I'd rather have an old fashioned analogue dial, just a speedo and fuel gauge. Its the technology that would put me off. For maps etc I'd rather use my phone and a quadlock. Its a fantastic looking bike and I would consider buying one. Thanks for starting Sunday off the right way Freddie 👍🏻
Yes analogue speedo please , rear mud guard is ugly..pipes are ugly..but in saying that , it's the best looking bike that Indian have produced so far. Go more old school, that's what people want.!..😎
I completely agree with the analogue dials but on the flip side, this one allows for you to not have your phone cluttering up the bars and keeps the look of cleaner lines. Bit of a trade off.
Your commentary in the cafe was what I would say is the best you have done to date. Absolutely brilliant with the correct amount out humour added into the mix. Love these videos Freddie. 👊😎👍
The closure of a number of high profile Harley dealers tells you that they sell to a limited market and in common with this Indian styling is great but at 19 k is far to expensive for what is a Sunday cruiser
Hey Freddie, yet another quality video. Enough 'technical' info, but I love how you speak of any bike you ride, as to how it makes you feel. That can't be easy to get across, but you do it superbly. Having ridden bikes for 50 years, this has always been the most important aspect for me. Thank you Freddie and Monika. Your videos are like a breath of fresh air!
Bought my Indian Scout Bobber 2025 Limited plus Tech a few weeks ago (Sunset Smoke Red) and I absolutely love it. Not only is it a work of art but it goes like hell, is super comfortable and just looks amazing. Worth every penny and if Freddie ever hops across the pond to the US and finds himself in ATL, I would love to ride the tail of the dragon together!
Altho I can't agree with Freddie about this Indian tugging my heartstrings (1st gen Vmax rider for life), its great to see he hasn't lost his enthusiasm and that Monika is still killing it with the video and music editing!
You look good on that bike. I was hoping to hear from you, just what it felt like opening up the throttle and going through the gears in a spirited moment of burning some dinosaur juice. Nothing replaces that feeling of man and a raw machine pounding down on pistons and vibrating your bones...There's a bond there and the motorcycle has a heart too. All of the motorcycles I have ever had, became part of me. They were like a best friend and a ring on my finger.
This reminds me a lot of my Victory Highball. I loved how it looked, and now really want one of these Dark Horse bobbers. Love the tech tach idea a lot!
I’m getting the sense from of a lot of these comments that many of your viewers have never sat on an American cruiser. People comparing this bike to a triumph bobber, or a RE? They are clueless. Yes, the bike costs $19,000 because it’s built to $19,000… sit on one. If you don’t understand then, well, something’s not firing properly.
The Indian Chief Dark Horse Bobber is an absolutely stunning motorcycle, but i'll choose the Harley Davidson Street Bob everyday of the week above all of those four bikes you just mentioned.
I've been riding Harleys for over 20 years, I'm on my second Fat Boy Lo, a 2012 model. It's not a sports bike but there's nothing like getting on it, feeling the rumble and the vibrations, the sound of the exhaust and cruising. It's quick enough and handles well enough. Prices though of both new Harleys and Indians are ridiculous. You could buy a V4 Diavel that has everything you could wish for, for no more than one of the new Harley bikes. Love your videos.
Another great video thanks Freddie… I own the Super Chief Ltd and love it…. You didn’t mention the different riding modes, sport mode changes this gentle cruiser into being a whole different beast don’t you think?
I own an 2016 Indian Chieftain with the 111 cu. yesterday I rode my friends Chief Sport with the 116 in it. The difference between the motors is the top end torque is more noticeable in the 116 engine. But to be honest the chief is a lot lighter bike compared to a full dressed Chieftain. Yep the cost is an issue for both Harley and Indian, but you buy these bikes for long term ownership. I’m fortunate to own a Triumph Trophy SE and a Bonnie T120 an Aprilia Mana and an Indian Chieftain. But I find riding the Indian is an event, people walk up to chat with you about the Bonnie, but when I leave my Indian in the parking lot it always has someone looking around it when I get back. But I live in Canada and couldn’t imagine having to muscle it around on UK roads.
So I'm going to throw another bike into the mix, the Triumph Bobber at a bargain £13,395.00. Yes, it may be a mere 1200cc, and yes, it may have a mere 106Nm of torque, but does that really matter? These are, after all, cruisers not sports bikes. And that £6300 saving will pay for a lot of custom parts.
