Short history of the brand Despite the brand name, Indian Motorcycle is actually an American company. Founded in 1901, it holds the title of America’s first motorcycle company. After a period of dormancy, Indian was revived in 1999 and later acquired by Polaris Industries in 2011. Today, Polaris manufactures Indian Motorcycles, keeping the iconic American brand alive with a range of cruisers and even a sporty offering, all built on US soil. The Indian Motorcycle Company has solidified its reputation as an iconic manufacturer of motorcycles with a rich history rooted in American culture. Renowned for their classic designs, powerful engines, and legendary status, Indian motorcycles have become synonymous with freedom and adventure on the open road. From the timeless appeal of the Chief and Scout models to the modern performance of the FTR series, Indian motorcycles continue to captivate riders worldwide with their blend of heritage and innovation, making them a symbol of the enduring spirit of motorcycling. How does Indian manufacturer differ from others? Indian Motorcycle (being American-owned) carves out a unique niche compared to other manufacturers, particularly those in India itself. Here’s how they differ: Market Focus: Indian prioritizes the large-engine cruiser market, known for powerful, comfortable motorcycles. This contrasts with many Indian manufacturers who dominate the smaller, fuel-efficient segment. Price Point: Indian falls into the premium motorcycle category due to their larger engines and focus on cruiser aesthetics. This positions them differently from Indian manufacturers known for affordability. Heritage: As America’s first motorcycle company, Indian leverages a rich heritage and brand identity. This focus on history sets them apart from many Indian manufacturers that are relatively young in comparison. Manufacturing: While the brand carries the “Indian” name, the motorcycles themselves are built in the United States by Polaris Industries. This differs from true Indian manufacturers who produce bikes domestically. Most popular motorcycles and key characteristics Touring example of bikes are displayed on the below image. You can check how generally common types of motos looks like in our site Indian Motorcycle caters to a specific niche, so their lineup might not be the “most popular” overall, but they’re definitely well-regarded within the cruiser market. Here’s the breakdown: Key Characteristics of Indian Motorcycles: Thunderstroke Engine: The heart of Indian bikes is their signature Thunderstroke engine. It comes in various displacements (111 cubic inch and 116 cubic inch) and offers powerful, low-revving torque for a smooth and powerful ride. Cruiser Style: Indian leans heavily into the classic cruiser aesthetic. Expect comfortable seating positions with low seats and forward-mounted foot controls, along with chrome accents and a focus on visual appeal. Modern Amenities: While maintaining a classic look, Indian motorcycles aren’t all about old-school technology. Many models incorporate features like cruise control, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and even touchscreen infotainment systems for a comfortable and safe ride. Model Variations: While cruisers are their core market, Indian offers a range within that category. Here are some popular Indian Motorcycle models and their variations: Chief: This is a core line, known for its traditional cruiser look and comfortable ride. It comes in various trims like the Bobber for a stripped-down look or the Limited for a more touring-oriented experience. Chieftain: This is Indian’s full-blown touring motorcycle, featuring a large fairing with a windshield, hard saddlebags, and infotainment systems, all built for long-distance comfort. Challenger: This is Indian’s foray into the bagger market, a sub-category of cruisers with even more emphasis on touring capabilities. It boasts a powerful engine and extensive luggage capacity. FTR 1200: This is Indian’s outlier, a sporty machine with a powerful engine and a more aggressive riding position. It stands out from the typical cruiser offerings. By focusing on powerful engines, classic cruiser aesthetics, and modern amenities, Indian Motorcycle caters to riders who want a comfortable, stylish, and powerful motorcycle for cruising the open road. If you are interested in buying an Indian moto in Portugal, you can check this site indianmotorcycle.pt. Also one Indian bike was shared as a “give away” on the biggest motorfest in Portugal. Enjoy the beauity of these cruisers and we wish you to be an owner of such one sometime 😉
