Harley Street Glide vs. Indian Chieftain
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- Опубліковано 12 гру 2018
- I compare the Harley-Davidson Street Glide, and Road Glide vs the Indian Chieftain. I wanted to compare the full size touring baggers to each other now that I have some riding experience and I have to say, I was very surprised at how good the new Chieftains are. Ultimately all of the bikes are VERY good and I don't think you could go wrong with an Indian OR a Harley if you are in the market for a new touring motorcycle. Please let me know if you have ridden these bikes in the past and if you have an opinion on these bikes.
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you didn’t mention electric locking bags, power adjustable wind screen, and Tire pressure monitor system ALL on the Chieftain. Also the Indian is MUCH more comfortable especially for larger riders with long legs and big feet.
I agree kyle stewart. Thanks for the comment.
you don't get electric bags on the base models chieftain/challenger. Not sure you get TPMS on base either.
And you forgot to mention a bitten design and cheap plastic appearance 🤷♂️
👍
@@tys7579 from Harley? I agree! Horrible quality for what you pay! Good point!
I agree... Indian Bikes aren't nothing to shove around. Great bikes!!! Chieftain is awesome!!!
I agree Lou Lindsey. Thanks for the comment.
Sorry but comparing a CVO to a base model Chieftain is not a comparison. You should be comparing either a 107 HD or a 116 Thunderstroke.
I was comparing the Street Glide Special to the Chieftain Dark Horse. They are both comparable bikes. The CVO was only mentioned because it was the footage I used. I have ridden them all.
But doesn't the Street Glide Special come with the 114ci, not the 107ci? My brother's 2018 did and if so that's not really a fair engine comparison. I too have ridden both, my brother's bike and the new Chieftain and the Harley 114 was closer to the Indian 111, not the 107.
Relax. The Special has a 114, the Chieftain has a 111. That's close enough.
@@joshrandall5297 it’s not when the dark horse comes with the 116. If you’re going to do this you should be clear about it and do an apples to apples comparison. Never mind not even mentioning some of the features the Indian comes with it’s a very incomplete if not erroneous comparison.
harley not putting LED's standard is a major miss especially how cheap they are these days; this is just more money they bank on through their never ending parts revenue stream.
Totally agree. I think it is unacceptable going forward. Hopefully the LED's on the softails is a sign of things to come on the new touring models. BUT even my Heritage still had regular turn signals that should have been LED in my opinion
Yup. Pretty lame that in 2019 they're too cheap to make LED standard on all models just as a safety feature. Not to mention their LED lights need to be wired in. C'mon Harley at least make plug and play like my Custum Dynamics ones.
What's even weirder is that the road glide, which is cheaper than the street glide, has DUAL LEDs, while street glide has halogens. Still can't understand the reasoning.
This was a really well thought out, detailed and unbiased review of these motorcycles. Great video. Ride safe.
Appreciate it!! I try. You ride safe also, I’ve watched some of your videos, good stuff.
Recently switched to Indian. Zero regrets and glad I didn't have a HD wardrobe like some I know.
Grumpy Old Pig congrats on the new bike. I can totally see why you have no regrets. It’s a great bike.
Funny you say that. Scored a real nice 2nd hand harley rain suite recently. Guy switched to indian and has a ton of harley garb to deal with.
@@harleycrasher8396 I love my HD boots, wear them on my Indian with pride!
I wear my Indian Jacket, wear it in my H-D with pride.
@@grumpyoldpig Thank God I'm not the only one!
After test driving both the Street glide and the Chieftain, I found myself faster and more confident on the Indian. Especially in turns, where the suspension and wheel geometry made the Indian feel like it turned in fast and very easily, held it's line and didn't wallow. I did like the Road Glide over the Street, but the confidence level of the Indian made me feel much more comfortable. It doesn't really matter because on a VA disability, I can't really afford any of those line ups. I went with a Suzuki because it was affordable. Wish the US manufacturers realized it's the prices that are really the final issue.
Sorry for the super late reply Bredaxe. I appreciate that you stopped by the channel and apologize for not responding WAY sooner.
ive been riding HD for over 23 years and love their bikes. i got a 2015 Indian chieftain last year and i'm in love with this bike. i've never had a bike that rides like that .
Thank you Jeffrey Shortt
Don’t forget Indian Chieftain also includes electric locks, electric adjustable windshield, better paint, and other features not included in Harley Streetglide unless you spend another $10k. I own both and when I decide to trade in my ultra CVO I will go with a Roadmaster. You get much more for the money.
What yr. Is your Roadmaster?
But parts NOT included in the purchase are INSANELY expensive on the Indian. $3600 for a trunk? GTFO.
Not better paint. Sorry.
I have both & the Harley paint is WAY better.
Indians feel like metric bikes, not Americana
True
This is a very good comparison video. It comes across as totally unbiased, thanks! Just subscribed 👍
I appreciate that. I try to remain as unbiased as possible.
