Good comparison Indian vs. HD on value for money. However, it is my experience that in the long run you are not going to care whether you paid $2,000 more or less for your bike. What’s much more important is whether you picked the bike that feels better, looks better, sounds better than the alternative. My advice, don’t compromise, go for your dream bike. A bike is purely an emotional thing anyway.
Am I the only one under the age of 40 who loves the huge skirted fenders with the tip light? New Chiefs looks great though but I still got my eyes on a Vintage.
The way that 116 sits in that new frame is kind like soft porn. I'd take 116 Dark Horse. New tech, and they're listening to their customers. I have two dealer within 35 minues from me. Lastly but important to me, is everyone has a Harley. I just don't want to be like everyone else.
I don't care about being like everyone else. If I like something, and everyone else has it, I am still going to buy it.. I don't let others influence my buying decision.
Bloody hell, ABS should not be an option on any of these bikes, they should all have it. As for the dealer network thing, outside the US the dealer network is virtually non existent for both marques.
The dealer network for Harley-Davidson is extensive here in the UK. it's probably better than most other marques I can think of. I have 5 bar and shield dealers within 100 miles of me, and I live in the north of England.... I imagine it's the same for most of Europe. There is one Indian main dealer within 150 miles of me, I imagine that it's the same for most of Europe :)
@@Teatimeted I am very surprised to hear that, are they actual dealers or just privately owned bike shops who say they are HD sales and repairs, do they all actually have brand new HD's for sale?. I am in New Zealand and there are dozens of bike shops who repair HD, and sell used bikes, but only a handful (perhaps 6 or 8) where you can go in and buy a new HD.
Indian Motorcycle Introducing this new Indian Chief Cruiser is a huge event in world of the US cruiser motorcycles. Finally! Indian Motorcycle fills the space between the Scout and the Vintage. The new Indian Chief wins on design, and engineering art. When you get to see them up close .. The devil will be in the details. A perfect blend of old and new.
I'm 65 and finally bought my first Indian in 2016. A Willow Green/ Cream Vintage with the tan leather. I've loved those fenders since I was 16!!! It is by far, IMO,(and my wife's) the prettiest bike on the road, and that's stock! People are always taking pics when it's parked. It also has a fantastic ride..
@@thebrubud those are awesome color combination including the leather. I almost impulse bought a scout bobber that had those colors just because it looks so damn good. Sexy slick and retro all at the same time. But then I came to my senses and realized I have two motorcycles and I don't even have a garage. What am I thinking. I've got a motorcycle trailer and a shed but I told myself I'm not going to buy another until I get a garage like a big boy.
Ordered a Super Chief Limited in metallic black. The digital gauge and the 116 motor blew me away on my test ride. I liked several HDs also, especially the Softail Slim, but just wanted to do something different. I'm 38 and the HD rep factored in a bit. Indian does need to do major work on the dealer network, in some areas more than others. They are all good bikes, super excited to get mine in so I can start racking up the miles!
Estoy considerando comprarme una Chief, vengo de dos años de no montar. Antes andaba en puras motos de pista y ocasionalmente tenía algunas custom japonesas. Ahora quiero cambiar de estilo y las multiproposito no me gustan nada (la mayoría de mis colegas migraron a esas pero yo no lo haré) Tengo más o menos tu edad, modo 1.66m ¿como crees que me siente tener una Indian Chief? Siempre me han gustado las custom, me gusta esa y la Truinph Bonneville Bobber. Un comentario tuyo me agradaría leer. Saludos
I've never understood the "dealer network" being seen as an advantage......I've been to my Indian dealer exactly ONCE (three years ago). I couldn't imagine spending my hard earned money on a bike and then asking the dealer to hold my hand through the ownership process. Gross.
So people look at the dealer network as in your riding and something catastrophic happens to your bike and you need it repaired. For most Harley owner's, at least here in the states, you're always within 50 miles of a Harley-Davidson dealership. And probably even less of someone who can work on it.
@@BlackbirdSSR that's pretty standard for any Vehicle Manufacturer. It's on the Ford Mustang to a Hyundai Accent. If you buy it at the Harley dealer and have them install it and then if something happens they're at fault. If you buy it off of Amazon, install it yourself, and your bike explodes with you on it, they're not at fault because you voided the warranty. It makes sense if you think about it.
@@aragos32727 and they dont void the entire warranty if you mod your bike your self, just the section related to what you did. if you change your headlight then have a brake failure, they are not going to blame that brake failure on you.
When you said, “The Harley is cheaper and lighter” I spit out my drink. I’d thought I’d ever hear cheaper and lighter when referencing a Harley! Like you, I prefer the Harley’s. Great video, thanks for your input.
In recent years Harley's have been on the lower end of their competition when you do Apples to Apples comparisons. Yet the "Harley's are expensive" meme continues. Even if you present people with the hard data from the website showing the numbers.
Same, I'm in Daytona Beach. I have Indian right down the street. I have never had any issues with my Harleys, but after I switched to Indian, I don't see myself going back to Harley. Much nicer in my opinion.
It baffles me why dealer support is part of the conversation. I've never had an issue with any bike I've owned maybe a battery every so many years. But then again none of the 20 or bikes I've had have ever been a Harley or an Indian. I buy them old and build them to what I want. Although my 2005 BMW GS 1200 is just nice the way it is.
You keep mentioning HD's dealer network, yet HD is closing down dealers all over north America. We already lost one of our dealers here in Calgary from what I've heard, and more closures coming.
It's the same where I live in Norway, last HD dealership closed down last year. So Indian would be closer to me than HD, but Indian is still about a 2 hour drive away. I do have Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki, Triumph, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, KTM and Yamaha dealerships withing 10-15 min walking distance though, so I guess I'll go metric for my future bikes.
I think what I don’t like with Harley or Indian building this HD or Indian dealership churches only. A lot of customers may need this Harley or Indian Dealership church’s, I don’t. I would not mind buying my Harley or Indian from a dealership that may also sales BMW‘s, Kawasaki’s etc. It also would keep the coast for us customers down.
I personally would chose the Indian! In my opinion HD has to do some serious apologizing and ass kissing before i consider them again! HD has abused its customers for years.
As a younger rider, I like the Chief for the tec and the new Chief is more my, price, speed and size compared to the bigger Indians. I also live the look of the Indians. I'll probably be getting a new Chief then putting a windshield with highway bars and riding it till it dies
That's what I'm doing with my '11 Road King. I really like the new Chief, I think it's a wise direction to go to add options to the line. I would definitely consider a Super Chief alongside a Heritage Softail and a RK if I was in the market for a new ride.
I love my Chief Darkhorse 17 model. I’ve always wanted a heritage softail, but Indian is definitely giving HD a run for the money. Good comparison vid mate
The base model Chief dark horse is £2800 more expensive than the Harley base model, so a run for the money is not quite true here in the UK. Can't see the Indian doing well here, my local dealer only has FTR and Scout models in stock too so a test ride or even close inspection is out of the question. Few years ago I bought a Victory Vegas which out performed the equivalent Harley and undercut by price over £1000, these current Indians are too expensive to be a big seller over here Harley wins every time with better dealer network and great service.
Well, for me the skirted fenders on Td Chief make it iconic. Indian went out of business 5 years before I was born but all through my life the fenders were the signature of Indian. Like a 53 Buick Roadmaster or an excelsior super X with the forks through the fenders. To be able to own and ride one with out the $40,000 price tag makes me 16 again. For that I am great full.
Just bought one 2 weeks ago its all chrome and tough looking, I just bought a windshield, sissy bar and rack with luggage so it's a cruiser 1 minute to strip it down to a bar hopper. I love it.
Given the terrible experience I had at the HD dealership 2 years ago, I'll never consider an HD product. And that Chief Darkhorse is sexy af. For now, I'll stick with my Triumph Storm, and leave both these bikes in my rearview. TBH, my next bike will most likely be a Rocket 3.
@@TheDans7300 The sales rep was a complete asshole. Arrogant, and condescending. He acted like he was doing me a favor just talking to me. Then I went to his boss, he was even worse. HD's arrogance, and their refusal to innovate, is what is killing them.
