2014 Indian Chief Classic
Classic and Vintage share this tank-mounted instrument layout.
MD is in Sturgis, South Dakota for the annual ralley, and to ride the all-new 2014 Indian Chief bikes revealed by the company last evening. The three Chief models, including the Classic, the Vintage and the Chieftain, employ the Thunder Stroke 111 engine, which puts out a stout 119 foot/pounds of torque in final specification. These bikes are superbly finished, with spectacular paint quality and detailing. Yours truly took the photos on this page (although my buddy Tom Riles took the top picture), and I have already ridden both the Classic and the Chieftain.
The flawless fit and finish is not surprising given our experience with the other brand owned by Polaris, Victory, and the fact that Polaris views Indian as the premium brand in the United States.
Although we expect Indian will eventually have a very broad range of motorcycles on offer, it makes sense that this new journey funded by Polaris (a $3 Billion company) begins with a heavyweight cruiser honoring the legendary Chief model.
More details are in the press release below, and the specifications for the Classic model can be found here. Stay tuned for a brief riding impression (Part 1 of my first ride), as well as further reports later this coming week.
The view from behind the Chieftain fairing.
STURGIS, SD— August 3, 2013 — Indian Motorcycle®, America’s first motorcycle company, today announced the highly anticipated details for the all-new 2014 Indian® Chief® family of motorcycles. Before thousands of motorcycling fans at the site of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame in downtown Sturgis at 9 p.m. Mountain Time on Saturday, August 3, Indian Motorcycle unveiled the three models that comprise the Indian Chief line up. The reveal ceremony and party signaled an inflection point in motorcycling history with the renewal of America’s oldest and most legendary brand.
2014 Indian Chief Classic (starting MSRP: $18,999)
The new Indian Chief Classic is a pure, powerful cruiser forged from key heritage design elements yet wrapped in advanced design, engineering and technology. It features iconic styling like valanced fenders, rich genuine leather saddle, classic tank-mounted instrumentation, tear-drop fuel tank design, and sculpted and lighted front fender war bonnet. The 2014 Indian Chief Classic comes standard with a host of premium features including endless chrome, keyless ignition, ABS, cruise control, throttle-by-wire, true dual exhaust, high quality chrome laced spoke wheels, brake caliper covers, cast aluminum frame with integrated air intake, and much more.
The Indian Chief Classic, like all 2014 Indian Chief models, is powered by the all-new, clean sheet design Thunder Stroke™ 111 engine. Offering 111 cubic inches of pavement pounding power and 119 ft-lbs of torque, this class-leading power plant draws powerful design cues from heritage Indian Motorcycle engines merged with brilliant engineering and advanced technologies. The Thunder Stroke 111 is a 49-degree, air-cooled V-twin with 6-speed overdrive transmission, and features unmatched premium exterior finishes and touches. It offers owners the peace-of-mind that comes from over two million miles of on-road and test-lab verification and Polaris Industries’ 60 years of engineering prowess.
2014 Indian Chief Vintage
2014 Indian Chief Vintage (starting MSRP: $20,999)
The new Indian Chief Vintage is a soft bagger that takes iconic Indian Motorcycle styling to a whole new level with handcrafted detail and a signature heritage aesthetic. The Indian Chief Vintage offers top-quality quick-release soft-sided leather bags, leather fringe, chrome fender tips, vintage chrome badging on the front fender and a quick-release windshield for easy installation or removal. It includes the same premium standard features as the Indian Chief Classic, and sports the same iconic design elements like valanced fenders, laced wheels, whitewall tires, tank-mounted instrument cluster and extensive chrome finishes throughout. It is also powered by the new Thunder Stroke 111 engine.
2014 Indian Chieftain
2014 Indian Chieftain (starting MSRP: $22,999)
The first Indian Motorcycle of its kind, the 2014 Indian Chieftain maintains the legendary Indian Chief styling, while taking this progressive machine to new heights with advanced features and premium comfort. Unlike any Indian Motorcycle ever made, the Chieftain features a fairing with integrated driving lights, and its power windshield is an industry-first for a fork-mounted fairing. Standard features include hard saddlebags featuring remote locks and quick-release anchors, a high-output audio system featuring integrated Bluetooth® smartphone connectivity, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
“When we acquired Indian Motorcycle two and a half years ago we set out to capture the heart, soul and legendary heritage of this iconic American brand and then infuse it with unparalleled design, engineering and state-of-the-art technology,” said Scott Wine, CEO of Indian Motorcycle parent company Polaris Industries Inc. “On Saturday night we revealed three stunning new Indian Chief models that represent the results of our journey and the future of this brand. It was a triumphant day for all of us, and I know motorcycling fans around the world proudly join us in celebrating Indian Motorcycle and the realization that choice in American motorcycles is here to stay.”
The First 1901
To pay tribute to Indian Motorcycle’s past, the first 1901 Indian Chiefs to roll off of Indian’s assembly line in Spirit Lake, IA will be identified with a limited-edition badge. Numbered between one and 1901, these rare bikes will reflect the year of Indian’s inception by Oscar Hedstrom and George Hendee in Springfield, MA. “We have been very conscientious about honoring Indian Motorcycle’s storied history while establishing a foundation for what’s yet to come,” said Polaris Vice President of Motorcycles, Steve Menneto. “The lucky few who purchase these limited number bikes will truly own a piece of history, concurrently representing Indian’s rich past and its limitless future.” More information is available at Indian Motorcycle dealers across the country.
Availability
Indian Motorcycle is adding dealerships across the US and globally, and is on plan to have 125-140 North American and 70 international dealers by year end. The full line of 2014 Indian Chief models are available for order now and will arrive in dealerships in September, along with an extensive array of apparel, parts and accessories. Indian Motorcycle demo rides will be available at dealer events across the country starting later in August. Visit www.indianmotorcycle.com to check out the Demo Tour schedule or to locate an Indian Motorcycle dealer near you, and to see the full line of apparel, parts and accessories.
I heard sound of this bike. …its very pretty. …no one bike can compare this sound…..but if Indian want to surviving this race they must have to come with same machine in flexible light bike those attract not ony fat guy but also youngsters like iron 883 harley davidson. …with good sufficient ground clearance… lot of people want to buy this type bike. …dont look behind, look Morden classic. ..think about not only fat guy but also flexible light guy …They will give you lot of prosperity. …good luck….
Ever notice at a biker event the new Road Kings, HD Heritage or even and old turnip will draw a lot of looks, that is until someone rides in on a pan or knuckle. Then not only the Bikers, but everyone in the crowd comes out to check out the bike.
Those classic bikes are riding artwork that everyone can appreciate. The new Indian captures that historic American motorcycle look. This new bike has a lot of potential.
