In 2016, Indian Motorcycle made a historic return to professional racing with the introduction of the FTR750, a flat track race machine designed to propel the brand back into the racing spotlight after a 60-year absence. Now, in its eighth season of competition, the Indian FTR750 has firmly established itself as the most dominant race bike in the sport’s history.
"Since 1901, racing has been core to the Indian Motorcycle brand DNA," said Gary Gray, Vice President of Racing and Service for Indian Motorcycle. "From our founders, Hendee and Hedstrom, competing in endurance races in the early 1900s, to the dominant Wrecking Crew of the late 1940s, Indian Motorcycle has been winning races. The FTR750 was the vehicle that reestablished Indian Motorcycle Racing and returned the brand to a place of competitive dominance."
The FTR750 has not only revived the storied tradition of the original Indian Wrecking Crew but also revolutionized flat track racing. Since its debut, the FTR750 has quickly earned a reputation as the most dominant machine in the American Flat Track (AFT) paddock. With three races remaining in the 2024 season, the FTR750 boasts an impressive 75% win ratio, clinching 101 out of 135 races. It has secured 286 total podiums at 129 races, translating to a 96% podium ratio. Remarkably, the FTR750 has maintained a perfect championship record, winning all premier class titles since 2017.
Jared Mees, the reigning AFT SuperTwins Champion, has been a key figure in the success of the FTR750. "I’ve been fortunate enough to be on this journey with Indian Motorcycle since day one," said Mees. "Racing the FTR750 has been an incredible experience, as I’ve never experienced a bike like the FTR750 in all my years competing. We’ve had immense success over the past eight years, and it’s been a true honor to be a part of the Indian Wrecking Crew."
Mees has played an instrumental role in the development and success of the FTR750. As Indian Motorcycle’s hero factory rider since 2017, he has provided invaluable feedback and insights to Indian Motorcycle engineers and S&S Cycle, the developers of the FTR750’s chassis. Piloting the FTR750, Mees has secured five championship titles. With a six-point lead in the SuperTwins standings and three races remaining, Mees aims to complete the FTR750’s perfect record and set a new all-time record of ten career championships.
Beyond its factory efforts, Indian Motorcycle has shown tremendous support for privateer teams, contributing over $4,000,000 in privateer contingency. This commitment underscores Indian Motorcycle’s dedication to fostering talent and ensuring competitive racing across the board.
The FTR750’s achievements have not only marked a triumphant return for Indian Motorcycle in professional racing but have also cemented its place in the annals of flat track racing history. As the 2024 season draws to a close, the legacy of the FTR750 continues to grow, inspiring riders and racing enthusiasts around the world.