Indian Chieftain Dark Horse | 1-Year Later Review
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- Опубліковано 25 лип 2024
- This is my year later review of my 2016 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse. I hope this helps anyone interested in this bike. Thanks for watching!
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Michael... Thanks for your honest review on the Indian. I've been riding HD's for quite some time and I'm considering a change. Your video and experience is encouraging ans helpful. Thanks, JP
Same here. Been across the country with my 2017 road master twice and taking another 2000 miles plus one in August.
Zero problems! Just take it in every 5000 miles for service. My dealer takes good care of my bike. Goes over everything except I change the oil and filter my self.
Loving it so far!
Made some very good points. I love the infotainment system as I get lost easily and having the maps, cruise control is very reassuring. I use a similar set up on my Subaru Crosstrek.
Nicely done, Michael. Happy riding over there.
Great video - Love my 17 DH too. My biggest gripe was the seat. Felt cramped and my bottom was sore after about 40 minutes and had me looking for a spot to pull over. Did a lot of research and this was my take. Had a Corbin on my previous bike. Really like the way their site lets you build and customize your seat. But kicked them to the curb when I discovered all of the current negative reviews and found the BBB giving them an 'F' rating. Went to an Indian demo bike ride event back on Veterans Day and they put on their extended reach seat for me to demo for a week. Moved you back 2" and up. Felt like sitting in a lounger - awesome - The day was in the low 30's and sold me on having a heated seat. But, did not like going up - changed the handling of the bike - did not feel as nimble - and you are unable to use any backrest with this seat. Two very big negatives for me. Mustang does not offer a heated seat - took them out of contention. Liked the Ultimate but you have to have the rear seat on to use the seat heater and it is controlled by a remote. Didn't like the remote and I take the rear seat off when the wife is not riding - like the look. Came across Mean City Cycles on a couple of forums and really liked what they can do for your seat. Many different options - they can change the position of the seat, change the padding in the seat, customize the seat frame, and change the cover any way you like. I sent my stock seats to them back in December and could not be happier with the results. Highly recommend checking out their website at meancitycycles.com and their Facebook page. They have pics of my seat / bike posted on their Facebook pages dated 12/15 and 12/19.
Detonation sounds like metal flakes in a tin when you wind out the gears. This is usually cured when you add a performance air filter and install an after market fuel tuner that adds more fuel to the engine than the Indian, stage one, down load for the 111 inch engines.
I really like the dark horse... I have the bobber love it too. Thanks for review. My next bike
Excellent review... straight to the point and honesty... thanks 😁
Rock solid video... straight to point and good quality detailed review. Thanks.
wolfpackpilot I couldn’t have said it better...👍
Purchased a 2017 Limited last August so I was really pumped to watch your video. You did not disappoint. I rode a Street Glide back to back with the Indian and what I liked better was: windshield, suspension, seat, Ride Command, clutch engagement, sound system, remote locking bags, and stock sound. It was really no contest once I rode the Indian. I appreciate your take on reliability......I plan to put a lot of miles on this one.
GT Steele Couldn't agree more, wish I had the ride command.
That was a nice honest review. Great job.
After this video, I’ve decided on buying an Indian. Thanks for the great video!
I really like the front fairing.
Love that bike, never sawed one up close but I may upgrade to one next bike
Good to see that your on the forum. Look me up sometime on there I am Medic Mike. It would be nice to know what upgrades other than your headlights you have done and what problem you had with the tunes on your bike. After purchasing mine I am a little apprehensive myself, mainly cuz I bought the Freedom True dual pipes. I ran into the guys at hogworkz and they mentioned your video when they asked me what i rode by the way. Ride safe and keep those videos coming.
The tinkling sound you mention what be is known as "Pinking" a term used in auto engineering that describes combustion shock waves within the cylinder when under load. Some modern engines have a pressure monitoring system that measures BMEP that retardes the ignition if it starts to occur (not that a driver or rider would notice) An alternative is use the highest Octane Petrol (Gas) available or use an Octane Booting additive. Some incorrectly refer to it as pre-ignition but that is a whole new matter to discuss. Waiting for the 2019 Indian's to reach the UK.
Can’t wait to get mine , nothing like the feeling of pride of being an Indian and riding an Indian !
BattleNativeHD I don't think it gets any more badass than this 🤘
American or Asian?
