Indian Motorcycle Celebrates 100 Years of Chief
In 1921 Indian Motorcycle unveiled the iconic Indian Chief, one of the most historic and influential motorcycles of all time. Now, in celebration of that centenary, Indian has revealed three new 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 bluecollar 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 100th birthday than unleashing an entirely new Indian Chief line-up,” said Mike Dougherty, President of Motorcycles. “These bikes capture the mechanical simplicity and attitude of classic American Vtwins, yet bring it all forward with modern sophistication and features. We could not be more thrilled to bring this new platform into our line-up.”
Chief models are based on a classic steel welded tube frame. The line-up 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 line-up is aimed to be approachable for any rider. The Chief’s conventional 46mm front forks offer 132 mm of travel, 28.5-degree lean angle, and comfortable ergonomics.
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.
Each Chief and Chief Bobber Dark Horse model have 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 Display with Ride Command. 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 Grey and will retail for $25,995 AUD ride away.
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 and will retail for $27,495 AUD ride away.
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 and will retail for $29,995 AUD ride away.
Indian Motorcycles Australia are expecting the first units to arrive at dealers in late April 2021.
Gallery
