Washington’s Cascade Loop was the perfect venue for a first ride on the restyled 2019 Chieftain, even if it was a bit moist at times…. Photography by Barry Hathaway.
Just two years after Polaris Industries acquired the brand in 2011, with rightful fanfare Indian Motorcycles launched an all-new line of functional and stylish heavyweight V-twin cruisers and baggers.
Read our Harley vs Indian vs Moto Guzzi Bagger Comparo Review here.
Consensus was that the engineering and design teams had nailed it–the massive Thunder Stroke 111 engine with its heavy finning, parallel pushrod tubes and flathead-like downward-facing exhaust was a gorgeous interpretation of Indian V-twin tradition, and the teardrop gas tank and Art Deco valenced fenders on the bikes were a hit with enthusiasts. With 104 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheel the Thunder Stroke 111 was the powermeister until recently, too, and is still within 5 percent of the regular production leader. Six model years later the Thunder Stroke Indians–Chief, Springfield, Chieftain and Roadmaster–have established themselves as solid alternatives to the competition, with bucket-loads of satisfying performance, comfort and style.
On that last point, recently some Indian customers–Chieftain bagger fans in particular–have asked for an alternative to the bike’s traditional heavy-fendered look, something a bit leaner and more aggressive. Indian’s initial response was a larger 19-inch contr...