@@yahoodlums it may be closer to the Triumph, but I think when we're thinking of the more niche styles of bikes, like bobbers or scramblers, things like out and out performance are less important than what the heart says, and that's why I'd say the Triumph Bobber is another bike to consider.
Finally after so long you did the review of this motorcycle, but you are late, I have sold my chief dark horse bobber, after two years I have not been able to connect with it, perhaps the first one... And in a frustrating way because, as you say, the price was not cheap. The first problem with this bike compared to others is the maneuverability, It is quite heavy compared to the Street bob, it gives the impression that the turning radius is small and in certain very narrow mountain curves you have a really bad time The brakes are good but in fact so good that they are dangerous, on the highway I had to brake quickly and my passenger almost flew over me. Technology at this stage only causes problems, error codes appear very frequently and it becomes very frustrating to have to figure out what is wrong with the motorcycle. Accelerating, it accelerates like a devil but with that weight and that little maneuverability it is a danger, especially on the streets and roads of Europe, I understand that in the United States on those huge highways it is plausible but not where I live. After these two years, the motorcycle has given me certain strange failures, such as a sudden lack of power endangering my driving in curves, random error codes, strange noises coming from the tank, and ultimately a feeling of an unreliable product. I had to sell this bike because it didn't give me confidence and because it didn't connect, but make no mistake, the main reason was not feeling safe or attached to it. I have been waiting a long time for your analysis of this motorcycle but I am surprised that you now put it as number one. After a lifetime of driving motorcycles and never driving cars, I have enjoyed many motorcycles in all those years but this motorcycle has something that I have not been able to tolerate. Was its devilish power and wonderful look and detail finally worth it at the cost of unsafe driving, various failures and a very heavy center of gravity for its weight? No, definitely not. I'm sorry for Indian, I tried, I came from a Harley and after this Indian I'm going back to a Harley. What a difference, my new Street bob has the same power, it has a different feeling and above all, how well and magnificently it takes corners, how light the driving feels, how good it is to drive between cars and that high handlebar, what a difference, it's like enjoy this great passion of being a biker again. Oh and don't forget that second-hand Indians depreciate a lot, not like Harleys, when you go to sell it you are going to lose a lot, with my previous Harley I didn't lose anything, I sold it at its price. Finally, a reality that really influences buying a brand, the workshops and dealerships that will inspect your motorcycle. Unfortunately in my country the Indian dealers do not have enough experience with this motorcycle and do not solve their problems in a professional manner. Harley has been in my country for much longer and at least they have a history of having worked for decades. Indian here are new and the mechanics They are not at the necessary level. In short, if you live in the United States, I understand that you may want and keep an Indian, since with the problems they cause, they may also be fixed to make you feel different since everything there is Harleys, but if you live in Europe, think twice about the buy this motorcycle. My review is honest, I am a biker who talks about his experience and I am amazed by my new Street bob 114 2024, it is really what I was looking for. I am neither the first nor the last that you will see selling their Chief dark horse, ask yourself why but I can assure you that there will be more and more people who get rid of it.
The Chief Bobber Dark Horse is great looking cruiser although I personally prefer the look of the Sport Chief. As for the digital dial while I would rather have an analogue gauge on a cruiser you just can't get away from digital displays on bikes nowadays and while the one on the Chief Bobber is slow to fire up it is light years in front of something like the H-D Breakout digital display. Interesting you chose the Indian over BMW, H-D & Triumph, buying a cruiser is nearly always down to your heart and not your head, if the Indian "rocks your boat" and puts a smile on your face when you ride it then it's the bike you should buy.
When I bought my current cruiser it was between the Indian Sport Chief and the Harley Low Rider ST. Test rode them both, and I went with the Harley. That fairing on the ST makes such a difference for someone like me who daily commutes and occasionally goes on a long tour. Availability of custom parts was a huge factor as well. I still love Indian, but the aftermarket just hasn't quite caught up yet
Nice review Freddie, I definitely agree you need to choose this type of bike with your heart. The problem I have with Indian as a brand, and to a lesser degree Triumph, is that there are totally unrelated to the original companies apart from the branding and the perceived image of what they would have become if they had been in continuous business. Harley and BMW are the real thing in that respect. Clearly the new Indian company has styled their range of bikes on the back of the Harley's development over the 50 years that Indian didn't exist, with design cues from the original Indian company.