When the competition is strong, the consumer wins. Thank you for a very fair unbiased review!
Good review, one that I’ve been waiting for. Its a close call and I think I go with the get more for your bang choice.
Thanks, happy I could help.
I've owned several Harleys and now ride an Ultra Limited. I like the Chieftan and I'm glad they're pushing HD. The only drawback to Indian is the dealer network. I like to travel, and HD dealers are everywhere.
Cycle Rider what if you don't need to visit a dealer? I just overcame that same feeling.
My thoughts exactly if I'm traveling. I really do not or wanted a dealership to visit. That to me shouts out need mechanical work when ever traveling far... LoL 😂
I agree Cycle Rider. Thanks for the comment.
1¹¹1¹
Why are you so worried about breaking down on a modern motorcycle. I realize sh$t happens, but dang….
Nice fair review. I bought a Chieftain LTD in 2017 and have been really happy with it. I did ride the Street Glide and loved it........until l rode the Indian. Have not ridden most recent SG, so can't say for sure, but two years ago the ride quality was immediately noticeable. The Chieftain is very plush but does not wallow. I love the way the SG looks, but if you spend a lot of time on your bike, the Indian will reward you with better comfort.
I would agree with that. Also helps that the Indian laid back a bit on the style with the new Chieftain, looks a little more “traditional”. I do wish they kept the passing lamps integrated though, kind of a design cue that would help it look more Indian.
Agreed, Loved my Road King but the ride punished me a bit and then I rode the Indian ! WOW. No flex either, nope not a Harley and I like my Harleys, not perfect either but comfortable ? Hell yeah.
I ride a road king , and thinking of a change you make some good points. I do like the Indian chieftain Australia is a big country and all these bike you spoke about suit our big country, keep up the good work .
Thanks I appreciate it!
Thanks. Nice review. I just bought the 2020 Chieftain limited elite and I absolutely love it
Good choice!
Take that Chieftan , add a stage 2 kit, and you have perfect bike!
I agree James Strickland. Thanks for the comment.
As for the Harley, it is very important that you adjust the pre-load on the rear shock (left side) for the rider weight with cargo. Page 95 in the manual. At 230 lbs, the manual calls for 6 full turns of the pre-load knob (12 clicks). An extra 1/2 to 1 full turn after that makes the bike far more enjoyable. This pre-load knob really needs adjusting with every change of weight.
I appreciate the review! Pretty helpful Information here
Thanks I appreciate. Glad I could help.
Fair review with real good points that address the real issues. Subscribed.
Thank you TheTripleDubya. I really appreciate the sub!!!
I bought a street glide special. I think the chieftain is a great bike. I heard the suspension travel in the rear is substantial in comparison. But I just love the sgs for looks. I got a 2018 for $25k so it was cheaper and I do plan to do the led headlight. I’m coming from a Dyna and I was shocked when I rode the sgs. I expected to feel big and heavy like the rgs but it wasn’t at all. It had a lot of characteristics of my Dyna which sold me all the way. I did consider the heritage and road king but felt they were too close in price so might as well go with what made me happy.
I love the street glide special. The Chieftain suspension is definitely better but there is nothing wrong with the SGS at all. I love my Heritage and it will hold me over until Harley rolls out a new frame and suspension for the touring bikes. I think it’s coming sooner than later, I think it has to. Indian is going to turn the screws to HD a bit and I think that is a good thing for HD fans in the future. Also, I love how bikes are such a subjective thing. Buy what you love to ride regardless of what people say. My only point I guess is that I think Indian is giving way better value, your money goes further in a Chieftain today than it does in any HD Glides.
I’d definitely agree there. I think Adam Sandoval said the same thing. Harley could probably get away with a new chassis if they want to put the money up. The current chassis isn’t that old but I’m sure they made their money back and then some. The baggers sell like hot cakes. I’d be curious to see what it would feel like. I rode the dynatails and wasn’t impressed with them besides them being faster. I always found myself happy to get back on my Dyna. But the redesigned softails felt great and improved. I’d love a new deluxe or heritage as a fun second bike. But my wallet probably won’t lol.
I used to live/work in that exact area of Scottsdale you’re riding. Wow that was cool to see! I’m still torn between HD and Indian, especially now that the Challenger is out.
that’s awesome!! I would recommend riding both and buying what feels best. I haven’t ridden an Indian Challenger yet.
The Chieftain is absolutely gorgeous, especially in white. You are right, the instrument layout is nicer too. But, it comes down to a matter of preference.
I agree r.e. mcguire. Thanks for the comment.
Nice analysis. One important thing not mentioned, if money is important, is residual values over a timeline.
Fair. Ultimately I think residual value on motorcycles is pretty bad but I also haven't really done a ton of research so you may be on to something.
I Subscribed because of this video looking forward to watch more videos like this.