I rode a 2019 Indian chieftain 116. It is awesome , so much power and the brakes are phenomenal. Haven’t ridden a Milwaukee eight street glide 114, but Indian is amazing. Just pricey
good review! My next bike
This is great audio and video. Good job. I'd like to see more videos
i liked your comments,the seat was changed right away for Corbin (cost fortune from France)try it…for the rest ,electronic wind shied,music and torque…add a personal paint….so fun
I love this bike and that color package.
I agree with your assessment of the seating position! I too am a but taller, 6'4" and really require a lot more seat movement backwards! It's like I'm sitting on the damn fuel tank compared to a aftermarket seat! After that, it's one simply great bike!
Edysin Simon Have you purchased an aftermarket seat? I have been looking at the Tall Boy Seat by Ultimate seats.
Edysin Simon
Whats wrong with the Indian extended reach seat?
Indian has a free seat demo deal, put your name on a list, try the seat for a month or what ever free.
The bike really dials in when you move back on it some.
Yup in like the fairing! Still not sure about that fender though
Got software update today. Service manager said only 17,18 effected. Also reiterated that the battery is an issue with cold start problems. Not enough cold cranking amps. Next winter going to use 10/40 synthetic to help with starting. I ride year around for considerable distance so the battery is fully charged when i park.
I’m a Harley guy yet this is a sweet ride!
I'm not a V-twin guy but I like the fairing, it looks good to me...
Absolutely agree with you about tyres. Dunlop sucks. I have yamaha roadliner and it came with Dunlop it slip every corner so even new tires I have move to Michelin commander 2 amazing tyres. But to experiment I have put now Avon Cobra they last longer they have wee bit less grip but overall behave on dry same. Michelin commander on wet is winner. I made on Michelin around 6k and Avon 8k and I am aggressive rider. Don’t know about indian and tuning engine but on my experience I have put tuning system and done it professional on my yamaha put different exhaust etc. after week I just disconnect it put original exhaust and now I am back to enjoy my bike. Company’s make a lot of efforts to make engines exhaust etc. and tune them for efficiency economy etc and all that tuning is not for me maybe work for others and I accept that. For long run like I do Scotland to Poland every year around twice time and daily commute to work it wasn’t work. In my experience tuning work for those Sunday riders I think. It is my opinion only
Might mention other choices in addition to the Harley and Victory: the Vulcan 1700 Vaquero and Voyager, for example
I found the DH Chieftan to be the most comfortable motorcycle I've ridden. I don't like black bikes, I don't like Indian fairings, and I abhor the wheel covers. The bike I had before my DH was an '08 Electra Glide - WHITE - I saw the DH Chieftan, and I knew I had to have one, everything I didn't like on a bike and I fell in love with it. I got 18,000+ miles on the factory rear tire. I never got more than 5000 on the rear tire on a HD.
Great review. Thanks
very helpful review!!! what music are you using ?
Great review! What kinda hat you rocking? I'm in the market for one!
I really like the feel of Indian motorcycle. And They just have such a nice look to them
Also what is the name of the song in the beginning?
Great video edit.
Great Czarchasm
Metzler 888 on the rear is good for 14,000 miles for me. The Continental II on the front. The front has 13,000 on it and it looks brand new still. Pretty happy with both tires.
V Star 1300 Adventures Interesting! I will have to give that a try. I do like that the rear Metzeler is a radial tire.
What tire size did you go with for the rear tire on those Michelin Commander 2’s?
Aeromach makes a kit that lowers your floorboards a half inch and pushes the floorboards forward 1 3/4 inches that gives you a little more leg room.Costs about $ 130.00.Only problem is I don't think you can use your highway bars unless you modify the mounting bracket for the highway bars.
Contacted Aeromach and Mark told me the that the "CI-3028 Indian Floorboard Relocation Kit" will work with the Highway bars and cutouts installed on my 17 Chieftain DH. Just ordered the kit myself.
Great bike can't wait to get my own
Rene Garcia Looks like you’ll be on this bad boy pretty damn soon!
Suggestion about seats. I am 6’2” and had serious discomfort from the seat. I purchased a Ultimate seat. they have both 1” longer and shorter seats. My riding comfort has improved dramatically. They are well built and offer the back rest. I have rode 800 miles in one day and had no problems. .
I will be doing a UA-cam video soon on the Tall Boy Ultimate Seat for this bike.