Good day big Freddie! Perfect video as always! The new 2025 Bobber line-up, "sport bobber" and the higher spec, "101 Scout" has a quicker electronic gauge display start-up(pretty much instantaneous). I believe you may need to take the bike back to an Indian dealership, to perform a download and "flash" a new software version to the gauge display of the Bobber Dark Horse.
I love this bike. The price🫣 The power, yep style and legacy ✅. But all that bike with single sided disc brake on the front? Some reviews even question single discs on front on mid engines... Great video as they all are! 🎉
Another stellar review - and a good point well made: Built-in tech ages badly. The software in the latest phones will only be supported for a few years, and by the time this bike is five years old there will no doubt be connectivity and navigation problems. But above all, having to wait for the dash to wake up like that is just unacceptable. The simple speedo unit on my 2017 Indian Scout is far more useable, and a quadlock-moutned phone gives me the latest mapping and communications.
I couldn't put up with the speedo, surely that isn't right, give me an old fashioned analog one. I want to turn the key and go. A bobber came from a cut down bike not the bars, the mudguards were cut down, all bits that could be removed were, to lighten it so it goes faster. The Triumph bobber is more true to the name bobber, with the single seat and cut down frame.
My 450nk also has to go through engine checks before supposed to start, so switch on, get your kit on and a min or so of engine warm up probably good too....
An excellent episode - 100% agree. Saw the Indian bikes at the ABR festival and immediately loved the look of the Chief and had a bit of a ride. Awesome - what motorcycling is all about. Will have to get one - 🤔 where to store?
I have the Indian Scout Bobber which has a more basic speedo, but it's all you need on a bike like that... and the exhaust note is glorious!! Most people will use their phones for navigation anyway, so it's kind of pointless to integrate it in the dash. I've ridden Harleys, but to me the Indian looks better, sounds better, is smoother and feels better built. They are amazing bikes. Go and try one!
Btw - excellent review. Very professional and so much better than many others from the U.K. on UA-cam - most of whom are annoying. However, you nailed it. Excellent point about the boot up and the electronic display - think I’d like analogue and simple on such a bike. Will date quickly as you point out. And that engine? Beautiful.
Ohh Freddie, its been a while. Poetry has always been your style for mechanical words. Louvers for cam covers & pipes for pushrod tubes. I just love it! The engineering force is strong within you. Monika's filming & creativity is an art form. You are the artist. ⭐
It is a beautiful bike, but that screen feels out of place. I think I prefer analog gauges with small LCD screen for basic info (like the new Hayabusa) with something like the Beeline moto II nav system. Also, I believe Bobber refers to the shortened fender.
@@FreddieDobbs As an Aussie, I can say that I shudder every time I see a Pommy rego plate. They just need to change the law on aesthetic grounds. Now I have got wound up, I also look askance whenever I see the amount of paint on your roads over there. Great video though.
I have my bike plates made smaller but using legal size digits. They aren't a fashion accessory and are there to be seen. I've been riding for 50 years and the last of my worries has been a number plate.😂🤪😅
What a beast...1900cc, 900lbs, 19,000 bucks... can't stand the exhaust on the Indian bikes but saw one of these on the road the other day with some V&H pipes and it was awesome 👍
I get the issue with the slow speedo start up, but it’s easy to work around. Turn the bike on when you walk up to it. By the time you have put on your helmet and gloves it’s ready to go. It’s not ideal but it’s not a problem. As for the sat nav just use your phone and quad lock as normal.
14:00 onwards - bang on mate. As you say tech that is so very poor performing today in a few years will be deemed even slower. Working in tech I am guessing here, that the processor contained within the clock needs to be cool. Within the confines of the instrument panel within the clock is appalling for any chip to be kept cool. An excellent review. Reach out if you fancy having a ride on a real classic Freddie.
Hi Freddie, no biggie but 'Bobber' (bob-a-job) refers to a bike stripped back ('bobbed') and goes back to the ol vintage Scouts and Harley Sporters. A 'bobber seat' is often a small tractor seat. Bobber doesn't refer specifically to the bars used. Lovely bike, great pure air cooled motor when HD moved to oil-air cooled. Like the Norton or other air cooled motors = better sound. keep up the great content. JB
This bikes big selling point is it's nostalgia value & how it instills passion in a few people who yearn for it. Freddie you seem to be one of these people, you touched on a few drawbacks but in reality it's a lot worse than you describe. It's overweight, underpowered, overpriced and the slight bit of technological advancement it does have doesn't work properly. If you really loved it as much as you say you'd actually own one, but you don't, your triumph is a much more rounded prospect. There's a reason why Harley Davidson dealerships are closing down over here.
