Like many of its peers and rivals, Indian Motorcycles is releasing custom-inspired models to appeal to buyers who typically switch to after-sales. It has launched a pair of limited edition baggers for 2022 that have amazing styling and a long list of standard equipment.
Based on The Challenger and Chieftain, respectively, these two bikes belong to the Elite line of Indian bikes. The Challenger is limited to 200 pieces globally and it’s more than just a name with Dodge’s powerful muscle car. The company notes that the design is also inspired by muscle cars. It is featured by Stealth Gray and Black Metallic paintwork with Indy Red accents, and it also features specific logos and red stitching on the seats. Most of the trim is black; This isn’t for riders who want a stereotypical bagger with rows of chrome.
The list of standard features includes an electronically adjustable rear suspension made by Fox, adaptive LED headlights, Intelligent Lean Technology for improved stability, and a 400-watt audio system. There’s also a seven-inch touchscreen that’s compatible with Apple CarPlay.
Indian hasn’t made mechanical modifications to the Challenger Elite, so power comes from a water-cooled, 1.8-liter V-twin that makes 122 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. It’s a relatively large and heavy vehicle, but these numbers ensure it’s ready for the open road.
Production of the Chieftain Elite is limited to 150 pieces globally. The Indian Heavy Metal Smoke paintwork is contrasted with some bronze accents (including some on the engine) and most of the trim is finished in black. In contrast, the standard Chieftain has light-colored forks, a bright exhaust system, and a bright emblem on the fuel tank. The highlight is the perfectly machined 10-spoke wheels.
The equipment list is almost like a car: The Chieftain has adaptive LED headlights, an adjustable windshield, and the same audio and infotainment system as the Challenger. It also benefits from remote-locking saddlebags that add approximately 2.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
Power is provided by the most powerful air-cooled engine the Indian Motor Company has ever built. Called the Thunderstroke 116, it’s a 1.8-liter, 49-degree V-twin that churns out 126 pound-feet of torque at 2,900 rpm. However, the horsepower capacity of the engine is yet to be announced.
On sale and scheduled to reach authorized dealer Nationwide in the coming weeks, the Challenger Elite and Chieftain Elite are priced at $34,999 and $32,999, respectively. For context, India charges $24,999 for the entry-level Challenger and $22,499 for the Leader.