That's too funny! I just went through something similar. I'm ready to purchase either the Chief or the Bob. The Harley salesman was a complete jerk he started knocking Indian that turned me off. I don't have time for that crap. I'm spending my hard earn money so i want to make the right decision. Don't need the hating crap.
The rocket is an interesting proposition. It's a true behemoth. Im just not sure I can get along with a true cruiser having anything other than a twin. Just doesn't have the right pop pop sound. Very good bike though.
@@Osmani4you you can't tell Harley riders that. Their pride will get in the way and they can't understand facts or data. If it's got two wheels and licensed as a motorcycle it must be a copycat.
@Car&Track7 If you get a Challenger and put it side by side with something like a road king, if you look at them properly, you'll see where HD have cut corners. Theres cheap plastic all over it. The switchgear such as turnsignals, starter button and most of the other controls, the quality feels like dollar store christmas cracker level. The Indian isnt perfect either, but the road glide was certainly poor. I've never owned a bike from either brand but this stuff isn't hard to spot, particularly when the next bike over is a Honda goldwing, which are a galaxy aware from both indian and harley when it comes to finish quality so make it easy to spot shortcomings.
It's hard to say what would've happened with Harley Davidson if Indian not reintroduced their third iteration of motorcycles. If you follow the Indian story, it's really a fascinating one! In business school, we learned that competition is good and anti-trust is bad. I'll bet that even though HD had rested on its laurels a bit, that they had their feet to the fire to start "modernizing" and find ways to reduce the prices of their bikes. I have owned HD's since the late 70s. Yep, my first was a 1974 HD Super-Glide FXE (kick-start and electric start). It was an "AMF", but unlike many AMFs, mine never leaked oil and was reliable! Weird huh? I'd always have a can of either in my saddle bag because when you're leaving the bar at 2 am in the winter and it's fa-fa-freezing outside, you want your bike to start! You can worry about the ole lady yelling at you later but you need to get home first! lol Indian's always been innovative! I have a friend that has a 1912 Indian (from Steve McQueen's collection) and it's very unique. For example, there are no cables, but metal linkages. It has no chain but it has a leather fan belt, it has a kerosine headlamp that you have to pump by hand to keep the wick lit (just like the old Coleman stoves...lol). My comment isn't about which is better but it is a reminder that we're American's and share the same joys and hardships and we're fiercely proud of what we build with our hearts, souls, minds & hands! I loved watching "Indian Larry" in the old Gasoline Alley shop tv shows on American Choppers. I remember he once said about his unique creations "I like the mechanicalness of my machines". Let that set in for a moment! He hit the nail on the head. My generation's a gear-grinding, loud exhaust piped, tire-smoking, horse-power making, fossil-fuel burning internal combustion engine loving generation! Yep, that's what we are! And we can't get enough of it! So, it's not HOW we get from point "A" to point "B" as long as we look good getting to point "B"
Ummm... ok? The Scout blows the Sportster out of the water, the Challenger beats the road glide in every metric, and the rest of their line up is no less than equal to their Harley counterparts.
I own two motorcycles 2019 dark horse chieftain and a 2016 Sportster. I love the Indian dark horse because in my town everyone owns a street glide. I wanted to be different and got a dark horse. The deciding factor for the dark horse is the modern look to it which made me buy it. The Sportster is my bar hopping and around-town bike. I like my Sportster a lot as I can mod it any style I want but that Indian chief and scout has been making me want to trade.
street bob is my pick. because, just bought one last week. lol. the proximity of dealership means a lot, and the ppl from the dealership are very helpful, and that also means a lot when you're a new rider.
My good friend picked that exact Street Bob you pictured last week. Great dollar for power ratio and can confirm it gives my Buell a run for its money on those long straights.
If Harley, the new Fat Bob with Milwaukee 8 engine. If Indian, the Chief Dark Horse with the added options. In reality with wallet considerations, a low mileage Vulcan 900 for short trips, and a Can-Am F3T for long trips. Big touring bikes eat rear tires like candy. The F3T has an extra-wide rear tire, and great cornering with the 2tires in front. Much more stable than a Harley or GoldWing trikes...👍😺
I'm 57 and I still desire the TFT displays with actual usable information associated with them. The dashboard info looks like a cheap afterthought on the Harley, and a cost savings move. To approve of the appearance of the minimalism vs a TFT feels more like rationalizing one over the other. Not unlike saying the Harley has "character". I don't want character in my bike if it means that I have to spend the weekend finding a mechanic to wrench on my bike rather than ride on my precious few free weekends or worse yet a vacation. I just cannot see an advantage there. Also, the costs comparison would be a lot different if the Harley matched up in technology. I live in the US and we have an Indian dealer literally down the block from the HD dealer so that isn't a concern. I do however agree that the increase in fuel tank size is a plus, especially on cruisers with which one can expect to pull some miles. But even that is subjective based on actual fuel economy of each bike. I do love the paint job on the Harley that you pointed out. But the Indian cylinder heads are a work of art. Fit and finish seem to be improving on each brand. But the reality for longevity for both brands is capturing a demographic that doesn't appear to know that motorcycles exist beyond a scooter or moped. I love your thoughtful approach to your videos and enjoy your content. Please keep on producing. There are a lot of us that look for this kind of interesting material and not just motorcycle specification reviews. Peace.
I know that this was written a long time ago. The tank size seems a bit of a non-issue to me. I purchased the Sportster S that has a 2.9 gallon tank and yes, I do fill it a lot more often. When touring though, that range is about two hours of riding and at my own 52 years of age it is time to stretch the legs, grab a drink and rub my own shoulders. Pushing past your body's limits has a cost and is a younger mans game. It is not a branding issue for me either, I likely would have gone with the Rebel or Scout, both with similar small tanks. To cross my country of Australia though, the most unpopulated region, there is only one stretch where I might be drawing fumes, on the Nullarbor (about 130 miles I think by conversion). As for other parts of your post, I agree that the classic displays with a tiny LCD are more an affectation to an older era than a cost saving measure (I can buy a $100 phone with one so going back to full mechanical analogue seems more expensive, not cheaper). Both HD and Indian are hitting the right marks independently of each other for the moment. The FTR, Scout and Challenger are excellent in appeal while the Sportster S and Pan America are unique for American bikes. Those five bikes are pretty competitive on both price and technology internationally.
Blame the EPA for most of it. Can't have a motor anymore without injection and a computer because abs and traction control are soon to be mandatory. Although if you really like old school and don't want the electronics you could get a "Janice" motorcycle.
I've looked at the 2022 indian super chief ltd and 2021 harley street glide special up close this week. The quality of the switchgear and overall fit and finish of indian was much better than the street glide. I would suggest anyone considering these goes for a hands on first. Neither are bad bikes, but seriously some of the plastics and just general finishing on the harley were well below what I expected as a newcomer to both brands.
I understand, to a point, the dealership issue. However, if that is a major part of your decision on which bike to buy, you are eliminating a lot of really nice bikes! I've ridden the same Guzzi for 46 years, by far my favorite bike I have owned( a lot of that is sentimental). But if dealerships were my main concern it would have been gone a long time ago. If dealers are your concern than you'll never consider Ducati, Guzzi, Aprilla, Triumph, BMW, Indian, and more. As a rider and enthusiast I just would not want to limit myself. Unless of course you are fortunate enough to have one of these dealers near you. If not, you might as well stick with the four big metrics and HD, like most people own. I'm really happy with my Indian Vintage. We now we have 5 Indian dealers in Colorado, but I've only been there to buy it and the 500m service. It's now at about 30k.
For me I'd take the Indian Chief darkhorse. The big touch screen that makes it easier to use and read. Plus it has it's own distinctive style. Now I do understand the issue of the 4 gallon tank vs a 5 gallon tank that some of the Harley's have but if you can get past the smaller take it will be a good alternative to the softails Harley offers.
I’d take an Indian. Because it’s not a Harley. I’m not into cruisers (yet) but Indian impressed with the FTR. So if I ever feel the need to cruise, I’ll try and Indian.