Had mine for a few months and the biggest con for me is actually the lack of easily accessible aftermarket parts. The stock seat is only good for about half an hour ride, but the choice of aftermarket seats is very limited. I want to add a sissy bar, the choices are even more limited. I'm really beginning to understand why people go for HD because their aftermarket is huge. I love my Chief but I feel like I'm going to have to learn how to weld and make my own parts.
Two interesting points for me, firstly it is air cooled, I imagine this is possible due to the modest power output. Secondly, it costs much less in the USA!
The price of these bikes are just crazy. Especially considering the current financial climate being able to justify buying one is very difficult. I’ve recently brought a Kawasaki VN 2000 with just 18000 miles on the clock I’ve bobbed it out had a custom spray job replaced the front forks with firmer springs replaced the exhaust had it tuned and its cost me less than half of what Indian costs. For me it makes no sense in buying a new bike unless of course money is no object then yes I can certainly see the appeal. Great video though and very informative for the would be buyers and yes there are quite a few out there but for me personally I’ll stick with the mid two thousands Japanese cruisers. Ohhhhh I can hear the hissing and booing from here😂. Nice part of the world around the Orwell bridge did you pop down to Pin Mill lock while you were there.
Yeah no wonder they went under Who in their right mind would buy this Vs all the competition when you look at prices. I'm sure some richer older people are happy to but majority of people will be struggling to buy it
Hi Freddie, Dark Horse not only has the engine blackout but also it is bigger. The non dark horse is 111cu vs 116cu. The bobber also have a thicker front wheel than regular chief
It ticks almost every box but it needs an analogue speedo. Such a classic purists machine with a TFT screen just doesn't do it and you are right Freddie about this technology aging or worse, failing. It only needs a centre clock needle fuel display, which you won't rely on to be totally accurate. If I want satnav I'll use a separate device on a Quadlock.
I'd like you to ask that very question about the exhaust. Why is it able to sound like that? Also the problem with tech now, is that it is junk immediately . I hate it other than in disposable crap, although it is increasingly hard to fight against
I genuinely would like to know why this sounds so incredible, when even the BMW R18 with exhaust upgrade option has no sound, and even Harleys now don’t have a good exhaust not from factory
Hi Freddie. Great Review. I have a 2023 chief dark horse, have put mini apes on it same as bobber and is so much better. I am trying to find a good low profile helmet the same as you have, can you tell me the make please and where to get it. Keep up the great vlogs
Your channel seems to be doing really well so maybe it’s time to buy your dream bike and this is obviously it. Bite the bullet and buy one and keep the triumph too. Never heard you so passionate about a bike. I am pretty sure you could swap out the crap screen when it does for a nice chrome analogue so wouldn’t worry about that. We all have our dream bikes. I had a few for different purposes , one being the vfr800 5th gen for those fast hair raising moments around Scotland and wales and the others the Triumph Bonneville T120, for those same bends in Wales and Scotland but when I want to take in the scenery. It is great when you can buy your favourite bike of all time for £2000 , as I have done with the vfr. The Bonneville will have to wait so I make do with the Harley Street 750 , which is a similar ride and profile. One day though will have both. And you can do too by keeping your loyal friend and buying the Chief . Bet you could get a deal on the one you have been riding for this review. Loved hearing that passionate review , best one yet. Probably because you loved the bike so much.
Hello Freddie, I really enjoy your reviews... Can you please share, what would be your choice, if you would have to pick among Indian chief, HD roadking or bmw r18 roctane. I would really appreciate your honest opinion. Thanks an best regards... Love your channel...
I've never had the chance to try the Chief, but I own a Scout Bobber, and nothing else comes close. It's like Indian motorcycles exist in their own category, the sound, the feel, the sheer beauty of the bike. I've ridden many different motorcycles, from sport bikes to adventure bikes to city cruisers, from all kinds of brands. While each had something great to offer, none ever gave me the same feeling I get from the Scout. And that feeling is still there, every time I ride.
No doubt at all this Amazing American Beast it's a real Master piece, so it's Majestic, Impressive, Imponent, Beautiful and Powerful, No doubt My favorite Cruiser, Excellent video, Thanks for sharing 👍👊✌️!!!
