The 2019 Indian FTR 1200 Flat Track Racer
Flat track racing has been gaining popularity again over the last few years and the first motorcycle company to cross the finish line in the race for a street legal bike is Indian. With a rich history in professional flat track racing dating back to the 1950s, Indian certainly has the knowledge and brand power to take on this adventurous new line. Fast forward and Indian won back to back championships in 2017 and 2018 as well as multiple American Flat Track podium sweeps. This success meant the perfect timing to develop and launch this incredible motorcycle.
Since the model has to be street legal it is toned down ever so slightly but still carries quite a kick. The 1203 cc liquid cooled 60 degree V twin engine has four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 12.5:1. This generates 120 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 85 foot pounds of torque at 6,000 rpm. Considering it weighs around 500 pounds, this is a lot of power.
The S model gets a TFT touchscreen display, built in blue tooth, USB charger for your phone, traction control and three switchable riding modes: rain, standard and sport for different traction control and throttle response. Sachs suspension cushions when necessary and can be accommodated to your preferences as both ends are adjustable for preload, rebound and compression. Another feature of this model is an inertial measurement unit which means ABS can sense the bikes lean angle and adjust accordingly. There is also the option to disable ABS if desired.
The range is about 130 miles if cruising on the highway as one can get almost 40 miles per gallon. With the comfort of the bike not being an issue, this may seem a bit short but most riders appreciate the chance to stop and stretch the legs every couple of hours anyway. This also allows for more people to stare at your marvelous ride and ask all about it so you can show off in style now and then.
