Ups
- A meaty, yet smooth-running, liquid-cooled PowerPlus 108 60-degree V-twin engine!
- Well-balanced handling worthy of comfortable cruising and backroad ripping
- High-performance Brembo brakes
- The definition of a “performance cruiser”
Downs
- Some glitches in interior fairing design
- Occasional rattles at speed
- Ride-by-wIre can be laggy
Verdict
The benchmark of modern-day performance cruisers.
Overview
When unveiled for the 2020 model year, the Indian Challenger quickly became the had-to-have “performance cruiser.” Utilizing the liquid-cooled PowerPlus 108 60-degree V-twin engine, trick braking and suspension components, and an overall well-tuned ride, the Challenger still holds its place.
Updates for 2021
There are no updates to the 2021 Indian Challenger.
Pricing and Variants
The 2021 Indian Challenger is available in three variants, the base-model Challenger ($23,999), the Challenger Limited ($27,999), and the Challenger Dark Horse ($27,999).
The up-spec Limited and Dark Horse models add Apple CarPlay to the 7-inch Ride Command touchscreen display and Indian’s Smart Lean Technology, which utilizes a six-axis Bosch IMU to enable cornering ABS, dynamic traction control algorithms, and Drag Torque Control. The Limited is distinguished by chrome accents while the Dark Horse is blacked out. There’s a model for every aesthetic.
Competition
When unveiled for the 2020 model year, Indian made it clear that the Challenger is a shot at Harley-Davidson’s popular Road Glide.
In fact, in a Cycle World comparison last year, we stacked the Indian Challenger Dark Horse and Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special, where it was said to be “elevating the definition of a ‘performance bagger’ from an American manufacturer.”
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2021 Indian Challenger is powered by a liquid-cooled PowerPlus 108 60-degree V-twin engine, which previously recorded 103.1 hp at 5,600 rpm and 113.1 pound-feet of torque at 3,300 rpm.
In real-world applications, the Challenger is known for its smooth-running, right-now power, with minimal heat buildup transferred to the rider. As Andrew Cherney said in his original first ride review, “Twist the throttle and you’re rewarded with effortless response; the engine shows silky-smooth character even when the usual stoplight-to-stoplight drag races broke out in our group.”
Handling
The Challenger is known for striking a balance of performance, most notably in it’s fine-tuned handling via the inverted 43mm fork and gas-charged Fox shock. In last year’s comparison with the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special, CW editor Morgan Gales emphasized its balance: “The ride was supple and comfortable on the highway, yet taut and composed when tilting the bike to maximum lean.”
Brakes
A pair of radially mounted Brembo four-piston calipers clamping to 320mm discs up front and a single two-piston caliper with a 298mm disc out back bring the Indian Challenger to a quick halt, with good feedback for precise control. ABS is offered as standard equipment on all variants, but the Challenger Limited and Challenger Dark Horse utilize cornering ABS as part of the Smart Lean Technology.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel economy figures are currently unrecorded.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The riding position of the Indian Challenger is well balanced with standard features that make it comfortable for all shapes and sizes. Rear-cylinder deactivation helps mitigate uncomfortable heat buildup at stoplights, and the electronically adjustable windscreen is a plus too.
As Cherney said in his initial impression of the Challenger, Indian hit standard-trim riding position out of the park. “Up to this point the Challenger’s riding position had been all-day easy, with relaxed ergonomics that should fit riders of all sizes without complaint, though initially the bars do feel a bit low (an easy fix),” he wrote. “The touring saddle is Goldilocks-level comfy too—neither too plush nor too firm, and in two days of hard riding over hundreds of miles, never gave me any issues, which is saying something for a stock item.”
Electronics
The 2021 Indian Challenger is packed with a relatively expansive electronics package for a performance cruiser. Each variant receives selectable ride modes, traction control, ABS rear-cylinder deactivation, a keyless ignition system, cruise control, an adjustable power windshield, USB charging ports, and LED lighting.
Up-spec variants received the aforementioned Indian’s Smart Lean Technology, which uses a six-axis Bosch IMU for added cornering ABS, dynamic traction control, and Drag Torque Control. These models also received Apple CarPlay.
Infotainment comes in the form of a 100-watt audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
All Indian Challenger variants come with a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.
Quality
The Indian Challenger is packed with a serious amount of up-spec parts as standard equipment, plus head-turning quality.
2021 Indian Challenger Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $23,999 (base), $27,999 (Dark Horse, Limited) |
| Engine: | 108ci (1,768cc) liquid-cooled PowerPlus 108 60-degree V-twin |
| Bore x Stroke: | 108.0 x 96.5mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/belt |
| Fuel Delivery: | Electronic fuel injection w/ 52mm throttle bodies |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate assist |
| Frame: | Cast aluminum |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm telescopic fork; 5.1 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Fox monoshock, hydraulically adjustable; 4.5 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | 4-piston Brembo calipers, dual 320mm semi-floating discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 2-piston caliper, 298mm floating disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | 19 x 3.50 in. / 16 x 5.00 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Metzeler Cruisetec; 130/60-19 / 180/60-16 |
| Rake/Trail: | 25.0°/5.9 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 65.7 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.4 in. |
| Seat Height: | 26.5 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 6.0 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 831 lb. (base, Dark Horse) / 840 lb. (Limited) |
| Contact: | indianmotorcyle.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com