In 2022, exactly 100 years later, Indian has given its Chief lineup a thorough overhaul.
With three new and distinct models, Chief, Chief Bobber and Super Chief, Indian is honoring its past while clearly looking to the future.
The 2022 Chief lineup is more stripped-down and elemental, reflecting contemporary tastes. Like their ancestor, the new Chiefs draw inspiration from the modern-day Scout. It has a shortened wheelbase and exposed twin laydown rear shocks rather than a single shock hidden behind bodywork. They’re also much lighter. Claimed wet weight for the 2022 Chief is 300kg versus more than 360kg for the Chief Classic.
The base-model Super Chief, like the standard Chief and Chief Bobber, is powered by the 111ci (1,811cc) version of Indian’s air-cooled, 49-degree Thunderstroke V-twin, good for 108 lb-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm (claimed). It also has an analog gauge, optional ABS and standard finishes. The Super Chief Limited, like the up-spec Chief Dark Horse and Chief Bobber Dark Horse, steps up to the 116ci (1,890cc) Thunderstroke V-twin with 120 lb-ft of grunt and adds a 4-inch Ride Command touchscreen display, standard ABS and premium finishes.
What sets the Super Chief and Super Chief Limited apart from the Chief and Chief Bobber are go-the-distance features. There is a quick-release windshield, saddlebags, a two-up seat and footboards. Whereas the Chief has cast wheels in 19-/16-inch sizes, the Super Chiefs and Chief Bobbers roll on 16-inch black-wire spoked wheels shod with Pirelli Night Dragon rubber, with a chunky 130mm front paired with a 180mm rear.
In another nod to modern times and clean styling. The SCL features a round 4-inch instrument panel with a full-color touchscreen. Packed into it is Indian’s Ride Command system, with customizable displays, detailed bike and trip info, turn-by-turn navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. Cruise control, keyless ignition, a USB charging port and LED lighting provide the conveniences that today’s riders expect.