Great review! I agree with everything you say. My Chieftain has been the best and most fun ride I have ever owned. Indians are great bikes as long as you don't get a "clacker." The 10% whose bikes become "clackers" are often stuck with a very noisy engine that Polaris will not fix, that dealers do not want to take in trade (for a fair price), and are difficult to sell to anyone. If you're one of the 90% that get a good engine, you will be very happy with your purchase - they are increadibly good motorcyles.
Silverback do you know if indian has made any changes on newer models to stop the dreaded "clackers"?
The exhaust cams were changed in the 2015s to reducethe loud valve train rattling. The oil pump (different part number) was also changed - I assume to reduce "clacking" from too much oil in the sump which causes the bottom of the rods on the crankshaft to hit the oil and "clack."
Silverback thanks for the info, much appreciated!
I was recently talking to a customer service engineer at Polaris and asked that question. He said the Indian team is constantly working on design and manufacturing quality process improvements and believes that number of Thunder Stroke 111s that" clack" are less each year. He felt there were significant improvements in 2017 and even better in 2018 Indians.
New part numbers for the same part confirm that the oil sump/pump was changed, the exhaust cams were changed, the fuel pump & filter was changed and I'm guessing the manufacturing specifications/tolerances have been changed on a number of key engine parts.
The talk I am hearing about the 116 upgrade is that it fixes many of the problems that cause "clacking" -- if that's true, it certainly is a clever way of getting customers to pay the cost of repairing manufacturing defects that, in my opinion, should have been taken care of by Polaris.
Looking to purchase one if and when I finish my overseas tour of duty as an Ex-Pat.
My bud had a 2016 that had paint problems. So he bought a 2017 new like the 2016 thinking he just got a bad bike. Again the paint bubbled and rusted in less than 8 months. Both bikes also had electrical and shock issues too. He finally traded the 2017 for a 2012 Goldwing no issues so far it is now 2 years old. He rides everyday in all weather.
Roadmasterism Oh bummer! I haven’t met anyone who’s had any issues like that with the new Indians. Sounds like he got 2 lemons. Or he lived in a brutal climate. I know the gold wings have lots of electrical issues.
That road looks familiar!
Awesome review! Been watching indian for 3 years now. Keep watching different reviews. Love the looks of your bike, but because we mostly ride 2up the Roadmaster would be great for our needs.
Earlier today I see a review on UA-cam about the RM and it was problem after problem, then I watch yours on the chieftain and you seem to really like the bike. It's a tough decision with (for me) a huge pricetag! I'm wanting to pull the trigger on the RM but just not sure. Thanks for the review!
I ride with a few guys that own the RM. What were the problems you heard about it?
Michael Switzer Jr.
I also ride with several RM's.
I know of at least 20 that are between 70 and 80,000 miles with nothing more than oil changes and normal service.
They see the shop for upgrade cams, air cleaners, pipes and big bore kits but thats about all.
My 14 Chieftain is about due for a battery and rear tire at 16,000
miles.
Warrantee put a starter solenoid on it a year ago at 10,000, thats it, I soaped the belt once in 0 degree weather.
If you get a RM, you will be like me. Nothing can wipe the smile off my face when I'm on my Chieftain, it's fast with the cams and will out handle anything on the road, 100 is just cruising and the bike will do it all day long, everyday.
Both bikes eat up cross winds, I think the RM is just slightly better, probably because of the lowers.
With the Indian flare windshield on the Chieftain it's just as good.
Pick a good dealer, many cross several states to deal with Indian Of Oklahoma City for a reason, they are over 120 cam installations and are working on their 10th big bore kit right now with a very very good in house dyno.
If you can get a Roadmaster, grab it, you will love it.
One Slave Are you going to change to a lithium battery?
Michael Switzer Jr. Keep in mind, this is from UA-cam so it isn't firsthand information. On a 2017 RM the one guy had corrosion under the paint on two sets of fenders. That was on the willow green/cream. He also had a few different codes coming up on his ride command when he first turning on bike. He also mentioned it left him stranded two different times. Also, the front lighted war bonnet would allow water to get in. To be fair, he said he rides it every day in all weather conditions, including salt. That may have added to the problems. I don't want you to think I'm bashing Indian motorcycles. I think they look awesome, I've taken the roadmaster for a test ride and love the bike. Just want to make an educated purchase when spending that amount of money.