Why? Harley is the last person you should get a adventure bike from. Atleast with the cruisers your just buying a cruiser. Harleys platforms are 40+ years old. Literally any other manufacturers in thier price range makes a better bike. And harley has bin around 100+ years They have bin living on brand loyalty All they did was make everything black and put a bigger motor in itself. The equivalent of putting titts in a c movie. I have a 2015 harley dyna lowrider. It's a beautiful bike. The more I ride it the more it grows on me. But in comparison the suspension and handling are shit!! To dam near everything else. Those are about the 2 most important things for a adventure bike
Dealership network will always be an issue with Indian, Polaris had the same problem with Victory. For some reason, not sure what, if a dealer carried the Polaris line of ATVs they didn't do well with Victory motorcycles. It was like they were cousins that didn't like each other at a family reunion. The extra electronic features on the Indians scare me a bit too, every issue I had with my Victory motorcycles was electrical. I've owned two, and between them had around 100,000 miles in the saddle, so I know what I'm talking about.
I'd take either. Here in Au there isn't as much of a stigma or pigeonhole with either brand really. Sure there's the one eyed HD fanboys that hate everything else (including some HD models) but that's a good thing to keep the brand afloat. Expensive tho.. a Base Chief here is US$23K vs the Softail 107 at US$18K.
I agree dealer location and support are extremely important if not essential for new/modern bikes. I happen to have four Indian dealerships within a hour from my home in Pittsburgh, PA. I own a 2021 Vintage and a 2019 FTR-RR. My dealership is great. I was there yesterday for swop your swag day and to see the new Chief. They had a Chief Dark Horse (Alumina Jade Smoke) on the floor. It was attracting a lot of attention from “younger” riders. I also saw a lot of women sit on it. It fit them better than the 800lbs plus bikes. It is a very aesthetically pleasing bike. It might also appeal to those Harley rides that miss the “Dyna” line. Something about being able to see the shocks on a motorcycle.
For me the only way to decide is miles in the saddle. I learned this lesson well at Rider Magazine's first rider rally East in Richmond, KY in 1989. When I'm ready for my next bike I plan on attending Americade in Lake George, NY. Numbers and reviews are good to make a start, but you'll never know which bike "Talks" to you until you ride it.
For serious miles, I think the only option is a custom saddle, or two. I guess it depends on the rider, but as a current BMW rider, I still find the saddle lacking a bit and its one of the universally acclaimed best saddles for crunching miles. Not for me it isnt.
Indian Chief. I have a dealer a few miles from home, near Boston. I too wished for a bigger tank. I'm sure it can be done and why not. What was my 1st bike you ask? A 1969 Honda 450. Plenty of power for a kid, but that seat was a killer. I'm not a kid any more.
A couple of things the 107 on the Harley is110 pound ft of torque the Indians 108, all the Harleys have an oil cooler. None of the Chiefs has inverted forks. All the Indians come with cruise control.The Super Chiefs saddle bags don’t lock. Will Indian make a model to compete with the Low Rider S ?
torque figures with no rpm listing is irrelevant It's like saying "my bike can rev at 3krpm" when your bikes redline is 10k. It's a useless number. I don't like people quoting torque number as if they mean anything on their own. The worst part is they could've shown us the dyno of both bikes since you can find them on the internet.
The dealer network is the main point in my mind. That said, it’s always a challenge to find a dealer you can be consistently comfortable with!!! I have found Harley dealers tend to shoot themselves in the foot at the after sale service! And the recent trend in Ontario for dealerships to be owned by car dealer conglomerates has made that worst. The dollars earned is becoming more apparent than a happy customer.
I think I will stick with my 2018 FLSB. Sure the Indian Chief line-up is new and (kind of) exciting; but it just isn't enough to sway me away from HD at this point. Plus the Indian dealer which is only a 10 minute ride from my house is horrid when it comes to customer service, mind you the HD dealer 20 minutes away from me is only just a touch better and I travelled to an HD dealer 3 hours away to buy the bike I wanted. I thought I wanted a scout, was all set to buy one.....until I test rode the FLSB. If I was doing it all over again, and was comparing the top of the line Chief fully loaded, I still would get the FLSB again hands down.
For me, I find the chief's aesthetics to be much superior to the correlating Harley Softails with their more beefy appearance. I prefer mag wheels over the lace wheels due to easier maintenance. I currently own a 19 Road King with no plans to sell it, but I was wanting a mid range bobber as an alternative ride. Originally I was totally in love with the older Softail Slim, but the upgraded version lost much of the charm and since then I have been frustrated with choices until the release of the new chief.
I'm still partial to the softails, although I do really like what they've done with the new Chief line. That touchscreen speedometer is a really cool idea. I'm not a fan of rectangular screens like on the FTR, because they look like a slapped on afterthought to me. That circular screen looks much more integrated. They definitely beat HD to the punch with that screen.
Well guess what, looks like they're ditching the square screen on the FTR line for 2023 and going with the same Ride Command screen and features found on the Cheifs. It's a nice touch and I agree it looks much more sleek and fitting than the old display.
I've got a 2018 street bob and love it. I prefer the minimalist aspect and feel most of the extra stuff becomes a "set it and forget it" novelty. But, all said and done, just ride and enjoy yourself.
Super Chief Limited in the red. Not a difficult decision. Thanks for the useful comparative analysis. There is a detail I’d like to see in all bike presentations-overall length. One seldom if ever hears that stat, and it can be difficult to find in manufacturer literature. But it’s very important to anyone whose storage space is limited. I value your content.
I agree with you entirely on the looks element. They are stunning. Whats putting me off are the tubed tyres. How do you feel about running tubes on such a bike? I have overall length figures for most of these bikes if that helps. Be aware, accessories from indian are on backorder mostly. I'm delaying my purchase decision until next year because of that.
@@guyfuller1369 I think only one or two companies make the correct size. Then theres the cost and if youre touring you cant plug it or change at road size. There isnt even a center stand. Lot of dealers wont do tubed, so recovery...but to where...
This isn't to rip on either brand, but to further inform new riders or riders new to the brands of a couple things that were left out or not addressed. I hope it's helpful. My first bike was 2015 Harley 48, and I had some issues with it (so I have to disagree here with the presenter's opinion that Harley has been getting better since 70's), despite it being new. After investing time and money into upgrading features more for safety than for anything (common among friends of mine with the Street 750, Sportster and 72 also - the mirrors needed extensions, the brakes needed replaced and the shift rods needed serious tweaking), I decided to trade up a year later to a 2016 Victory Highball. At one point, the Highball was my only vehicle for about a year here in Texas and was my daily driver to and from work, and used for daily errands. If it hadn't been for being run off the road by a drunk student in Denton TX in 2018, I'd still have that bike. The bike survived and was still rideable after the incident, but I was pretty messed up and my shifting foot was partially crushed with fractured metatarsals and my left shoulder was limited in range of motion for about 8 months. Now that I'm pretty much healed up, I've been looking at Indian because I know that they'll have at least some of the same quality as the Victory brand had under the same owner. The Scout bobber is a bit too light, so I'm glad they have the Chief bobber line out now with additional bells and whistles to make them fun.
I’d have to go with the Indian. Mainly because I see 1000 Harleys for every indian and lime being different, that and the fact that I already own an Indian Roadmaster and it is awesome!
I don’t need any tech, rider modes. I already use my phone on the bars. The street bob has a usb plug standard and that’s all I need. I like the mid pegs and the power. Honestly when you are riding do u really look down at the gauges? I only need to know how much gas I have left :)
Indian motor looks outstanding.Kind of bike you can look and look and not get tired.Its little pricey and Indian lost the value factor...Once you add dealer fees maybe traction control and different color your 16k base bike becomes 20k+where is the value?I'll tell you where its at new Honda Rebel 1100 10k and you get lot of extras as standard.
I agree with you on the slim and the street bob. I’ve looked at slim for a while and the street bob is growing on me. I also like the bigger capacity gas tanks on both those bikes. Less fuel stops = better ride (for me). 👍🏽
As far as I know, the Chief has a rear cylinder deactivation option you can turn on and off by yourself. Especially when cruising it might save some gas, so the additional gallon of the Harleys wouldn't count that much in this case, I guess.