Freddie, gotta call you out on your repeatedly defining "bobber" by the riser handlebars. And it's not just on this Indian. Bobber came from the chopped rear mudguard - bobtail - and general removal of superfluous parts to lighten a bike. Handlebars didn't really come into it although it was relatively common to see shortened flat bars on a bobber, not, specifically, the mini ape hangers. That Indian is indeed a gorgeous bike. So well balanced as a whole.
Another excellent video,Freddie. I know they are smaller CC motorcycles, and perhaps smaller overall, but how does this bike compare to the Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster, or Bonneville Bobber? It’s been a while since you’ve reviewed the Speedmaster; perhaps you should get a 2024 or 2025 model and do a new review? :-)
Excellent video I'm thinking about indian at the moment I had a harley davidson low rider s 2020 model but the speedo would just mist up all the time brakes were terrible and same for the suspension now I have a bmw r1250r but I still miss a cruiser bike
Another great video. Technology, especially slow technology, on a bike is a worrying trend I've seen growing in recent years. I used to be a software developer and I would love to look closer at why so many bikes have slow dashboards. It's likely a combination of cost cutting on the processor, cheap slow memory and storage and poor quality programming using a high level language for speed of development. Yes I agree that in a few years aftera few software updates they will slow down even more. Give me a basic bike with ABS, maybe a digital speedo and that will do me fine thank you. If I want a satnav I will add one or use my phone. I don't need riding modes. I don't need a plethora of sensors that will go wrong. Just give me two wheels and a go button.
Mr. Tobbs has to chill. I bought the BMW R18 after I watched his video about it. I was unsure and it convinced me I need it. Never regreted my descission. Then I have seen the video about the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and I was thinking what a cool bike. How can it be so cheap. It's in my garage ever since and I also not regret it. Now I am sure I need the Indian Chief as well. Was looking at it in the net, but was unsure. This changed. I think I will have space in my garage for this one, too. After this it will get hard... 🙄
I must be made for an Indian as I don't own any kind of linen blazer whatsoever. However, as I'm more interested in "go" than "show" I was chastened by your remark that this lump can't even out-handle the Sport Glide. So far you've bought a giant Jeep which struggles to handle a wet roundabout and by the sound of this eulogy you'd love to add a bobber limited to "spirited cruising". I think you might as well make Ed China an offer for his motorised sofa. Good film and nice looking bike but the idea of HD & Indian duking it out reminds me of T-Rex & Triceratops scrapping while the meteorite approaches. Cheers!
Can you start bike emediately and than wait all gatgets come life or you have to wait till display is on? So do you actualy need to wait 50 seconds to start??
Speaking from experience with this bike. in the time the screen is loading up, do your jacket up, do your helmet up, your gloves on, voila screen useable. Wont notice the time
Freddy...I think that you've done a great disservice to Indian. You can start your Indian within 10 seconds without having to wait for all the instrument startup. I suggest you watch "The Truth About Indian Chief Startup Times" by the UA-camr 'Bikes I Like'. He's an Aussie who owns a Chief Bobber Dark Horse.
Great video! Yep, beautiful cruiser, but 100% that dial + tech would have to go. I love Indian motorcycles, adore the chief, the bobber and the sixty! ..but for 5k I could get a used Triumph Thunderbird 1600 .. if im wanting bass notes, power and bags of heritgage without poor tech and a high price.. that would be my bet ✌️🤍
The thing that worries me with the scouts models is mainly, I'm 5'11/180cm almost 100kg, and many of these look small when I see them, or I cannot imagine myself and a passenger on them.
Lovely video Freddie and nice edit Monika 😊 I think the tech on the bike is a tragedy, my office printer from 2010 has a better tech than this 20k bike. Either put the best of the best in it or just make it analog or put android auto in it. The navigation from Google is better anyways. On the other hand i can get 3 royal enfield super meteors for that price... think about it. The price politics of Indian is as crazy as harley Davidson, they honestly deserve to go bancrupt. 20k for a bike is a heist.
I considered a Harley or an Indian, but they both only had around 90 hp, so I bought a Triumph Rocket III Roadster which was considerably less and has 146 hp. I've since modified it and managed to get 170 rwhp out of it.
You're absolutely right, for me that would be a deal breaker. Or one must guarantee that this system will last a bike lifetime. We also see slow start-up on old PCs and see that in many middle class cars and cheaper bikes. The hardware is too light for the application and the amount of data that needs to be processed. It's a shame because it shouldn't have cost that much extra. And updating and adding new features will of course be a challenge if the software is already too heavy.