One Slave that's all great news and helpful information! Thanks for the input. I've been watching videos on the stage 3 and if we get the RM would one day love to do that upgrade! Will keep in mind the Oklahoma City dealer when purchasing.
I just purchased a 2018 Chieftain Dark Horse last Friday. I left the bike at the dealer so they could install the 116 Stage III kit with blacked out exhaust. I rode the stock 111 Chieftain back to back with one with the 116 kit. Night and day performance. It's not perfect. It really needs a fuel and timing management system like a Dynojet vs the mapping they load from the factory. The low end is jerky and abrupt. But above 2k it smooths out really nicely. A fuel management system is next on my list. With a custom dyno tune, it will probably help the performance even that much more.
I love the bike. I rode a new Street Glide Special and a Road King Special prior to buying. Honestly, the Street Glide Special felt really nice and the bike is put together a little better. But I couldn't bring myself to becoming an HD fanboy. I like things that are different from everyone else and the Chieftain Dark Horse fits that bill.
Barrett Powell I am jealous. You should definitely make a video of your new ride.
I won't tell you then what my other bike is...LOL
Oh dear... Please share!
i.imgur.com/Us8KfzL.jpg
i.imgur.com/Un4jYzH.jpg
Lovely bike i want to buy this bike in white colour can you explain its frame and chechis material.
BTW this model in any color other than all blacked out would not be Dark Horse, it would be Springfield. Look for Springfield on Indian's web site.
I am 5'11" and I agree I feel this setup was definitely designed with slightly shorter legs person in mind. I have the stock seat, wish it was moved back about 2". Other wise I love this bike. Time to go seat shopping for my 2017 Indian Chief Darkhorse.
I have the Tall Boy seat that Ultimate Seats makes and I just got the new 2019 Indian Rogue extended reach seat which I am going to put about 1000 miles on this week.
Which seat do you like better.I am 6'3 and feel cramped on the chieftain and the streetglide.
Great review! I love my Indian (2017 Chief Vintage). Was previously a huge HD fan, but I've been converted! Regarding getting a tune, I highly suggest it. Talk with the folks at FuelMoto and get a Power Vision CX, and they supply the tune. If you think you're making good power now, you'll be blown away. It's amazing how much the PVCX really wakes up that 111. Ride safe!
Navitimer 1884 By chance are you the gentleman I ran into at Angeles Crest Hwy?
Navitimer 1884 So I got the new PVCX and so far I am disappointed. Seems kind of like a gimmick. The tune Fuel Moto sent me actually made my bike slower (no top end HP) and all the tunes that are on DynoJets website seem like they’re the same tune you would get from an Indian dealer.
Michael Switzer Jr. ----- > The PVCX fuel tuner can only be tuned really good with a dyno that has the up dated software to run it. Call the Vic Shop in Iowa. They recently spent about $6,000 for new software to up date their dyno so they could put the very best dyno tune on a Indian 111 engine They dyno tune a lot of Indian big twins and Victory motor cycles too. The owner of the Vic Shop is Rylan Voss. and he can tell you why your PVCX is not making your 111 engine run the way that you want it too.
Mike, I would recommend paying Fuel Motto for advanced tuning. The tuner is a retired engineer he is on the indianmotorcycleforum.net under the name of craigb1960 he is the smartest guy on custom tuning i have seen. I purchased the PCVX I just haven't put it on yet, but when I do he will be helping me. I highly recommend him.
Michael Rhymer Yes I have been working with Craig B. But I would not give Fuel Moto another cent :-) none of their tunes worked for me. Craig B sent me a great tune for my bike so I’m set!
great video, nice bike....very similair to street glide.eh? Where did you get that VEST!! LUV IT. its a club vest, right? cant find it anywhere, been searching all HD dealers.
from FMC , I have one
I really liked some of the music in the video. Any chance I could ask you for a list of what songs you used?
I have the 2023 Cheiftain darkhorse. and the fairing on the old one is so much nicer. You get one light now.
I know! I hope they implement three lights again in the near future. You have a great motorcycle either way.
Love the Indians looks but I’m in love with my ‘16 road king. I’ll be keeping it a long long time.
vulcanman64 The road King is a great bike!