I would have to test ride both bikes, I would choose depending on this. I expect a certain feeling from my bike, so I would pick the one that suits me more, the specs are simillar enough to maybe not ignore them, but overlook them if something is bit different from what I hoped for.
Definitively I stand with The Awesome Harley Davidson Softail Fat Boy 114 which is my favorite motorcycle!!!, Great video And explanation as well, Thanks!!!
If I wanted a stripped-down bar hopper, the Indian in either Bobber or Dark Horse trim. If I wanted bags/light-touring goodies, I'd pick a Heritage Softail. I don't think either bike is altogether better, but I do think they are each better for specific types of riding.
The idea that spoked wheels still need inner tubes in 2021 is lost to me, in particular for a bike costing $15k+, and what's with a singe disk front brake?
There is no possible way to seal the air in a spoked rim. It would leak out the nipples. Just look up a video of lacing and truing spoked rims and you'll understand.
@@JIMBOBALOU There are plenty of spoked wheel tubeless rims on bikes, BMW have been doing it since the 1980's, many ADV bikes have tubeless spoked rims because they are stronger than alloy rims, and if you look at bicycles there are a lot of tubeless rims available for them as well, so it definitely can be done.
I really like the Street bob and the Sport Glide. I do like the new Indian Chief bobber too. All depends if I am ready for upgrade from the iron 883 which is great in city.
really hard to choose, cus im a big touring guy, so the super chief and heritage classis are basically neck to neck for me, but if i do have to choose, im going for the heritage classic, it has that look old school look that the indian doesn't, that retro style for a motorcycle. But overall, if im choosing bikes, indian i think is better
I was in the market for just such a bike recently, and went with the Harley Fatboy. While I was open to look at the Indians, the dealer network for Harley, especially while on road trips, was the biggest factor.
For me what is most important-it's my sitting position, how I feel comfortable at the bike. I love harleys, but I cant find them comfortable for me. Harley Davidson is more for shorter people. I'm 6,3" and I didn't find for me any Harley model and I don't want to buy motorcycle just for name. so I tried Indian motorcycles....guys, it's really great. my next motorcycle will be Indian springfield! it's really for big guys, it has everything what I find good in Harley and I'm sitting really comfortably. So here's my conclusion for this video: if you are shorter than 6",take what you want. But if you are more than 6", so Indian motorcycles are more better for you.
If you taller than 6 you can always change handlebar and move foot pegs forward. These bikes are not a japanese naked bikes which designated for smaller riders where you can’t really change position.
@@silverrambo1508 To take for example Yamaha V-star 1300, it's originally-whitout any changes more roomyer than any Harley softail model. But yes, it's possible to make changes and find optimal position, but any way, I don't like myself sitting at softail, it looks small under me, what I can't say about tourer models - street glide or RK Special for example. if change at them just seat at "tall boy" seat, it already gives great result.
Harleys dealer network and aftermarket parts are it's biggest advantage. If all riders rode them back to back with an Indian, all would switch except for the stubborn ones. I would enjoy the bigger fuel tanks on Indian though. Nice video. You and F9 are creating the best moto content.
In fact I truly love both motorcycles, Harley Davidson has always been my favorite motorcycle, but now we have also The Amazing Indian motorcycles which are absolutely Spectacular bikes too, in fact I love The two of them, Great video And explanation as well!!, Thank You!!!
Hey bud, can you do a video on Buell coming back? Nobody seems to have done it justice, and I think there are some shreds of juicy info out there that you could cover!
I'd take the basic Chief in black that 111 is plenty for me and is the perfect upgrade from my Yamaha Bolt. I like the engine design the frame and the mag wheels. It looks as mean as the Harley Lowrider S for less.
I have a Bolt as well and thinking about upgrading to a Chief. How do you find the handling and lean angle compared to the Bolt? I like to ride my cruisers aggressive (I know that is a bit opposite of what they are designed for).
Dealer Network is the most important item for me. Both bikes look great but sometimes even the best break down from time to time. I do wish Harley would add the electronics that the chief can be purchased with, but what good is that if you have an issue and cannot find a dealership handily?
Which bike I choose to purchase definitely for me the lowrider s softail for me personally Harley Davidson has hit the ball out of the ballpark with that awesome motorcycle.
I would love the new Street Bob but I don't like spoked wheels and all the colour/graphics options are hideous. Why can't I get it in a matte black with a small logo?
Good comparison Indian vs. HD on value for money.
However, it is my experience that in the long run you are not going to care whether you paid $2,000 more or less for your bike. What’s much more important is whether you picked the bike that feels better, looks better, sounds better than the alternative. My advice, don’t compromise, go for your dream bike. A bike is purely an emotional thing anyway.
Agree 100%
Pick the one that speaks to your soul.
Nobody ‘needs’ a bike. At least in the US where these are marketed.
Am I the only one under the age of 40 who loves the huge skirted fenders with the tip light?
New Chiefs looks great though but I still got my eyes on a Vintage.
Lol probably you are. But that's ok, classic look is timeless
I heard HD is Closing 100 stores in 2021 then 100 more in 2022. That takes the "shop" out of the equation!
The way that 116 sits in that new frame is kind like soft porn. I'd take 116 Dark Horse. New tech, and they're listening to their customers. I have two dealer within 35 minues from me. Lastly but important to me, is everyone has a Harley. I just don't want to be like everyone else.
Truth. I have not seen another Indian.
I don't care about being like everyone else. If I like something, and everyone else has it, I am still going to buy it.. I don't let others influence my buying decision.
I'm starting to see more Indians around but Harley's are everywhere. I like the idea of being different.
Bloody hell, ABS should not be an option on any of these bikes, they should all have it. As for the dealer network thing, outside the US the dealer network is virtually non existent for both marques.
The dealer network for Harley-Davidson is extensive here in the UK. it's probably better than most other marques I can think of. I have 5 bar and shield dealers within 100 miles of me, and I live in the north of England.... I imagine it's the same for most of Europe. There is one Indian main dealer within 150 miles of me, I imagine that it's the same for most of Europe :)
You are dead right about ABS by the way, it's not an option over here in Europe. It has to be fitted as standard, and bikes are better for it.
@@Teatimeted I am very surprised to hear that, are they actual dealers or just privately owned bike shops who say they are HD sales and repairs, do they all actually have brand new HD's for sale?. I am in New Zealand and there are dozens of bike shops who repair HD, and sell used bikes, but only a handful (perhaps 6 or 8) where you can go in and buy a new HD.
@@onecookieboy Branded HD dealers that don't sell anything else.
@@Teatimeted Wow, that is a lot of competition, I didn't realise that HD sold so many bikes in the UK.
Indian Motorcycle Introducing this new Indian Chief Cruiser is a huge event in world of the US cruiser motorcycles. Finally! Indian Motorcycle fills the space between the Scout and the Vintage. The new Indian Chief wins on design, and engineering art. When you get to see them up close .. The devil will be in the details. A perfect blend of old and new.
Harley dealerships are folding up on a daily basis
I don’t give a crap about cruisers but watched this anyway because of the quality of your vids. Strong work.
Skirted fenders are pretty rad.
Totally. I am not a grandpa by any means and those skirted Indian fenders are sexy AF
@@Anton_G_604 Absolutely. I'm 31 and love 'em.
I'm 65 and finally bought my first Indian in 2016. A Willow Green/ Cream Vintage with the tan leather. I've loved those fenders since I was 16!!! It is by far, IMO,(and my wife's) the prettiest bike on the road, and that's stock! People are always taking pics when it's parked. It also has a fantastic ride..
@@thebrubud those are awesome color combination including the leather.
I almost impulse bought a scout bobber that had those colors just because it looks so damn good.
Sexy slick and retro all at the same time.
But then I came to my senses and realized I have two motorcycles and I don't even have a garage.
What am I thinking.
I've got a motorcycle trailer and a shed but I told myself I'm not going to buy another until I get a garage like a big boy.
