Ups

• Powerful 116ci V-twin engine with great character
• Nice mix of traditional styling with modern streamlining
• Responsive chassis

Downs

• Ergonomics might not fit smaller riders
• Bag latches could be more secure
• Engine heat can still be an issue

Verdict

Bad boy, streamlined styling meets traditional V-twin bagger. The result is a somewhat stripped-down ride with lots of power and good handling, storage, and a great look.

Overview

The 2021 Springfield Dark Horse deviates from the standard Springfield not only with its more modern styling, but also with the addition of the more powerful Thunderstroke 116 engine.  The Dark Horse also ditches the base Springfield’s shield and adds taller mid-rise handlebars as well as more open fenders to go along with the taller 19-inch front wheel and slammed saddlebags. The result is a modern bagger with attitude, power, and good ride quality.

Updates for 2021

There are no updates for 2021.

Pricing and Variants

Indian’s Springfield Dark Horse keeps its base MSRP of $22,499, the same as last year’s model, and comes in three color options: Thunder Black Smoke, Sagebrush Smoke, or White Smoke (the latter two options add $500 to the price).

Competition

There aren’t any truly direct competitors to the Springfield Dark Horse that we can think of; it occupies its very own, shield-less slot in the V-twin bagger universe.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Springfield is powered by the Thunderstroke 116 engine, which Morgan Gales said had a “smooth delivery of power, putting out 102 pound-feet of torque and 82 hp on our dyno” in his long-term review. The Dark Horse comes with three ride modes—Tour, Sport, and Standard—so you can change the engine mapping to suit your needs. Gales also mentioned: “The clutch has handled my abrupt lever drops on both acceleration and decel quite well.”

Handling

Gales praised the Springfield Dark Horse’s handling prowess in his long-term review, citing the impressive chassis: “It’s rigid enough to feel stable throwing into turns at high speeds and deep lean angles (relatively, of course), yet the suspension is still supple enough to ride hundreds of miles in a day with ease. The front suspension is not adjustable but has been more than adequate throughout testing.”

Brakes

Thanks to 300mm dual disc front brakes, a 300mm rear disc, and ABS, the bike stops quickly and without drama.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Over the course of several months, Gales recorded an average fuel mileage of 32.4 mpg, but also commented that “is low for a touring bike, but really doesn’t seem that bad considering how heavy-handed I am with that throttle.”

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

With a seat hovering just 26 inches off the ground along with full-length footboards and forward controls, even short riders are close to the ground. But the tall mini-apes might not be comfy for some—according to Gales: “Ergonomics on the Springfield Dark Horse are perfect for me right off the shelf, but I have a weird lanky body. The tall handlebars are the only thing that may give shorter riders some trouble.” Overall, the Springfield Dark Horse setup provides a relaxed and upright riding posture, with high marks for the “cushioned, supportive, and comfortable” saddle.

Electronics

The Springfield Dark Horse takes pride in its minimalism so you won’t find a lot of electronic doodads here. It does have ABS, cruise control, a keyless ignition, and three ride modes—Tour, Standard, and Sport—that let you tailor the power delivery to fit your riding style.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Indian gives you a 24-month warranty with unlimited mileage.

Quality

With its clean lines and blacked-out and minimal accoutrements, the Springfield Dark Horse goes for a more industrial vibe. That said, details like the contrast cut wheels and well-designed ergonomic triangle and engine packaging all point to a high level of engineering (though there were some complaints about the bags’ latching mechanism).

2021 Indian Springfield Dark Horse Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Ups

• Authentic bobber styling with 101-year history
• Powerful liquid-cooled 1,133cc (69ci) V-twin engine offers pleasing grunt with a rowdy sound and character
• Low seat height and easy around-town riding manners

Downs

• Limited rear suspension travel
• Slippery rider’s seat

Verdict

Indian Motorcycle’s 2021 Scout Bobber Twenty variation is a lower-riding and meaner-looking midsize cruiser for riders who want to stand out.

Overview

The 2021 Indian Motorcycle Scout Bobber Twenty attracts old-school cruiser riders with its tough bobber-style stance versus the standard Scout.

Updates for 2021

No updates for 2021.