This is kind of late. But what height of windshield did you get
Demo rode the 116, it was very powerful and sounded very awesome . The throttle has a hiccup when you start to twist almost like a cold engine. I talked to a mechanic at Indian and he said something about the counterbalance not jumping into position unless you really twist the throttle hard, then you would probably land on your back haha 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 no complaints as I want to buy one 2000.00 for the jugs cams and pistons etc. then 12 hours labor 120.00 bucks an hour. 500.00 bucks for new air cleaner , new high performance pipes 400.00 then the new tips 120.00 ouch
aloekat holy cannoli! Now that’s an investment.
mmmm the metal clink , ( as known by a few , the clacker tribe ) I haven`t narrowed the search , but I do not think gas octane is the problem , there must be a sweet spot some where , either the rods to rockers , or lifters , doesn`t seem to hurt the engine at all , just a little annoying , mine is at 2000 r-p-m only there though 1800 too 2200 seems just fine !
as in this photo
Awesome review mate. Do more
being 6'2" and bad back from motorcycle accident... was thinking about buying one for 50th. does the seat move back and if you move the handlebars forward 2 or 3 inches does it effect handling ?great review
Get the high rise handlebars, you won't regret it.
Not the Indian I am considering but this is a really good review. Very helpful.
Water is the New Gold Much appreciated
Great video.
A couple things that’s been holding me back from getting one. I haven’t test drive one yet.
1. I know it’s a heavy bike but do you notice the weight? Do you miss not have a reverse?
2. How does that matte finish hold up?
3. With the fairing so close to the fuel cap is it hard to fill up?
I have never owned a bike that had a reverse assist feature. The matte paint held up beautifully! It is very easy to fill up just make sure you do not overfill. I just purchased a new 2018 Chieftain Dark Horse (review coming soon).
Awesome. Looking forward to the review.
That dude on the snowmobile .
. lmao 😂
Is it suitable for a first bike? Because this is the type of bikes I like :D
! Good job
I heard that rear cylinder is really hot and burns your leg...must be true cuz I see lots of heat shields there...I have the 2017 HD street glide mil 8...and it runs really cool...
What really gets hot is the Cadillac converter sits right under the driver seat that's where the Heat come from
They should make an Indian with similar ergonomics as the Victory for Tall people. I'm also 6'2" and not being able to stretch out like you would in a Victory going Cross Country is definitely a bummer
George I really want to test ride the new 2019 Chieftain to see if the new seat and positioning is better for us tall folks.
Nice video!! I have a 2016 Springfield. I would suggest you try the springfield seat. I'm 6' 265lbs and know exactly what you mean with the seat. That's the main reason I didn't buy the Dark horse. There is a difference between them and I sit very comfortably in mine. Check out Adam Sandoval's channel, He just had the 116 kit put in his 2019 Chieftain Dark Horse. He says it's awesome!
I have rode a Springfield 116 and the Chieftain Elite 116. Springfield had more power probably due to the fact it is lighter. Both were a lot of fun to ride. Much more torque and power. Throttle response was very touchy but nothing a Dynojet pvcx couldn't fix. Recommend buying it from Fuel Motto so all of your tunes are free. Will probably upgrade my 2017 Chieftain Elite soon. Just make sure if you do this upgrade that the shop you pick has done several before you let them upgrade yours....
Michael Rhymer That is awesome to hear. I would not recommend Fuel Moto to anyone as I myself did not have a very good experience. But if you search the forums and look for a gentleman by the name of Craig he can definitely help you out with any tune for the PVCX.
Lol I was sending you the same thing.
Michael Rhymer
The weight is noticeable.
If your chief is an 18, the drivetrain is lighter than the 17 and earlier 111's.
The compensator is gone, think they added something inside the case to do that job.
That took more than 15 pounds of reciprocating weight off the crank and it's a pretty big deal.
One Slave Yeah mine is the 2017 model
Nice Larry enticer clip😂
No issues with the comment by Barrett Powell except that tuning an engine exacerbates the pinking and so the engine does need additional and variable fuel / timing software.
Finish?
Very well done.
ChristopherStrunk41 Much appreciated 🙌
Indian is just as good or better than Harley. In my opinion they both are American motorcycles than finally both have it right and they run. As with any bike CHANE YOUR OIL REGULARLY and your super good.
have they fixed the clunky shifting?
randy marks Coming from a Harley my Indian has never had clunky shifting. Depending the climate you live in you might want to check the type of oil you are using.
What kind of vest do you have?
Fan Boy I believe I got it at Cycle Gear, it is the Street & Steel redwood leather vest.
good vid. try a Harley street glide. mo' comfortable.
