The Indian Chief Dark Horse stands out with its stripped-down, mechanical design, featuring drag handlebars, 19-inch cast wheels, mid-mount foot controls, a sleek headlight bucket, and a solo bobber seat. Powering all Indian Chief models is the formidable Thunderstroke 116 (1890cc) engine, delivering substantial torque.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse: BRING BACK THE GLORY DAYS.
Reviewing 2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse…
TIMELESS / ATTITUDE / TECHNOLOGY
Combining iconic, American V-twin style with modern performance and technology, the Indian Chief pays homage to the glory days of American motorcycling.
• Turn heads on every corner with simple, purposeful design showcasing bobbed fenders, exposed rear shocks, and a steel welded tube frame.
• Design detail meets modern function with the industry-leading 4” Display powered by RIDE COMMAND. GPS Navigation. Bluetooth® Connectivity.
• A low seat height, a solo saddle, and mid-mount foot pegs gives every rider complete control with confidence.
• The 19-inch machined cast front wheel with ABS adds to the menacing stance.
In 1921, Indian Motorcycle introduced the legendary Indian Chief, a motorcycle that stands as one of the most historic and influential bikes of all time. The Indian Chief Dark Horse seamlessly blends iconic American V-twin style with contemporary performance and technology. Its design embraces a simple, mechanical aesthetic that pays tribute to the golden age of American motorcycling. Wrapped within a beautifully straightforward steel-tube frame, the potent Thunderstroke engine powers the Indian Chief Dark Horse, delivering a stripped-down riding experience where power, minimalism, and attitude take the lead. It harks back to the days when cruising aimlessly with close friends and only the essentials were the stuff of legends.
2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- Iconic American Style
- 3 Ride Modes: Tour / Standard / Sport
- 4-Inch Round Display
- Keyless Ignition
- Cruise Control
- USB Charging
- LED Lighting
- ABS Brakes
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE ROLLS OUT 2026 LINEUP WITH NEW SPORT SCOUT RT, FRESH PAINT & ALL-NEW ACCESSORIES
- Sport Scout RT Delivers Aggressive Style and Increased Capability With Factory-Fitted Locking Rigid Saddlebags
- Rich, Premium Paint Options Elevate Aesthetic Across 2026 Lineup, Including Exciting Color Refreshments to Indian Motorcycle’s Newest PowerPlus Family
- Authentic Indian Motorcycle Accessories Expand with New Storage, Audio, & Comfort Offerings
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its model year 2026 lineup, unveiling the Sport Scout RT, new paint and graphics, and adding new distinctive Indian Motorcycle accessories across its cruiser, bagger and touring lineup.
“Scout is a market-leading, globally recognized icon, and with the debut of the Sport Scout RT, we’re redefining what it means to ride an Indian Scout,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President – Indian Motorcycle. “Through a host of new updates across the lineup, we’re not just holding our ground as the best cruiser on the road — we’re raising the bar by offering riders around the world an unrivaled way to experience the open road.”
FRESH PAINT & GRAPHICS
For model year 2026, Indian Motorcycle introduces a range of rich, premium paint options that elevate the visual identity of its iconic lineup. Striking new colorways across its PowerPlus family of baggers and touring models further enhance each bike’s commanding presence on the road.
Headlining the 2026 color palette is the all-new Black Crystal and Super Graphite with Championship Gold accent finish, making a bold statement across multiple models, including the 101 Scout, Chieftain PowerPlus, and Indian Challenger. A new Deep Blue Metallic finish is featured across the Scout Classic, Indian Chief, Chieftain, Chieftain PowerPlus, Indian Challenger, Roadmaster PowerPlus, and Indian Pursuit. Other standout colors include Chalk on the Super Chief, Indian Challenger, Roadmaster PowerPlus, and Indian Pursuit; Indy Red on the Sport Chief; and Cascade Green Metallic with Black Metallic on the Roadmaster PowerPlus and Indian Pursuit. Roadmaster adds a sophisticated Deep Blue Metallic with Silver Quartz Metallic – further enhancing the visual appeal of Indian Motorcycle’s legendary touring model.
Alongside these vibrant new colors, Indian Motorcycle refreshes tank graphics across several Indian Chief models. Updates to the Chief Dark Horse, Sport Chief, Super Chief Limited, and Super Chief Dark Horse add a fresh edge to the legendary lineup while preserving its unmistakable attitude.