Pricing and Variants

Indian Motorcycle offers five variations of its midsize Scout cruiser for 2021. The base-model Scout ($11,999), which offers the bigger 69ci engine, has ABS as an option in the Thunder Black paint; pay for color and get ABS standard. The Scout Bobber Sixty ($8,999) and Scout Sixty ($9,499) are the entry-level options, which feature the smaller 61 ci engine. The Scout Bobber ($10,999, and also with the 69 ci engine) benefits from a lower stance with minimalist-style aesthetic tweaks. The Scout Bobber Twenty ($11,999) adds wire-spoke wheels and a taller, mini-ape-style handlebar. If you like Thunder Black, ABS is a $900 option; choose Sagebrush Smoke, Thunder Black Smoke, or Stealth Gray for an additional $1,400 and get ABS standard.

Competition

The 2021 Indian Scout faces off against other midsize American-made cruisers, including Harley-Davidson’s Sportster 1200 and Forty-Eight. It also competes on the showroom floor against Honda’s Rebel 1100.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2021 Indian Scout Bobber Twenty is powered by a liquid-cooled 1,133cc (69ci) V-twin engine that’s renowned for its punchy performance, especially through the mid-to-top rpm range. A slick-shifting six-speed gearbox puts power back to the 16-inch wheel via a clean and low-maintenance belt final drive.

Handling

The 2021 Indian Scout Bobber Twenty is more agile than it should be based on its 571-pound curb weight. It benefits from a responsive chassis that makes it easy to ride. However, its reduced rear suspension travel, meant to emulate old-school hardtail/bobber motorcycles, greatly compromises everyday comfort.

Brakes

The Indian Scout Bobber Twenty uses single front and rear hydraulic disc brakes with ABS. Heavy-duty steel braided brake lines are a nice touch.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Currently not recorded.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The Indian Scout Bobber Twenty has a stretched 62-inch wheelbase and even though it claims to have a “a lower stance” versus the standard model, it has a taller seat height. The rider’s saddle is smaller and features a “floating” design with  nice-looking beige leather. However the material is slippery against denim jeans. There is no passenger accommodation. A taller, fists-in-the-air handlebar bend affords a more aggressive riding stance with forward-mount foot controls.

Electronics

The Indian Scout Bobber Twenty benefits from ABS. It also includes a USB charging port adjacent to the round-face instrumentation. An LED headlamp can be purchased as an OE accessory.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Indian Motorcycle offers a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty upon original purchase. Extended warranty coverage is available through the Indian Motorcycle Protection Plan for an upcharge.

Quality

The Indian Scout Bobber Twenty appears meaner than other model variations. However its paint and overall fit and finish could use improvement.

2021 Indian Motorcycle Scout Bobber Twenty Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Ups

• Iconic American styling
• Punchy liquid-cooled 1,133cc (69ci) V-twin engine
• Easy handling for a 561-pound motorcycle

Downs

• Limited rear suspension travel
• Could have better fit and finish

Verdict

Indian Motorcycle pays homage to its roots with a tastefully styled midsize cruiser that offers more acceleration punch than other American cruisers in this segment.

Overview

The 2021 Indian Scout is a midsize cruiser designed for motorcyclists seeking an authentically styled cruiser with more modern performance. Its styling resembles the original Indian Scout that debuted 101 years ago.

Updates for 2021

No updates for 2021.

Pricing and Variants

Indian Motorcycle offers five Scout variations for the 2021 model year. The Scout has a starting price of $11,999 without ABS (in Thunder Black), adding ABS adds $900 to that price tag and, depending on color, pricing could go up to $13,899. The Icon trim is $14,399. The Scout Bobber Sixty ($8,999) and Scout Sixty ($9,499) are its entry-level cruisers. The Scout Bobber ($10,999) features a lower stance with minimalist-style aesthetic tweaks. The Scout Bobber Twenty ($11,999) gets wire-spoke wheels and a taller, mini-ape-style handlebar.

Competition

The 2021 Indian Scout faces off against other midsize American-made cruisers, including Harley-Davidson’s Sportster 1200 and Forty-Eight. It also competes on the showroom floor against Honda’s Rebel 1100.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2021 Indian Scout sources a 1,133cc (69ci) V-twin engine that’s renowned for its punchy performance, especially through the mid-to-top rpm range. The engine benefits from liquid-cooling, which not only manages heat inside the cockpit, but affords pleasing acceleration performance—especially in the lower gears. A six-speed gearbox puts power back to the 16-inch wheel via a gunk-free and low-maintenance belt final drive.