I think theyre ugly as fuck. I like bobbers though so pretty much opposites
Ordered a Super Chief Limited in metallic black. The digital gauge and the 116 motor blew me away on my test ride. I liked several HDs also, especially the Softail Slim, but just wanted to do something different. I'm 38 and the HD rep factored in a bit. Indian does need to do major work on the dealer network, in some areas more than others. They are all good bikes, super excited to get mine in so I can start racking up the miles!
Estoy considerando comprarme una Chief, vengo de dos años de no montar. Antes andaba en puras motos de pista y ocasionalmente tenía algunas custom japonesas.
Ahora quiero cambiar de estilo y las multiproposito no me gustan nada (la mayoría de mis colegas migraron a esas pero yo no lo haré)
Tengo más o menos tu edad, modo 1.66m ¿como crees que me siente tener una Indian Chief? Siempre me han gustado las custom, me gusta esa y la Truinph Bonneville Bobber.
Un comentario tuyo me agradaría leer. Saludos
I've never understood the "dealer network" being seen as an advantage......I've been to my Indian dealer exactly ONCE (three years ago).
I couldn't imagine spending my hard earned money on a bike and then asking the dealer to hold my hand through the ownership process. Gross.
So people look at the dealer network as in your riding and something catastrophic happens to your bike and you need it repaired. For most Harley owner's, at least here in the states, you're always within 50 miles of a Harley-Davidson dealership. And probably even less of someone who can work on it.
@@aragos32727 The Harley Warranty Void threat keeps the $$$ flowing in......I couldn't imagine not modifying or working on the bike I paid for. Crazy.
@@BlackbirdSSR that's pretty standard for any Vehicle Manufacturer. It's on the Ford Mustang to a Hyundai Accent. If you buy it at the Harley dealer and have them install it and then if something happens they're at fault. If you buy it off of Amazon, install it yourself, and your bike explodes with you on it, they're not at fault because you voided the warranty. It makes sense if you think about it.
@@aragos32727 and they dont void the entire warranty if you mod your bike your self, just the section related to what you did. if you change your headlight then have a brake failure, they are not going to blame that brake failure on you.
@@scorpionunit9852 thanks for adding the clarification in. I figured that would be a given but not everyone may get that.
When you said, “The Harley is cheaper and lighter” I spit out my drink. I’d thought I’d ever hear cheaper and lighter when referencing a Harley!
Like you, I prefer the Harley’s. Great video, thanks for your input.
In recent years Harley's have been on the lower end of their competition when you do Apples to Apples comparisons. Yet the "Harley's are expensive" meme continues. Even if you present people with the hard data from the website showing the numbers.
Switched to Indian.....Amazing motorcycle! I'm in Florida and have 3 dealers in less that 90 miles.
Same, I'm in Daytona Beach. I have Indian right down the street. I have never had any issues with my Harleys, but after I switched to Indian, I don't see myself going back to Harley. Much nicer in my opinion.
It baffles me why dealer support is part of the conversation. I've never had an issue with any bike I've owned maybe a battery every so many years. But then again none of the 20 or bikes I've had have ever been a Harley or an Indian. I buy them old and build them to what I want. Although my 2005 BMW GS 1200 is just nice the way it is.
You keep mentioning HD's dealer network, yet HD is closing down dealers all over north America. We already lost one of our dealers here in Calgary from what I've heard, and more closures coming.
It's the same where I live in Norway, last HD dealership closed down last year. So Indian would be closer to me than HD, but Indian is still about a 2 hour drive away. I do have Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki, Triumph, Ducati, Moto Guzzi, KTM and Yamaha dealerships withing 10-15 min walking distance though, so I guess I'll go metric for my future bikes.
Same over here in the UK Preston Harley Davidson has closed they've based between Manchester Blackpool middle England.
I think what I don’t like with Harley or Indian building this HD or Indian dealership churches only. A lot of customers may need this Harley or Indian Dealership church’s, I don’t. I would not mind buying my Harley or Indian from a dealership that may also sales BMW‘s, Kawasaki’s etc. It also would keep the coast for us customers down.
@@okoboo you can get KTM and royal Enfield through Indian dealerships
Who closed in Calgary ? The one in Edmonton got bought out by Barnes they own a few in BC
I personally would chose the Indian! In my opinion HD has to do some serious apologizing and ass kissing before i consider them again! HD has abused its customers for years.
The street bob for me. I just don't get the need for different driving modes on a cruiser.
That's how I felt about smart phones, and then I got one - now I need it.
love my Fxbb.
As a younger rider, I like the Chief for the tec and the new Chief is more my, price, speed and size compared to the bigger Indians. I also live the look of the Indians. I'll probably be getting a new Chief then putting a windshield with highway bars and riding it till it dies
That's what I'm doing with my '11 Road King. I really like the new Chief, I think it's a wise direction to go to add options to the line. I would definitely consider a Super Chief alongside a Heritage Softail and a RK if I was in the market for a new ride.
i thought I'd keep my enfield classic 500 forever. traded it in for a bonneville
I got a Triumph Bonneville T100 in 2014 but I'm literally considering the Indian Chief.
I love my Chief Darkhorse 17 model. I’ve always wanted a heritage softail, but Indian is definitely giving HD a run for the money. Good comparison vid mate
Thanks! Glad you liked the video.
The base model Chief dark horse is £2800 more expensive than the Harley base model, so a run for the money is not quite true here in the UK. Can't see the Indian doing well here, my local dealer only has FTR and Scout models in stock too so a test ride or even close inspection is out of the question. Few years ago I bought a Victory Vegas which out performed the equivalent Harley and undercut by price over £1000, these current Indians are too expensive to be a big seller over here Harley wins every time with better dealer network and great service.
You don't need the Indian dealer support as much as you need harley support.
ha ha ha .........
Well, for me the skirted fenders on Td Chief make it iconic. Indian went out of business 5 years before I was born but all through my life the fenders were the signature of Indian. Like a 53 Buick Roadmaster or an excelsior super X with the forks through the fenders.
To be able to own and ride one with out the $40,000 price tag makes me 16 again. For that I am great full.
If I could afford a second bike, it would be the Harley Fatboy for me... too iconic... too nostalgic...
Just bought one 2 weeks ago its all chrome and tough looking, I just bought a windshield, sissy bar and rack with luggage so it's a cruiser 1 minute to strip it down to a bar hopper. I love it.
Given the terrible experience I had at the HD dealership 2 years ago, I'll never consider an HD product. And that Chief Darkhorse is sexy af. For now, I'll stick with my Triumph Storm, and leave both these bikes in my rearview. TBH, my next bike will most likely be a Rocket 3.
What happened to you at the dealership?
@@TheDans7300 The sales rep was a complete asshole. Arrogant, and condescending. He acted like he was doing me a favor just talking to me. Then I went to his boss, he was even worse.
HD's arrogance, and their refusal to innovate, is what is killing them.
That's too funny! I just went through something similar. I'm ready to purchase either the Chief or the Bob. The Harley salesman was a complete jerk he started knocking Indian that turned me off. I don't have time for that crap. I'm spending my hard earn money so i want to make the right decision. Don't need the hating crap.
The rocket is an interesting proposition. It's a true behemoth. Im just not sure I can get along with a true cruiser having anything other than a twin. Just doesn't have the right pop pop sound. Very good bike though.
I can't decide. I love all of them. I'm modestly riding my scout bobber.
Absolutely the chief.
Because I don't trust Harley any farther than I can throw them.
Well it aint going to be anytime soon Harley lost a bunch of sponsers to Indian already look at king of the baggers to see that
@@Osmani4you you can't tell Harley riders that. Their pride will get in the way and they can't understand facts or data.
If it's got two wheels and licensed as a motorcycle it must be a copycat.
@Car&Track7 If you get a Challenger and put it side by side with something like a road king, if you look at them properly, you'll see where HD have cut corners. Theres cheap plastic all over it. The switchgear such as turnsignals, starter button and most of the other controls, the quality feels like dollar store christmas cracker level. The Indian isnt perfect either, but the road glide was certainly poor. I've never owned a bike from either brand but this stuff isn't hard to spot, particularly when the next bike over is a Honda goldwing, which are a galaxy aware from both indian and harley when it comes to finish quality so make it easy to spot shortcomings.