2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Chief
Indian Motorcycle reimagined this iconic cruiser for the 100th anniversary of the Chief model, instilling cutting-edge technology with a timeless design.
Classic Styling
These are the motorcycles you see when you close your eyes: perfect proportions and premium finishes. A cruiser can be personalised to be the exact motorcycle you want with various useful and stylish accessories like seats, storage, and lighting.
An Easy Ride
Smooth power combines with a lightweight frame and low seat to make these motorcycles accessible, even to smaller or new riders. Cruisers are defined by powerful engines in a minimal package. They are great options for new riders but still exhilarating for seasoned pros.
Modern tech hidden in plain sight
Design details meet modern function with the industry-leading 4″ Display powered by RIDE COMMAND. Unlock GPS navigation, Bluetooth® connectivity, and more to elevate your riding experience.
A Personal Touch
A cruiser can be personalised to be the exact motorcycle you want with various useful and stylish accessories like seats, storage, and lighting.
THUNDERSTROKE ENGINE
Drawing external design inspiration from the rich heritage of Indian Motorcycle’s past, the Thunderstroke engine delivers performance with timeless style. Choose the air-cooled Thunderstroke 111 packing 108 ft-lbs of torque, or step up to the Thunderstroke 116 with a commanding 120 ft-lbs of raw passing power.
STRIPPED DOWN DESIGN
Turn heads on every corner with simple, purposeful design showcasing bobbed fenders, exposed rear shocks, and a steel welded tube frame. Chief Dark Horse comes with premium gloss-black finishes from fender to fender and Chief has a mixture of black and chrome finishes.
RIDER CENTRIC FEATURES
Off the line, every Chief comes with LED lighting, keyless ignition, cruise control, rear cylinder deactivation, ABS, and Metzeler CruiseTec® tires that offer supreme traction. Chief comes with a 4″ Analog display while the Chief Dark Horse includes the 4″ Display Powered by RIDE COMMAND. These features provide convenience, safety, and performance, ensuring enjoyable rides for every rider.
RIDE WITH CONFIDENCE
With a low seat height, a solo saddle, and mid-mount foot pegs that keep your feet underneath you giving every rider complete control to ride with confidence.
19-INCH CAST WHEEL
The 19-inch front wheel adds to the menancing stance and will beg you to roll the throttle.
RIDE MODES
Customize your riding experience with three ride modes – Tour, Standard, or Sport – for an experience that’s tailored to your riding style.
RIDE & OWNERSHIP ENHANCEMENTS
Design detail meets modern function with the 4″ Display on Chief Dark Horse, powered by RIDE COMMAND. Experience effortless cruising with GPS navigation, Bluetooth® connection, and other ride-enhancing features. Go beyond the ride and elevate ownership with RIDE COMMAND+ connected technology, offering Account Sync and more.
The Chief lineup, along with all Thunderstroke and PowerPlus models, features a clutch that enhances the overall feel and user-friendliness. This innovative slipper clutch reduces engine drag, resulting in smoother downshifting and a more comfortable ride, especially in challenging road conditions. Furthermore, the expanded friction zone and reduced lever effort reduce clutch fatigue, which proves valuable in urban settings or during stop-and-go traffic.
The lineup showcases a 15.1-litre fuel tank, a bobbed rear fender, dual outboard preload-adjustable rear shocks, dual exhaust, LED lighting, keyless ignition, and Pirelli Night Dragon tires. In addition to cruise control, Chief riders have the option to fine-tune throttle response by selecting from three ride modes: sport, standard, or tour. The short 1626 mm wheelbase, low 662 mm seat height, and a wet weight as light as 304 kg make the Indian Chief lineup an inviting and confidence-inspiring choice for riders of all levels. Conventional 46mm front forks with 132 mm of travel, a 28.5-degree lean angle, and comfortable ergonomics combine to create a versatile machine capable of tackling even the most challenging routes.
The Indian Chief Dark Horse stands out with its stripped-down, mechanical design, featuring drag handlebars, 19-inch cast wheels, mid-mount foot controls, a sleek headlight bucket, and a solo bobber seat. Powering all Indian Chief models is the formidable Thunderstroke 116 (1890cc) engine, delivering a substantial 156 Nm of torque.