Handling

The 561-pound Indian Scout offers light handling for a midsize cruiser. Its chassis feels taut, but not overly so, and has friendly steering manners around town. Limited rear suspension travel limits comfort on long rides, especially over bumpy surfaces.

Brakes

The Indian Scout employs independent hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, with stainless steel brake hoses. ABS is available on colored Scouts, or as an upcharge on the Thunder Black model. In an effort to enhance styling, the Scout relies on a single-disc front brake rather than a dual-disc setup.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Currently unavailable.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The Indian Scout is long and low. It’s an easy motorcycle to straddle for anyone, even smaller riders. The one-piece saddle is wrapped in leather and includes passenger accommodation. It has a swept-back handlebar bend that allows miles to melt away with ease with forward-mount foot controls.

Electronics

ABS comes standard on colored Indian Scouts and can be purchased for an upcharge on the base Thunder Black model. An LED headlamp can be purchased as an accessory. A USB charging port is located near the speedometer.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Indian Motorcycle offers a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty upon original purchase. Extended warranty coverage is available through the Indian Motorcycle Protection Plan.

Quality

The Indian Scout certainly looks the part, however some of its hardware looks rough around the edges. It also lacks the lustrous paint of its competition. Indian Motorcycle stands behind its product with a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.

2021 Indian Motorcycle Scout Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Ups

• Electronically adjustable windshield
• Indian Ride Command with GPS and Bluetooth audio
• All-day-comfortable ergonomics
• Storage in fairing and saddlebags

Downs

• It’s the same Chieftain as it has always been, but is that a bad thing?

Verdict

The all-American V-twin tourer from Indian Motorcycle.

Overview

The 2021 Indian Chieftain encompasses the all-American V-twin tourer persona, but is taking it a step further with modern-day upgrades. The base model and up-spec models are powered by Indian’s proven Thunderstroke 114 and Thunderstroke 116 powerplants for the true V-twin experience.

Updates for 2021

The Indian Chieftain Limited and Dark Horse models receive a small number of changes, mostly to the infotainment package and various features on the up-spec models. The upgrades include remote-locking saddlebags, tire pressure monitoring, full LED lighting, and Ride Command as standard equipment.

Pricing and Variants

The Indian Chieftain is available in four variants, from the base-model Chieftain ($21,999) to the up-spec Chieftain Dark Horse ($27,999) and Chieftain Limited ($27,999) models to the limited-run Chieftain Elite ($34,999), which celebrates the 120-year history of Indian Motorcycle.

The base-model Chieftain is powered by the smaller air-cooled Thunderstroke 114 powerplant, and lacks luxuries like the tire pressure monitoring system and Apple CarPlay that come standard with the up-spec models. The Chieftain Dark Horse, Limited, and Elite models use the larger and more powerful Thunderstroke 116 engine. To separate the latter models further, the Dark Horse is dressed in blacked-out finishes and accents, while the Limited boasts chrome touches.

Indian released the Chieftain Elite as a limited-production model, with only 120 being available worldwide. It is painted in a unique Thunder Black/Vivid Crystal colorway, gets 400-watt speakers in the saddlebags and fairing, and comes equipped with premium finishes.

Competition

The Indian Chieftain in all variants is a capable and proven American touring V-twin, but it lives in a competitive space. Within its own manufacturer’s lineup is the space-abundant Roadmaster. The Harley-Davidson Road Glide and Street Glide are also stiff competition.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

As mentioned, the base-model Indian Chieftain is powered by the proven Thunderstroke 114 engine. The up-spec machines utilize the larger Thunderstroke 116 powerplant, which previously recorded 81.1 hp at 4,300 rpm and 117.2 pound-feet of torque at 2,700 rpm on the Cycle World in an Indian Springfield Dark Horse model.

Handling

The Indian Chieftain rides on a 46mm telescopic fork and single rear shock with air adjustment. Claimed wet weight of the base model is 823 pounds.

Brakes

The Indian Chieftain is brought to a halt via a pair of axially mounted four-piston calipers clamping to 300mm discs up front and a single two-piston caliper and 300mm disc at the back. ABS is standard equipment.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel economy figures are currently unrecorded.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The claimed seat height of the Indian Chieftain is 25.6 inches. The handlebar-mounted switch for the electronically operated windscreen offers on-the-fly adjustment.