Only demo bikes have the 116 as of a few weeks ago. Give me a month and hopefully I will have one myself.
John porter Right on! Keep me posted.
John porter j
So I rode the demo 116 bike, I liked it, however, decided to go with the Lloydz 558s instead. Just felt for my RoadMaster I didn't all that torque and power. That might sound stupid, but it's a 2 up bike for me and the wife.
John porter
Indian Of OKC is installing their 10th big bore kit right now.
The last one went in a Chief thats about 100lbs lighter than the other bikes they have done.
Your going to need some strength to hang on!
When you buy the Indian parts, your warranty and CARB stay the same.
Indian's research before release pushed them to make some changes aftermarket cams don't address.
The Lloyds cams and the big bore cams look almost the same.
Indian packs stronger valve springs, clutch springs, gear lock keys and more in the box for some reason but I have not seen those parts in the aftermarket boxes yet.
Indian stands behind the entire warranty for up to 5 years, you just get the parts if you go aftermarket and some of those parts are critical when you want it to live that are not in the box.
My 2014 made the noises as well. It started around 10,000 miles. I went to the 2017 for Ride Command and I’m only at 6000 miles so far
I have run against 107 HD Street Glides and the Chieftain is stronger and faster as long as you hit the gears correctly. Otherwise the Indian can catch (and pass) any of the HD line!
How are the tins holding up? I am hearing a lot about rust under the fenders and paint not holding up? I agree about stock dunlops, I have em on my roadglide and they slipped as well. I just switched to a Metzler and will see how long it holds up. I love my roadglide and would only ever switch it for another frame mounted fairing bike. Hopefully Indian will make one to compete but I wont hold my breath.
motodrummer the Indian is great! Haven’t met anyone that has any issues with their Roadmaster or Chieftain. If you are talking about performance and handling Indian has Harley Beat! Especially with the new 116 kit. But I do want to get another HD in the future, just waiting for Harley to swap out that dated infotainment system, add an electronic windshield and upgrade their bags already. There are definitely pros and cons for both manufacturers.
Yeah I respectfully gotta disagree with ya on the handling side for sure. It may handle better than a street glide but a road glide is a whole different animal. The only tourer I have ridden that is equal to the RG is the Goldwing and again that is a fixed fairing. I like the Indian when I rode it a few times but honeslty I did not feel much of a difference in torque, it may be there I do not deny that but not enough to make me want to swap. Not saying I will never own one but if so I doubt it will be a touring model. This is a good real review as well....ua-cam.com/video/-6vD0i7M6Q0/v-deo.html
motodrummer Unless you are talking about just all around comfort? Because if you head up to the twisties the road glide will be dragging floor boards way before the Indian. I have taken the new 2018 RG out a few times and it's definitely not as nimble through the corners. If Harley changes that outdated infotainment system you have me sold! Oh and they need the electronic adjustable windshield (at least as an option for us cross country riders).
I am not sure about that , I know the indian I rode definetely sat lower to the ground than my RG does but that may just be seat type. Rode my 2009 RG out to sturgis and back from nh and never felt the need for a windshield adjustment but maybe once I tried it I would love it but right now I don't feel it is that important. My 2016 infotainment does everything I need it to do so not sure what your referring to as outdated. what else do you want it to do? Has blue tooth, kick ass GPS USB etc etc??
motodrummer Compared to the quality and features of the Indian ride command system it doesn’t come close. Boot up speeds are incredibly slow! GPS is pretty much useless because maps are outdated even with latest firmware (NO pinch to zoom). Most guys I saw with Harley’s @ Sturgis all had RAM mounts and used google maps. Once it’s as good as Indians then we’re talkin.
You should check out ultimate seats.
Fan Boy Where are they located?
Michael Switzer Jr. They have a website. Here is a link to a review ua-cam.com/video/TStZwcEytdU/v-deo.html
This day and age..... Why would you use an open face helmet???
Just test rode a Roadmaster and was thinking of trading in my 2017 mil 8 HD Roadglide. And backed out . My 107 is alot more pull off speed and comfortable . Did not like how I sat so forward on the Indian.
Probably a weight thing. I just rented a Street Glide with the 107 and thought it was slow compared to my Chief. I barely used 6th gear because it had way less pull than my 111.
Did three separate roll on races against my buddy's 2017 Road King 107 Milwaukee 8 and my 2017 111 Roadmaster on the expressway. Pulled away from him all 3 times.