Furthermore, each model elevates the riding experience with the 101 mm round RIDE COMMAND system. This intuitive system can be operated via grip controls or the digital IPS touchscreen display. Riders have access to various interfaces, including two different gauge configurations, bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation. When using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can manage their music through the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth or USB. Additionally, phone information, such as recent calls, contacts, number pad, and text message history, can be accessed, and incoming calls can be accepted or declined directly through the RIDE COMMAND system when connected.
Indian Chief Accessories
Thoughtfully designed to enhance comfort and improve rider ergonomics for a more refined and personalized riding experience, new Indian Chief accessories include:
- Two-Up, Two-Tone High Bolster Seat: The Two-Up High Bolster Seat, Two-Tone Black & Brown features plush, foam cushioning that delivers an ideal combination of sophistication and comfort for both rider and passenger. With a 5” back bolster compared to the 3” of bolster on the standard seat, this seat helps riders feel planted and prevents sliding during hard acceleration. Its durable, all-weather vinyl covering is built to withstand rain, humidity, and harsh sunlight. The striking two-tone combination of black and brown vinyl delivers a bold, custom look that sets the motorcycle apart.
- Syndicate Reduced Reach Seat: Reduced Reach Chief Syndicate Two-Up Seat provides enhanced ergonomics and riding comfort for riders 5’6″ and under. This reduced reach seat moves the rider 1.2″ forward, providing enhanced control and confidence. The seat features cushioning that is both plush and supportive for all-day comfort on longer rides. The integrated styling of the passenger seat complements the motorcycle’s streamlined design.
- 2” Pullback Handlebars: Designed for riders seeking a more relaxed reach to their controls, the 2″ Pullback Handlebars deliver both comfort and a custom-inspired look. Whether riders are pairing with a 6″ or 10″ riser, this handlebar is the perfect upgrade for model year 2022 and newer Indian Chief models, offering a more comfortable riding position while maintaining an aggressive, sporty aesthetic.
8″ Pullback Moto Handlebar Risers: The 8″ Pullback Moto Handlebar Risers add aggressive details and reduce the rider’s reach to their handlebars for a more relaxed and ergonomic riding posture. These risers fit across all 2025-2026 Chief models and offer Sport Chief and Sport Chief RT a comfortable, reduced reach option.
RIDER CENTRIC TECHNOLOGY
ABS, Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, 12V Charge Port, and Rear Cylinder Deactivation.
Design detail meets modern function with the 4” Display, powered by RIDE COMMAND. Experience effortless cruising with GPS navigation,
Bluetooth® connection, and other ride enhancing features. Go beyond the ride and elevate ownership with RIDE COMMAND+ connected technology, offering Account Sync and more.
2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: from $18,499 USD
Canada MSRP Price: from $23,024 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: from £16,355 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
Bore x Stroke
4.063 in x 4.449 in (103.2 mm x 113 mm)
Compression Ratio
11.0 : 1
Displacement
116 cu-in (1,890 cc)
Drive/Driven Clutch
Wet, Multi-Plate
Electronic Fuel Injection System
Closed loop fuel injection / 54 mm bore
Engine Type
Air-cooled Thunderstroke 116
Exhaust
Dual Exhaust w/ Crossover
Gear Ratio (1st)
9.403 : 1
Gear Ratio (2nd)
6.411 : 1
Gear Ratio (3rd)
4.763 : 1
Gear Ratio (4th)
3.796 : 1
Gear Ratio (5th)
3.243 : 1
Gear Ratio (6th)
2.789 : 1
Peak Torque
120 ft-lbs
Peak Torque RPM
2,900 rpm
Transmission/Final Drive
2.2 : 1
Transmission/Primary Drive
Gear Drive Wet Clutch
DIMENSIONS
Fuel Capacity
4.0 Gallons (15.1 L)
Ground Clearance
4.9 in (125 mm)
GVWR
1,160 lbs (526 kg)
Lean Angle
28.5°
Overall Height
49.3 in (1,253 mm)
Overall Length
90 in (2,286 mm)