It's hard to say what would've happened with Harley Davidson if Indian not reintroduced their third iteration of motorcycles.
If you follow the Indian story, it's really a fascinating one!
In business school, we learned that competition is good and anti-trust is bad.
I'll bet that even though HD had rested on its laurels a bit, that they had their feet to the fire to start "modernizing" and find ways to reduce the prices of their bikes.
I have owned HD's since the late 70s. Yep, my first was a 1974 HD Super-Glide FXE (kick-start and electric start). It was an "AMF", but unlike many AMFs, mine never leaked oil and was reliable! Weird huh?
I'd always have a can of either in my saddle bag because when you're leaving the bar at 2 am in the winter and it's fa-fa-freezing outside, you want your bike to start!
You can worry about the ole lady yelling at you later but you need to get home first! lol
Indian's always been innovative!
I have a friend that has a 1912 Indian (from Steve McQueen's collection) and it's very unique. For example, there are no cables, but metal linkages. It has no chain but it has a leather fan belt, it has a kerosine headlamp that you have to pump by hand to keep the wick lit (just like the old Coleman stoves...lol).
My comment isn't about which is better but it is a reminder that we're American's and share the same joys and hardships and we're fiercely proud of what we build with our hearts, souls, minds & hands!
I loved watching "Indian Larry" in the old Gasoline Alley shop tv shows on American Choppers.
I remember he once said about his unique creations "I like the mechanicalness of my machines". Let that set in for a moment! He hit the nail on the head.
My generation's a gear-grinding, loud exhaust piped, tire-smoking, horse-power making, fossil-fuel burning internal combustion engine loving generation!
Yep, that's what we are!
And we can't get enough of it!
So, it's not HOW we get from point "A" to point "B" as long as we look good getting to point "B"
Tldr
Im glade they finally made a bike that can compete with HD Softail maybe we will see more interesting bikes.
i choosed harley, only,,,,,
@@avcan455 pop lî
Ummm... ok? The Scout blows the Sportster out of the water, the Challenger beats the road glide in every metric, and the rest of their line up is no less than equal to their Harley counterparts.
@@LARGO125 At least you can lean a Sportster. Wasn't going for debate just excited about new bikes.
The reason you will need that more convenient HD dealer network is for the extensive maintenance and repair. Buy Indian.
I own two motorcycles 2019 dark horse chieftain and a 2016 Sportster. I love the Indian dark horse because in my town everyone owns a street glide. I wanted to be different and got a dark horse. The deciding factor for the dark horse is the modern look to it which made me buy it. The Sportster is my bar hopping and around-town bike. I like my Sportster a lot as I can mod it any style I want but that Indian chief and scout has been making me want to trade.
street bob is my pick. because, just bought one last week. lol. the proximity of dealership means a lot, and the ppl from the dealership are very helpful, and that also means a lot when you're a new rider.
my nearest indian dealership is like 40 minutes away while hd is like 15 minutes but man that chief darkhorse is looking rather nice
My good friend picked that exact Street Bob you pictured last week. Great dollar for power ratio and can confirm it gives my Buell a run for its money on those long straights.
If Harley, the new Fat Bob with Milwaukee 8 engine. If Indian, the Chief Dark Horse with the added options. In reality with wallet considerations, a low mileage Vulcan 900 for short trips, and a Can-Am F3T for long trips. Big touring bikes eat rear tires like candy. The F3T has an extra-wide rear tire, and great cornering with the 2tires in front. Much more stable than a Harley or GoldWing trikes...👍😺
You literally left out that all chiefs have cruise control, 3 rider modes and rear cylinder deactivation.!!! Seriously never mentioned it once
3:00 mark atleast the rider modes.
Love those Indian motorcycles!
They just keep getting better and better!
Harley dealerships always add $$$ to the MSRP because Harley lol
I'm 57 and I still desire the TFT displays with actual usable information associated with them. The dashboard info looks like a cheap afterthought on the Harley, and a cost savings move. To approve of the appearance of the minimalism vs a TFT feels more like rationalizing one over the other. Not unlike saying the Harley has "character". I don't want character in my bike if it means that I have to spend the weekend finding a mechanic to wrench on my bike rather than ride on my precious few free weekends or worse yet a vacation. I just cannot see an advantage there. Also, the costs comparison would be a lot different if the Harley matched up in technology. I live in the US and we have an Indian dealer literally down the block from the HD dealer so that isn't a concern. I do however agree that the increase in fuel tank size is a plus, especially on cruisers with which one can expect to pull some miles. But even that is subjective based on actual fuel economy of each bike. I do love the paint job on the Harley that you pointed out. But the Indian cylinder heads are a work of art. Fit and finish seem to be improving on each brand. But the reality for longevity for both brands is capturing a demographic that doesn't appear to know that motorcycles exist beyond a scooter or moped. I love your thoughtful approach to your videos and enjoy your content. Please keep on producing. There are a lot of us that look for this kind of interesting material and not just motorcycle specification reviews. Peace.
I know that this was written a long time ago. The tank size seems a bit of a non-issue to me. I purchased the Sportster S that has a 2.9 gallon tank and yes, I do fill it a lot more often. When touring though, that range is about two hours of riding and at my own 52 years of age it is time to stretch the legs, grab a drink and rub my own shoulders. Pushing past your body's limits has a cost and is a younger mans game. It is not a branding issue for me either, I likely would have gone with the Rebel or Scout, both with similar small tanks. To cross my country of Australia though, the most unpopulated region, there is only one stretch where I might be drawing fumes, on the Nullarbor (about 130 miles I think by conversion). As for other parts of your post, I agree that the classic displays with a tiny LCD are more an affectation to an older era than a cost saving measure (I can buy a $100 phone with one so going back to full mechanical analogue seems more expensive, not cheaper). Both HD and Indian are hitting the right marks independently of each other for the moment. The FTR, Scout and Challenger are excellent in appeal while the Sportster S and Pan America are unique for American bikes. Those five bikes are pretty competitive on both price and technology internationally.
The only technology I like on my bike is fuel injection, electric start and led bulbs. Other than than they can keep the rest.
And that's why we don't have Homer Simpson design cars.
Plus old school gas gauge and digital clock.
@@carpenoctem good call. They are nice to have
Ditto
Blame the EPA for most of it.
Can't have a motor anymore without injection and a computer because abs and traction control are soon to be mandatory.
Although if you really like old school and don't want the electronics you could get a "Janice" motorcycle.
I love Art-Deco and a shit load of leather. I'm sure someone will give mine a good home when I die.
Send it on over.... I'll be happy to take it now. ;-D
Me and my Springfield concur.
may you outlive your bike and many more of those..
@@almulakimaalimalriadiat9068, I'm taking mine with me.
I've looked at the 2022 indian super chief ltd and 2021 harley street glide special up close this week. The quality of the switchgear and overall fit and finish of indian was much better than the street glide. I would suggest anyone considering these goes for a hands on first. Neither are bad bikes, but seriously some of the plastics and just general finishing on the harley were well below what I expected as a newcomer to both brands.
I understand, to a point, the dealership issue. However, if that is a major part of your decision on which bike to buy, you are eliminating a lot of really nice bikes! I've ridden the same Guzzi for 46 years, by far my favorite bike I have owned( a lot of that is sentimental). But if dealerships were my main concern it would have been gone a long time ago. If dealers are your concern than you'll never consider Ducati, Guzzi, Aprilla, Triumph, BMW, Indian, and more. As a rider and enthusiast I just would not want to limit myself. Unless of course you are fortunate enough to have one of these dealers near you. If not, you might as well stick with the four big metrics and HD, like most people own. I'm really happy with my Indian Vintage. We now we have 5 Indian dealers in Colorado, but I've only been there to buy it and the 500m service. It's now at about 30k.