Thanks I appreciate that. I will be doing many more bike comparisons in the near future.
I always enjoy your honest opinion. That’s coming from a Indian RoadMaster owner. Thanks for the video.
Thanks Lindsay, I appreciate that!!
I’ve ridden all 3 and I went with a version of the Road Glide that you didn’t mention. I went with the RG standard, which is the exact same bike as the special, just with more chrome and standard bags. Mine even came with the 6.5 GT infotainment with touch screen and navigation, and I picked it up for $22K. The Street Glide standard can be bought for $21K with the same package. Although I will agree that the ride on the chieftain was smoother, and it does come standard with LED’s, I’d put my shark nose fairing and dual headlights up against a chieftain any day. Another thing I found was that the Indian likes to be revved to make power. Getting on a busy interstate in any gear above 4th required a lot of speed and higher rpms, whereas the Harley seems to pull hard from 1700 rpms and up in 6th gear. This is no doubt due to the M8 having a longer stroke than the 111, and really isn’t a big deal. It’s just adapting to a different riding style. I do like the fact that the Indian has a power windscreen vs the SG just making you have to put a larger/uglier windscreen on it due to buffeting...but again, I’m a RG guy, lol. Overall, the Harley just made me more comfortable in my purchase, due to the dealer network. We buy touring bikes to put miles on them, and for the most part I’ll always be within a couple hundred miles from a dealership for any service I might need. Indian just can’t say that yet. But, ride what you love. They’re all great bikes.
I agree. I didn’t really compare the regular Street Glide because I feel the battle is the Street Glide Special vs the Chieftain Dark Horse when it comes to direct competitors. The regular street glide does have a little longer suspension which should help get it closer to the handling of the Chieftain but I don’t believe it beats it from the research I’ve done. Thanks for the input, super appreciated and I agree, buy what bike speaks to you the best.
Hello. Thanks for the review/thoughts on these bikes.
I’m really torn between the Chief Classic/Vintage or The Harley Heritage/Deluxe (although I don’t wont a 107).
It’s the old school look I love... Any thoughts?
Also did you test ride the Chieftain with riding modes?
Cheers
Sorry I missed your comment a couple months ago. Did you make a choice yet?
I liked how you captured the sign for Indian School at 10:45 ...
I've owned
Fatbob 86cubic inch
FLHTK 13 103
Both Harleys I had several major minor problems, terrible ride, great torque, too much money in upgrades
I own 2017 Cheif Classic absolutely love it. Handling, torque in 2nd gear amazing I destroy harleys
Amazing damping and so on
Nothing but Indian from now on
Thank you Kelly Hudgins
I have ridden both these bikes, along with K1600, ST1300, FJR1300, Concours 1400, and new Goldwing. Honestly, if you want a big, heavy machine get the Wing. You can get the non-DCT 2018 now for about $21-22 k. The Honda is smoother, has a better fairing, has better lights, is more reliable. And it offers a center stand.The negatives on the Gold wing is that the seat needs an upgrade and the top box is undersized. But honestly, on a long tour where you’re covering over 300 miles a day you would be crazy to ride the Harley or the Chieftain over the Goldwing. I have toured on all three.
AccurateShooter I haven’t ridden all of them but I will do a gold wing review soon. I can see where your coming from with that but something about the Goldwing design. I don’t hate the goldwing but it also doesn’t call to me like the Harley or Indian do. Maybe it’s just decades of marketing dollars and exposure. I will get to it though.
Love those Indians! They just get better and better!
Agree
I’m torn between a preowned SG and a new 2018 Chief
I really like your point of view and style of review. You get to the point without babbling on and on like many others do. These bikes are not cheap so calling out price makes sense. You end with choosing the Indian by a nose which is fair. Consumers want your opinion so they can make an informed decision. Keep up the good work!
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words.
Agree with you brother, definitely Harley need to figure something out with those prices while you can get more for less and a great good bike like indians
Thanks, I think you will see new Touring bikes in 2020.
Apple CarPlay is available if you buy the plug and there’s a mount kit to attach it to the dash or fairing. No worries with connecting/pairing a Bluetooth headset, charging it and it’s plug and play that charges your phone and gives you access to your iTunes library. Ryan Urlacher made a video about it on his Law Abiding Biker channel.
Good comparo vlog but definitely throw a leg over one of the later TwinCam bikes. Nothing like that shake at idle and pure Harley sound. Something the M8 just can’t deliver. Ride safe
Thanks I appreciate the comment. I will definitely check out some older bikes in the future.
I’ve had 2 HDs and switched to a Chieftain mainly because of the value, but it is really a fantastic riding bike!
Fair enough, I can respect that.
Great review fair ride 2017 streetglide but Indian has me thinking luv the review of the suspension
Thanks!!
Good review I'm glad Harley has competition it's better for all of us as a consumer, but I would never pick an infotainment system over torque!
