The Ladakh Dream: Realized On The Indian FTR 1200

We tame the beautifully treacherous terrain of Ladakh and its surroundings on our Indian FTR 1200.

- Debanjan Mondal

TRAVELLING has been getting easier and easier since COVID has waned off, sort of. We, at xBhp, have done the #roadTripUnited since, but there was something of an itch that needed to be scratched. For a motorcyclist, it is very difficult to stay away from Ladakh for too long. So when it was decided that we were going to take up the pilgrimage yet again, it was time to settle on a motorcycle. Among the ones we had in the xBhp Garage, our eyes went to the Indian FTR 1200 straight away.

We have ridden the Indian FTR 1200 extensively and we know how capable it is. But Ladakh is a place that can bring the best of machines down to their knees. Regardless of the machine you choose, Ladakh is a gamble. But after nearly 2,600 km of riding in every condition imaginable, we can say that the FTR 1200 was not a gamble, far from it!

The ride included cruising on the highways for which the Indian FTR 1200 offers all one can ask for. Loads of power, loads of stability, engaging yet comfortable ergonomics and most importantly, cruise control! No matter how much you love to ride, highways can be exhausting. On the Indian FTR 1200, Cruise Control has been implemented flawlessly. And it is very easy to use as well. Get to the desired speed, and with two clicks on the switchgear, you are ready to cruise in control.

For the most part, we locked it to around 80 km/h and the FTR 1200 does not even break a sweat at that pace. The engine is nice and relaxed, with negligible vibrations, and a smooth rumble emanating from the exhaust that not only keeps you alert but also keeps you in the loop in terms of the dollops of power that your right-hand controls.