I liked Sport mode the
best. It proved the most
responsive and eager
for my jet-lagged inputs
– which is basically
moments of high lunacy
punctuated by periods of
blank exhaustion
TECHNO DAZZLE
I loved the snazzy TFT dash (I only rode the
up-spec S version. The base model gets an
attractive round-faced dash for you to look at),
and its multiple ways of getting to and adjusting
things.
I was confused at first because new things
frighten me, and scrolling ham-thumbly
through options using the switches on the left
switchblock.
My confused techno-phobe bleating attracted
the attention of Australian and New Zealand
Country manager, Peter Harvey, who was along
for the ride – along with a hunch of other Indian
execs (which I always think is pretty beaut,
actually. It’s great to see upper management
on press launches. It demonstrates their faith
in the product and their saint-like patience with
the freeloading media).
“I use the touch-screen to change modes and
things,” he said quietly.
Serves me right for not paying more attention
at the previous evening’s presentation.
My life was suddenly made immeasurably
more simple. The TFT dash was immediately
the easiest dash to navigate through. Ride
modes, switchable top-spec ABS (which is
easily turned off for madmen), lean-angle
traction control, the option of two screens,
auto-dimming and night-day alternatives – all
of this and more awaits you on the S version.
The base version gets none of the fancy stuff –
not even traction control, which can be a great
thing for some people. But not for me.
The FTR is not electronically overdone or over-
complicated in any way, which is a huge part of
its appeal. I have simple needs. I do not need
28 variations of traction control.
I liked Sport mode the best. It proved the most
responsive and eager for my jet-lagged inputs
– which is basically moments of high lunacy
punctuated by periods of blank exhaustion.
A great and righteous way to ride endless
unforgiving and unfamiliar corners.
But the gearbox is brilliant. As is the slipper
clutch, and the clutch action is girl-hand
friendly. I was expecting a far more man-grip-
needed thing, this being American and all.
Instead I got a delightfully light clutch-pull and a
gearbox full of happiness.
By the end of the day, after some of the most
challenging corners I have ever ridden, I was a
bona fide FTR fan.
KIWI RIDER 107