Overall Width
36.3 in (922 mm)
Rake/Trail
29° / 5.2 in (132 mm)
Seat Height
26.0 in (660 mm)
Weight (Dry Weight / Running Order)
647 lbs (294 kg) / 670 lbs (304 kg)
Wheelbase
64.0 in (1,626 mm)
BRAKES
Front Brakes
Single / 300mm Semi-Floating Rotor / 4 Piston Caliper
Rear Brakes
Single / 300mm Floating Rotor / 2 Piston Caliper
TIRES / WHEELS
Front Tires
Metzeler Cruisetec® 130/60 B19 61H
Front Wheel
Machine Highlighted Cast Black 19 in x 3.5 in
Rear Tires
Metzeler Cruisetec® 180/65 B16 81H
Rear Wheel
Machine Highlighted Cast Black 16 in x 5 in
SUSPENSION
Front Fork Tube Diameter
46 mm
Front Suspension
Telescopic Fork
Front Travel
5.2 in (132 mm)
Rear Suspension
Dual Shocks w/ Adjustable Preload
Rear Travel
3.0 in (75 mm)
FEATURES
Color / Graphics
Black Smoke, Deep Blue Metallic, Heavy Metal
Factory Warranty
2 Years, Unlimited Miles
Lights
LED Headlight, LED Tail/Brake/Turn Signals
Passenger Accommodations
Solo Seat, 2-Up Accessory Options Available
Standard Equipment
ABS, Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, USB charge port, 12V Charge Port, Rear Cylinder Deactivation
Storage
N/A, Accessory Storage Options Available
TECHNOLOGY
Audio
N/A, Accessory Bluetooth® Speaker Available
Gauge
Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, Fuel Gauge, Compass, Ambient Temperature, Gear Indicator
RIDE COMMAND
4″ Display Factory-Installed with GPS Navigation, Bluetooth® Connectivity, Ride Stats, and More
RIDE COMMAND+
Via Bluetooth® Tethering with Account Sync, Connected Search and More *Requires cellular data.
STYLE
Design
Blacked-Out Finishes, Mid Mount Foot Controls, Drag Handlebars, Slim Headlight Bucket, 19 in Machine Highlighted Cast Black Front Wheel, Exposed Rear Shocks, Bobbed Fenders
2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
Bore x Stroke
4.063 in x 4.449 in (103.2 mm x 113 mm)
Compression Ratio
11.0 : 1
Displacement
116 cu-in (1,890 cc)
Drive/Driven Clutch
Wet, Multi-Plate
Electronic Fuel Injection System
Closed loop fuel injection / 54 mm bore
Engine Type
Air-cooled Thunderstroke 116
Exhaust
Dual Exhaust w/ Crossover
Gear Ratio (1st)
9.403 : 1
Gear Ratio (2nd)
6.411 : 1
Gear Ratio (3rd)
4.763 : 1
Gear Ratio (4th)
3.796 : 1
Gear Ratio (5th)
3.243 : 1
Gear Ratio (6th)
2.789 : 1
Peak Torque
120 ft-lbs
Peak Torque RPM
2,900 rpm
Transmission/Final Drive
2.2 : 1
Transmission/Primary Drive
Gear Drive Wet Clutch
DIMENSIONS
Fuel Capacity
4.0 Gallons (15.1 L)
Ground Clearance
4.9 in (125 mm)
GVWR
1,160 lbs (526 kg)
Lean Angle
28.5°
Overall Height
49.3 in (1,253 mm)
Overall Length
90 in (2,286 mm)
Overall Width
36.3 in (922 mm)
Rake/Trail
29° / 5.2 in (132 mm)
Seat Height (Laden)
26.0 in (660 mm)
Weight (Dry Weight / Running Order)
647 lbs (294 kg) / 670 lbs (304 kg)
Wheelbase
64.0 in (1,626 mm)
BRAKES
Front Brakes
Single / 300mm Semi-Floating Rotor / 4 Piston Caliper
Rear Brakes
Single / 300mm Floating Rotor / 2 Piston Caliper
TIRES / WHEELS
Front Tires
Metzeler Cruisetec® 130/60 B19 61H
Front Wheel
Machine Highlighted Cast Black 19 in x 3.5 in
Rear Tires
Metzeler Cruisetec® 180/65 B16 81H
Rear Wheel
Machine Highlighted Cast Black 16 in x 5 in
SUSPENSION
Front Fork Tube Diameter
46 mm
Front Suspension
Telescopic Fork
Front Travel
5.2 in (132 mm)
Rear Suspension
Dual Shocks w/ Adjustable Preload
Rear Travel
3.0 in (75 mm)
FEATURES
Color / Graphics
Black Smoke, Deep Blue Metallic, Heavy Metal
Factory Warranty
2 Years, Unlimited Miles
Lights
LED Headlight, LED Tail/Brake/Turn Signals
Passenger Accommodations
Solo Seat, 2-Up Accessory Options Available
Standard Equipment
ABS, Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, USB charge port, 12V Charge Port, Rear Cylinder Deactivation
Storage
N/A, Accessory Storage Options Available
TECHNOLOGY
Audio
N/A, Accessory Bluetooth® Speaker Available
Gauge
Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, Fuel Gauge, Compass, Ambient Temperature, Gear Indicator
RIDE COMMAND
4″ Display Factory-Installed with GPS Navigation, Bluetooth® Connectivity, Ride Stats, and More
RIDE COMMAND+
Via Bluetooth® Tethering with Account Sync, Connected Search and More *Requires cellular data.
