In 1921 Indian Motorcycle unveiled the iconic Indian Chief, one of the most historic and influential motorcycles of all time. Now, in celebration of 100 years, America’s First Motorcycle Company is unleashing three new, totally reimagined Indian Chief models for its 2022 lineup. Combining iconic, American V-twin style with modern performance and technology, Indian Motorcycle designed the new Chief with a simplistic and mechanical aesthetic that pays homage to the glory days of American motorcycling.
“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.”
The new Indian Chief lineup marks the intersection of simplicity and power. All based on a timeless, simplistic steel-tube frame and powered by Indian Motorcycle’s powerful Thunderstroke motor, the new Indian Chief, Indian Chief Bobber and Indian Super Chief offer three unique takes on the classic American V-twin, each appealing to a slightly different rider.
“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 personalization 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.
” The new Chief provides a stripped-down riding experience where power, minimalism and attitude lead the way. It reaches back to the glory days of American V-twins when hitting the road to nowhere, with good friends and only the essentials, was the stuff of legends.
Then there’s the new Chief Bobber. With bulky tires wrapped around spoke wheels, a muscled-up front end and a solo bobber seat, the Chief Bobber pays stylistic homage to the classic post-war era V-twins, bobbed and chopped with intent on breaking the mold.
And finally, Indian Motorcycle offers the Super Chief, with saddlebags and a windshield, it offers more versatility and begs riders for longer miles and even bolder escapes.
The new Indian Chief, Indian Chief Bobber and Indian Super Chief offer three unique takes on the classic American V-twin, each appealing to a slightly different rider. The new Chief provides a stripped-down riding experience where power, minimalism and attitude lead the way. The Chief Bobber pays stylistic homage to the muscular, classic post-war era V-twins; while the Super Chief, with its soft leather saddlebags and windshield, begs riders for a bolder escape.
Powered by Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke motor, the lineup features a short wheelbase of 1626mm, a low seat height of 662mm and a wet weight as low as 304 kg. 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.
The Super Chief Limited touts a fully chrome Thunderstroke 116 engine. 162 Nm of torque, turn by turn navigation, and Bluetooth® connection to a mobile device give riders the capability to put on the miles, or cruise with a plus-one. Premium chrome finishes and metallic paint make the Super Chief Limited shine. The Super Chief Limited comes in Black Metallic, Blue Slate Metallic, and Maroon Metallic.
Indian Motorcycle’s iconic Chief lineup offers both classically-styled and modernly-mean designs. To make it your own, Indian Motorcycle takes it a step farther with a full line of premium accessories to match the fit and finish you’ve come to know and love. These accessories upgrade performance, style, and comfort for an enhanced, authentic experience.
Indian Motorcycle’s Chief performance upgrades can seriously change the overall attitude of the already capable cruiser. Accessory exhaust upgrades not only enhance the tone and aesthetic, but increase horsepower and torque when paired with a performance air intake. Options include the Stage 1 Slip-On Mufflers with either Slash Cut or Fish Tail Exhaust Tips – all available in chrome and black. A new Stage 1 Forward Air Intake highlights the aggressive performance of the Thunderstroke motors. Stage 2 Performance Cams take an already high-powered cruiser and delivers headsnapping throttle acceleration for unmatched passing power.
Adding comfort to go the extra miles, Chief offers a full assortment of creature comforts for riders and happy plus 1’s. Windshields in low, mid, and tall options add style and protection from all of the elements. Storage options include luggage racks, luggage rack bag, and saddlebags to hold all of your gear for long hauls. Passenger pillions, bolt-on or quick release sissy bars, and passenger backrest pads keep your riding partner happy mile after mile. Technology comforts include heated grips with three heating levels and Pathfinder S LED Driving lights for style and added safety.
