INDIAN’S ALL NEW CHALLENGER, EQUIPPED WITH AN INDUSTRY LEADING 122 HORSEPOWER V TWIN, AIMS TO BECOME THE “ULTIMATE BAGGER”
BY EVAN MONROE
Last October, Indian Motorcycle announced details of what will be the beating heart of its Challenger line an all new xed fairing bagger (cruiser style, with saddlebags) a 108 cubic inch and liquid cooled V twin engine that delivers a class leading 122 horsepower and 128 ft. lbs. of torque. This PowerPlus engine is also the highest performing American V twin ever made, its name a nod to Indian PowerPlus motorcycles produced from 1916 to 1924.
Starting at $21,999, the Challenger built at a production facility in Spirit Lake, Iowa features the stripe of premium touring amenities riders expect from Indian, including electronic cruise control, full LED lighting, a long haul seat, ABS, keyless ignition, and weatherproof saddlebags with more than 18 gallons of storage space. In addition, a modern and aggressively styled chassis mounted fairing (with an adjustable windscreen with nearly three inches of travel, as well as adjustable air vents) sits over the inverted front suspension. In combination with a lightweight cast aluminum frame and a hydraulically adjustable FOX rear shock, the result is a rare blend of stability and spirited handling. The PowerPlus delivers its goods through a six speed transmission (with overdrive) with an assist that reduces clutch effort. Smart Lean Technology, meanwhile, utilizes a Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit to add cornering control to the also on board Dynamic Traction Control and Drag Torque Control systems.
The Info tech Indian Ride Command is “the largest, most customizable touchscreen infotainment system on two wheels,” according to the maker. Its center a seven inch touchscreen, it features weather and trac overlays, key vehicle information, Bluetooth and USB mobile pairing, and an Indian new quad core processor for faster response.
The Challenger line extends from the base model to Dark Horse and Limited versions, with their own respective visual treatments and features. A few noteworthy options to all are upgraded audio (including saddle mounted speakers) and the Indian Challenger Tour Collection, which includes a 16 inch windshield, quick release passenger sissy bar, passenger backrest and floorboards, an extended reach seat, rider backrest pad, highway pegs, and a pinnacle heel shifter.
Indian Motorcycle of Monmouth
1318 Route 33, Neptune, NJ / 732.455.5700
indianofmonmouth.com