Funny that ABS is still not standard in the US and Canada. Here in Europe ABS is mandatory for years
In the New World, we are always playing catch-up!😆
That’s because we are savages
For me I'd take the Indian Chief darkhorse. The big touch screen that makes it easier to use and read. Plus it has it's own distinctive style. Now I do understand the issue of the 4 gallon tank vs a 5 gallon tank that some of the Harley's have but if you can get past the smaller take it will be a good alternative to the softails Harley offers.
I’d take an Indian. Because it’s not a Harley. I’m not into cruisers (yet) but Indian impressed with the FTR. So if I ever feel the need to cruise, I’ll try and Indian.
It's all Greek to me--but I will be checking out the Pan-American if it's in ... TOMORROW!
Why? Harley is the last person you should get a adventure bike from. Atleast with the cruisers your just buying a cruiser. Harleys platforms are 40+ years old. Literally any other manufacturers in thier price range makes a better bike. And harley has bin around 100+ years They have bin living on brand loyalty All they did was make everything black and put a bigger motor in itself. The equivalent of putting titts in a c movie. I have a 2015 harley dyna lowrider. It's a beautiful bike. The more I ride it the more it grows on me. But in comparison the suspension and handling are shit!! To dam near everything else. Those are about the 2 most important things for a adventure bike
INDIAN Chief, just the simple fluid changes if much better than the harleys... Harley's mandated 3 part/ports fluid changes gets old quick...
Canadian Guy is a year behind if he thinks chrome is out. And did he notice the Indian cooling fins are fake?
Indian. I suspect the new frame is more athletic than the softail.
Indian network is pretty strong in the USA now. Competition is good
Dealership network will always be an issue with Indian, Polaris had the same problem with Victory. For some reason, not sure what, if a dealer carried the Polaris line of ATVs they didn't do well with Victory motorcycles. It was like they were cousins that didn't like each other at a family reunion. The extra electronic features on the Indians scare me a bit too, every issue I had with my Victory motorcycles was electrical. I've owned two, and between them had around 100,000 miles in the saddle, so I know what I'm talking about.
since indian chiefs 2022 revealed.. i have been waiting for this video...let me get my coffee now......before i start
It’s awesome to see they brought the Victory Gunner and Highball back. This is where Victory was going before they changed nameplates.
That Chief Bobber Darkhorse... damn it looks great.
I'd take either. Here in Au there isn't as much of a stigma or pigeonhole with either brand really. Sure there's the one eyed HD fanboys that hate everything else (including some HD models) but that's a good thing to keep the brand afloat. Expensive tho.. a Base Chief here is US$23K vs the Softail 107 at US$18K.
Being a midweight cruiser rider i was stokes about the chief. Im highly disappointed about the smallish gas tank on it.
I agree dealer location and support are extremely important if not essential for new/modern bikes. I happen to have four Indian dealerships within a hour from my home in Pittsburgh, PA. I own a 2021 Vintage and a 2019 FTR-RR. My dealership is great. I was there yesterday for swop your swag day and to see the new Chief. They had a Chief Dark Horse (Alumina Jade Smoke) on the floor. It was attracting a lot of attention from “younger” riders. I also saw a lot of women sit on it. It fit them better than the 800lbs plus bikes. It is a very aesthetically pleasing bike. It might also appeal to those Harley rides that miss the “Dyna” line. Something about being able to see the shocks on a motorcycle.
For me the only way to decide is miles in the saddle. I learned this lesson well at Rider Magazine's first rider rally East in Richmond, KY in 1989. When I'm ready for my next bike I plan on attending Americade in Lake George, NY. Numbers and reviews are good to make a start, but you'll never know which bike "Talks" to you until you ride it.
For serious miles, I think the only option is a custom saddle, or two. I guess it depends on the rider, but as a current BMW rider, I still find the saddle lacking a bit and its one of the universally acclaimed best saddles for crunching miles. Not for me it isnt.
Indian Chief. I have a dealer a few miles from home, near Boston. I too wished for a bigger tank. I'm sure it can be done and why not. What was my 1st bike you ask? A 1969 Honda 450. Plenty of power for a kid, but that seat was a killer. I'm not a kid any more.
A couple of things the 107 on the Harley is110 pound ft of torque the Indians 108, all the Harleys have an oil cooler. None of the Chiefs has inverted forks. All the Indians come with cruise control.The Super Chiefs saddle bags don’t lock. Will Indian make a model to compete with the Low Rider S ?
torque figures with no rpm listing is irrelevant
It's like saying "my bike can rev at 3krpm" when your bikes redline is 10k. It's a useless number. I don't like people quoting torque number as if they mean anything on their own. The worst part is they could've shown us the dyno of both bikes since you can find them on the internet.
The dealer network is the main point in my mind. That said, it’s always a challenge to find a dealer you can be consistently comfortable with!!! I have found Harley dealers tend to shoot themselves in the foot at the after sale service! And the recent trend in Ontario for dealerships to be owned by car dealer conglomerates has made that worst. The dollars earned is becoming more apparent than a happy customer.
I think I will stick with my 2018 FLSB. Sure the Indian Chief line-up is new and (kind of) exciting; but it just isn't enough to sway me away from HD at this point. Plus the Indian dealer which is only a 10 minute ride from my house is horrid when it comes to customer service, mind you the HD dealer 20 minutes away from me is only just a touch better and I travelled to an HD dealer 3 hours away to buy the bike I wanted. I thought I wanted a scout, was all set to buy one.....until I test rode the FLSB. If I was doing it all over again, and was comparing the top of the line Chief fully loaded, I still would get the FLSB again hands down.
For me, I find the chief's aesthetics to be much superior to the correlating Harley Softails with their more beefy appearance. I prefer mag wheels over the lace wheels due to easier maintenance. I currently own a 19 Road King with no plans to sell it, but I was wanting a mid range bobber as an alternative ride. Originally I was totally in love with the older Softail Slim, but the upgraded version lost much of the charm and since then I have been frustrated with choices until the release of the new chief.
So.......you have a"wide stance"?
@@TheWolfsnack Yup, sure do. I am 6'2" with a 34 inseam
Down here in America Harley-Davidson dealerships or closing down I don't know how it is in Canada by far Indian is a better motorcycle
I'm still partial to the softails, although I do really like what they've done with the new Chief line. That touchscreen speedometer is a really cool idea. I'm not a fan of rectangular screens like on the FTR, because they look like a slapped on afterthought to me. That circular screen looks much more integrated. They definitely beat HD to the punch with that screen.
Well guess what, looks like they're ditching the square screen on the FTR line for 2023 and going with the same Ride Command screen and features found on the Cheifs. It's a nice touch and I agree it looks much more sleek and fitting than the old display.
Chief Dark Horse just love the look and evolution with incorporating technology into the minimalist design.
I've got a 2018 street bob and love it. I prefer the minimalist aspect and feel most of the extra stuff becomes a "set it and forget it" novelty. But, all said and done, just ride and enjoy yourself.
Super Chief Limited in the red. Not a difficult decision. Thanks for the useful comparative analysis. There is a detail I’d like to see in all bike presentations-overall length. One seldom if ever hears that stat, and it can be difficult to find in manufacturer literature. But it’s very important to anyone whose storage space is limited. I value your content.
Thanks, I appreciate that.
I agree with you entirely on the looks element. They are stunning. Whats putting me off are the tubed tyres. How do you feel about running tubes on such a bike? I have overall length figures for most of these bikes if that helps. Be aware, accessories from indian are on backorder mostly. I'm delaying my purchase decision until next year because of that.
@@vtrmcs Never gave the tires much thought. What’s your beef with tubes?
@@guyfuller1369 I think only one or two companies make the correct size. Then theres the cost and if youre touring you cant plug it or change at road size. There isnt even a center stand. Lot of dealers wont do tubed, so recovery...but to where...
@@vtrmcs Food for thought. Thanks for the perspective.
