Bike Review: 2019 Indian FTR1200S

2019 Indian FTR 1200 S: An Exciting American Flat Tracker Built for the Street!

By Marisa McInturff

We put approximately 4,500 miles on the FTR’s while they were in our possession. We expected them to be like most motorcycles - fun as hell to ride but by the end of the day you are ready to get off and have an adult beverage while your arse relaxes. This was NOT the case with the FTR. We spent 9 days straight in the saddle for 8-10 hours each day. Upon pulling into the garage at the conclusion of the trip on day 10, we quickly pulled off the luggage and gave each other that look that means “are you thinking what I am thinking?” The answer was YES. We had 5 hours of daylight left, and two motorcycle begging to be ridden. So we did what any sensible person would do, and jumped back on for a run up to our favorite local overlook. There aren’t many motorcycles that invite such a high volume of riding a short period of time. If I had any choice of bike for my next Iron Butt ride… It would be the Indian FTR1200S. Here’s why…

I remember thinking a few years back when riding the Indian Scout for the first time that the V-twin platform had potential, but I longed for a sportier chassis with better brakes and suspension. Fast forward to the present and Indian has satisfied that desire with the FTR 1200 S. 

History

Indian’s racing history dates back to 1903, when co-founder and chief engineer Oscar Hedstrom won an endurance race and set a new world speed record of 56 mph. Over the next 50 years, Indian dominated American racetracks, and their team, The Wrecking Crew, took home some of the most impressive victories in flat track racing. In 2016, Indian returned to flat track with their FTR750 and the formation of the new Indian Wrecking Crew, which took back-to-back championships in 2017 and 2018. 

Modern Design

Modeled after the FTR750, the FTR 1200 S is a race-inspired design with tube trellis frame and swingarm, Brembo brakes, Sachs adjustable suspension, Akrapovic exhaust, cruise control, and three ride modes with optional ABS and traction control. You can save a little money by forgoing the exhaust and electronics package, but the rider aids provide a level of safety I expect on a modern street bike. The LCD screen provides the usual info, plus ride mode selection and two display options, which allow you to choose between a modern-style analog or a digital look. 

Power

Speaking of ride modes, your adjustable-on-the-fly options are the typical rain, standard, and sport. Sport’s more aggressive throttle response means paying close attention to wrist positioning and clutch control to avoid snappiness during roll on/off around town, but out in the twisties the extra punch makes me giggle like a schoolgirl. Standard and rain modes provide a more manageable and smooth response for general street use, which is especially nice for commuting and touring. I did find that the transmission does not always agree to aggressive shifting, favoring slower gear changes, but after 3,000 miles it seemed to smooth out a bit. 

The FTR 1200 S uses an upgraded version of the Scout engine, a DOHC 60-degree V-twin that brings 123 horses to the table with an easy twist of the wrist. I love an aggressive V-twin, and the FTR has not disappointed with its snarly low- and mid-range torque (87 lb-ft) that catapults the bike out of corners. 

Versatility

This motorcycle truly has flat tracking in its DNA, and while the racing is done on a hard pack dirt track, the FTR 1200 S is right at home on the gravel and dirt roads I often find myself exploring. Indian doesn’t claim it to be a dual-sport, but it handled everything I threw at it with ease. A 19-inch/18-inch wheel set (along with great suspension) handles minor rocks and washboard without a second thought, and the long wheelbase means it likes to kick sideways in low traction situations but once there behaves in a surprisingly composed manner. On the highway, the seating position is moderately aggressive yet comfortable for long hauls. I found that any riding condition is suitable for the FTR, be it twisties, broken pavement and dirt roads, or open highway. 

A variety of accessory packages are available to cater to your intended use. Mine was equipped with the touring package consisting of a windshield, small amount of luggage, and a rear luggage rack, all of which was convenient while traveling. 

I want one in my garage!

With the traditional flat track style and performance to back it up, this flat tracker built for the street is all the motorcycle we have been waiting for. It’s the beginning of a new era of American motorcycling, and I couldn’t be more excited to see it coming from such an iconic American company.