Indian Motorcycle Celebrates 100 Years Of Chief With Completely Reimagined Indian Chief Lineup
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In 1921 Indian Motorcycle unveiled the iconic Indian Chief, one of the most historic and
influential motorcycles of all time. Now, in celebration of 100 years, America’s First Motorcycle
Company is unleashing three new, totally reimagined Indian Chief models for its new lineup.
Combining iconic, American V-twin style with modern performance and technology, Indian
Motorcycle designed the new Chief with a simplistic and mechanical aesthetic that pays
homage to the glory days of American motorcycling.
All based on a timeless, simplistic steel-tube frame and powered by Indian Motorcycle’s
powerful Thunderstroke motor, the new Indian Chief Dark Horse, Indian Chief Bobber Dark
Horse and Indian Super Chief Limited offer three unique takes on the classic American V-twin,
each appealing to a slightly different rider.
The new Chief provides a stripped-down riding experience where power, minimalism and
attitude lead the way. It reaches back to the glory days of American V-twins when hitting the
road to nowhere, with good friends and only the essentials, was the stuff of legends. Then
there’s the new Chief Bobber Dark Horse. With bulky tires wrapped around spoke wheels, a
muscled-up front end and a solo bobber seat, the Chief Bobber Dark Horse pays stylistic
homage to the classic post-war era V-twins, bobbed and chopped by military veterans and
blue-collar rebels, intent on breaking the mould. And finally, Indian Motorcycle offers the Super
Chief, Limited with saddlebags and a windshield, it offers a bit more versatility and begs riders
for longer miles and even bolder escapes.
“The Indian Chief is a truly iconic motorcycle and what better way to celebrate its 100 th
birthday than unleashing an entirely new Indian Chief lineup,” said Mike Dougherty, President
of Motorcycles. “These bikes capture the mechanical simplicity and attitude of classic
American V-twins, yet bring it all forward with modern sophistication and features. We could
not be more thrilled to bring this new platform into our lineup.”
The new Indian Chief lineup marks the intersection of simplicity and power. Mechanical and
simple, Chief models are based on a classic steel welded tube frame. The lineup features a
15.1 litre fuel tank, bobbed rear fender, dual outboard preload-adjustable rear shocks, dual
exhaust, LED lighting, keyless ignition, and Pirelli Night Dragon tires. Along with cruise control,
Chief riders can adjust throttle response by selecting one of three ride modes: sport, standard
or tour.
Featuring a short wheelbase of 1626 mm, a low seat height of 662 mm and a wet weight as low
as 304 kg, the Indian Chief lineup inspires confidence and is approachable for any rider. The
Chief’s conventional 46mm front forks with 132 mm of travel, 28.5-degree lean angle, and
comfortable ergonomics, create a capable machine for even the most technical of ride routes.
“We wanted to capture a timeless look that never goes out of style, and looks beautiful
whether naked or fully dressed,” said Ola Stenegard, Director, Industrial Design for Indian
Motorcycle. “We also wanted to keep it simple enough to allow riders’ imaginations to take
flight with personalization options and possibilities. Ultimately, this is a bike that evokes
emotion with simple mechanical styling and raw American muscle. It’s a pure riding machine.”
The Indian Chief trim levels are detailed as follows:
Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber Dark Horse, Super Chief Limited
Powering all Chief models is Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke 116 engine with 162 Nm of
torque. ABS is standard, while premium finishes set these bikes apart and further showcase
the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Chief and Chief Bobber Dark Horse model
packs further attitude with premium gloss black finishes, while the Super Chief Limited touts
premium chrome finishes.
Additionally, each model delivers a premium experience with its industry-first, 101 mm round
Ride Command system. Riders can operate the Ride Command system through grip controls
or via the digital IPS touchscreen display. Riders can cycle through multiple interfaces,
including two different gauge configurations, bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn
navigation. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the
Ride Command system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth or USB. Riders can also
access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message
history. When connected, incoming calls will appear and can be accepted or declined directly
through the Ride Command system.
With three styles, riders can select the Chief model and trim to their preference, including:
Chief Dark Horse
The Indian Chief Dark Horse features stripped-down, mechanical styling highlighted by drag
handlebars, 19-inch cast wheels, mid-mount foot controls, a slim headlight bucket and a solo
bobber seat. The Chief Dark Horse is offered in Black Smoke, Alumina Jade Smoke and
Stealth Gray.
Chief Bobber Dark Horse
Mini-ape hanger handlebars paired with forward foot controls provide a more upright and
commanding riding position. The Chief Bobber Dark Horse sits on 16-inch (40.6 cm) wire
wheels, adds fork and shock covers, and features a large headlight bucket wrapped in a
nacelle. The Chief Bobber Dark Horse is available in Black Smoke, Titanium Smoke, and
Sagebrush Smoke.
Super Chief Limited
Designed for comfort, the Super Chief Limited stands apart with a quick release windscreen,
black leather saddlebags, touring seat with passenger pad, floorboards and traditional cruiser
handlebars. The Super Chief Limited features 16-inch (40.6 cm) wire wheels, large headlight
bucket with nacelle, fork covers, and a full chrome exhaust that delivers a premium fit and
finish. The Super Chief Limited is available in Black Metallic, Blue Slate Metallic, and Maroon
Metallic.
Accessories
Chief riders will have access to over 70 accessories, including parts specifically designed for
Chief models, as well as several existing pieces available for Scout and Thunderstroke models.
Indian Motorcycle’s accessory line has been designed to enhance performance, personalize
style and add rider comfort. Among the accessories available, include:
Performance
Indian Motorcycle’s performance offerings are built to improve throttle response and increase
horsepower and torque for quicker, snap-on acceleration. Riders can purchase a front-facing
air intake, Stage 1 slip-on muffler, as well as slash cut and fish tail exhaust tips.
Style
Riders can complete their desired custom look by personalising with a variety of parts,
including solo racks and rack bag, low and mid windshields, and a high flow air intake. Riders
also have five handlebar options, including eight-inch mini-ape hangers, 127 mm mid-rise,
reduced reach, cruiser and drag handlebars.
Comfort
To continue offering accessories for all personal and riding styles, Indian Motorcycle’s comfort
package includes mid and tall windshields, passenger backrests, highway bars, and Pathfinder
S LED driving lights.
In addition to parts, Indian Motorcycle is debuting a new Chief apparel collection, with three
unique lines to choose from. From the lean, mean attitude of the Chief Dark Horse, the
old-school muscle of Chief Bobber Dark Horse or the road-warrior glory of Super Chief
Limited, three unique lines of shirts and hats coincide with each model.
Indian Motorcycle is America’s first motorcycle company. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivalled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion are reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit http://www.indianmotorcycle.com/
INDIAN and INDIAN MOTORCYCLE are registered trademarks of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC. Always wear a helmet, protective clothing and eyewear and insist your passenger does the same. Ride within the limits of the law and your own abilities. Read, understand and follow your owner’s manual. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
credit: Indian Motorcycle