This isn't to rip on either brand, but to further inform new riders or riders new to the brands of a couple things that were left out or not addressed. I hope it's helpful. My first bike was 2015 Harley 48, and I had some issues with it (so I have to disagree here with the presenter's opinion that Harley has been getting better since 70's), despite it being new. After investing time and money into upgrading features more for safety than for anything (common among friends of mine with the Street 750, Sportster and 72 also - the mirrors needed extensions, the brakes needed replaced and the shift rods needed serious tweaking), I decided to trade up a year later to a 2016 Victory Highball. At one point, the Highball was my only vehicle for about a year here in Texas and was my daily driver to and from work, and used for daily errands. If it hadn't been for being run off the road by a drunk student in Denton TX in 2018, I'd still have that bike. The bike survived and was still rideable after the incident, but I was pretty messed up and my shifting foot was partially crushed with fractured metatarsals and my left shoulder was limited in range of motion for about 8 months. Now that I'm pretty much healed up, I've been looking at Indian because I know that they'll have at least some of the same quality as the Victory brand had under the same owner. The Scout bobber is a bit too light, so I'm glad they have the Chief bobber line out now with additional bells and whistles to make them fun.
I’d have to go with the Indian. Mainly because I see 1000 Harleys for every indian and lime being different, that and the fact that I already own an Indian Roadmaster and it is awesome!
I would love to hear your comparison on on the Harley Street Glide and where it fits in to the comparisons with the Indian Chiefs.
I just want the tough guy pirate biker cosplayers and SOA wannabes to get the hell out of the way in the twisties
I don’t need any tech, rider modes. I already use my phone on the bars. The street bob has a usb plug standard and that’s all I need.
I like the mid pegs and the power. Honestly when you are riding do u really look down at the gauges? I only need to know how much gas I have left :)
I like the skirted fenders, especially on the dark horse. In the rain, they’ll keep more of the dirt off the bike.
I'm sticking with Harley-Davidson. I've owned more than 20 of them and they've always performed perfectly.
Both are incredible bikes! I have a 13 Harley Heritage but would buy a Indian Chief in a second. Great bikes
Indian motor looks outstanding.Kind of bike you can look and look and not get tired.Its little pricey and Indian lost the value factor...Once you add dealer fees maybe traction control and different color your 16k base bike becomes 20k+where is the value?I'll tell you where its at new Honda Rebel 1100 10k and you get lot of extras as standard.
The options are extremely highly priced on Indian and HD. $700 for a sissy bar on the latest Indian where I am.
Its a good thing there are so many Harley dealerships, when you break down you won't have to take it as far lol
One thing you did not mention, do they both have the same mpg?
I agree with you on the slim and the street bob. I’ve looked at slim for a while and the street bob is growing on me. I also like the bigger capacity gas tanks on both those bikes. Less fuel stops = better ride (for me). 👍🏽
As far as I know, the Chief has a rear cylinder deactivation option you can turn on and off by yourself. Especially when cruising it might save some gas, so the additional gallon of the Harleys wouldn't count that much in this case, I guess.
I would have to test ride both bikes, I would choose depending on this. I expect a certain feeling from my bike, so I would pick the one that suits me more, the specs are simillar enough to maybe not ignore them, but overlook them if something is bit different from what I hoped for.
Definitively I stand with The Awesome Harley Davidson Softail Fat Boy 114 which is my favorite motorcycle!!!, Great video And explanation as well, Thanks!!!
If I wanted a stripped-down bar hopper, the Indian in either Bobber or Dark Horse trim.
If I wanted bags/light-touring goodies, I'd pick a Heritage Softail.
I don't think either bike is altogether better, but I do think they are each better for specific types of riding.
In my twenties, and I love the "Chrome Grandpa" look, and would buy it, but it's a shame they discontinued the Classic though...
Excellent video! I like that you compared similar Harley/Indian models.
The idea that spoked wheels still need inner tubes in 2021 is lost to me, in particular for a bike costing $15k+, and what's with a singe disk front brake?
There is no possible way to seal the air in a spoked rim. It would leak out the nipples. Just look up a video of lacing and truing spoked rims and you'll understand.
@@JIMBOBALOU There are plenty of spoked wheel tubeless rims on bikes, BMW have been doing it since the 1980's, many ADV bikes have tubeless spoked rims because they are stronger than alloy rims, and if you look at bicycles there are a lot of tubeless rims available for them as well, so it definitely can be done.
@@JIMBOBALOU Most spoked wheels from other manufacturers are tubeless.
Agree about the brake. That's my pet peeve about these bikes.
The single disc on my Softail Slim works perfectly fine
I like skirted fenders. With the right color combinations and adequate chrome accents, you can't really fault it
I really like the Street bob and the Sport Glide. I do like the new Indian Chief bobber too. All depends if I am ready for upgrade from the iron 883 which is great in city.
really hard to choose, cus im a big touring guy, so the super chief and heritage classis are basically neck to neck for me, but if i do have to choose, im going for the heritage classic, it has that look old school look that the indian doesn't, that retro style for a motorcycle. But overall, if im choosing bikes, indian i think is better
I was in the market for just such a bike recently, and went with the Harley Fatboy. While I was open to look at the Indians, the dealer network for Harley, especially while on road trips, was the biggest factor.
For me what is most important-it's my sitting position, how I feel comfortable at the bike. I love harleys, but I cant find them comfortable for me. Harley Davidson is more for shorter people. I'm 6,3" and I didn't find for me any Harley model and I don't want to buy motorcycle just for name. so I tried Indian motorcycles....guys, it's really great. my next motorcycle will be Indian springfield! it's really for big guys, it has everything what I find good in Harley and I'm sitting really comfortably. So here's my conclusion for this video: if you are shorter than 6",take what you want. But if you are more than 6", so Indian motorcycles are more better for you.
If you taller than 6 you can always change handlebar and move foot pegs forward. These bikes are not a japanese naked bikes which designated for smaller riders where you can’t really change position.
Both amercian brands are great with their history and legend. I could choose either, no matter, without argues on each other.
@@silverrambo1508 To take for example Yamaha V-star 1300, it's originally-whitout any changes more roomyer than any Harley softail model. But yes, it's possible to make changes and find optimal position, but any way, I don't like myself sitting at softail, it looks small under me, what I can't say about tourer models - street glide or RK Special for example. if change at them just seat at "tall boy" seat, it already gives great result.
Harleys dealer network and aftermarket parts are it's biggest advantage. If all riders rode them back to back with an Indian, all would switch except for the stubborn ones. I would enjoy the bigger fuel tanks on Indian though. Nice video. You and F9 are creating the best moto content.
In fact I truly love both motorcycles, Harley Davidson has always been my favorite motorcycle, but now we have also The Amazing Indian motorcycles which are absolutely Spectacular bikes too, in fact I love The two of them, Great video And explanation as well!!, Thank You!!!
Hey bud, can you do a video on Buell coming back? Nobody seems to have done it justice, and I think there are some shreds of juicy info out there that you could cover!
Sorry for your luck in Canada! I live in rural Pa and have 3 dealerships within an hour of home! Not an issue in the states!
I'd take the basic Chief in black that 111 is plenty for me and is the perfect upgrade from my Yamaha Bolt. I like the engine design the frame and the mag wheels. It looks as mean as the Harley Lowrider S for less.
I have a Bolt as well and thinking about upgrading to a Chief. How do you find the handling and lean angle compared to the Bolt? I like to ride my cruisers aggressive (I know that is a bit opposite of what they are designed for).
Does the basic Chief have dual front discs? I’m juggling the same two. Tough decision.
@@victorvek5227 no neither has dual front discs
Dealer Network is the most important item for me. Both bikes look great but sometimes even the best break down from time to time. I do wish Harley would add the electronics that the chief can be purchased with, but what good is that if you have an issue and cannot find a dealership handily?
Which bike I choose to purchase definitely for me the lowrider s softail for me personally Harley Davidson has hit the ball out of the ballpark with that awesome motorcycle.
Bigger tank = better mileage? You’re certain?
I would love the new Street Bob but I don't like spoked wheels and all the colour/graphics options are hideous. Why can't I get it in a matte black with a small logo?
As soon as NESARA hits, it’s a Super Chief for me :)
I bought a FatBob 114. Love it.
I've testest ridden that bike twice, that bike is just pure exciting. Definitely my favorite of the HD Softails.
@@BlackbirdSSR before that I bought a beautiful Softail Deuce. It was a joy to ride. Good looker and sounded just like a Harley should sound.