Indian have heavily updated their FTR1200 range for 2021, with a host of changes to make the street bike more dynamic and refined.
The American factory is taking the beloved FTR platform to a whole new level of street performance with the new lineup, which includes the FTR1200, FTR1200S, FTR1200R Carbon and FTR1200 Rally.
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The biggest switch across the range is the models are fitted with 17in cast aluminium wheels – resulting in precise handling further enhanced with a steeper rake angle of 25° and a shorter trail of 99.9 mm. The previous model had a 19in front and a 18in rear.
Apart from the Rally, the FTR models come wrapped with Metzeler Sportec Street rubber. Smaller wheels, along with the bike’s front and rear suspension which offer 120mm of travel, contribute to a lower seat height – opening the door for more riders to throw a leg over the FTR.
Also, the ProTaper handlebars have been trimmed by 40mm (1.5-inches) to support the bike’s handling and give riders more control.
The flagship FTR R Carbon benefits from top quality Öhlins units front and rear. The new engine calibration takes advantage of the running gear enhancements by refining engine performance for a smoother, more predictable throttle response as well as cylinder deactivation to manage engine heat when the motorcycle is idle.
The FTR delivers on tech too, including a 110mm digital touchscreen display and a 1203cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine that produces 92 kW (123 hp) and 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb) of torque.
2021 Indian FTR model – overview
FTR, FTR S & FTR R Carbon
The FTR, FTR S, and FTR R Carbon models are outfitted with 17-inch cast aluminium wheels wrapped with Metzeler Sportec street tyres – resulting in precise handling further enhanced with a steeper rake angle of 25° and a shorter trail of 99.9 mm.
Additional updates for the new FTR line further refine performance and rider comfort. These three models offer fully adjustable front and rear suspension, a new feature added to the FTR base, as well as cylinder deactivation to manage engine heat when the motorcycle is idle. The new engine calibration also improves cold starts.
Each FTR model packs a host of standard features that carry over from previous FTR iterations. An inverted front suspension tuned for the street, along with radially mounted dual Brembo brakes provide riders with exceptional control and superior stopping power, while cruise control contributes to a comfortable ride.
FTR
The base FTR features an analogue gauge and is available in Black Smoke with red accents throughout, including red pinstripes on the wheels, red Indian Motorcycle script branding across the tank, and a red rear shock spring. The base FTR is also available in a reduced power version for A2 compliance.
FTR S
With two paint options, Maroon Metallic and White Smoke, the premium offering includes Indian Motorcycle’s 110 mm (4.3-inch) touchscreen display, which offers phone integration via Bluetooth or USB and configurable gauges.
The FTR S comes standard with an upgraded Akrapovič exhaust, three ride modes, wheelie control with rear lift mitigation, stability control, traction control and cornering ABS. Additionally, a fast-charging USB port provides a convenient means to charge personal devices
FTR R Carbon
The FTR R Carbon sits at the top as the premier model in the FTR lineup.
In addition to the aforementioned features listed with the FTR S, the FTR R Carbon sets itself apart with carbon fibre tank covers, front fender and headlight nacelle, fully adjustable Öhlins gold front forks and gold piggyback shock, a black Akrapovič exhaust, premium seat cover, and numbered badging on the console.
FTR Rally
Maintaining its scrambler aesthetic, the FTR Rally features Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres over wire-spoke wheels with an 18-inch in the rear and 19-inch in front. Like other FTR models, the FTR Rally receives the refined engine calibration and throttle response, along with rear cylinder deactivation.
The FTR Rally’s ProTaper handlebars are 50mm (2 inches) higher than other FTR models for better comfort and handling with a more relaxed ergonomic position. The FTR Rally features an analogue gauge and is available in Titanium Smoke. Like the base FTR, the FTR Rally is also available in a reduced power version for A2 compliance.