Thanks!! I agree competition is a great thing. I also agree with the infotainment vs torque thing but some things are more important to some people than others. I could see infotainment swaying some buyers one way vs the other.
@@GearsGadgets
True! We all have different needs Indeed.
I have owned a 16 Springfield and upgraded to the 17 Chieftain Limited. I put about $5k in aftermarket performance parts and a few accessories on the Chieftain. It just never felt as powerful or maneuverable as the 19 Road Glide Special I just purchased. Yep, I traded my Indian in on a HD. It’s the first big twin HD I’ve ever owned and I can say I am happier with it than either of my Indians.
Road Glides are the best.
Arnold Soshkin
Yes, they will run a good 20,000 miles before the oil pump seizes and the rods start knocking.
No problem though, they will be happy to put a new oil pump on.
Just no help with the rods.
Oh well, you can always get another one.
Micah Wright Road Glide all day. Nice purchase, the thing I’ve ever purchased with out buyers remorse. I get tired of cars in 2yrs or less. Enjoy!
Sorry for the super late reply Micah Wright. I appreciate that you stopped by the channel and apologize for not responding WAY sooner.
The Indian is my pick, for the reasons mentioned in the Vid, but also because, in my opinion the ride has a more "solid-platform" feel in technical riding. In slow AND high speed the Indian handles and inspires more confidence, in that nothing is going to wiggle or wallow, especially in transitions. The Power delivery is smoother too... the throttle is more predictable and linear, modulation is intuitive. Just my take on a Motor Show Ride day...
Thank you QuestoDomini
I like the idea of having a bigger touring bike, but I agree about the mono shock thing, I feel like the Harleys are due for an update.
Yeah its coming.
I couldnt get satin/denim paint on a chieftan unless i wanted blacked out. I could get chrome with denim on the street glide special. So that won the game for me.
A good point to mention aside from the price is that Harley has more customizability both through factory and aftermarket.
True!!
I've ridden all three bikes and I think the Milwaukee 8is a great motor, for me who is 6'4" the chieftain was way more comfortable for me. The 111 is awesome and I'm glad that I bought the chieftain. My wife is way more comfortable on it too. As far as bang for the buck goes your dead on. I love the way you get all the good stuff and the accessories are just more comfortable too.
Thanks Tim, I appreciate it. Ride safe!!
What is the best for a taller rider? Who offers more for seats and extended floorboards?.. I am 6'7" and i am looking at both of these
I don't really have any context as someone who is 7 inches shorter. You would REALLY have to go ride them all.
I've always been and always will be a H.D guy at heart. I love the," potato, potato," idle of the Harley. For me it was the only bike I would ride, but then the Indian reappeared. I was so taken by the classic elegance of the Indian. You just can't look at an Indian and not think, " my God, what a gorgeous bike."
So I now ride an Indian. I absolutely love the bike. But I still love a Harley. They both have a place in history and are a thing of beauty in their own right. You can't go wrong with either. I wish I could have one of each.
You H.D guys just have to drop the Harley snobbery crap. It makes you look like fools to the rest of the biker world.
I agree with your comment especially the last statement LoL, supposedly I work with some guys that have that same attitude. I really don’t care because it’s not like I really want to ride with them anyway but there are some still real great guys out there just not all. That’s coming from an older sportster rider LoL. I’m dreaming of hopefully owning a Chieftain one day if the v-twin sound is good enough. The Indians really are beautiful and I definitely want the full front fender. I’m just glad they redesigned that front fairing from the earlier ones! They look a lot better now.
Its an advantage to have a target when designing your product. HD doesn’t have a target, they are the target. Maybe they need to stop thinking that way though.
My biggest concern about Indian is the multiple bankruptcies, buy outs and the fact that it is a Polaris, only using the name they bought. That does give them a better chance of surviving this time hopefully for their buyers, since the last attempts did not have the enormous backing.
Remember, the AMF years? Hardly American, I mean Harley Davidson has had at least four bailouts throughout their history. They stopped being 'the original' when AMF Bowling Company bought them. Plus, HD now uses Showa forks to which is now owned by Honda. Lol
I agree Jim Myers. Thanks for the comment.
I would like know how you put up with The humming vibration in that heritage. I wanted to buy a heritage but I could not stand that buzzing vibration you get when you
Get to the 2500 to 3000 RPM and higher rang. I bought a street glide and I love the bike but it’s actually bigger than what I would have preferred. I love the handling characteristics of the heritage but just cannot get along with that buzzing vibration.. I just test drove three different softails yesterday and they all have that buzzing vibration at higher RPM. Perfectly smooth idle or a little above. I wish they would make that engine soft mounted to the frame and you would have a first place winner for me. My street glide rides like a Cadillac compared to either one of the soft tails which really disappoints me. Dave
Dave McPherson I personally don’t have that bad of a vibration and/or maybe just am not as bothered by it. I do notice how smooth the touring bikes feel when riding but not enough to care too much. It’s probably just a personal thing I guess. I will end up on a touring bike at some point I’m sure.
fair review but Indians net work of dealers is a question of owner value for me and if they have their paint issues under control now
Fair
Great info, im in the market between the 3 and most reviews are saying Indian.