Electronics

Indian’s use of its 7-inch Ride Command display (with Apple CarPlay on premium models) is a seriously nice touch on an American V-twin, and home to the Chieftain’s infotainment and settings. All models come equipped with ABS, cruise control, rear-cylinder deactivation, a 100-watt audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, an adjustable power windshield, a keyless ignition system, and a 12V charging port.

The up-spec models are fitted standard with a tire pressure monitoring system, selectable ride modes, and full LED lighting.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

All 2021 Indian Chieftain models come with a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty as standard.

Quality

Continuous small improvements to the proven and tidy Indian Chieftain platform continue to keep it attractive.

2021 Indian Chieftain Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Ups

• Powerful engine
• Sumptuous classic lines
• Cruise control, ABS, and three ride modes

Downs

• Some engine heat at low speeds
• Retro components not easily swapped out

Verdict

Indian’s fully retro, totally voluptuous V-twin comes closest to the company’s first relaunch designs from 2014, with plenty of good old American V-twin power to go along with the good looks. Air-cooled V-twin, whitewall tires under valanced fenders, a leather seat with conchos—this is as old school as it gets.

Overview

The Indian Vintage and Vintage Dark Horse are two sides of the same coin, with really only a color change to distinguish them. Both bring traditional cruiser styling front and center, with spoke wheels, big swoopy fenders, genuine leather saddlebags, floorboards, and miles of chrome (except on the Dark Horse) to take you back in time. Both are powered by the air-cooled Thunderstroke 111 V-twin which Indian claims will churn out 119 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm.

Updates for 2021

Neither the Vintage or Vintage Dark Horse receive any updates for 2021.

Pricing and Variants

The Vintage has an MSRP of $20,499 and comes in two color options: Crimson Metallic or Deep Water/Dirt Track Tan. For the Vintage Dark Horse, you just take the base model, strip off the windshield, driving lights, and saddle skirt, and price it $1,000 less and there you have it. It’s available only in black for an MSRP of $19,499.

Competition

If you’re looking for an apples-to-apples competitor in this year’s cruiser market, good luck; there simply ain’t one. You can maybe come close to the retro vibe with Harley’s Road King or Heritage Classic, but for genuine leather saddlebags with conchos, whitewall tires, and valanced fenders? Not happening.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Vintage and Vintage Dark Horse are both equipped with Indian’s reliable Thunderstroke 111, an 1,811cc powerplant that was good for 74.19 hp at 4,360 rpm and 106.18 pound-feet of torque at 2,410 rpm on our in-house dyno.

Handling

An aluminum frame and a long wheelbase give the Vintage its stability, while the wide handlebar provides good leverage when entering the turns.

Brakes

The 300mm dual-disc front brakes, single 300mm disc rear, and ABS help slow the Vintage and Vintage Dark Horse.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

We haven’t yet compiled data for real-world mpg averages.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

With a low and wide saddle, roomy floorboards, and spread-out handlebars, the Vintage(s) should fit most riders easily.

Electronics

The Vintage and Dark Horse may look like they’re straight from 1940, but their three ride modes, cruise control, and keyless ignition all remind you that modern electronics have their place.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Vintage and Vintage Dark Horse both offer a 24-month warranty with unlimited mileage.

Quality

The level of detail and quality on the Vintage is truly impressive when you factor things like the opulent chrome trim on the fenders, headlamps, and shield, the dished leather saddle complete with skirts and bags with conchos, and those cool whitewall tires.

2021 Indian Vintage Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Ups

• Extra punch with the 69ci V-twin
• USB port for charging smartphones
• Looking to customize this bobber further? OEM accessories are available.

Downs

• Not necessarily a highway hopper

Verdict

Not only does the Scout Bobber have the higher-displacement V-twin engine, it also has a slightly different look from other Scouts in Indian’s lineup.

Overview

The Indian Scout Bobber brings additional power to the Scout table, specifically with its 69ci (1,133cc) liquid-cooled V-twin. It brings the “bobbed” look in its stock form so that means riders will be cruising the town solo on a low-profile, two-toned seat with street tracker handlebars, bar-end mirrors, and chopped fenders completing the look. Its core riding environment is city streets, not necessarily highways.

Updates for 2021

New colors like the Maroon Metallic Smoke make an appearance for 2021. There are also a few new accessories for this year.