No doubt its a great looking bike with some great features. However the price is a bit excessive. I dont see that and think 20k motorcycle. I see it and say 13k at most motorcycle.
Scout classic, middle model, analog dial + abs. But this gauges thing, I would have let the customer choose, or all analog and the digital as a +option.
The display is the reason I would rather have Scout Bobber Limited than a +Tech option. It is a shame the TFT display is related to keyless ignition feature, so probably wiring harness is different, and swapping these parts will not be possible.
Its not just the cost of the bike , its the cost of insurance , at 59 and recovering from a heart attack in May , my insurance on my 2018 LOWRIDER WAS unaffordable at £2400 fully comp, with 17 years of accident free riding .
And look at the muck on the motor due to the fashionably short but stupid front guard! 🙄. Nice bike despite it though. How about a review of the Challenger or Pursuit now? 👍🇦🇺
I'd rather have an old fashioned analogue dial, just a speedo and fuel gauge. Its the technology that would put me off. For maps etc I'd rather use my phone and a quadlock. Its a fantastic looking bike and I would consider buying one. Thanks for starting Sunday off the right way Freddie 👍🏻
Absolutely, it is unnecessary, but I suspect we hold the minority view.
💯 agree...
I completely agree👌🏻 Glad you enjoyed it and have a great day😀
Yes analogue speedo please , rear mud guard is ugly..pipes are ugly..but in saying that , it's the best looking bike that Indian have produced so far. Go more old school, that's what people want.!..😎
I completely agree with the analogue dials but on the flip side, this one allows for you to not have your phone cluttering up the bars and keeps the look of cleaner lines. Bit of a trade off.
Your commentary in the cafe was what I would say is the best you have done to date. Absolutely brilliant with the correct amount out humour added into the mix. Love these videos Freddie. 👊😎👍
That’s very kind of you to say so, thank you🙌🏻
The closure of a number of high profile Harley dealers tells you that they sell to a limited market and in common with this Indian styling is great but at 19 k is far to expensive for what is a Sunday cruiser
Hey Freddie, yet another quality video. Enough 'technical' info, but I love how you speak of any bike you ride, as to how it makes you feel. That can't be easy to get across, but you do it superbly. Having ridden bikes for 50 years, this has always been the most important aspect for me. Thank you Freddie and Monika. Your videos are like a breath of fresh air!
Bought my Indian Scout Bobber 2025 Limited plus Tech a few weeks ago (Sunset Smoke Red) and I absolutely love it. Not only is it a work of art but it goes like hell, is super comfortable and just looks amazing. Worth every penny and if Freddie ever hops across the pond to the US and finds himself in ATL, I would love to ride the tail of the dragon together!
That sounds like a riding dream, thank you Mark!😀🇺🇸🏍️🏍️
Bars are mini ape . Bobbed is the mudguards . Nice video Freddie thanks
Altho I can't agree with Freddie about this Indian tugging my heartstrings (1st gen Vmax rider for life), its great to see he hasn't lost his enthusiasm and that Monika is still killing it with the video and music editing!
A Gen 1 V-Max is seriously cool!⚡️
Vmax brother :), love my 85 Custom 'Musashi'
You look good on that bike. I was hoping to hear from you, just what it felt like opening up the throttle and going through the gears in a spirited moment of burning some dinosaur juice. Nothing replaces that feeling of man and a raw machine pounding down on pistons and vibrating your bones...There's a bond there and the motorcycle has a heart too. All of the motorcycles I have ever had, became part of me. They were like a best friend and a ring on my finger.
This reminds me a lot of my Victory Highball. I loved how it looked, and now really want one of these Dark Horse bobbers. Love the tech tach idea a lot!
I’m getting the sense from of a lot of these comments that many of your viewers have never sat on an American cruiser. People comparing this bike to a triumph bobber, or a RE? They are clueless. Yes, the bike costs $19,000 because it’s built to $19,000… sit on one. If you don’t understand then, well, something’s not firing properly.
GET ‘EM!
Exactly. No one compares a primark tshirt to an Armani suit.
The Indian Chief Dark Horse Bobber is an absolutely stunning motorcycle, but i'll choose the Harley Davidson Street Bob everyday of the week above all of those four bikes you just mentioned.
I think I would too..
