bike; it was a thoroughbred street machine that carried the spirit of flat track racing in its DNA.
Design That Turns Heads
A Silhouette Like No Other
The Indian FTR breaks the mold of traditional American motorcycles. Gone are the flowing lines and chrome-laden surfaces of cruisers. In their place is a taut, muscular body that looks ready to pounce. The fuel tank, which isn’t really a tank but a cleverly designed airbox cover, flows seamlessly into the seat. This design not only looks good but also centralizes mass, improving handling.
The Devil’s in the Details
Look closely, and you’ll find a plethora of design elements that set the Indian FTR apart:
- The upswept exhaust pipes pay homage to flat track racers
- The LED headlight is both functional and stylish, giving the bike a modern face
- The ProTaper handlebars are wide and commanding, offering excellent leverage
- The single-sided swingarm showcases the beefy rear wheel
Every angle of the Indian FTR reveals something new, making it a bike that you can’t help but stare at.
Color and Customization
Indian offers the Indian FTR in various trims and color schemes. From the base model’s understated elegance to the Carbon variant’s high-tech appeal, there’s an FTR for every taste. Moreover, Indian offers a wide range of accessories, allowing riders to personalize their FTR to their heart’s content.
Performance That Thrills
The Heart of the Beast
At the core of the Indian FTR lies its powerplant – a 1203cc V-twin engine that’s a masterpiece of engineering. This liquid-cooled mill churns out an impressive 120 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. It’s how this engine delivers its power that sets it apart.
Power Delivery
Unlike traditional V-twins that focus on low-end grunt, the FTR’s engine is happy to rev. The power comes on strong and keeps building, giving riders a thrilling experience all the way to the redline. It’s an engine that encourages you to wring it out, to explore its capabilities on every ride.
Soundtrack to Remember
An often-overlooked aspect of motorcycle performance is the sound. Indian FTR doesn’t disappoint here either. The V-twin emits a distinctive growl that’s music to any motorcyclist’s ears. It’s not the potato-potato rumble of a Harley; it’s a more aggressive, sporty note that hints at the bike’s performance potential.
Handling: Where the Magic Happens
Chassis and Suspension
The FTR’s aluminum frame is a work of art in itself. It’s stiff where it needs to be for precise handling, yet offers enough flex to provide feedback to the rider. The fully adjustable suspension – 43mm inverted forks up front and a monoshock at the rear – soaks up bumps while keeping the bike planted through corners.
Tire Choice: A Controversial Decision
One of the most talked-about aspects of the Indian FTR is its tire choice. Indian opted for 19-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, shod with specially developed Dunlop DT3-R tires. These tires, with their flat track-inspired tread pattern, offer excellent grip on various surfaces. However, they’ve been a point of contention among some riders who prefer more conventional sizes for easier tire replacement.
Brakes That Inspire Confidence
Bringing all this performance to a halt are dual 320mm discs up front, gripped by Brembo monobloc calipers. A single 260mm disc handles duties at the rear. The braking system offers excellent feel and stopping power, allowing riders to push the bike’s limits with confidence.
Technology: Modern Meets Classic
Ride-by-Wire and Riding Modes
Indian FTR embraces modern technology without losing its raw appeal. The ride-by-wire throttle system allows for multiple riding modes, each altering the bike’s character to suit different conditions or rider preferences. From a full-power Sport mode to a more relaxed Standard mode and a Rain mode for slippery conditions, the Indian FTR adapts to your needs.
TFT Display: Information at a Glance
A large, full-color TFT display serves as the bike’s command center. It’s bright, easy to read, and packed with information. From speed and RPM to gear position and fuel level, everything you need is right there. Some models even offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to pair their smartphones for music control and turn-by-turn navigation.
Cruise Control and Traction Control
Long-distance comfort isn’t forgotten, with cruise control standard on most models. For those unexpected moments, a sophisticated traction control system stands ready to intervene, keeping the bike’s considerable power in check.
The Riding Experience
A New Kind of American Motorcycle
Swing a leg over the FTR, and you immediately realize this isn’t your typical American motorcycle. The riding position is upright and commanding, with wide handlebars offering excellent control. The seat is firm but supportive, designed for spirited riding rather than long-distance cruising.
On the Road
Twist the throttle, and the FTR lunges forward with enthusiasm. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making it easy to modulate speed through traffic or on winding roads. The bike feels lighter than its specs suggest, thanks to its excellent mass centralization.
In the twisties, the FTR truly comes alive. It tips into corners with ease, holding its line with precision. The wide handlebars offer excellent leverage, allowing you to counter-steer and change direction quickly. It’s here, carving through corners with the V-twin singing its song, that you understand why the FTR has garnered so much praise.