All Stock fuel injected motorcycles run too lean for emissions .. increasing the fuel curves make them way more drivable ...
The noise thing is probably detonation from shitty gas.
Larry Norsworthy A nice tune using the PVCX fixes the issue.
My bike just puked a coil. Code 1269-3 shorted coil 24000 miles
Puked a coil? It wasn't just a weak battery giving you that error code?
Michael Switzer Jr. No, battery full charge. Code won't clear. Runs on 1 cylinder.
Oh man! What year and model is your bike? Will Indian fix it under warranty?
Michael Switzer Jr. It's a 2017 Chieftain Dark Horse with 24,000 miles on it. Just got off the phone with the technician and Indian has a new software upgrade to fix these problems. I just stepped out the door and restarted it and the bike appears to be running off full power now. I have an appointment Friday for them to reprogram the computer and hopefully take care of these issues. We'll wait and see. I purchased the 5-year continuous coverage so I have 7 years of warranty for 1200 bucks extra. So they should take care of it for me. Going to ride it tomorrow for an American Legion event. I didn't write it up to the shop got it Friday approximately about 130 miles one way we'll see what happens then I'll keep you informed. Call your shop up and find out if they have the software upgrades and can install them on your machine.
Really? What software update? Is it for the ECM... Like a new fuel tune or what?
I'm a short rider, 4' 5". I have to wear those (hard to find) disco glitter platform shoes to ride about anything. My wife is 6' 10".
She rides as my passenger, and she holds the bikes up at a stop. Now, she wants to be the rider, and wants me to sit behind her like I'm her bitch? What would you do?
Every review i see of the indian chieftain, its by guys who ate 6 feet or over, why is there no review by a shorter guy, i am 5 feet 9 inches, i really really want a review where a shorter guys has ridden it and given a review...🙁🙁
navin babji You are the perfect height for the Chieftain. It has better positioning for someone your height.
Michael Switzer Jr. What about visibility, can somebody of my height clearly view the road ahead or is the view obstructed...why i am asking you, rather than going and having a test ride is because the dealership here in INDIA, doesn't have a chieftain on display or for test drive, they get it on order, so i have no way of knowing how its gonna feel....🙁🙁🙁
Good luck when Polaris throws you guys into the ditch like they did to us Victory riders. I was an early adopter, and now I have an obsolete bike. Polaris is making the same mistake that they did with Victory and that is not enough marketing.
YT62 That does suck but victory wasn’t making any money and they have been waiting years to acquire Indian. Last quarter Indian sales were much greater than Harley’s percentages. Indian is also doing flat track racing and they just hired Ola Stenegard for new product design.
Harley will be forced to improve and catch up .. Don't all 4 Japanese Companies make great V Twins too .. for what you are paying you could get an amazing 6 cylinder Honda Gold Wing I would bet
Hondas are great bikes but, many of us don't wanna pay for all plastic bike!!!
"Metal flakes in a tin can". That's detonation, not good. You need a higher octane gasoline! Or an octane booster. Run straight gasoline, no ethanol, if it's available.
Kerry Blueher Tried that “doesn’t work”, a better tune seems to fix the issue. Use the PowervisionCX to fix the timing.
www.indianmotorcycles.net/threads/some-new-info-on-the-cause-of-clacking-from-polaris.223668/
To Mike and every one else.... Please talk to if engine heat is an issue ? ua-cam.com/video/DTnCfY2XdWE/v-deo.html
this video makes it seem that heat is way to much and a game ender.... I have a deposit on a Springfield to be picked up in August. Now I am having second thoughts. Good review! Sub'd and t-up!
The noise you're hearing sounds like pinging, a lean issue.
No seriously they're American made, just ride and enjoy life, I ride hd but wave at all motorcycles...
Indain must produce 4 valves per cylinder
TO ELIMINATE ALL THAT HEAT !
Otherwise , NO SALE
Eddie B. The newer Harley’s have 4 valves per cylinder and they still get hotter than the new Indian 116’s. If you want an American motorcycle that runs cooler go for the Indian Challenger, it is liquid cooled.
Michael Switzer Jr. Okay ... I like the Springfield. I currently have a Yammy ‘13 Roadliner w/ 4 valves per cylinder. NO HEAT ISSUES unless I’m in stop n’go in 90+ degrees weather. I also own a ‘18 BMW k1600. I want a 3 rd. Touring bike in the future. SpringField w/ 4 valves p/cyl. would cut it. I don’t remember any heat w/ da M8.
