Regular Total Motorcycle readers will know last week Harley-Davidson released their first set of 2026 motorcycles early, we covered it here. Was it in response to the new 2026 Indian Motorcycle Lineup and their more powerful engines? Are the new Indian motorcycles that good? Well, Indian does have a 105hp 1250cc Scout engine, Thunderstroke 116, PowerPlus 112 engine making 126hp and 133ft-lbs of torque. Plus 40 new models and 2026 Indian Girder concept bike. Let’s take a look!
Indian Motorcycle has unveiled its 2026 lineup, headlined by the all‑new Sport Scout RT. This aggressive new Scout variant blends timeless DNA with modern muscle, packing a 1250cc V‑twin into a next‑gen frame and adding factory‑fitted Locking Rigid Saddlebags for over 10 gallons of secure storage. Riders will appreciate its custom‑inspired look straight from the factory color‑matched fenders, quarter fairing, gloss black moto risers, and a sport solo seat for long‑haul comfort. A 19‑inch front wheel and dialed ergonomics complete the package, delivering both style and agile handling.
108, 112 PowerPlus and Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin engines, Fresh paint, graphics, and accessories round out the 2026 lineup. Premium new colors like Black Crystal & Super Graphite with Championship Gold accents, Deep Blue Metallic, Cascade Green Metallic, and Indy Red elevate the PowerPlus family of baggers and tourers. Updated tank graphics sharpen the Chief range, while a host of new accessories expand storage, audio, and comfort options. Highlights include the PowerBand Audio Bluetooth Speaker system, adjustable Gilles Tooling levers, pullback risers, and Spirit Lake travel bags. Whether it’s the Scout, Chief, or full touring models, Indian Motorcycle’s 2026 catalog ensures riders can personalize their machines with authentic upgrades built for the open road.
Harley’s Street Glide and Road Glide families directly parallel Indian’s Chieftain and Challenger, while the Roadmaster and Pursuit align with Harley’s Ultra Glide and ST touring models. Let’s see how they compare:
| Model (2026) | MSRP (USD) | Horsepower | Torque | Weight (Wet) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harley‑Davidson Street Glide | $26,999 | 105 hp | 130 lb‑ft | 796 lbs | Batwing fork‑mounted fairing, Milwaukee‑Eight 117, touring comfort. |
| Harley‑Davidson Road Glide | $34,649 | 105 hp | 130 lb‑ft | 820 lbs | Sharknose frame‑mounted fairing, Milwaukee‑Eight 117, Skyline OS display. |
| Indian Chieftain Limited | $27,999 | 126 hp | 133 lb‑ft | 830 lbs | Batwing‑style fairing, PowerPlus 112 V‑twin, premium paint/trim. |
| Indian Challenger Limited | $27,999 | 126 hp | 133 lb‑ft | 855 lbs | Fixed fairing, PowerPlus 112 V‑twin, aggressive bagger styling. |
Roadmaster & Pursuit vs. Ultra Glide & ST Touring
| Model (2026) | MSRP (USD) | Horsepower | Torque | Weight (Wet) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harley‑Davidson Ultra Glide (Ultra Limited) | $29,999 | 105 hp | 130 lb‑ft | 880 lbs | Full‑dress tourer, trunk, Milwaukee‑Eight 117, luxury touring features. |
| Harley‑Davidson Road Glide ST | $32,999 | 121 hp | 134 lb‑ft | 842 lbs | Performance touring bagger, Milwaukee‑Eight 121, sport‑tuned suspension. |
| Indian Roadmaster PowerPlus Limited | $32,499 | 126 hp | 133 lb‑ft | 930 lbs | Full touring with trunk, PowerPlus 112 V‑twin, premium touring trim. |
| Indian Pursuit Dark Horse | $33,999 | 126 hp | 133 lb‑ft | 875 lbs | Performance touring, PowerPlus 112 V‑twin, aggressive styling, advanced tech. |
Key Takeaways
- Street Glide vs. Chieftain: Both are batwing‑style baggers; Harley’s Street Glide has slightly less power but similar torque.
