MRW Issue 33

The brakes up front are 320mm discs with radially mounted
Brembo calipers and a radially mounted Brembo master
cylinder. The brakes need to be good to stop this behemoth
and that they are. They provide good feedback although do
require a firm pull of the delver to stop at their finest. The
brake pedal can be difficult to locate at times and operate
due to the exhaust header guard being in the way. The nonadjustable
ABS does interfere quicker than most bikes and
disappointedly cannot be turned off. More often than not I
used the front brake and downshifts to slow me down. The
engine braking is inconsistent and generally doesn’t exist
below 3000rpm.
The fuel tank is rather small at 12.9L so longer trips might
be few and far between with around 150km on a tank
possible. But then again this bike isn’t about long distance.
It’s a phenomenal point A-to-B bike that is guaranteed to
put a smile on your face and at the same time make those
around you envious with its top-notch build quality and
glamourous looks- ART on wheels effectively.
Overall the Indian FTR is a great package but does fall
short of 1 or 2 amenities that will elevate it to another level.
So what is it then? Well, it’s not a cruiser, nor is it a naked
sports bike. I would put it in the same category as that of
the Diavel or Rocket with a little modern retro thrown in
the mix as well. So effectively a retro naked sports cruiser
would be the best way for me to describe it.
Keen to go for a ride? Then call 011 259 7855 and book
your demo ride on the FTR 1200 R Carbon, and if you do,
let us know what you think of it. Email your impressions plus
a photo of you with the bike to rob@motoriderworld.com
and we might even put it in the next issue.