Why doesn’t Indain / Polaris put out a M8 ?
They will .... only matter of time. Not everybody likes da challenger. Has a cheap look compared to the rest of the Indains.
( just sayin )
Michael Switzer Jr. If Indain / Polaris is gonna start nickel n’ diming their customers like HD .... guess I’ll stick w/ da imports / they’re offering more technology anyways.
✌️
Eddie B. I have zero issues with heat on my Indian 111ci while riding, only in stop in go traffic which is every motorcycle I’ve owned. You can’t really compare a straight six K1600 to a V-Twin American Motorcycle. I’m happy to see an American Motorcycle company innovating.
I don't know what's going to happen to Indian but right now it doesn't look good I want to buy a new 2019 chieftain dark horse the dealership in town stop selling Indians.
Poor representation but the only times I really see them is when I go to Daytona for bike week or biketoberfest I don't really see him in the streets around here in South Florida
See them everywhere on the west side of the US.
Thanks for your honest review on your Polaris product...
Please don’t refer to it as a Indian, it’s Polaris not Indian
Nasty forYou So is a Harley not a Harley since they have been owned by many other companies including AMF which makes bowling pins?
Michael Switzer Jr.
Know your facts, before posting numb nuts.....
HD always had a financial interest in the company without interruption in production or sales, using funding from outside sources like AMF and other investors.
Pretty much like other manufacturers I.e Ford, Chrysler..etc...
Indian went out of business period, selling off EVERYTHING “done”
Polaris bought the name and simply reinvented the brand....not the authenticity
Nasty forYou Polaris buying Indian as a brand is the best thing that’s ever happened to Indian. Thanks to them they’re building bad ass American motorcycles and kicking everyone’s ass on the flat track :-) I don’t know about you but it’s always nice to see more American motorcycles on the road. Not sure what’s to hate.
Nasty forYou Oh and just a little fun fact to educate you on. Harley Davidson has been using using bad business practices and bullying tactics to promote an inferior product from the the very early days. For example, in 1954, they were charged with restrictive business practices after requesting that the United States Tariff Commission place a 40% tax on all imported motorcycles. This pathetic legal effort backfired on them badly and drove the company close to bankruptcy. Approaching death in 1969, after 62 years of being a family-owned private company, they were forced to sell out to AMF who ran them even closer to death! Ride Safe!
Michael Switzer Jr.
Indian, I mean Polaris (short for ATV) manufacturer are a far cry from being badass....
But it does appear that you are butthurt....😂
It’s ok bro....like CNN you failed to fact check your long winded rhetoric....stupid ass
Ride safe on your ATV
Pretty good video great review not a fan of Indians nice video though
This guy has no friends
I had a 2017 Indian Darkhorse chieftain. The bike was the biggest piece of shit on the road. The Seat is absolutely terrible. I recommend going to a different seat. Ultimate seeds makes a great seat. My bike would not start on temperature below 35° because it would puke the computer because the battery could not sustain power. Took it to the shop Marc Mosses gave me song and dance for over 4 months. Still not fixed it they changed the battery out made some difference. Fall and winter the next winter the same scenario pukes the computer at temperature below 35°. The speakers on the sound system totally suck. They are like five dollar RadioShack speakers. If you change them do so the sound quality will improve 1000%. The first three months I had a motorcycle I drove over 2600 miles back-and-forth to the shop to get things taken care of. Charlotte Indian in Gastonia North Carolina has got to be the worst shop in the world. Motorcycle was so bad I wrote Indian crap on the saddlebags and drove it for over a year and a half. I even went through Indian reservations out west and never had any problem with the natives being upset with the sign. It’s like the new Polaris built a piece of shit motorcycle. Mine popped in spotter even with octane booster. Don’t bother leaning the bike over going into turns. All you’ll do is damage the floorboards because they have no wear bars. I put big holes in the cheap ass tin seats for the floorboards. The windshield is crap and unsafe also. The 2 outside mount screws continually back out. Not nylock shoulder bolts. The center mount bolt is too short and doesn’t go threw the nylock nut. In the evenings the sun wipes out the numbers on the speedometer. I could barely get the bike above 100. And Polaris puts 200 mph on the speedo. Who the fuck are they kidding. The Indian is nothing more than a Victory with phony sheet metal.