I've been riding Harleys for over 20 years, I'm on my second Fat Boy Lo, a 2012 model. It's not a sports bike but there's nothing like getting on it, feeling the rumble and the vibrations, the sound of the exhaust and cruising. It's quick enough and handles well enough. Prices though of both new Harleys and Indians are ridiculous. You could buy a V4 Diavel that has everything you could wish for, for no more than one of the new Harley bikes. Love your videos.
man that shot at 11:00 is just badass with the sun bloom. great review. i've loved watching this series.
That'll be around the back, up the lane from Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead near Ipswich..
If I can't wear my finest linen blazer, I'm out.
🤣🤣🤣🤣
That got me 😂😂😂
😂 nice little Cub for you then! 😂
I absolutely agree Freddie,
I picked up a new sport chief in December and it makes me feel like no other bike I've owned.
I'll also add that Ive just been out to the bike because I had no effing clue it had a usb port 😂.
Another great video thanks Freddie… I own the Super Chief Ltd and love it…. You didn’t mention the different riding modes, sport mode changes this gentle cruiser into being a whole different beast don’t you think?
I test rode the Rocket 3, the R18 and an Indian Springfield classic. I bought the Indian because it felt so special.
I own an 2016 Indian Chieftain with the 111 cu. yesterday I rode my friends Chief Sport with the 116 in it. The difference between the motors is the top end torque is more noticeable in the 116 engine. But to be honest the chief is a lot lighter bike compared to a full dressed Chieftain. Yep the cost is an issue for both Harley and Indian, but you buy these bikes for long term ownership. I’m fortunate to own a Triumph Trophy SE and a Bonnie T120 an Aprilia Mana and an Indian Chieftain. But I find riding the Indian is an event, people walk up to chat with you about the Bonnie, but when I leave my Indian in the parking lot it always has someone looking around it when I get back. But I live in Canada and couldn’t imagine having to muscle it around on UK roads.
Simply stunning vlog of a stunning motorcycle. Smashed it again F&M.
So I'm going to throw another bike into the mix, the Triumph Bobber at a bargain £13,395.00. Yes, it may be a mere 1200cc, and yes, it may have a mere 106Nm of torque, but does that really matter? These are, after all, cruisers not sports bikes.
And that £6300 saving will pay for a lot of custom parts.
And a winter in Tenerife.
@@86scottjm very true, or a trip to Morocco with full breakdown coverage.
Indian have the Scout Bobber to compete with that bike
@@yahoodlums it may be closer to the Triumph, but I think when we're thinking of the more niche styles of bikes, like bobbers or scramblers, things like out and out performance are less important than what the heart says, and that's why I'd say the Triumph Bobber is another bike to consider.
Or better yet, the lovely Speedmaster.
Finally after so long you did the review of this motorcycle, but you are late, I have sold my chief dark horse bobber, after two years I have not been able to connect with it, perhaps the first one...
And in a frustrating way because, as you say, the price was not cheap.
The first problem with this bike compared to others is the maneuverability, It is quite heavy compared to the Street bob, it gives the impression that the turning radius is small and in certain very narrow mountain curves you have a really bad time
The brakes are good but in fact so good that they are dangerous, on the highway I had to brake quickly and my passenger almost flew over me.
Technology at this stage only causes problems, error codes appear very frequently and it becomes very frustrating to have to figure out what is wrong with the motorcycle.
Accelerating, it accelerates like a devil but with that weight and that little maneuverability it is a danger, especially on the streets and roads of Europe, I understand that in the United States on those huge highways it is plausible but not where I live.
After these two years, the motorcycle has given me certain strange failures, such as a sudden lack of power endangering my driving in curves, random error codes, strange noises coming from the tank, and ultimately a feeling of an unreliable product.
I had to sell this bike because it didn't give me confidence and because it didn't connect, but make no mistake, the main reason was not feeling safe or attached to it.
I have been waiting a long time for your analysis of this motorcycle but I am surprised that you now put it as number one.
After a lifetime of driving motorcycles and never driving cars, I have enjoyed many motorcycles in all those years but this motorcycle has something that I have not been able to tolerate.
Was its devilish power and wonderful look and detail finally worth it at the cost of unsafe driving, various failures and a very heavy center of gravity for its weight? No, definitely not.
I'm sorry for Indian, I tried, I came from a Harley and after this Indian I'm going back to a Harley.
