The 2014 Indian Chief: What the critics say

The New York Times

The Indian motorcycle has been reborn once more, and “the wow factor” cannot be overstated. The storied brand, which went bust in the 1950s and failed in previous revival attempts, finally landed a new corporate parent in 2011. Just weeks ago, Polaris Industries rolled out a small lineup of new Indian bikes, and all three “exude charisma, cachet, and mystique.” Even Harley-Davidson loyalists soon might be putting their old bikes up for sale.

Motor Trend

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Sign up

As nice as the Chief Classic, Chief Vintage, and deluxe Chieftain are to look at, they’re “even better to ride.” The new 1.8-liter V-twin engine makes a “majestic” sound, and its 119 pound-feet of torque “digs through corners and blasts you up hills.” Comfort on long rides is outstanding, and while these Indians have “more chrome than a ’57 Chevy,” they’re also loaded with high-tech features, including cruise control and keyless starting.

Cycle News

The new engine does have one flaw: Things get “pretty darn hot” between the rider’s legs on the two models with windscreens. But it’s easy to forgive these beautiful machines anything. In fact, “we guess you’ll quickly forget about that big check you just wrote as soon as you cruise down Main Street for the first time.”