Thanks. Definitely ride both.
Love my 2017 Indian Roadmaster. 37,000 miles so far.
Damn that’s a lot of riding.
That's a little over 13 months ridership. I don't own a car
I'm chiming in years late, but this is a good video. I don't have any experience with HD, so I can't remark on the comparison. I would like to say though that I had recently purchased the 2017 Chieftan Limited. It was priced at $17,999.00 with only 10,704 miles. What had won me over were the following attributes;
Reviews, both comparable as stated by many reviewers and commenters.
Price, couldncommenter.
Features, to me the Chieftan had more to offer than what I had needed.
Ride comfort, once again I can't compare the two brands, but so many riders had commented that the Indian had the better ride control, especially since the Indian had the adjustable air shock.
Power, the Harley has the Indian off the line, but the Indian has the Harley in the 1/4 mile, based on many others input.
Motor Vibration, the Indian's thunderstroke 111 has refined their motor to reduce the amount of vibration felt throughout the frame.
This is just my two-cents worth based on input from many sources online and in magazines.
No mention of that Adjustable electric windshield on the chieftain. That's a huge selling point for me.
I agree. I think HD needs to incorporate that adjustable windshield.
There should be more videos about how to ride these fantastic indian motorcycles . Like how to make U turns , right or left turns, stopping and etc
I agree Behrooz Kian. Thanks for the comment.
Great review. Reliability would’ve been nice added to the comparison👍
True, Sometimes I think of things after the fact. I will probably do another video on this topic in the future.
A couple things you missed. The indian comes with chrome switch gear on the handlebars, chrome fork legs and chrome speaker trim. Add that to the hd and there is quite a bit of price difference again. Don’t forget the electric locking bags and tpms on the indian. We have just added $2000 to the hd to get these items
Good point.
I owned an Indian and the TPMS system is trash. Never worked right, and I know several other Indian owners who have issues with it. Not reliable.
UA-cam Addict Must be luck of the draw as i know people with no issues with the tpms
Any day a 🦅 Harley Davidson which is absolutely pure 👑Class n Royal, as the saying goes even a 5 year old knows what bike is a Harley Davidson, name is enough on the bike.....
lol OK, if you think so.
Name is never enough, my money is more important to me than just blindly tossing it at a name plate.
I’ve been kicking around the idea of upgrading my old dyna, right now I’m still in the sticker shock stage but one thing I did notice about Indian is their extras are very expensive, $900 for a sissybar with a luggage rack seams ridiculous to me. I will probably just keep riding my 04 harley and enjoy no $400 monthly payment.
Seems like you failed to mention about the three ride modes that the 2019 INDIAN CHIEFTAIN has. Did you switch it into sport mode? It is torque heaven...
I was on a 2018. I haven’t had the chance to test a 2019 yet. From what I hear it is better but still not as good as Harley which I believe. Harley’s make their power at really low RPM which I can verify, the Indian makes it much higher. The ride modes seem to only adjust throttle sensitivity which isn’t necessary increasing torque as much as it is just giving you more throttle. Nothing wrong with that approach and if it helps bridge the gap I am all for it. Either way, I still think Indian is better bang for the buck and isn’t really sacrificing much if anything to do so.
@@GearsGadgets looking at the dyno's for 2018's they are close. Taken from cycle world. We ran our Street Glide Special on the dyno in fourth gear to get the peak power output from the Milwaukee-Eight 107. We got a total of 78.43 hp at 5,280 rpm and 104.44 pound-feet of torque at 2,649 rpm. We ran the Chief on our rear-wheel dyno in fourth gear to determine peak output from the Thunder Stroke 111. We documented 74.19 hp at 4,360 rpm and 106.18 pound-feet of torque at 2,410 rpm.Seems like the Indian is 2,410 rmp with at 106.18 fp vs. Harley's 107 2,649 rpm at 104.44 fp torque.
Good review. I’d get the heritage just because of the maneuverability. But as far as the 3 you reviewed, I’d go with the road glide.
I love my Heritage. The road glide really surprised me how much I liked it. I am not a huge fan of the shark nose fairing but it grew on me as soon as I started riding.
Powerwise in my opinion is that they both have plenty of torque. I bought my 2018 Chieftain for the reasons you mentioned. The Indian does have a better ride, plus the Indian came with a lot of stuff that you'd pay more for on a Street Glide. The Indian comes with stuff that's not offered on a Harley like the power windshield (I love that), Bags that lock with your fob, air pressure monitor system, etc.
True!!
