Let’s not sugarcoat it — the Indian Chieftain is a big boy. It’s massive, muscular, loaded with chrome, and unapologetically bold. If you’re the kind of rider who wants a cruiser that demands road presence and doesn’t just roll by — it rolls over everything — then the Chieftain is worth every stare.
But how does it actually ride? Is it just all show and no go? I took the Indian Chieftain Dark Horse out for a long weekend spin — and here’s what I really think.
Indian Chieftain Price Around the World
| Country | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| India | ₹32.38 lakh (ex-showroom, Dark Horse trim) |
| USA | $23,999 USD (Base) |
| Australia | AUD 40,995 |
| UK | £27,295 GBP |
| Canada | CAD 31,999 |
Note: Pricing varies heavily depending on trim – Dark Horse, Limited, and Elite versions are all a step up from the standard Indian Chieftain motorcycle.
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What’s the Indian Chieftain All About?
- Thunderstroke 116 Engine: A monster V-Twin with boatloads of torque
- Batwing Fairing with Power Windscreen
- Massive Ride Command infotainment system
- Factory-fitted audio system, cruise control, and keyless ignition
- Optional Dark Horse or Black Horse finishes for a stealthy vibe
Indian Chieftain Specs Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1890cc (Thunderstroke 116) V-Twin |
| Max Torque | 171 Nm @ 3,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Mileage (Average) | 15–18 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20.8 litres |
| Seat Height | 650 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 373 kg |
| Front Tyre | 130/60B19 |
| Rear Tyre | 180/60R16 |
| Suspension | Telescopic Fork / Single Rear Shock |
| Brakes | Dual 300mm Front / 300mm Rear Discs |
What’s It Like to Ride the Indian Chieftain?
Alright, let’s be honest — it feels like you’re riding a freaking tank. But a comfy one.
The low-end torque from the Thunderstroke 116 makes you feel like you’ve got a locomotive under your seat. You don’t twist the throttle — you command it. The power delivery is smooth, but it has that old-school mechanical grunt that makes every shift feel special.
On highways, this bike is built for mile-munching. You can cruise at 120 km/h all day without even touching the throttle thanks to cruise control. That power windscreen? A game-changer for wind buffeting.
Cornering? Not its forte, let’s be real. But for a bike this size, the Chieftain handles shockingly well once you’re rolling. It’s the slow-speed maneuvers that take some getting used to — especially if you’re new to big tourers.
Features on the Indian Chieftain Motorcycle
- Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin engine
- 7-inch Ride Command touchscreen (with Apple CarPlay)
- Full LED lighting
- 100-watt audio system (speakers in fairing + saddlebags in top trims)
- Power-adjustable windscreen
- Keyless ignition, cruise control
- ABS, TPMS, Rear cylinder deactivation (less heat in traffic)
- Remote-locking hard saddlebags
FAQs
What is the difference between Indian Chieftain and Chieftain Dark Horse?
The Dark Horse is the blacked-out, meaner-looking version. Less chrome, more attitude. It also gets premium paint and often more tech like Ride Modes and rear cylinder deactivation.
How much MPG does the Indian Chieftain give?
Expect 15 to 18 km/l depending on how hard you ride. It’s not made to sip fuel, but it cruises efficiently at highway speeds.
Is the Chieftain good for Indian roads?
On highways? Absolutely. In tight cities? Not really. The massive size and weight make it tough for city riding or filtering through traffic.
Indian Chieftain Black Horse – is it real?
Technically, there’s no “Black Horse” trim, but many riders refer to blacked-out versions of the Dark Horse as “Black Horse.” The name’s unofficial, the style is 100% real.
Where can I find Indian Chieftain for sale?
Official Indian Motorcycle dealerships
Online classifieds like CycleTrader, OLX Autos (India), Autotrader (UK)
Certified pre-owned dealerships (expect $4K–$5K lower than new)
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic American styling & road presence | Very heavy in low-speed riding |
| Plush ride quality | Expensive, especially with upgrades |
| Loaded with tech & luxury features | Not very nimble in corners |
| Thunderstroke 116 = pure torque heaven | Fuel economy is decent, not great |
| Factory hard bags = perfect for touring | Needs a big garage and wide parking! |
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Indian Chieftain?
The Indian Chieftain isn’t a bike you pick because it’s practical. You buy it because it makes a statement. It’s loud (visually and aurally), it’s big, it’s got muscle, and it wraps you in tech and comfort like a true American touring bagger should.
If you’re cross-shopping it with Harley’s Road Glide or Street Glide, the Chieftain offers just a bit more soul, if you ask me. The Dark Horse trim adds that sinister edge that makes the bike feel even more special.
For the riders who crave long highways, big sound systems, torque-on-demand, and just want to feel like the king of the road — this one’s calling your name.
Author- Ayush
