With the chaos of 2020 affecting businesses around the world, it’s hardly surprising to see that American brand Indian’s 2021 model year focusses on modest upgrades and new colour schemes – as the classic cruiser company consolidates its strong product development programme of recent years.
The one ‘new’ model is the Roadmaster Limited, a derivative of the £26,199 Roadmaster tourer. The Limited model features a gloss finished crimson and black paintwork, with chrome finishes, a minimalist front mudguard and what Indian call ‘slammed’ side panniers. The matt finished Roadmaster Dark Horse remains in the range but gets a dark bronze finish to complement its blacked out metal finishes. Both bikes sport the kind of spec expected from a motorcycle costing in excess of £25k and are powered by Indian’s super torquey 1890cc air-cooled V-twin ‘Thunder Stroke’ motor. Also new on the Roadmaster models is Indian’s ClimaCommand seat, which allows the rider to not only heat their saddle in cold weather, but to cool it in the summer as well. The system will also be available as an accessory to retrofit to some older models.
Another Dark Horse model is the Vintage Dark Horse, which is new for ’21. In line with the brand’s other Dark Horses, the classic cruiser snubs the blingy chrome in favour of blacked out components. It’s been a popular tactic in the past, and the Vintage Dark Horse comes with soft black leather saddlebags to go with the ‘Thunder Black Smoke’ paint job.
Otherwise it’s a case of evolution rather than evolution across the range. Apple CarPlay is now standard on all Challenger, Chieftain and Roadmaster models, making it easy for riders who want to use integrated phone, sat-nav and music system on the go.
Other upgrades include improved LED lighting on some of the more expensive models, while there are a range of new accessories including alternative seats, upgraded speaker kits and a massive 64 litre top box option for the Challenger models. The Scout models also gain a smattering of more touring focused accessories for 2021, including various wind deflectors and heated grips.
“We’re extremely motivated by the significant brand momentum we’re experiencing, and we’re as focused as ever to provide our riders with best-in-class products and experiences,” said Reid Wilson, Vice President of Indian Motorcycle. “Our riders are extremely discerning, with high expectations across the board and it’s incumbent upon us to stay on the cutting edge in style, performance, and technology. Our 2021 lineup additions and upgraded features are a result of the hard work and dedication we pour into every bike in the line up.”
As is usual practice with a change of model year, the 2021 Indians gain new colours. Full details are available at the company’s website, www.indianmotorcycle.co.uk