Love the review..I just love the look of the Roadglide the best..yes kinda bias cuz I own one 🤷🏿♂️😁
lol. that’s fine. Motorcycle bias is part of what makes motorcycles awesome. Nobody is right or wrong, you like what you like and ride what you ride. Log some miles and be safe.
I thought there was a difference in the windshield. -Some Indian models have an adjustable electric windshield vs old school .
The electric windshield is awesome. The Chieftain does have that.
Road Glide CVO in gunship is 🔥
Agree
Great video, but please don't forget the three modes that you can ride on the Chieftain. The option is there for cruise or getting on the fly by wire throttle. I like all of them but I also would pick the Indian.
I agree Ram Garcia. Thanks for the comment.
Thanks for the notes. I have owned both a customized 2015 Indian Chief Vintage (I understand the Challenger is somewhat different) and a 2019 FLHXS-114 CI. I just sold the Indian and bought the FLHXS. I have owned about 25 bikes in almost 40 years of riding (Gawd, I feel old!), so I am starting to get the hang of things, LOL. I loved the indian, and yes, it does ride nice, but if you lower it, you will have issues just like any bike, which I did (bottoming out and scarring the rear tire). I also did not like the Indian saddlebags (leather), they were too small and the connecting points sucked. However, I am sure the Challenger or the Chieftain for that matter, are better on this for sure. Power on the indian was excellent, however, so were most of my Harleys. The biggest rub with the indian (Chief) is that it rode like a chopper (I have had several of those too, so I know). It turned wider than my old 2002 Road King and my new FLHXS, and cornering was was never as good as any of my stock bikes. I also had some issues with all of the sensors (ABS, Voltage, Oil level) acting up from time to time and the usual things that all bikes need such as tires, warranty recalls..., but with Indian, there are far fewer dealers nearby to get any work done when I need it. Bottom line, the Indian is a great bike and I am glad it is here (seriously), but I am still more than happy to be back on my FLHXS. This includes not feeling like an outsider everytime I show up to ride with a group of Harleys ( I know, "get over it!"). If you ride alone or with a mixed group, then this should not be an issue. Good luck and follow your heart, you'll be much happier in the long run
Thanks C. Archer, I appreciate it!!!
I rode the chieftain and loved it, even said its my next bike. Then rode the road glide and street glide. Forgot about the Indian, street glide for me. Stage one on my 09 Night Train very sufficient until upgrade to street glide.
Thanks for the comment.
For the money you saved on the Chieftain you could upgrade to a srage 2 or even a 116 and the HD wouldn`t come close in torque
How much does it cost to Stage 2 a chieftain?
Gears & Gadgets
Less than $1000 to do the cams. What ever you want to spend on air cleaner and slip on's.
About $1200 for the Indian pipes and ac if you pay retail.
Dude, I am here in Scottsdale. I have a 2019 SSG. Would love to ride sometime!
That’s awesome, definitely hit me up on IG.
My question is, which is the most reliable in the long run and the cheaper maintenance?
Full transparency, I have no clue.
In 5 years is the chieftain gonna be worth what the street glide would be?
Good question.
Do you really buy a bike based on resale value? I know some probably do. Both Indian and Harley guys who buy a new bike every couple years and trade them in with 5k or less on the odometer, but for those of us for whom one of these bikes is a huge purchase that won’t be made again for some time, resale is of lesser concern. Indian has been seeing growth even with the decline of motorcycling. As long as Polaris doesn’t make some huge blunder, I think Indian is here to stay.
Road glide special feels so much better and offers way better lighting
I agree with you other than the suspension being better on the Indian than the road glide. But the road glide does handle better than all of them.
If it was between a street and an Indian only then who knows but I love my road glide special so much more and tested all
Rode all three! Got a road glide special. Added a tour pack and the infotainment module. Way happy with the bike. Dose great in town and the open road.
2016 Roadglide special 👍🏿
you're not wrong... since the outcome of the 2022 indian chief line, i think those are very cool alternative for the 114 streebob. since they also offer a 116 for a competitive price. and that new gps/speedo/infotainment all-in-one is brilliant
Thanks
That's great stuff, thanks
Thanks (Sorry for the late reply, trying to catch up on old comments I missed)
Both are beautiful. I went with street glide
M8 is a different feel from previous Harley motors, but I suggest you try the older motors if you ever get a chance
I certainly will in the future. Time is the only thing stopping me.
Someone please help me out. I have a 2015 victory XC . My friend at the dealer how a 2017 Indian chieftain limited. Would you give up the Victory ?
I wouldn't get the older style Chieftain. Get the newer style front. The older one looked like a spaceship in front but thats just me. I do know the 2019 has the 3 mode option. Lots of Upgrades to the 19 over the 17 Chieftain.
Pauly P Ok. Thanks
Sorry for the super late reply A Jackson. I appreciate that you stopped by the channel and apologize for not responding WAY sooner.
The thing I noticed when test riding the Chieftain was it felt cheap in the area of fit and finish and I didn’t care for the layout of the instrument cluster. I also found in my research that dealerships were few and far in between. I’m not saying that Indian is cheaply made at all, I’m just telling you how I observed it. I went with the FLHT because I don’t need a stereo or nav as I have those in my phone and I’ve had speakers in my helmet since the Walkman days. Price wise I came out far less total than either of the 2 bikes in this ride comparo and that was the bottom line. Buy what you like and ride it!😎
I dont disagree with your observation. I do think the Chieftain felt more "Plasticy" but it didnt feel cheap to me. I do prefer the fit and finish of a Harley but the ride quality of the Chieftain cant be ignored in my opinion. 100% buy what you like and ride it.
Thanks down to earth comparison
Thanks for the down to earth comment!!
Love the RK but went with Springfield (love it), however still want the RK because its the first bike that interested me in motorcycles. I have no interest at all on any other bike but I did enjoy my Triumph America which is not made anymore. Thinking of Indian Roadmaster or the HD Ultra Limited (need the storage). If I decide on the HD Ultra then I will keep my Springfield. If the Roadmaster I will trade in my Springfield and get the RK (not the special-I like the Chrome). However with 44K Kilometres in almost 2 riding seasons up here in Toronto (hate winter now), not sure trade value will be a good one but hey who cares, I will have a HD RK and a Roadmaster! What to do in 2020?
LOL I love reading the dilemmas that motorcycles have. No matter what you couldn't go wrong with any of those choices so you really won't make the wrong choice.
I'm thinking of trading an18 heritage classic with stage 4 for an 18 Chieftain. rode one in 2014. going to ride an 18 tomorrow. Indian inventory reduction sale of 4 to 5 thousand off MSRP to make way for the 19s.
Sorry for the super late reply James Moorer. I appreciate that you stopped by the channel and apologize for not responding WAY sooner.
Good review, and spot on in my opinion, and you left out several additional advantages of the Indian. Power windscreen, better audio, key fob locking bags.....The Chieftain comes standard with so many more of what you’d have to upgrade to if you had the Street Glide. I love both honestly, but you hit the nail on the head, the better value by far is the Chieftain. If we’re only looking at the eye test however, I’d buy the Street Glide.
Good point.
At that price range, there shouldn't be a large optional list for a bike. Indian has the edge with the standard accessories for sure, but both companies are going to price themselves out of reach at some point if it isn't already occurring.
Good review. If you do spirited riding you will have to upgrade motor, suspension, and throw in speakers and add amp as well, on any touring motorcycle PERIOD! Just my .02 cents
I can appreciate your .02 cents. Your not wrong.
Best review I watch
Thanks Juan.
Love my 18' Road Glide, I see that Indian is going to be coming out with a fixed fairing bike and would like to take a look at it when it comes out. The Chieftain is a much better suspension stock over my RG, however I would like to see how much difference after my new shocks go on. At the price of the Harley touring bikes they should come with a better suspension from the Mfg., while the newer bikes do have "better" shocks they are nowhere near where they should be for the price. Stock RG has maybe 2" of travel in rear shock....Indian is closer to 5".
I agree. I always love seeing a fellow HD owner willing to point out the shortcomings of and hope for a better product. I love the mono shock on my Softail Heritage with the added suspension travel and I agree the Chieftain feels better than the HD touring bikes. I really hope Harley goes that route in their next (presumably soon) platform upgrades.
You need to ride the 2019 Indian Chieftan and ride in Sport mode. Also try the 116 big bore engine too.
I definitely can not compare big bores, haven't ridden them. The sport mode is a bit of a gimmicky parlor trick kind of thing to me, it only adjust throttle sensitivity, it doesn't actually increase HP or Torque. I was just trying to compare the bikes in their stock form.
I own the 2018 roadmaster and it sits Slightly higher than the chieftain that allows for more lean angle. I have had no problem with my roadmaster. The only problem I have is the winter months in the north east.
I am originally from Buffalo, I get it lol
Clearly both bikes are great. Still, I don't think you are comparing apples to apples. Theres a lot more to the Harley engine than just that torque. The Milwaukee 8 is adding more than the Indian riders (and commenters) are used to seeing when comparing to HD. Its gonna prove after 80-10000 miles its gonna have a lot more life left than my (and the other) big V twins have and the Indians are gonna get. Im betting the lives of those M8s are gonna be significantly longer with performance sticking around in its lifetime.
I love Deloreans! Where did you get yours and who do you purchase your plutonium from? Is it the same place that you got your flux capacitor?
Sorry for the super late reply Michael Daly. I appreciate that you stopped by the channel and apologize for not responding WAY sooner.
