The Indian FTR represents a modern interpretation of Indian Motorcycle’s racing history and showcases the brand’s ability to innovate and adapt to changing motorcycle trends. And the Indian FTR 1200 R Carbon (2022) – numbered edition, is a motorcycle that fuses cutting-edge engineering with an unrelenting spirit for adventure!  With two summers of exhilarating experience riding this exceptional machine, I’m excited to uncover the irresistible charm of the 2022 Indian FTR 1200 R Carbon.  While I’ll delve into the unique features of this particular year and model, my history with the FTR series has been extensive since its introduction. From the many kilometres and season’s of riding the FTR – cold, hot and normal temps –  it’s clear that the FTR transcends boundaries and invites every rider to embrace the extraordinary!

Indian FTR Background: Get To Know The FTR

While the FTR is not a historically significant motorcycle like some of Indian’s classic models, it draws inspiration from the brand’s history and success in flat track racing, a type of motorcycle racing on oval dirt tracks.  Their dominance earned them a reputation as a racing brand.  The FTR’s actual inspiration comes from the Indian Scout FTR750, a purpose-built flat track racing motorcycle introduced in 2017. The Scout FTR750 was designed to compete in American Flat Track racing, and it was highly successful in this discipline.

Indian decided to create a production model that captured the spirit of the Scout FTR750 and brought it to the streets. The result was the Indian FTR 1200, introduced in 2019. It was a complete departure from Indian’s traditional cruiser-style motorcycles featuring a more aggressive, naked bike design, with a sportier riding position and a powerful engine.

The FTR 1200 was available in different trim levels, including the base model and the more performance oriented FTR 1200 S.

When it comes to American-made motorcycles, nothing quite compares to the awe-inspiring presence of the FTR R Carbon.  I’ve had the unique privilege of personally experiencing the evolution of the FTR series, starting with my first encounter with the inaugural FTR model in 2019. Its height, while impressive, was a tad too high for my liking. However, the subsequent year saw Indian Motorcycle lower the model, a modification that has made it a perfect fit for me ever since.

The FTR machine, like traditional Indian, is centred around a hardy V-twin engine. The FTR is fitted with a 1203 cc powerplant which represents a subtle enhancement over earlier FTR’s. It  unleashes 120 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque, all of which is packaged in a street-friendly form. The engine itself is a masterpiece of design and performance!

Indian FTR Favourite Standout Features:

• Superb Aesthetics: The carbon fibre bodywork and even a unique numbered carbon badging (I’ve got 0028!)  constantly reminds you of the exclusivity that defines this ride.
• Öhlins Fully Adjustable Suspension: Öhlins^® forks and piggyback shocks, setting the industry standard, allow you to tailor the ride to suit your unique style perfectly.
• Sport, Standard, and Rain Ride Modes: Distinct throttle mapping and traction control intervention settings provide peak performance. You’ll maintain control in all types of road conditions.
• Cruise Control and Electronics for Control: There’s a superb sense of security and added ride confidence with features such as Lean Angle Sensitive ABS, Stability Control, Traction Control, Wheelie Control with Rear Lift Mitigation, USB Charge Port, Cruise Control all standard.
• Easy Manoeuvrability: You’ll feel confidence when cornering with exceptional agility, and responsive handling. The FTR’s 17-inch wheels and  Metzeler Sportec tires brings an additional street-tuned suspension – a combination which delivers!
• Seat /Sit Position: The seat offers terrific sit and control. You’ll experience complete comfort.
• Akrapovič 2-1-2 Exhausts:  I’m a fan of Akrapovič so to have this feature, the blacked out duo Akrapovič exhaust is a true prime feature.
• High Performance: Featuring 87 ft-lbs of torque and 120hp, the FTR ensures a seamless power delivery that will leave you grinning from ear to ear! Truly tailor-made for exhilarating adventures.
• Touchscreen and Ride Command: The LCD glove-touch screen is perfectly sized, 4.3 in and customisable. You can easily Bluetooth® pair your mobile device.

Things I’d Change

There’s little I don’t like about the FTR and for that fact it is a model that will satisfy any rider on so many levels.  However, the few points below I’d like to see improved upon.

• Refuelling Is Tedious: The design of the FTR has a notable drawback as it leads to a sluggish fuel flow when the refuelling and once the tank is approximately 60% full. This issue is likely attributed to suction effects and the tank’s airspace. Consequently, refuelling the tank to its maximum capacity necessitates an exceptionally slow filling rate. Initially, the nozzle may prematurely shut off, creating the illusion of a full tank, which is not the reality. As a consequence, refuelling the FTR can be a time-consuming process.
• Small Fuel Tank, Adequate Mileage: The FTR’s 12.9-litre (3.4-gallon) tank size might raise concerns for some, but I’ve honed my fuel management skills. Although the compact tank contributes to the bike’s lightweight design, it does result in a lower mileage range. Nonetheless, I was able to cover nearly 300 kilometres on a single tank, which is quite respectable for a 1200cc engine.
• Low Visibility Rear Signals: The left and right rear signal units, along with the licence plate holder, are currently affixed to an extended bar on the left side of the bike, which can pose visibility challenges for vehicles approaching from behind. I strongly recommend relocating these components closer to the top, near the rear brake light. This adjustment would substantially improve rider safety by making them more visible to other road users. In my personal opinion, relocating this would not only enhance the bike’s aesthetics but also reduce the risk of accidentally hitting it during reverse [parking] manoeuvres.

Indian FTR R Delivers On Every Front

This is a model I personally want to own. After thoroughly testing the standard FTR, the FTR S, and the FTR R, and now having the exhilarating experience of riding the Indian FTR 1200 R Carbon for two thrilling summers, I am firmly convinced that, at its core, this motorcycle embodies the essence of pure fun, speed, and reliability.

What sets it apart even more is its rarity amongst riders, making it a standout presence on the road. While the FTR is gaining popularity, it still maintains its unique allure. It’s true that it comes with a slightly higher price tag, but when considering the competitive landscape of 1200cc motorcycles, it falls comfortably within a reasonable budget.

My adventures on the Indian FTR 1200 R Carbon has been an absolute thrill, and I’ve witnessed Indian Motorcycle’s commitment to refining and expanding the FTR lineup, introducing models like the FTR Rally and the FTR Carbon. These additions offer diverse styling and performance options, catering to an even broader range of riders. The FTR series, with its blend of heritage and modernity, continues to impress, leaving an indelible mark on the world of motorcycling.

Indian FTR R Carbon Key Specifications

• Displacement: 73 cu in (1203 cc)
• Drive/Driven: Clutch Assist & Slip, Multi-Plate
• Engine Type: Liquid Cooled V-Twin
• Exhaust: Akropovic 2-1-2
• Displacement: 73 cu in (1203 cc)
• Drive/Driven: Clutch Assist & Slip, Multi-Plate
• Engine Type: Liquid Cooled V-Twin
• Exhaust: Akropovic 2-1-2
• Horsepower: 120 HP
• Overall Height: 129.5 cm / 51 in
• Overall Length: 2223 mm / 87.5 in
• Seat Height: Laden: 780 mm / 30.7 in
• Weight (Dry/Full of Fuel): 217 kg (479 lbs)/ 232 kg (513 lbs)
• Front Brakes: Brembo Dual 320mm t5 Rotor / 4 Piston Calliper
• Rear Brakes: Brembo Single 260mm t5 Rotor / 2 Piston Calliper
• Colour/ Graphics: Carbon Fibre

View full specs on Indian’s website