What a difference, my new Street bob has the same power, it has a different feeling and above all, how well and magnificently it takes corners, how light the driving feels, how good it is to drive between cars and that high handlebar, what a difference, it's like enjoy this great passion of being a biker again.
Oh and don't forget that second-hand Indians depreciate a lot, not like Harleys, when you go to sell it you are going to lose a lot, with my previous Harley I didn't lose anything, I sold it at its price.
Finally, a reality that really influences buying a brand, the workshops and dealerships that will inspect your motorcycle. Unfortunately in my country the Indian dealers do not have enough experience with this motorcycle and do not solve their problems in a professional manner. Harley has been in my country for much longer and at least they have a history of having worked for decades. Indian here are new and the mechanics They are not at the necessary level.
In short, if you live in the United States, I understand that you may want and keep an Indian, since with the problems they cause, they may also be fixed to make you feel different since everything there is Harleys, but if you live in Europe, think twice about the buy this motorcycle.
My review is honest, I am a biker who talks about his experience and I am amazed by my new Street bob 114 2024, it is really what I was looking for.
I am neither the first nor the last that you will see selling their Chief dark horse, ask yourself why but I can assure you that there will be more and more people who get rid of it.
The Chief Bobber Dark Horse is great looking cruiser although I personally prefer the look of the Sport Chief. As for the digital dial while I would rather have an analogue gauge on a cruiser you just can't get away from digital displays on bikes nowadays and while the one on the Chief Bobber is slow to fire up it is light years in front of something like the H-D Breakout digital display. Interesting you chose the Indian over BMW, H-D & Triumph, buying a cruiser is nearly always down to your heart and not your head, if the Indian "rocks your boat" and puts a smile on your face when you ride it then it's the bike you should buy.
This isn't just any motorcycle review..........this, is a Freddie Dobbs motorcycle review😆
When I bought my current cruiser it was between the Indian Sport Chief and the Harley Low Rider ST. Test rode them both, and I went with the Harley. That fairing on the ST makes such a difference for someone like me who daily commutes and occasionally goes on a long tour. Availability of custom parts was a huge factor as well. I still love Indian, but the aftermarket just hasn't quite caught up yet
Nice review Freddie, I definitely agree you need to choose this type of bike with your heart. The problem I have with Indian as a brand, and to a lesser degree Triumph, is that there are totally unrelated to the original companies apart from the branding and the perceived image of what they would have become if they had been in continuous business. Harley and BMW are the real thing in that respect. Clearly the new Indian company has styled their range of bikes on the back of the Harley's development over the 50 years that Indian didn't exist, with design cues from the original Indian company.
Good day big Freddie! Perfect video as always! The new 2025 Bobber line-up, "sport bobber" and the higher spec, "101 Scout" has a quicker electronic gauge display start-up(pretty much instantaneous). I believe you may need to take the bike back to an Indian dealership, to perform a download and "flash" a new software version to the gauge display of the Bobber Dark Horse.
I love this bike. The price🫣 The power, yep style and legacy ✅. But all that bike with single sided disc brake on the front?
Some reviews even question single discs on front on mid engines... Great video as they all are! 🎉
Another stellar review - and a good point well made:
Built-in tech ages badly.
The software in the latest phones will only be supported for a few years, and by the time this bike is five years old there will no doubt be connectivity and navigation problems.
But above all, having to wait for the dash to wake up like that is just unacceptable.
The simple speedo unit on my 2017 Indian Scout is far more useable, and a quadlock-moutned phone gives me the latest mapping and communications.
That color is fantastic. I almost got a Chief DH last year in green, but went for a leftover '22 Chieftain Limited. I love the Thunderstroke.
I couldn't put up with the speedo, surely that isn't right, give me an old fashioned analog one. I want to turn the key and go. A bobber came from a cut down bike not the bars, the mudguards were cut down, all bits that could be removed were, to lighten it so it goes faster. The Triumph bobber is more true to the name bobber, with the single seat and cut down frame.
My 450nk also has to go through engine checks before supposed to start, so switch on, get your kit on and a min or so of engine warm up probably good too....
An excellent episode - 100% agree. Saw the Indian bikes at the ABR festival and immediately loved the look of the Chief and had a bit of a ride. Awesome - what motorcycling is all about.
Will have to get one - 🤔 where to store?
I have the Indian Scout Bobber which has a more basic speedo, but it's all you need on a bike like that... and the exhaust note is glorious!! