After a weekend of touring in Germany I leave home to pick up an Indian Chieftain Dark Horse, my bike for the upcoming week. I'm curious how it will perform and feel compared to my nimble Honda Hornet. In this blog I'll share my experiences on this big bike with you.

Upon arrival the matte black Indian Chieftain Dark Horse is already waiting for me. The machine is impressive, that's for sure. I already see myself touring through the country, looking cool as can be. This specific one is equipped with a Jekill & Hyde exhaust system. You open and close the valve in the exhaust with just a push on a button. A closed valve is decently loud. Push the magical button and open it.. Wow. What a beautiful sound. I can't wait to start riding! I feel a bit tense when I get on the bike, due to the weight and size. Regarding the scale of big-bigger-biggest, this bike defines the top category. A few numbers:

• 359kg dry weight
• 1890cc V-Twin
• 171nm of torque
• a 24 cm wide smile on my face while riding it

But before we continue, let's start with the brand Indian. Let me tell you a great tale to share on birthdays and such.

Many don't know that Indian is the oldest motorcycle brand of America (and not Harley). The brand dates back to 1901, a number that's often adopted in the design of the bike. During the 1910s the brand was wan of the biggest motorcycle manufacturers in the world as well as racing champion. Unfortunately, the production stopped in 1953 due to financial issues. So long for Indian, the brand seemed to disappear. But it didn't. In 2011, Polaris (know for their off-road vehicles, boats, warehouse vehicles etcetera) rose the brand from the ashes.

Fun fact; do you remember the iconic scene where Austin Powers tries to turn a trolley around in a narrow hallway? Yup, that's also a creation by Polaris. Indian is officially back! Some of the older and successful models were dusted, renewed and improved and launched again. Among these; the Chieftain, based on the old Indian Chief.

So, what do you get for 35.890€? First of all, not the 2.500€ exhaust system on the specific version I rode. But you do get speakers. Big ones. It's noticeable that the Chieftain was designed for the North American market where relaxed touring (below or around 100 km/h) is quite normal. Above this speed (read: on the Dutch/European highways) the music is barely distinguishable from the wind, even though the system automatically adjusts sound and volume to speed, wind and engine sound.

Secretly I have to admit; it's a fun gimmick when you're riding on country roads with a passenger on the back. However, do watch your image when entering residential areas. Therefore in practice, I often used the communication system inside my helmet to listen to music. But you do make quite an impression, something the Chieftain is really good at.

Furthermore, the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse has cruise controle, something I didn't value before until now. It is great. Riding is all about the experience, something the Indian absolutely excels at. It also makes life easier, since you can lock and unlock the cases with your keyless remote (fantastic for doing groceries). Do note that it doesn't automatically lock the steering, so don't forget to lock that part properly.

Lastly, the Indian is equipped with Apple CarPlay. A nice option, but unfortunately it can only be used with smaller smartphones. The built-in phone storage (which also doesn't lock automatically, so don't forget your precious phone) where you can connect your phone by cable isn't large enough for bigger smartphones. My iPhone 11 Pro Max did fit perfectly without the cable attached, but didn't fit when plugged it. Perhaps they re-used an older design for this part? You know, when phones were still small..

In short; amazing! You won't notice the weight when riding and you maneuver the Indian Chieftain easily through corners. Due to the enormous amount of torque the bike feels quick, but can also be ridden on a slower pace. From around 1700 till 4000 RPM the bike ensures pure comfort. Shifting gears is done without effort with a firm but long stroke with the gear lever. Also, riding through traffic jams is a piece of cake. Just drop a gear and cars seem to spontaneously move out of your way. It's probably an advantage of a cool black motorcycle, a black suit and a tinted visor, I guess. Luckily nobody notices the childish grin on my face underneath my helmet.

What stood out for me it the fact that this bike instantly calms your needs to race, something my Hornet doesn't. Just relax and enjoy the ride. The low hanging cases and exhaust pipes makes cornering less forgiving. There's no real opportunity to increase your lean angle when needed. Scary? No, not at all. The machine gives you full controle with great finesse. It makes the ride enjoyable while it gives you the option to release all its power on the straights. The seating position was something I had to get used to, but it is very comfortable. I happen to have occasional back pain, but last week was a charm.

Regarding the wind, the Chieftain has an adjustable windscreen. You adjust it with a button on the handlebars. The standard windscreen gives you a pleasant combination of comfort and the perception of speed. Or course, a larger one is also available if preferred.

In a nutshell, my week has been amazing. The bike is comfortable, powerful with finesse and it's stylish and luxurious. And nimble for its weight! Is it perfect? No. But is any bike really? Riding a motorcycle is all about the experience, the thrill and the feeling of being able to take on the world. The Indian Chieftain Dark Horse lets you feel the undisputed king of the road, that's for certain.

Interested in trying a Chieftain yourself? You can rent one through MotoShare. In addition, Indian also offers the beautiful FTR and the successful Scout. What they have in common? Fantastic looks, an impressive legacy and great handling.