- Road Glide vs. Challenger: Both are fixed‑fairing baggers; Indian Challenger edges Harley in horsepower/torque.
- Roadmaster vs. Ultra Glide: Both are full‑dress tourers; Roadmaster is heavier but offers slightly more torque.
- Pursuit vs. Road Glide ST: Both emphasize performance touring; Harley’s ST has higher horsepower, Indian’s Pursuit balances torque and tech.
Wow, that’s a CLOSE one! With the Roadmaster & Pursuit vs. Ultra Glide & ST Touring it’s a coin flip really… actually, it’s really which one you like the looks and feel of best TBH. The Street Glide & Road Glide vs. Chieftain & Challenger it is more clear cut, the Chieftain & Challenger for the same cost offer more power for the price… if that matters to you. But you can see why both Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle makes are so competitive.
I’m sure 2026 Harley-Davidson is trying to sway you over to their side and so is 2026 Indian Motorcycle. Personally, I think the paint finishes on (excluding CVO) win on Indian as well as the engine’s look and finish, but H-D has it hands down in potato-potato-potato sound and massive culture.
What’s your winners?
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
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.”
SPORT SCOUT RT
Leveraging the timeless style and perfect proportions of Scout’s DNA, today’s Indian Scout has been reshaped into the most capable American cruiser available. With a 1250cc V-twin engine, tucked into a next-generation steel tube frame, form and function combine to deliver iconic Scout flair and spirited performance across the entire lineup.
New for 2026, Indian Motorcycle has introduced Sport Scout RT – featuring a modern design and adding a more aggressive and capable spirit to the Scout lineup. Locking Rigid Saddlebags offer over 10 gallons of weatherproof storage and are capable of fitting an entire set of riding gear, including boots, pants, a jacket and gloves. Whether commuting, cruising, or on a weekend getaway, the top-down design is incredibly convenient and maximizes cargo capacity.
New color matched fenders and quarter fairing paired with new graphics give the Sport Scout RT a complete custom-inspired look straight from the factory. Stylish gloss black 5.5-inch moto style risers with machine highlights come standard. Machined triples and moto handlebars complete the package, both in custom looks and dialed ergonomics. Its sport solo seat provides lower back support and offers incredible comfort on longer rides without compromising the bike’s sleek styling. The Sport Scout RT’s quarter fairing not only keeps wind off the rider’s chest, but delivers a stylish and custom look straight from the factory. Sport Scout RT’s 19-inch front wheel adds to the aggressive nature of the bike – both in design and agile handling.
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.
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE AUTHENTIC ACCESSORIES
The 2026 Indian Motorcycle accessory catalog offers a curated range of accessories, enabling riders to tailor their bike with added comfort, expanded storage, and enhanced audio.
Scout Accessories
The Indian Scout lineup introduces new ergonomic, audio and storage options alongside a full category of new accessories for 2026 including:
- PowerBand Audio Bluetooth® Speaker: The PowerBand Audio Bluetooth® Speaker secures between the Scout’s handlebar risers and Quarter Fairing, as two 2.5-inch mid-range speakers, one 4.5-inch subwoofer and two tweeters deliver 90 watts of crystal-clear audio at highway speeds. Featuring a five-band equalizer, accessible via the 4” Touchscreen Display Powered by RIDE COMMAND, riders can personalize their listening experience by selecting the setting best suited for their favorite music genre. The PowerBand Audio Bluetooth® Speaker can seamlessly be paired with 2025-2026 Scout models that come with an Indian Motorcycle Scout Quarter Fairing, including Sport Scout, Sport Scout Sixty, Sport Scout RT, and 101 Scout. Additionally, 2025-2026 Super Scout, Scout Classic, and Scout Bobber owners can purchase the Indian Motorcycle Scout Quarter Fairing along with the PowerBand Audio mount and wiring harness to equip the PowerBand Audio Speaker. Scout Bobber and Scout Bobber Sixty models also require an additional headlight relocation kit to equip PowerBand Audio.