The only problem with many modern bikes is that they are made cheep, plastic and aluminum mostly. Throw away bikes made to only last a short while. Even the great Harley Davidson is sneaking more and more crappy parts into there iconic designs. I hope Indian doesn’t make the same mistake. There are dozens of new cheep bikes out there. The difference between crap and a classic, is after a 100k (or less) a cheep bike goes on the scrap heap. A true classic is rebuilt (over and over). You don’t throw away a true piece of rolling art. Its to early to see if Indian will regain its iconic status as a classic, but it does have the potential too.
Please , buy one if you like or go get what you want if you don’t…I think it is awesome .I believe it will survive and we will be talking about them for years to come
If Harley is going to be successful they are going to have to get rid of their crappy twin cam engine. Harley should have put an enlarged version of the sportster 1200 motor in their larger bike. The new Indians don’t appeal to me at all, too heavy, ugly, just another geezer glide.
For those that say this is a bad decision for Polaris, get a clue. The reason’s Indian never lasted past a few years was due large in part to poor management and OVER PRICING. Indian will succeed under Polaris due to much more competitive pricing, an already existing dealer network with plans to add more. I am sure Polaris will expand the current lineup to include the Scout, and who knows, maybe even the Arrow to compete with Harley’s Sportster. The future looks bright for American Motorcycles.
P.S., I’ve been a Harley owner for 20 yrs. It’s about time an intelligent corporation finally bought the rights to Indian.
The powers-that-be at Polaris seem to exhibit excellent business sense. They’ve proven it with the Victory. With the crew that they’ve gotten to develop the Chief, it is poised to exhibit much potential! I can’t recall a launch that has shown quite this much promise. From what I’ve read from all the reviews, the ride-ability and workmanship on these bikes is virtually second to none and will be tough to beat for awhile! I like your idea of offering models such as the Scout and Arrow. If I had a say, I think the next model should be a Scout.
I don’t see Indian going anywhere, even if they built better bikes than Harley. Harley by far has that market, many have tried, even with better bikes at a cheaper prices they haven’t made a dent in the Harley market …Indian has bombed out too many times, Indian will never get past that, especially in these times IMO.
Same old …
Would never buy something like that.
Actually, I rather like the styling, and think they did a good job of creating what an Indian Chief might look like if the original company had stayed in business.
From the test ride reviews I’ve read, it sounds like they are also a decent ride.
I can’t justify paying $20,000 for any motorcycle, however. Who knows? Maybe a few years down the road they’ll make a Scout model priced for those of us with slimmer wallets.
I have a sport touring bike but the Indian Classic has my nose open !!!
The more I look at these bikes the more I like em.If I didn’t just buy a Electraglide Limited I’d be even more interested.If they survive the next few years and come out with a full two up touring version with a tour pack I’d buy one.
When Polaris Started the Victory line, you got a cruiser with more power, innovation, and a fresh new approach to ugly. Now we have the Indian. Love the engine, but is that Vespa bodywork on the back?
It’s still a really nice bike, just go with the soft bagger. They cover the…….let’s say the little bits that seem off.
I am really happy to see that Polaris has done a great job bringing the new Indian back to life.
I was optimistic when I saw the fantastic job they did redesigning the new motor.
When they did the reveal on Sunday I was relieved to see that they made the new Chief look how a 21st century Indian should.
Everyone has their own taste and crotch rocket riders, the yuppie Beemer crowd and some Easyreader faux outlaws will no doubt look down their noses at the retro good looks of the reborn Indians – to each his own.
I like to see designers looking back at classic designs for inspiration, change for its own sake has given us a fairly bland cookie cutter look to most autos until recently – the majority of the most artful designs were made decades ago and form, flow and proportion are timeless..
As soon as I finish with my car payments, I’ll be adding a red Indian vintage with tan bags to my garage to make the daily 42 mile round trip commute to and from work and save money on gas to boot.
This Chief was the logical starting point for the relaunch of the company and ties the past and present Indian together flawlessly.
I think we can only expect to see the brand grow and prosper if they keep up the good work.
I like the styling of the new Indians, and they probably run as good as they look. Out of curiosity I surfed around for picture of the late model real Chiefs (early 50’s). IMHO those bikes were ugly beyond belief. Like a Cushman bred with a Packard. Here’s link to one of the pictures. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/81/Indian_Chief_Black_Hawk_80_cubic_inch_1950.jpg&imgrefurl=http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Indian_Chief_Black_Hawk_80_cubic_inch_1950.jpg&h=443&w=849&sz=126&tbnid=cWdq8b-TdOjR7M:&tbnh=63&tbnw=120&zoom=1&usg=__z33ZUVcFhqUsrvxQFsb7WfiClNc=&docid=oUYqrpEz-4fgXM&sa=X&ei=uO4FUrC_K6muyQHt54HADw&ved=0CEAQ9QEwAg&dur=3699
You’re right, when you say, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” That ’50 Indian is a good representation of the great classics of that era… I’d love to have one. I like these “new” Indians, and, as a businessman, I’d wager they’ll do increasingly well, now, under the auspices of Polaris. Fine looking machines – I’ll schedule a test ride, soon.
…and let me add, personally, I like the styling of the new Indians considerably better than the touring versions of the Victory. Nothing at all against Victory – I just don’t care for their more recent stylings, much.
I agree. Grapevine has it that the dealers told the company to keep Arlen away from the design. I saw his custom Vision in Sturgis a few years back, and man, it was, well…
Screw the test ride, mine’s on order. 🙂
Now that I have seen the Indian, I can go buy a Victory Vision.
It is just plain ugly
+1
Did you haters submit your designs for consideration?
Maybe something like this for a new Scout?
http://www.motofotostudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/20130603-225447.jpg
I’d ride that any day. I hope Indian will sell a real standard bike like that and “Scout” would be a good thing to call it.
Then go buy it. It’s called a Royal Enfield. Looks just like a Honda 450 I had about 40 years ago. Nothing wrong with that. I’ll still wave to you on the road ’cause you’re riding, and that’s what it’s all about.
I’ll be the guy on the new Indian or maybe my old one, ’cause I’m keeping it, too.
Now there is a Royal Enfield I could like
Like
Don’t count on it. Victory only knows how to build BIG, UGLY bikes!
Now THAT would be awesome.
Just ditch the RE badging and it would be perfect
You know that really would be an ironic turn of events if Indian got Enfield to build that bike in India so that they could make a decent profit on it,sell it in other markets as the Enfield Cannon and here as the Indian Scout.
I think what killed the last few attempts at reviving Indian was distribution or the lack of a robust dealer network in place. Harley has just about everyone beat there.Even though there are 2 Polaris dealers easily within driving distance from my house neither one sells Victory.If I wanted to look at or test ride a Victory or Indian I’d have to drive over 150mi God help me if I needed parts or warrantee work.They’ll need to fix that if they want to succeed.
Yeah, Polaris definitely needs to focus on improving in that area. I did a search for the closest Indian dealrship…187 miles away…next closest is in Canada. Quality Victory dealerships are sparse enough. Can’t imagine “make the bikes as difficult to buy as possible” was near the top of Polaris’ Release Date checklist.
I’ve got nothing against retro. In fact, I like retro. But how is this any different from the last three or four attempts to revive Indian? Just how many times does it need to be shown that there are not enough fond memories tied to fat bank accounts to make a revival of the late-40’s to early-50’s Chief range NOT a viable proposition?
There was an Indian motorcycle company before big, valanced fenders. Indian ruled the race tracks of North America between the World Wars. Reach back to that and you might have a chance. Just a chance. That’s what the reincarnated Triumph did. FIRST show that you can play with the big boys, THEN play the nostalgia card.
Three big differences.
1) A quality engine that is NOT a Harley clone.
2) A price that is competitive with Harley.
3) The quality and financial backing of an established company.
Wow …. I try to be open-minded when it comes to bikes. We all have our own tastes. To each his/her own. Yada yada yada.
But I honestly would not hit my dog in the butt with that hideous thing.
Mixed bag for the bike. The motor is stunningly gorgeous. And for the first time I fid myself liking the way these valanced fenders look. Love the leather.
Beyond these impressive styling cues, the rear end of the bike, in my opinion, should have captured that looooong, rear upper frame-member dipping in a straight-line from the tank, down to the rear wheel — to give the authentic persona that captures the cool, old indian look.
Instead, my lingering impression was all about rear body cladding that’s a little scooter-like. Hey — it’s extremely well done and sexy, but it doesn’t fit as an INDIAN ICONIC LOOK you’d want for your FIRST IMPRESSION of this newly revived brand name.
I’m not a basher — I want SO BAD for Indian to succeed beyond everyones wildest dreams. I’d even like to work there. So I mean my comments constructively. Let’s hope the next model(s) that broaden the Indian line will offer more of what I hoped for.
After a couple days, The body cladding IS growing on me more.
I bought a Harley FatBoy 9 months ago – having been all over
the country on a slightly older model of it in days past.
Indian Team: If I were in the market today, I’d definitely be
looking at the Chief and hoping I liked the ‘feel’ better than
the HD. You guys have in your hands, EXACTLY that kind
of well-wishing from millions of American Cruiser fans. I hope
you make the most of it, because we ALL WIN if there’s more
competition in the Cruiser market.
Love the front half of the bike, especially the engine.
The back half looks a bit to integrated, like a scooter.
The rear fender doesn’t have the sleek lines of the original, but I guess that isn’t possible without a hard tail. Got to allow for wheel travel.
Looking forward to a Scout version myself.
I like the styling, it’s exactly what the designers were going for, a new retro. I also wish they would put that motor in a lighter weight, stripped frame, maybe a Scout or a real hot rod.
THE NEW INDIAN VINTAGE IS VERY COOL. BEEN A HARLEY GUY FOR 26 YEARS. IT IS TIME FOR THE MOTOR CO. TO STEP-UP.
I’m not a cruiser guy (yet) but if I were this would be my bike. They nailed the period styling, especially the fairing that appears to pay homage to 1950’s diesel locomotives like the Santa Fe Super Chief seen here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/57610334@N08/5296759641/, and I’m sure the engineering is top notch. Very well executed all around.
I’m not one for cruisers, because of the riding position, “hard on the back” and lack of real power, like high speeds (something to get the adreniline flowing, 120 mph plus but these Indians are beautiful and cruiser lovers are close to heaven and perfection with one of these. These should sell plenty. If they put the controls farther back for a sport touring position I just might buy one.??
Don in Iowa
These are beautiful new Indians that capture the true essence of the originals, and I applaud Polaris for a job well done. If they ride as good as they look, and with Victory-like dependability, Polaris will undoubtedly sell a large number of these bikes to their intended audience.
It’s been a long wait, but WELCOME BACK, INDIAN!
This time, FINALLY, you are clearly back for good!
Very disappointed in the styling… I expected a much fresher and detailed look then this.
The Victory looks better which is sad actually. The engine and tank look ok. The worst part is the uni body look under the seat that carries into the rear fender. It makes the rear of the bike look almost scooter like and really cheapens the look and is very dissimilar to the front where there is a conventional frame showing. The exhaust is also very uninspired with its completely straight and too long looking shape.
This is very disappointing from a styling standpoint which is bad enough to make me not buy one. I have waited a very long time for Indian to become relevant again and as much as I want Indian to truly succeed this time this bike will never see the inside of my garage.
I am hoping that when they make a Scout it will be much fresher and more cohesive in style
as well as leading edge in actual performance because the Scouts traditionally were lighter and sportier than the Chief.
I really am having a hard time believing this is what they brought out after all that investment, they should have had the designer that built the Spirit of Munro streamliner draw the new Chief at least then it would have been semi inspired and cohesive looking.
The worst part is because it is a cruiser it will retain this poor styling the rest of its life which means it may never get acceptably good ever again.
I agree, too much bodywork under the seat and on rear fender, reminds me of some old scooters. The base model needs saddlebags to cover all that. Maybe aftermarket will come out with better styled hard bags for Chief after a while. Engine looks great and I like the dual exhausts as well, makes for a nice balanced look. Don’t care for fairing design at all, maybe it will get restyled later if not sold well. Pricing structure seems good and in line with other OEM’s.
When I looked at the pictures of these new Indians, especially that area behind the engine/under the seat, I thought “I’ve seen that somewhere else recently, haven’t I?” Well, yes, I have – in last weeks story on the 2014 Victory bikes. Same faired-in area behind the seat, same (goofy looking, but maybe they’re adjustable?) passenger pegs on stalks.
Neither are bad looking bikes, and I like the looks of the Chieftan – it would probably be a nice touring rig – but they could really have distinguished themselves a little more from the Victory models. That’s what I feel they’ve done – worked up a new(ish) motor, and slightly modified an existing Victory chassis to hold it.
Speaking of the exhausts, if it’s a true dual system, why does it look like the two pipes run into one on the right side? Is it really a 2-1-2 system? Also, I think some sort of fishtail muffler tips might look good on these.
Fishtails are an available option with Stage 1 exhaust.
I would be more impressed if Polaris offered something other than a 700# cruiser. I know, I know, there’s a demand for big ugly bikes, but can’t they at least build something a bit more exciting? Enough already with the retro cr@p!
Oh thank God! We almost were faced with a shortage of bad handling, low performance, overpriced motorcycles.
Nice!!!
Amen!
Cruisers don’t usually get a 2nd look from me and never liked the valenced fenders look but these bikes are beautiful. I may hvae to hearken right back over to an Indian dealer and find out how they ride. Much as many of us hope that Indian does something soon to revive Indian’s performance heritage (actual performance not just styling) they would have been absolutely nuts to start with anything other than these bikes. From what I can see they hit the bullseye.
If only one bike could be everything to everyone…
The bike will appeal to it’s target audience, most likely Harley types that want something nostalgic but new. Bulls-eye.
All in all, I’m pretty impressed. Based upon what I’m reading on the ‘net, they tried to quiet mechanical noise (Victory’s have terrible gear whine) and emphasize the exhaust. A lot of technology under the cruiser styling. A couple of things that I’m not so thrilled about. Why do they need the safety decal by the gas cap on the tank? I have never seen one of those on a Harley. And the side-covers look sort of weird on the naked model, less so on the full Bagger. But its amazing what Polaris did in only 2 years. -Tutt
I was looking at a HD Fatboy but wanted to see the Indians first. A Chief Vintage, red with tan leather is in the future for me! I want that fuel tank from the Chieftain, the Indian headdress logo, don’t care for the “Indian” script.
Nice looking bikes, just enough nostalgia with modern electronics!
I am surprised to hear so many complaining that Polaris made the Indian look like an Indian. That was an absolute “must do”, or they would have been ripped to shreds by the target audience. All of you looking for ground breaking styling or a “fresh look”… Polaris offers that at your Victory dealer. Kudos to Polaris for showing respect to the orginal Indians while providing a completely modern bike with an aluminum frame, and all sorts of modern electronic technology. The engine is a work of art.
Nice bikes, and a lot of comments to boot. Comments are always a good sign. Even if there are some negative ones in the lot.
I can’t wait to read the first ride reports. If these bikes ride and fit as well as they look then Indian is back. Maybe this time it will stick.
Eh, all cruisers look the same 🙂 I do hope this makes room for Victory to branch out into other styles (Standards, sport-bikes, dirt and dual sport). If Indian becomes their premium cruiser stable they may make room for bikes the other half of the market care about.
I would like to see Polaris produce some off-road and dual sport machine as well but I think they would be better of selling those under the Polaris brand as they do with their excellent line of ATV’s and side-by-side 4 wheelers.
“Although we expect Indian will eventually have a very broad range of motorcycles on offer, it makes sense that this new journey funded by Polaris (a $3 Billion company) begins with a heavyweight cruiser honoring the legendary Chief model”.
This is the direction I hope they go.
Beautiful motorcycles, especially the red one. But I was looking for something iconic. Are you sure this Indian is iconic? Does it pay tribute? I want something that harkens back.
Time to stop reliving the past with the styling..I dont want a new bike that looks like a old bike and the model with the fairing is overstyled and ugly!(Victory Vision design team maybe?) Im not a cruiser guy but would still buy an HD before this bike or better yet the F6b Honda or Guzzi 1400. O well not really suprised but was just hoping for more..
The F6B? Seriously? That bike is not in the same league as the Guzzi nor this Indian for that matter.
That’s correct, F6B is eons better than both Guzzi and Indian, however it is not a cruiser. It is not a poser bike but a bike built for riding. 1800cc flat six is a marvel of engineering, and F6B also handles amazingly well.
I do like the new Indian, my favorite version is Vintage in Dark Blue color with brown leather. I would need to remove the fringe though. I don’t like the look of the fairing as well as hard bags. Also, base model would be cool in blue too with some nice bags to cover up those acres of bodywork. Those whitewalls look great but are difficult to keep clean (I used to have them on my Road King Classic).
I am looking forward to a possible test ride at Biketoberfest in Daytona later this year.
Not a bad effort and about what’s expected, but two styling elements turn me off: the enormous amount of frame/headstock exposed in a profile view, and the flat slab of plastic directly under the seat. The black versions look best because of it. Not a good sign.
yeah, I noticed the headstock as well. but I guess it’s not bad, I think the extra fairing coverage at the rear is what makes it look unbalanced. totally a nitpick, but I think if I were to simply remove one of those 2 trim pieces under the seat, it looks nothing out of the ordinary. that being I said, i’ll take the classic indian red with the vintage brown seating please.
Actually the headstock frame is stamped with an Indian logo- they’ve done a good job to (kind of) hide it as best they can. There is I noticed an unpleasant frame weld below the headstock though.
The Chieftain is impressive in the flesh- from the front it harks back to a locomotive style….very cool.
Nicely done Indian! The Vintage looks great with the rich leather. The full fairing on the Chieftan is different and holds its own as a transitional element from old to new – which is not an easy feat. Color choices (red, blue, black) are spot on and the engine looks at home finally. Looking forward to seeing these in person and going for a test ride.
I don’t know what you guys were expecting. Polaris has done a great job of laying the first stone of rebuilding a Brand here. This bike should satisfy Indian purists. The folks at Indian have made it clear that this is a “jumping off” point for the company. So far, they have exceeded every effort that has been made at re-launching the name. It makes perfect sense to pay homage to the past then move forward. I believe we can expect some pretty cool bikes coming as things progress.
don’t worry John…these aren’t the target audience
“Indian purists”? The only thing this bike has in common with the Indian is that wind grabbing front fender. The bike was made for “Indian posers”.
I don’t own a street bike I ride a dirt bike so could somebody explain to me why street riders are so obsessed with so called posers. You people can’t comment on a bike with out somebody saying something about posers. You never here this in the off road world so I am genuinely curious as to why it is a never ending source of fascination for street riders.
Real bikers don’t like posers. How do you know if you’re a poser? You might be a poser if you buy a bike and you keep it for ten years and sell it with only 2000 mi.on it. You might be a poser if you stop riding and hurry home because you felt a drop of rain and you don’t want your bike to get wet. You might be a poser if you spend more time at the bike shop with the other posers than you do actually riding. You might be a poser if you pay someone to change your bike’s oil because you don’t know how and don’t want to know. And you might be a poser if the only reason you bought your bike is because you “like the color”.
I already understood that “Real Bikers” don’t like posers that is pretty obvious. My question is why you people are so concerned with them. What does it matter whether someone is a “real Biker” or a poser.
A poser buys a bike to look cool. A biker buys a bike to ride and enjoy it. Some posers don’t even like riding bikes, they just want to look cool. I guess that’s why motorcycle lovers don’t like posers. Bikes are made to be ridden, not just looked at.
The market for this bike is people (not necessarily riders) that want to make an impression buy buying expensive items so people will think that they’re a rider when they have no intention of using the machine. It’s all for show. The “adventure touring” world is full of posers with $25,000 BMW GS’s that have NEVER been off-road, much less in the rain. POSERS will love this new Indian, though a few serious riders might actually put more than 1000 miles on it annually.
Really nice bikes and a great price.
It would be great if they offered that engine as a purchase for the custom market. It’s the best looking engine “I” have ever seen. Art in medal!
Nice job Polaris. Pretty impressive machines – for those who can see past their obvious prejudice towards anything V-Twin powered. I think alot of people are missing out on some great riding because they seem to just automatically hate everything Polaris has done in recent years.
You should try throwing a leg over one of these new Indians, when they come available for test rides. Or even a Victory. You might be surprised at what you’ve been missing…or you can just stay on your porch grumbling like a crotchety old man about “those damn cruiser riders”.
I really like the new Chieftain. Now the real challenge (for me) begins…finding a dealership near enough that I might actually get to see one in person.
I’ve seen all the pictures. I’m withholding judgement until I hear one on the street and see it in real time. It is an iconic look. I’m not sure it’s me on the saddle. If there’s a culture with it I donno. I guess I’m not into the cruiser culture, black leather, levis, tattoos and beards.
The Indian is back.
I’m definitely not a cruiser guy, but this is a very impressive first effort. If the V-twin performs as good as it looks, they have a winner. My take is that Polaris realizes they will never make it with Victory, so they will slowly evolve Indian in and Victory out. I definitely think that Indian is the only brand to be able to take Harley on heads up.
No, that’s absurd. Victory is doing very well. The idea with Indian is to offer MORE choice. Not just a single alternative to Hardley. Polaris will keep both and both will do well.
Absurd? Harley has 20 times the market share of Victory, despite all the Polaris money thrown at it. If Indian doesn’t pass Victory in market share in 3-5 years, Polaris will have a real problem. In a 3-way race, Victory will be the loser. So, which Victory model do you own?
Uh, no – you are wrong on that. Victory continues to grow market share and is currently profitable. There are thousands of riders who don’t care to be treated like cattle at their local HD dealership.
Yours is a curious, conflicted post – because you think Victory is a failure yet the same company (Polaris) could “take Harley on heads up” buy buying the “Indian” brand.
I know two dealers who have carried Victory. One has given up the franchise and the other says he is sorry he has it. People buy Harleys because of the heritage. Victory has none, and Indian has tons of it. You are confusing “company” with “brand.” Two entirely different things.
I loath baggers but of the three the one that strikes me as having the best proportions in the Chieftain. Overall well done and I think HD just lost 5-10% of their business. Not a big deal but I think Polaris can build on it. They took Victory from nothing to something and continue to slowly bang away at the market. I think if they slimmed down the model offerings at Victory and carefully massage Indian they are going to hurt HD and all the other cruiser makers. As regards the engine….seems to me the styling of the valve covers is brilliant as they can now change that part of the styling for different models. Maybe a more modern look for a more modern looking Indian? Or something like that…..
These new Indians seem to me to be the first since 1953 to be able to honestly carry the brand name. They are beautifully presented. I really love the engine and the muffler. The styling is probably what they had to do for the re-launch to tie them to the real deal Indians. For long term success though I think they’ll need to take that engine into the future wrapped in more modern styling and purpose. If they wait two years without a new look they will have missed the boat. Bring on the Scout and a Four.
I don’t ride or want a cruiser,(ZRX1200, KLR650,CB900F),but these are nicely styled with modern features and a lot of dealers and are priced right, so I’m sure they’ll take some Harley business. Won’t they cannibalize Victory sales also? If these are offered side-by-side on the same dealer floor, I’d probably take a new Indian over any Victory model if I wanted a cruiser. With Polaris driving and a huge market to exploit, Indian won’t be going out of business again. To those who love to slam cruiser riders with things like ” low mileage trailer queen butt jewelry dentist posers, etc”, I personally know Harley riders who put really big mileage on their bikes, more than most of my Euro/Jap riding friends. Who’s the poser now? While I do agree the pirates thing is laughably insecure, this type of rider is very loyal and willing to do endless product-supported free advertising which I’m sure will make Indian happy.
That said, a few small complaints would be:
Too bad they couldn’t make the front fender smooth without raised areas for the discs.
The area behind the back cylinder could be more attractive somehow.
The instrument cluster on the tank is better looking than any of the previous “new” Indians but not as good as a ’47.
The hard bags aren’t very attractive.
I’m not a cruiser guy, but for those that are, this in no doubt a bike that would peak their interest. Polaris, has the cash and engineering to make a successful run of the the legendary Indian Brand, and it doesn’t hurt to have another alternative for would be buyers. I do think the styling is dated, but …… I am much more in tune with the thinking of EBR and Motus, and currently ride Triumphs.
Wow, this is what market research indicated that people in the U.S. wanted? Really? It’s probably a good machine but the styling is, ah, too old school for me. Just like the other American bike, you’ll be able to purchase it, and put your snooty little nose in the air. Another instant personification, Paperboy by day, bad ass biker by night. What is it about wearing a clown suit and pretending to be someone we’re not? This bike’s styling is disappointing, to say the least, but it didn’t come as a surprise.
Look around, Hot Dog, it’s pretty clear the old school cruiser look is what most American’s seem to want. I took rode 500 miles round trip this weekend and at least 8 of every 10 bikes I saw were Harley’s or Harley clones. It isn’t what I personally want, but it’s pretty clear Harley has won the styling wars, at least for now.
Polaris is smart to keep the price down instead of trying to use the name to rip people off. Time will tell if the quality holds up. Disenchanted HD and even Victory riders now have another choice if they can’t bring themselves to ride Japanese motorcycle or Euro bikes. Styling is rather dated but understandable for their re-re-introduction. Hopefully the improving economy helps them survive. I doubt if they fold the brand AGAIN the public will ever take them serious.
I can’t see myself spending this kind of money on a relatively low tech cruiser (I’m not anti cruiser, I own one, along with several other bikes) but I would plunk down money on this rather than a Harley, just so I wouldn’t have the same bike as 20 other people at every bike night I attend.
Harley quality has improved significantly. I recently saw a rating of bike reliability by brand, and Harley was fourth, behind Yamaha, Kawasaki and Honda and one slot ahead of BMW. That being said, I just can’t see spending $20k on a bike that so many other people have. If I’m going to drop that kind of money I’d like something at least somewhat unique. From that standpoint, I could see the Indian option as an appealing one for many people.
I’d like to see Indian come up with additional, more modern style bikes to compliment these, perhaps even using the same attractive motor. We know Harley won’t do that, having divested itself of Buell.
“Low tech”?!?! You guys that see “pushrod” and assume low tech crack me up. New Indians and Corvettes are anything but low tech.
“…I just can’t see spending $20k on a bike that so many other people have.”
