Indian has once again raised the standard for standard motorcycles with a host of upgrades for the 2022 FTR line. Showing that the FTR is a vital part of the company's future, the designers and engineers at Indian have found ingenious ways to update this rowdy rig. By tweaking the technology and adjusting some of the aesthetics, Indian has made the FTR line a snappy and sporty daily driver that is fun and functional.
Indian Continues To Reshape The American V-Twin
When the original FTR1200 was released in 2019, Indian showed that the American V-Twin does not have to be confined to the cruiser class. With distinct nods to flat track racers (based on the FTR750 that Indian offers for competition), the FTR1200 burst onto the market with brains and brawn. The upgrades to this platform for 2022 are by no means radical, but the features further refine this revolutionary machine.
The 1,203cc liquid-cooled engine remains the heart and soul of this wild stallion, but some key modifications to the fueling system have been addressed. As stated by Indian, "All new FTR models feature a retuned engine calibration that refines cold start performance, and delivers a smoother, more predictable throttle response." Additionally, the FTR, the FTR S, and the FTR R Carbon will come with 17-inch cast aluminum wheels along with some suspension mods that drop the seat height roughly 1.4 inches. The aim of the shorter stance is to make the machine approachable to a wider range of riders.
Common Car Technology Makes Its Way Onto The FTR Line
The real story behind Indian Motorcycle, especially in recent years, includes many nostalgic offerings, but the current iteration backed by Polaris is constantly pursuing innovative technology and finding applications across their machines. A new development that has become commonplace in cars and trucks has found its way onto the 2022 FTR line. As a means of conserving fuel and coping with more stringent environmental regulations, the FTR line will deactivate the rear cylinder when at idle. As an added bonus, this will cut down on the heat transfer under the seat, making for a more comfortable ride in stop and go traffic.
FTR Lineup Features And Accessories
With four distinct models in the FTR line, Indian has applied some unique features to each one. The FTR S and FTR R Carbon are both equipped with a 4.3-inch Ride Command touchscreen display which offers configurable gauges and Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The FTR R Carbon will also come with a black Akrapovic exhaust. And unlike the rest of the FTR models, the 2022 FTR Rally will retain the scrambler kit, including the 19- and 18-inch wire-spoke wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires.
Indian will also be offering an array of accessories for the FTR line, including Ohlins suspension equipment, heated grips, and a rear rack bag. Given the four different models in the FTR line, Indian is banking on this street-oriented standard attracting interested buyers starting in spring 2021.