- Locking Rigid Saddlebags: Maximizing cargo capacity, the top-down design of the saddlebags offer over ten gallons of combined storage, enabling riders to keep their gear dry and secure. While standard on 2026 Sport Scout RT, Locking Rigid Saddlebags are compatible with all 2025-2026 Scout models.
- Adjustable Brake and Clutch Levers by Gilles Tooling: The Adjustable Clutch and Brake Levers by Gilles Tooling are a premium upgrade from stock levers. With a wide range of adjustment, the levers allow riders to fine-tune their lever positioning and feel for personalized, confident control. Machined from high-grade aluminum, the levers are designed for strength, longevity and consistent performance.
- 8” Pullback Handlebars Risers: Improve the reach and add aggressive styling that turns heads with the 8” Pullback Handlebar Risers. These risers fit across all 2025-2026 Scout models and offer Sport Scout, Sport Scout RT, and 101 Scout riders a comfortable, reduced reach option.
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.
Bagger & Touring Accessories
New 2026 accessories for Thunderstroke and PowerPlus models offer riders convenience when packing for the long haul.
- Spirit Lake Saddlebag Liner Travel Bags & Spirit Lake Trunk Liner Travel Bag: Combining premium craftsmanship with practical convenience, the Spirit Lake Saddlebag Liner Travel Bags fit seamlessly inside Indian Motorcycle’s flat-top saddlebags. The Spirit Lake Trunk Liner Travel Bag stows conveniently within the Indian Motorcycle Touring Trunk. Named after the home of Indian Motorcycle production in Spirit Lake, Iowa, each bag features a two-tone black and gray design and is constructed from high-quality polyester for all-weather durability and long-lasting performance.
- Spirit Lake Wheeled Touring Bag: The Spirit Lake Wheeled Touring Bag blends premium craftsmanship with everyday convenience. Integrated wheels and a telescoping handle make it easy for riders to transport gear. Spacious, stylish, and road-trip-ready, it’s an ideal companion for extended adventures. Riders can pack at home, wheel the bag to the bike, attach it to a sissy bar or passenger backrest, and hit the road – no repacking required.
The 2026 Indian Motorcycle lineup will begin shipping to dealers this month.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE
Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship.
Scout
– 2026 Indian Sport Scout RT – New model
Scout Sixty
– 2026 Indian Scout Sixty Classic
– 2026 Indian Scout Sixty Bobber
– 2026 Indian Sport Scout Sixty
Chief
– 2026 Indian Chief Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Super Chief Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Super Chief Limited
Chieftain
– 2026 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Chieftain Limited
– 2026 Indian Chieftain Powerplus 112 Dark Horse – New model
– 2026 Indian Chieftain Powerplus 108 Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Chieftain Powerplus 112 Limited – New model
– 2026 Indian Chieftain Powerplus 108 Limited
Challenger
– 2026 Indian Challenger 112 Dark Horse – New model
– 2026 Indian Challenger 108 Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Challenger 112 Limited – New model
– 2026 Indian Challenger 108 Limited
Springfield
– 2026 Indian Springfield Dark Horse
Roadmaster
– 2026 Indian Roadmaster Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Roadmaster Limited
– 2026 Indian Roadmaster Powerplus 112 Dark Horse – New model
– 2026 Indian Roadmaster Powerplus 108 Dark Horse – New model
– 2026 Indian Roadmaster Powerplus 112 Limited – New model
– 2026 Indian Roadmaster Powerplus 108 Limited – New model
Pursuit
– 2026 Indian Pursuit 112 Dark Horse – New model
– 2026 Indian Pursuit 108 Dark Horse
– 2026 Indian Pursuit 112 Limited – New model
– 2026 Indian Pursuit 108 Limited
Concept
– 2026 Indian Girder – New model
Michael Le Pard (“Mr. Totalmotorcycle”) is the Founder of Total Motorcycle, the world’s largest motorcycle information site, trusted by over 430 million riders since 1999. With over 34 years of experience in motorcycles, gear and rider culture, he has built a global community dedicated to empowering and inspiring motorcyclists.
Total Motorcycle remains his passion project. Combining expert research, hands‑on knowledge and a commitment to helping riders make informed decisions about bikes, gear and safety worldwide.