Pricing and Variants

Purchasers of the 2021 Indian Scout Bobber will see the price tag start at $10,999 (for non-ABS) and depending on color could go up to $12,899 or $13,399 for the Icon package.

Competition

The Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black and Harley-Davidson’s Sportster Iron 1200 can go handlebar-to-handlebar with this Indian.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

A 69ci (1,133cc) liquid-cooled V-twin is at the heart of the Scout Bobber and produces a claimed 100 hp and 72 pound-feet of torque. Previously, we found that the Scout Bobber can wind up better than the competition and has more to give at the higher revs. Also differentiating it from the Scouts with the 61ci engine, the Scout Bobber has a six-speed transmission instead of five.

Handling

A 41mm telescopic fork and dual shocks mitigate any roadway imperfections, and in past testing, the front held up well under hard braking. Full of fuel, Indian claims a 555-pound weight. When it comes to handling though, this bike is not meant to tackle tight twisties and offers more resistance when dropping into turns than the Bobber Black, for example.

Brakes

As is common on the Scout line, single 298mm discs with dual-piston and single-piston calipers (front/rear) bring this bobber to a stop. With a firm grab at the lever, we found the single disc was plenty adequate compared to the Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black in our 2018 test.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel economy is currently not available.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The seat height is at an approachable 25.6 inches (claimed). Street tracker handlebars, a “purposeful” forward peg position, and a two-tone leather seat make up the rider’s throne. The seat is small compared to other cruisers, but it does have more padding than its direct UK competition.

Electronics

A round gauge keeps the dash simple, but there is a USB charging port for when the phone needs a boost. ABS is available as a rider aid.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

This Indian is covered for two years, unlimited miles.

Quality

The Scout Bobber provides a slammed stance for those looking for a V-twin-powered city rider.

2021 Indian Scout Bobber Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

Ups

• Powerful engine
• Beautiful traditional styling
• Cruise control and ABS

Downs

• Engine heat is noticeable at low speeds
• Shield could be taller
• Bags are hard mounted

Verdict

A shamelessly retro-styled touring cruiser with power and modern technology to go with the old-school looks.

Overview

You might think the Springfield and the Springfield Dark Horse are two models based on the same platform, but styling and mechanical differences abound. The standard Springfield represents the classically styled light touring end of the cruiser spectrum, with removable touring shield, deep dished leather saddle (with studs of course), and full, swept fenders. It’s equipped with the smaller 111ci Thunderstroke engine (the Dark Horse gets the 116). Lockable hard bags are standard.

Updates for 2021

There are no updates for 2021.

Pricing and Variants

The Springfield has an MSRP of $21,999 and comes in two color options: Maroon Metallic/Crimson Metallic or Thunder Black/Dirt Track Tan. The Dark Horse has its own separate entry, owing to significant differences in the two models.

Competition

In the current market, the retro-styled competitors can be found at the Bar & Shield brand (where else) with Harley’s Road King, which has a slightly smaller engine but is also almost $2K less.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Springfield is powered by the air-cooled Thunderstroke 111 engine, which Indian claims can output 119 pound feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. When we last ran a Thunderstroke 111-equipped bike on the Cycle World dyno, we documented 74.19 hp at 4,360 rpm and 106.18 pound-feet of torque at 2,410 rpm. EIC Hoyer called it “…one of the best sounding engines in a motorcycle, period. Exhaust and intake notes are fantastic, with the engine delivering its own sonic signature.”

Handling

With its aluminum frame and longish wheelbase, the Springfield is sure to exhibit a planted quality; the somewhat low and wide pullback handlebar means better leverage for pilots and easier reach to the controls.

Brakes

Thanks to 300mm dual disc front brakes and ABS, overall stopping power should be ample for the 829-pound machine.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

We haven’t yet compiled data for real-world mpg averages.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

With its wide plush saddle, roomy floorboards, and wide handlebars, the Springfield looks like an easy fit for most pilots (though note the floorboards have a forward bias and upward tilt).

Electronics

The Springfield has three ride modes that let you tailor the power delivery to fit your riding style.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Indian gives you a 24-month warranty with unlimited mileage.

Quality

The retro styling is played up with impressive quality in the details, like the beautifully chromed engine, plush leather saddle complete with studs, chrome engine bars, and an iconic lighted headdress on the full valanced two-tone fender.

2021 Indian Springfield Claimed Specifications

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

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

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com