Have any of you who feel this way considered that when you want something because few others have one, you are still doing something BECAUSE of what others are doing? Analyzing and acting upon what’s best for YOU, as an individual, should have nothing to do with what others are doing, don’t you think? Oh well…
I will say that if everyone else had a Ferrari, that wouldn’t make my desire for one be any less. But when it comes to expensive Harley’s, yes, I guess I do want to be a bit of a contrarian. Guys buy Harleys as much for the look as anything. I’d just rather not have a bike that looks like everyone elses. If Harleys were as rare as these Indians are likely to be, I’d personally find them more appealing.
My buddy was looking at a $35k Harley Screamin’ Eagle a few weeks ago, and was ready to write the check, but decided to think about it. A few day’s later he’s at a bike night and sees the exact same bike in the exact same color scheme… not one of them, but three of them. And that’s the “exclusive” model at a small bike night. Truth be told, I could have more fun on a $8,000 Versys.
If I was in the market for a new cruiser, I’d be looking at one of these Indians or a Moto Guzzi California. That’s just my personal preference (as look alike Harleys are many other people’s personal preference.)
I can’t see myself spending this kind of money on a relatively low tech cruiser (I’m not anti cruiser, I own one, along with several other bikes) but I would plunk down money on this rather than a Harley, just so I wouldn’t have the same bike as 20 other people at every bike night I attend.
We call them RBH’s….as in Rare Black Harleys…
Only 20 ? Your bie nights must be poorly attended. Go to one here and you will see 300 RBH ‘s
Wow I can’t believe all the negativity, these bikes look allot better than I thought they would.Remember not everybody, not even 50% of everybody wants a state of the art sport tourer like the Motus. No actually about 50% of the motorcycle buying public want big comfy torquey retro style American cruisers.If they put a top box on that chieftain I would consider trading in my Electrglide for one if they’re still around in a few years.
I LOVE IT! I guess I am the target demo. In my 40’s looking to replace my worn out Road King. The Road King was great but after 96,000 miles I am ready for another bike. I am sure they will expand the line to include more modern looking bikes, but they would have been stupid not to have started out with these.
I ride because I need a stress relief and love the throwback to simpler times. Keeps me from going postal. I will get a new Vintage model. It is as close to me riding a 50’s Chief everyday as i will ever get. LOVE IT!
That motor alone is a thing of beauty! People should be happy there is an American company making American motorcycles.
Polaris reserected the Indian brand. Not MotoGuzi. All the negatives sound like HD riders that are getting nervous about their brand. There is room for Two American (if you want to call HD parts composition American made)in this country. Kudos for Polaris. I am sure they will refine as they go forward. Now, give us a Scout.
I doubt I’d ever buy or ride a cruiser, but three cheers for Indian. And if it can crush the conformism that Harley and its fans have imposed on motorcycling, we’ll all be better off.
When I looked at the red one the first thing that came to mind for me was Edward Turner designed 58 Triumph Twenty One with a V twin instead of parallel twin engine. The bike looks to long and the area behind the rear cylinder head looks awkward.
Wow! Museum quality bikes and thinking. “Premium American Motorcycle Manufacturer” uh, forgets Motus, Buell, Confederate and I can’t count how many others.
Born trailer queens, and the initial owners won’t put miles on their “collector items”.
Yeah, another “meh” from cynical me.
If I decide to trade in my 2011 Crossroads on a new Chief Vintage, I assure you that I’ll be putting 8-10k miles on it per year. Screw being a trailer queen, I want to RIDE!!
They should’ve followed Triumph’s example of how to successfully resurrect a dead motorcycle company. After all, I think Triumph is the only company that has really pulled it off. Instead, they’ve gone down the tried and true path of everyone else who has attempted to bring back Indian and failed.
I don’t have much hope this time around will be any different, particularly when most of the folks who actually know of the original Indians are aging out of riding, not to mention the down economy.
The “down economy” is not affecting the many with large amounts of disposable income. Have you noticed the stock market over the last 4 years? This bike is aimed at a strong demographic.
Yes, but that demographic is the very tip of a large pyramid. And just how many Indians will each of those top shelf households buy?…….one. So, I think the point still remains. Indian (Polaris) will be swimming upstream on this one. With a style that EVERYONE totally expected (granted the motor is a nice one)….it’s still just a slightly different alternative to an HD….just like the last Indians produced. I give it a 50/50 chance of survival.
Yes, but that demographic is the very tip of a large pyramid. And just how many Indians will each of those top shelf households buy?…….one. So, I think the point still remains. Indian (Polaris) will be swimming upstream on this one. With a style that EVERYONE totally expected (granted the motor is a nice one)….it’s still just a slightly different alternative to an HD….just like the last Indians produced. I give it a 50/50 chance of survival.
“I think Triumph is the only company that has really pulled it off”
I agree with your general point but I seem to recall that Moto Guzzi was really on the ropes when Piaggio picked them up for a song. Doing much better now, thank you for asking. On a smaller scale than Triumph, admittedly, MV Agusta and Benelli have been raised from the dead too. Must be an Italian thing.
But yes, when Triumph was re-established they didn’t start out by cannibalizing their glorious heritage. The started out by shamelessly copying the Kawasaki GPz900. They were in business for a decade and taken seriously as a manufacturer of serious machines before they started to work the nostalgia angle seriously. And somehow every single attempt to revive Indian misses this lesson. Every one.
The Red bike, I like, a lot. I’m not a cruiser guy, but having owned a dozen different bikes (currently a BMW) I would buy a Indian Chief just because I appreciate the way it looks. The technology incorporated into this bike is a big selling point for me. I know everyone has their own concept of beauty, and I am pretty conservative regarding “flashy looks, etc”, but I like the job Polaris has done with Indian (and certain Victory models). My 2¢
….pretty much looks as expected. No surprises. darn.
Mixed feelings on these new Injuns. On the one hand, with some of them (the red one in particular) I half expect to see circus midgets popping out of the saddle bags. As an American, I’m once again embarrassed by our overblown sense of aesthetics. Why must so many things iconically Amur’can be so gaudy, tacky and low-class Redneck? We have long been the most important motorsports market on the planet and all we can come up with is NASCAR, “Screaming Eagle” H-D goofiness, “Dukes of Hazzard” muscle cars painted fluorescent orange or green, and now these parade float H-D knockoffs?
Yes, I know Indian predates H-D. Fine. They’re Polaris-built Indian knockoffs.
On the other hand, the Power Stroke motor is quite handsome, and I’m sure the detailing throughout the entire bike is outstanding. Still, my overriding thought when I look at those bikes is, ‘Other than some flag-waving 75-year-old VFW guy rolling down Main Street on the Fourth of July in support of missing POWs, who would be caught dead riding one of those things? Who would take such a monstrosity on a serious ride, much less pay $20K+ for the privilege?’
