I RODE ONE
Rich Newland from MCN rode a prototype FTR1200S. Here’s what he told us… ‘From the moment you release the light clutch and feel the drive build as you dance through the gearbox and revel in the exhaust note, it’s obvious that the FTR is about refined street hooliganism. It
feels dense without ever feeling as heavy as its claimed 222kg, its mass giving it stability and security without ever getting in the way. Direction changes come as fast and hard as you dare use the wide bar leverage, or trust the
bespoke Dunlop DT3R tyres – and while multiple rider aids boost control, most owners will probably keep the most visceral settings engaged where cheeky wheelies are allowed, along with a bit of drift, and its 120bhp is meted out by your self-control. More hedonism would be nice though. An R version using the engine’s true 150bhp capability would be sublime. Nonetheless, competitors have plenty to fear.’