Indian Motorcycle Celebrates 100 Years of Chief with MY22 lineup

By Bike Review • 4 years ago

Feb
2021

Indian have just announced their 2022 line-up of the long running Chief model. Customers will have a choice between three different trims to suit their style...

In 1921 Indian Motorcycle unveiled the iconic Indian Chief, one of their most historic and influential motorcycles. Now, in celebration of 100 years, America’s First Motorcycle Company is unleashing three new, totally reimagined Indian Chief models for its 2022 lineup.

Indian Motorcycles are celebrating 100 years of the Chief with a special MY22 lineup.

Combining iconic, American V-twin style with modern performance and technology, Indian Motorcycle say they designed the new Chief with a simplistic and mechanical aesthetic that pays homage to the glory days of American motorcycling.

All based on a simplistic steel-tube frame and powered by Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke motor, the new Indian Chief Dark Horse, Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse and Indian Super Chief Limited offer three unique takes on the classic American V-twin, each appealing to a slightly different rider.

Indian Motorcycle say the new Chief provides a stripped-down riding experience where power, minimalism and attitude lead the way. Then there’s the new Chief Bobber Dark Horse. With bulky tyres wrapped around spoke wheels, a muscled-up front-end and a solo bobber seat, the Chief Bobber Dark Horse pays stylistic homage to the classic post-war era V-twins, bobbed and chopped by military veterans and bluecollar rebels. And finally, Indian Motorcycle offers the Super Chief, Limited with saddlebags and a windshield, it offers a bit more versatility and begs riders for longer miles.

“The Indian Chief is a truly iconic motorcycle and what better way to celebrate its 100th birthday than unleashing an entirely new Indian Chief lineup,” said Mike Dougherty, President of Motorcycles. “These bikes capture the mechanical simplicity and attitude of classic American V-twins, yet bring it all forward with modern sophistication and features. We could not be more thrilled to bring this new platform into our lineup.”

Chief riders can adjust throttle response by selecting one of three ride modes: sport, standard or tour.

The new Indian Chief lineup marks the intersection of simplicity and power, according to Indian. Mechanical and simple, Chief models are based on a classic steel welded tube frame. The lineup features a 15.1L fuel tank, bobbed rear fender, dual outboard preload-adjustable rear shocks, dual exhaust, LED lighting, keyless ignition, and Pirelli Night Dragon tyres. Along with cruise control, Chief riders can adjust throttle response by selecting one of three ride modes: sport, standard or tour.

Featuring a short wheelbase of 1626mm, a low seat height of 662mm and a wet weight of 304kg, the Indian Chief lineup inspires confidence and is approachable for any rider. The Chief’s conventional 46mm front forks with 132mm of travel, 28.5-degree lean angle, and comfortable ergonomics, create a capable machine for even the most technical of ride routes.

“We wanted to capture a timeless look that never goes out of style, and looks beautiful whether naked or fully dressed,” said Ola Stenegard, Director, Industrial Design for Indian Motorcycle. “We also wanted to keep it simple enough to allow riders’ imaginations to take flight with personalisation options and possibilities. Ultimately, this is a bike that evokes emotion with simple mechanical styling and raw American muscle. It’s a pure riding machine”.

Powering all Chief models is Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke 116 engine with 162Nm of torque. ABS is standard, while Indian say the premium finishes set these bikes apart and further showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Chief and Chief Bobber Dark Horse model packs further attitude with premium gloss black finishes, while the Super Chief Limited has chrome finishes.

Powering all Chief models is Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke 116 engine

Additionally, each model delivers a premium experience with its industry-first, 101mm Round Display with RIDE COMMAND. Riders can operate the RIDE COMMAND system through grip controls or via the digital IPS touchscreen display. Riders can cycle through multiple interfaces, including two different gauge configurations, bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth or USB. Riders can also access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message history.

The Indian Chief Dark Horse features stripped-down, mechanical styling highlighted by drag handlebars, 19-inch cast wheels, mid-mount foot controls, a slim headlight bucket and a solo bobber seat. The Chief Dark Horse is offered in Black Smoke, Alumina Jade Smoke and Stealth Grey and will retail for $25,995 AUD ride away.

The Bobber Dark Horse features mini-ape hanger handlebars paired with forward foot controls provide a more upright and commanding riding position. The Chief Bobber Dark Horse sits on 16-inch (40.6 cm) wire wheels, adds fork and shock covers, and features a large headlight bucket wrapped in a nacelle. The Chief Bobber Dark Horse is available in Black Smoke, Titanium Smoke, and Sagebrush Smoke and will retail for $27,495 AUD ride away.

Indian say the Super Chief Limited is designed for comfort, the Super Chief Limited stands apart with a quick release windscreen, black leather saddlebags, touring seat with passenger pad, floorboards and traditional cruiser handlebars. The Super Chief Limited features 16-inch (40.6 cm) wire wheels, large headlight bucket with nacelle, fork covers, and a full chrome exhaust that delivers a premium fit and finish. The Super Chief Limited is available in Black Metallic, Blue Slate Metallic, and Maroon Metallic and will retail for $29,995 AUD ride away.

Indian say the Super Limited was created with long rides in mind.

The first shipment of the new Chief range will be coming in late April 2021, you can visit the official Indian Motorcycle’s website here for more information.