The 2022 Indian FTR R Carbon will grab your attention as soon as you see it.
Once in the saddle, it needs it. The TOP DOGS IN THE FTR LINEUP HAVE BEEN TWEAKED AND TWEED FOR ROAD MISSIONS, BUT ARE STILL A RAW RAW BEAST THAT'S FASCINATING AND ENERG TO RIDE.
This used to be the calling card of the Ducati monster. The new 2021 Ducati Monster is undoubtedly a more refined motorcycle than ever before. In fact, it is better than its predecessors in almost every way. But it's hard to ignore that feeling because it's downplayed to appeal to a wider audience, and therefore loses something intrinsic. Nor is it as striking as it used to be. (That said, during the week I used Monster Plus, people who showed interest in Monster Plus asked if it was Suzuki.) ouch. ）
Don't worry, there are other options for those looking for a nude car with personality. The bold styling of this FTR R Carbon has both a presence and something. Its crimson checkered frame, gold-tone adjustable fork, executives and carbon fibre trim mean it won't be mistaken for anything else on the road — especially something worth less than half its price.
The FTR lineup consists of FTR, FTR S, FTR Rally and FTR R Carbon. FtR starts at $15,999 and R Carbon starts at $19,999 (excluding accessories and accessories).
Changes to the entire lineup for 2022 include updated engine calibration designed to deliver a number of improvements, the most important of which is a smoother and more predictable throttle response. Admittedly, I haven't ridden previous models, but I've read some reports from critics and owners about the problem of unstable refueling. The company claims that these challenges have been corrected and that I did not experience such issues during ftR.
Other notable updates for 2022 include a fully adjustable suspension. The FTR and S models are equipped with the Sachs system, while the R Carbon is equipped with Öhlins settings. Upgrades from the base model also add Akrapovič tubing and a 4.3-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, ABS and traction control. Cylinder deactivation and improved hot passages help make riders more comfortable riding on a hot day in stop-and-go traffic, another area where the new Monster continues to work on. With the exception of the Rally edition, all models come standard with 17-inch cast aluminum wheels and Metzeler Sportec street tires, and wire spokes with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR rubber (19-inch front and 18-inch rear).
The 817 mm (32.2 in) seat height feels within reach. Spikes and handlebar placement (handlebar trim 40 mm) provide balanced comfort and controlled riding posture. Insert the key and press the start button to start the 1,203 cc 60-degree V-twin engine, and before it enters an exotic idle state, you'll hear a hoarse roar that reverberates in the Akrapovič 2-in-1 – in two exhausts.
All models have an output rating of 120 hp and a speed of 7,750 rpm. Peak torque at 6,000 rpm is 87 lb-ft. The R Carbon is the lightest in the series, weighing 217 kg (479 lbs). The FTR and FTR S each weigh 218 kg (482 lbs), while rally weighs 225 kg (497 lbs). Its center of gravity means you'll feel the weight of the bike as you tilt it off the side brackets, but it's not overly bulky. When you twist the throttle and start the race, that weight disappears.
Clutch release is very sudden, so be prepared. The friction points are very thin, so it feels like it's closed or open, with little concession between the two. Braking is handled by Brembo with dual 320 mm rotors and quad-piston calipers at the front and a 260 mm rotor and two-piston calipers at the rear. The initial bite is moderate but gradual, but squeezing hard will cause them to grasp hard, causing you to stop in a hurry. The brake lever is adjustable, but the clutch lever is not. To be honest, the turn signal switch feels a bit cheap and fussy on a higher quality motorcycle.
There are two display options on the 4.3-inch color LCD screen, one of which visually prioritizes speed and speed over other information. Both offer gear indicators, fuel gauges, empty distances, compasses, clocks, and digital speedometers and tachometers. When a smartphone is paired with the Indian Ride Command app, riders can listen to music or answer calls through headphones. Other technologies include the aforementioned traction and stability control, ABS, cruise control, wheel control, USB charging ports, and multiple ride modes. Standard mode is the obvious default setting, rain and sport allow riders to choose their preferences based on conditions. When you approach the 9,000 rpm red line, enabling Sport Mode has a significant impact on throttle response and the crispness of acceleration.
Given that it's ubiquitous on many of the vibrant new motorcycles these days, I feel it's a dereliction of duty for the Indians not to add a quickshifter as standard equipment on Carbon. Of course, using a fast-acting clutch allows for quick gear changes, but adding a clutch provides additional power to upgrade the kit. It doesn't necessarily need it, but it will benefit from it – especially on the track.
Given the broad similarity on paper with my own Triumph Thruxton R (a bare car over 180 kg with 1200 motors, adjustable _hlins suspension and Brembo brakes), I was amazed at the huge difference between the two motorcycles. The FTR R Carbon accelerates and brakes faster, but requires more coaxing to lean over. The 13-litre tank allows for rapid discharge and a 91-octane number is recommended.
The bare metal performance section is popular, with plenty of options and a price similar to the FTR R Carbon. For example, the new 2022 KTM Super Duke R Evo starts at $20,999. It has semi-active suspension and an optional quick shifter. Its 1,301 cc engine produces 180 hp and weighs just 180 kg (396 lb). The new Ducati Monster may have lost its appeal, but if you prefer this Italian brand and don't mind spending more money, the Street Fighter lineup is still there.
The 2022 India FTR lineup brings some welcome updates and offers a range of models for different riders at different price points. The R Carbon model, in particular, is a muscular naked car with a bold and unique shape. It doesn't look, sound, or ride like anything else on the road.