This is what we really want? What the hell is wrong with us?
Maybe you can fix “what’s wrong with us” by legislating “what we really want” ’cause “Amur’can’s” are obviously too stupid to decide for themselves.
Your an idiot. Just because what we want/like isn’t want Europe wants doesn’t make us wrong and them right. Why don’t you move back to that God-forsaken place and leave us Americans alone to enjoy life.
BTW, I ride my big-ass Crossroads like it were a sport bike. It handles better than you would think. I would do the same with one of these beautiful works of art…
For the last decade ‘mericans have built a super car for well under $100k and and have gotten no respect. The world better come up with some respect for the 2014 Corvette – still under $100k.
That is one of the most aesthetically pleasing engines I have ever seen. I am also surprised at the price point, I figured low 30k’s. I’ll never own one, cause I’m not into cruisers, but it looks like an Indian, and in my opinion it looks like it should. I hope Polaris makes it work.
The “Indian” brand evokes the image of a classic cruiser…Polaris has played it safe for the most part with aesthetics and have paid homage to the great Indian bikes of the past. Let’s face it, these bikes look very sharp. They may not be in everyone’s taste, (I personally don’t care for the leather fringe on the Vintage model) but to each his own. I really don’t know what some people were expecting out of this release, even the viral media campaign with the motorcycle silhouette all but revealed the basic look of the new Indian. Even the casual motorcycle enthusiast should be able to tell that these are not hogs, but something both classic and unique. If you don’t like them, that’s OK, you have plenty of choices in bike manufacturers, and Indian broadens the field.
Nah, I love the engine put it in a motorcycle not a road couch blinged out by Ness like crap and I’ll give it a good look.
I think these bikes hit their intended markets right on the money. I would take a serious look at them if I was intending to buy something from Harley’s lineup. Good job.
I am a fan of Indian Motorcycles and Victory motorcycles. But I have to say I am very disappointed by the styling. Side panels cover too much instead of perhaps show off some neat details(if there to be seen or made to be seen). I personally think even if the motor is good, it’s a big miss with their styling.
Booooooring.
I’m sure they are well made, and will be a sales success. I can only hope they take the profits and make something less cliche.
Boring is looking at dozens of Harleys that all look the same if you don’t know all the different models they sell like me. See 1 you’ve seen them all. These Indians will not be confused with other cruisers.
What he said!!
Obviously they were looking to go head to head with H.D. In that respect these bikes look to have more chrome out of the box. Fit and finish in pics looks good too. The leather seat in brown looks awesome, above what H.D. offers. That being said I was hoping for a play out of the Guzzi book. Their California 1400 is 100lbs. lighter with great styling. But it seems that is not a direction they want to head. The Harley crowd will love these bikes, and I guess that’s what there gunning for. Certainly not different just another choice that they see as a higher quality bike. That remains to be seen.
119 ft-lbs of torque. You can double that by bolting a couple pedals to it. What I want to know is, how powerful is it?
anywhere from 57hp to 91hp dpending on where it makes that 119lb/ft at in the rev range 2500,3000,3500,4000 etc. My guess would be around 80 or so. Unless peak torque also occurs near 5500rpm redline, but I kinda doubt it for this motor and its intended mission profile.
……and how has ‘choice’ been delivered by these thingys? I’m completely missing this. Maybe it is being able to buy a bike that looks like the love child of an H-D Road King and a Honda Dream.
If everyone wants something different stick with your metric bikes and I am sure that in 10 or 15 years you will not be able to find parts for a 3 – 5 yr production run. Personally I like the bikes. Maybe not the fringe so much but that is Indians heritage.
While I’m not in the target demographic for an 800 lb., 63″ wheelbase boat with floorboards and a 26″ seat height, if cruisers became the only style of bike I could ride, I’d plunk my money down on a Vintage faster than you could say Sioux. I think they are very pretty, technologically superior, and represent a much better value compared with what the Other Guys are offering. I expect Mr. Edge’s report(s) to verify this, lest I be very surprised.
Who wants to get in the pool? Providing they can meet demand, I say they sell at least the 10,000 units they said they would need for break-even (I think I read that in a previous MD article, didn’t I?) in the first full 12 months of production. And, if I may go further out onto a limb, will say that at least half of these will come out of Harley’s profit margin, while the other half will be from the Japanese suppliers whose customers purchase them, in large part, from the fact that they simply don’t want to own a Harley – Japan’s big four have a lot more to be worried about from Indian’s newest resurgance than HD does. And, I bet their numbers go up from there (by a whole bunch), assuming an improving economy, an adequate dealer network emerging, and low warranty issues.
Finally, if they use the same care in producing something sportier (maybe with 1901cc and lighter, with upright ergos and cornering clearance intended for something other than Intersate 80 west of Salt Lake, they run the very real risk of putting me in debt. One suggestion – please disclose if you hold any financial (not emotional) interest in HD itself or its dealer network prior to flaming Indian. This is the Internet, after all, and we need to maintain our credibility….
Text from a friend (21+ year HD rider) at Sturgis who took a demo ride: “Hard to describe how perfect the fit and finish are. Exhaust/intake/mechanical sounds are beautiful. Engine absolutely smooth as glass at highway speeds. Plenty of poke. Price has some HD riders saying whaaaat?”
I do not understand the fascination with excessive chrome, fringe (fringe?) and valenced fenders. I know some folks seem to love this stuff – HD sells everything they can build. But for me, this is living in the past.
I want to see the future, and this isn’t it.
Amen.
A little retro is nice not to forget where you’ve come from…
But this is another entire BRAND competing to live like it was 50-70 years ago.
Forward thinking and innovation is the opposite direction as this.
A nice piece of nostalgia, it is still looking backwards.
Only the style is looking backwards. And some of us really like retro. If you don’t, please go back to your pretty boy, rice burner forums.
Please note the technology and the innovation are not at all backwards looking…
American motorcycling takes another giant leap backwards. I guess Polaris can’t come up with an original idea. Makes you really appreciate what the boys at Motus are doing.
Motus is expensive, using modern, but not futuristic componentry, and a 50 year old automotive engine cut in half.
Is it really that modern, compared to a K1600GT? Does it have the most compact and powerful production motorcycle I6, (an inherently balanced engine design) ever fitted, parallelogram-suspension shaft drive that doesn’t spray lubricating grease on everything in the world EXCEPT a chain, a lean-steering projection headlight, electronic suspension management to adapt to different riding conditions, and different load weight on the bike, and an SLA front motorcycle suspension with the same benefits of an SLA suspension on a performance car, if not more so.
American motorcycles aren’t at the forefront. I am not even sure they are trying to be. It is sad, really, because it is possible, if someone had the vision to move forward, instead of looking back, like this Indian Chief is evidently doing.