Versatility Personified
One of the FTR’s strongest suits is its versatility. It’s equally at home commuting through city streets, carving up canyon roads, or embarking on a weekend tour. This jack-of-all-trades nature sets it apart in a market where bikes are often specialized for a single purpose.
Comparisons: How Does It Stack Up?
vs. Harley-Davidson Sportster S
The most obvious comparison is with Harley-Davidson’s Sportster S. Both bikes represent a departure from their manufacturers’ traditional offerings. The Sportster S offers more torque but less horsepower than the FTR. It also has a more relaxed riding position compared to the FTR’s sporty stance. In terms of handling, the FTR has the edge, feeling more nimble and responsive.
vs. Ducati Monster
Looking across the pond, the Ducati Monster is another worthy competitor. The Monster is lighter and more compact, making it more agile in tight spaces. However, the FTR offers more power and a more commanding presence on the road. The FTR also has a more unique style, standing out in a sea of naked bikes.
vs. Triumph Speed Twin
The Triumph Speed Twin is another retro-inspired modern classic that competes with the FTR. The Speed Twin offers a more relaxed riding experience and arguably more refined fit and finish. However, the FTR trumps it in terms of outright performance and distinctive styling.
Customer Reviews: What Riders Are Saying
Praise for Performance
Owners consistently rave about the FTR’s performance. The combination of strong acceleration, responsive handling, and confident braking earns high marks. Many riders describe the bike as “confidence-inspiring,” allowing them to push their limits safely.
Mixed Feelings on Comfort
Comfort is a more divisive issue. Some riders find the FTR perfectly comfortable for all-day rides, while others wish for a softer seat or more relaxed ergonomics for long-distance touring. This split opinion underscores the FTR’s focus on performance over long-distance comfort.
Love for the Styling
The FTR’s unique styling is a major draw for many owners. They appreciate how it stands out from other motorcycles, often describing it as a conversation starter at bike meetups. The ability to customize the bike with Indian’s extensive accessory catalog is also frequently mentioned as a plus.
Tire Concerns
The specialized tires are a common point of discussion. While many appreciate their performance, some riders express concern about the limited options for replacement and the potential cost. However, this hasn’t been a deal-breaker for most owners.
Notable Features That Set It Apart
Customization Options
Indian offers an extensive range of accessories for the FTR, allowing owners to tailor the bike to their preferences. From performance upgrades like Akrapovič exhaust systems to styling elements like different seats and handlebars, the possibilities for personalization are vast.
Racing Heritage
The FTR’s connection to Indian’s successful flat track racing program gives it a pedigree that many competitors lack. This isn’t just marketing fluff; the bike’s design and performance characteristics are directly influenced by lessons learned on the racetrack.
Made in America
For many buyers, the fact that the FTR is designed and built in America is a significant selling point. It represents a revival of American motorcycle engineering, challenging the notion that all high-performance bikes must come from Europe or Japan.
The Future of the FTR
Continuous Improvement
Since its introduction, Indian has continued to refine the FTR. The 2022 model year saw several updates, including revised ergonomics, a retuned engine for better low-end torque, and smaller 17-inch wheels on some models for improved handling and easier tire replacement.
Expanding the Range
There are rumors of Indian expanding the FTR range, possibly including a more touring-oriented version or even a larger-displacement model. While these remain speculation, they point to Indian’s commitment to the platform and its importance in the company’s lineup.
Electric Future?
As the motorcycle industry gradually shifts towards electrification, questions arise about the future of platforms like the FTR. Will we see an electric FTR in the coming years? Indian has been tight-lipped about its electric plans, but given the company’s innovative spirit, an electric performance bike isn’t out of the question.
A New American Icon
The Indian FTR represents more than just a motorcycle; it’s a statement of intent from one of America’s oldest motorcycle companies. It proves that American bikes can compete with the best in the world in terms of performance, technology, and style. Indian FTR challenges preconceptions about what an American motorcycle should be, carving out its own niche in the process.
Is it perfect? No bike is. The FTR’s focused performance comes with some compromises in long-distance comfort. Its unique tire sizes can be a hassle for some. And its price point puts it in competition with some very capable machines from established manufacturers.
But for those who appreciate its unique blend of attributes – the flat track-inspired styling, the powerful and characterful V-twin engine, the nimble handling, and the pride of riding an American-made performance bike – Indian FTR is hard to beat. It’s a bike that turns heads, starts conversations, and most importantly, puts a huge grin on your face every time you ride it.
The Indian FTR isn’t just America’s most powerful and stylish motorcycle; it’s a glimpse into the future of American motorcycling. And if this is where we’re headed, the future looks very bright indeed.
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