STYLE
Design
Blacked-Out Finishes, Mid Mount Foot Controls, Drag Handlebars, Slim Headlight Bucket, 19 in Machine Highlighted Cast Black Front Wheel, Exposed Rear Shocks, Bobbed Fenders
2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse – Totalmotorcycle.com Europe Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
| Engine Type | Air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 |
| Displacement | 1,890 cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 103.2 mm x 113 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 |
| Electronic Fuel Injection System | Closed loop fuel injection / 54 mm bore |
Performance
| Peak Torque RPM | 2024 model: 2,900 rpm
2025 model: 3,300 rpm |
| Peak Torque | 156 Nm |
Drivetrain
| Primary Drive | Gear Drive Wet Clutch |
| Clutch | Wet, Multi-Plate |
Gear Ratio (Overall)
| 1st | 9.403 : 1 |
| 2nd | 6.411 : 1 |
| 3rd | 4.763 : 1 |
| 4th | 3.796 : 1 |
| 5th | 3.243 : 1 |
| 6th | 2.789 : 1 |
| Final Drive | 2.2:1 |
Suspension
| Suspension: Front – Type/Travel | Telescopic Fork / 132 mm |
| Suspension: Rear – Type/Travel | Dual Shocks w/ adjustable preload / 75 mm |
Chassis
| Brakes/Front | Single / 300mm Semi-Floating Rotor / 4 Piston Calliper |
| Brakes/Rear | Single / 300mm Floating Rotor / 2 Piston Calliper |
| Tyres/Front | Metzeler® CruiseTec® 130/60 B19 61H |
| Tyres/Rear | Metzeler® CruiseTec® 180/65 B16 81H |
| Wheels | Machine Highlighted Cast Black 19″ x 3.5″ / Machine Highlighted Cast Black16″ x 5″ |
| Exhaust | Dual Exhaust w/ Crossover |
Dimensions
| Wheelbase | 1,626 mm |
| Seat Height | 662 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 125 mm |
| Overall Length | 2,286 mm |
| Overall Width | 922 mm |
| Overall Height | 1,253 mm |
| Lean Angle | 28,5° |
| Rake | 29° |
| Trail | 132 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.1 L |
| GVWR | 526 kg |
| Weight (Empty tank / full of fuel) | 294 kg / 304 kg |
Features
| Colour / Graphics | Black Smoke, Heavy Metal |
| Factory Warranty | 2 years |
Standard
| Standard Equipment | ABS, Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, USB Charge Port, 12V Charge Port, Rear Cylinder Deactivation |
| Passenger Accommodations | Solo Seat, 2-Up Accessory Options |
| Lights | LED Headlight, LED Tail/Brake/Turn Signals |
Electrical
| Gauges | Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, Fuel Gauge, Compass, Ambient Temperature, Gear Indicator |
| audio | N/A, Accessory Bluetooth® Speaker Available |
| Ride Command® | 4″ Display Factory-Installed with GPS Navigation, Bluetooth® Connectivity, Ride Stats, and More |
| Ride Command+® | Available via Bluetooth® Tethering with Account Sync and More *May require cellular data. |
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