I test rode the standard street glide. I felt solid and a good all around bike. It was like riding a tank in a good way, making you feel safe. I also went and rode a classic Indian Chieftain. I felt smooth and comfortable. I was like riding in a luxury vehicle, it had all the little extras that I really never thought about. Both bikes road great. I still say ride what you like and feel safe and comfortable riding on.(put no price on happiness) It is just like choosing between Ford or Chevy? Just enjoy life without hurting yourself or others. I read a lot of the comments. Remember you do not want a vehicle or tank that you have to make sure a service department is in every town you ride in. That would throw up a flag on dependability. I currently owe a Kawasaki Vulcan. I have rode it across the US without having to find a service dealer for Kawasaki. No more than tire repairs and batteries, the basic maintenance, plus gas. Again I say ride want makes you happy. I did pick a used Indian Chieftain with a upgraded 116 with speakers on saddlebags. The previous owner upgraded to a Roadmaster. I just happen to be there on the day he was trading. I am happy with my purchase. I just love riding.
I totally agree. Ride what you like and be safe!!
Plus the 19 Chieftain not only the retractable windshield it also has 3 different ride modes (tour, regular, and sport) and rear cylinder deactivation. A lot more bike for you buck and cheaper then it HOG counterpart.
True
I've riden both and my only complaint with the Indian is the way it sounds. Definitely needs an exhaust I recommend stage 2 or 3 kits
Good thing you spent your hard earned money on the Harley! Wise investment in a stand up company that knows how to STAY IN BUSINESS!
My 2010 Electraglide has 107k and is still under factory warranty always faithfully honored all over the USA!
Thanks Harley Camper. Thats crazy that you have 107K. I am happy to hear that.
I agree with you, there both beautiful iron horse's.
But i'll take reliability, improved handling, the instrument cluster set at road level and quick responding infotainment system over more torque and right out the door.
Someone, somewhere is gonna make a way to improve the torque and power either in house and/or after market which has been done with the 116 cube inch. 🗨️🤓
Thanks Jet black Knight, I appreciate it!!!
2 things, 1. Bring cost to make them equal by doing the 116 big bore kit on Indian. Now it has ride and power over hd. 2. How about a heritage vs Springfield comparison?
only problem is that bigbore kit is 2700$ and the stage 1 114 out performs it.
Where as the bigbore kit from 107 to 114 is 1700$ from Harley. You're paying 1000$ more for that bigbore kit, and getting less performance.
Sorry for the super late reply gambietti. I appreciate that you stopped by the channel and apologize for not responding WAY sooner.
What I noticed on an Indian demo ride is that the Chieftain feels 100-200 lbs lighter than the Street Glide. It also is easier for me to touch the ground.
I 1000% agree. A significantly lower center of gravity.
I own a HD RoadKing and i love the torque but hate that ALL H.D'S have primary gasket leaks or leak oil eventually. It just amazes me that for how much money u spend on H.D's that they arent dependable. For those that are going to try n argue with me you can't. Im in a m.c club n we ride long distance. I have thousands of friends in clubs that ride HD's n someone is on the side of the rode broke dwn because HD's have issues. I bought a Victory Vision and have owned it for a year now. Been n the shop once. New performance clutch n two oil changes. Thts it. Victorys dont leak oil theres no primary gasket issues n the 106 cubic inch motor which has been standard since 08 is plenty of power. My club brother has a 2018 chieftainDarkhorse n just like my Victory its problem free too. U can't compare no bike to a HD but a HD because HD is just unreliable n costly to maintain. Most bikers if not all of us just want to get on and turn the throttle believing we can make it to wherever were going without breaking dwn on the side of the road period. I need dependability period. So its Indian or Victory. If i wanna keep up with the jonesis id get a HD because there cool looking n popular. I like putting money into my bike on upgrades not repairs which ALL HD riders will have to do sooner rather than later. Polaris makes Indian & Victory n there bulletproof period.
L
I agree Keymatic1. Thanks for the comment.
The other issue that nobody seems to mention is the color options right now. I’m not pro or con on either bike but the Harley bikes have a lot more options even on there base glides
I agree. It would be nice to have some additional Indian colors but I think they cover the bases of what MOST people buy anyway.
One of the best comparisons ive seen so far on youtube. I thought the 2019 Street Glide comes equipped with LED lights !!
Id like just to add that resale value adds to the bike's value. Also with regards to reliability. I dont have direct experience with Indian but friend of mine owns last model of victory magnum and he has frequent minor issues. Im not sure if Polaris dealing with Indians QC/QA differently. While the Harleys tend to be problem-free unless u are really unlucky.
Thanks I appreciate that. Yeah I can’t really attest to Indian QC/QA but I don’t read a lot of negative reviews on them so that means something.
Why not use the base Glides vs the special?
Because I wanted to do HD vs Indian.
Should’ve road Chief Dark Horse. That’s why I got rid of my Heritage.
You traded Heritage for Dark Horse? I can understand why.