Yes, 30K for a sawed in half pushrod V-8 without ABS…appreciate away.
I like Motus too, but let’s at least try to be objective. Polaris just designed and built a completely new engine, designed and built a completely new combination box aluminum/steel tube frame chassis with adjustable monoshock suspension. ABS and cruise standard on every model. 200 mile+ range per tank of gas (mid 40 mpg) out of a 111″ motor with 119ft lbs of torque.
Yeah, no innovation to see here.
BMW could build that before lunch, comparatively.
You act like Polaris or Motus, or both, is the first company to build a new motorcycle, especially one that isn’t all that advanced, compared to other 21st century engineering and design.
Tube trellis frames with cast aluminum swingarm pivot boxes are hardly new, nor is ABS, and a sport touring bike should laugh at a 200 mile range.
Adjustable suspension? Try electronic adjustable-on-the-fly suspension, and drive-by-wire with electronic cruise control.
That is on top of having actually PROPER ENGINEERING with a parallelogram rear suspension, and a front double control arm suspension.
BMW K1600GT beats the pants off of Motus, for $8-18K less money, and the BMW isn’t exactly cheap, at $21K.
Every other manufacturer builds new motorcycles from time to time, and some do FAR more for the same or less money.
If BMW were to actually trim the fairings down to a sporty half-fairing, and offer it a K1600R-Sport, somewhat similar to the Concept 6, it would be a truly amazing bike.
I was just at a vintage bike show yesterday and saw several old Indians. After seeing this photo, I’m convinced that the only bikes that can pull off the valanced fenders are the originals. To make new bikes that look like the original Chiefs just seems desperate and shallow to me. “Oh, look. I can buy a new vintage motorcycle now for about 20 grand”.
Something more modern/different with a nod to the Chief would have been better. To stamp out modern day copies has been done by every Indian revival already. I would expect more from Polaris, given the innovative designs coming out of the Victory line.
That said, I’m sure they’ll sell a ton of them. I’d bet the spent serious money on market research to find out people want to buy a new bike that looks like a ’53 Chief that will not require any hassles to ride and own. There it is!
I tend to agree with you. This is not really an “Indian” any more than those overpriced S&S powered heaps were, or really any more than the Kawasaki Drifter was (although perhaps executed somewhat better). It’s a Victory with a new engine and some retro Indian styling, and they can stick the Indian name and logo on it since they bought the rights to it – I know it, you know it, and everyone who knows squat about bikes will know it, too.
Having said that, they’re pretty good looking bikes, the Indian name has a little more resonance than “Victory” (even if it has essentially been dead as a brand for over half a century), and they’re something a little (emphasis on “little”) different than the other cruisers from Victory or H-D. Good features, a nice engine, well built, decently priced – they might just sell quite a few of them.
WOW! valenced fenders, red, lots of chrome, saddlebags with leather, buckles, conchos, and fringe. Holy cow, whoda thunk it? I mean, that’s something not in the market now.
i dont like the fake fins on the valve covers. i dont like conchos and i dont like fringe. i dont like the big chrome flat plate over the headlight on the batwing fairing, and i dont like the big chrome arc-shaped rear fender braces on the classic. i dont like he neanderthal occipital ridge above the headlight nacel on the non-faired bikes. i loathe the valanced fenders and the indian ornament on the fender. other than that i like ’em. i would never buy one, but i like ’em.
to each their own. for this price – i would rather have 2 of my MotoGuzzi V-7 Cafe Sports.
I have hoped for a real resurrection of this brand for a very long time. This could have been so nice with Polaris resources, but for me it is a huge miss. These bikes are an hour old and Mike and Frank could already start “picking” them. Except, as sort of reproductions they aren’t even good for that. Come on, the 1941 841’s were more arguably more advanced.
Now we truly have UAM’s to go with the UJM’s of thirty years ago. This introduction doesn’t, or actually owning one of these wouldn’t, do anything to increase my pride in being an American. I can’t think of any activity where modern engineering expressed in things such as handling dynamics is more useful than in riding motorcycles. But apparently being patriotic means you need to ignore a century of progress.
The red bike in the top image looks like a ripoff of my neighbor’s $5k Kymco. Wonder how the two bikes compare performance wise. I’m sure the Kymco is lighter, which might make it handle better.
(tongue slightly in cheek)
I’m very disappointed, but it is about what I expected. IMHO, it’s ugly. It appears (to me anyway) that the MOCO has nothing to worry about. The engine by itself was gorgeous, but the whole bike… not so much..
Mike
I finally figured out what the styling reminds me of! In the sixties a friend had an Allstate scooter (made by Puch). The covered area under the seat of the Indian is reminiscent of the Allstate styling.
That’s a funny statement. The MOCO has MUCH to be worried about.
Polaris is now fighting Hardley on two fronts.
Victory: better priced, better reliability, better tech with better modern styling
Indian: better priced, better reliability, better tech with better retro styling
Would surprise me to see the MOCO HURTING by the end of this decade. Maybe gone by the next…
Would NOT surprise me to see the MOCO HURTING by the end of this decade. Maybe gone by the next…
BEAUTIFULL bikes !! And I’m not a cruiser rider. Polaris has hit these out of the ball park! Can’t wait to read a ride report.
“…keyless ignition, ABS, cruise control, throttle-by-wire…”
If only Motus would see fit to include all of these features. The updated Indian models look like a very good re-start of the brand. Well done so far.
I… uhhh…. I dunno… I was just hoping for something different… (sigh)…
yup. I just expected a bit more that the same OLD look. The red chief has the styling of a Kawaski Drifter. The only thing fresh on any of the models is the execution of the “batwing” fairing on the chieftain. All told, I guess the Indian mystique has passed into legend at this point and no current production model will be able to live up to that.
I think these live up to the legend very well. In fact the batwing is what I like least out of everything about all three models. That and the hard bags on the Chieftain.
Sign me up for a blue Vintage with tan leather. I’d prefer no tassles, but I can live with them…
I could also rock a black Chief with black leather. As long as I can keep my Vic Crossroads bagger for overnight trips. :):)
Might be best to take these to Sturgis safely moored in a trailer instead of by riding. That side wind on the Chamberlain bridge could put you right in the river.
Yawn,
Too bad they didn’t break any new ground.
If you don’t think they broke new ground with this engine and the tech on this bike, then you haven’t been paying attention.
If you thought the styling was going to be anything other than retro Indian, then you haven’t been paying attention.
But thank you for your ignoramus comment. Have nice day.
hahahahahahahahahahaha. Nice. Hey Wes, mine’s on order. Gonna see if it’ll mate with the Indian I already have and see what comes out!
Anyway – liked your attitude.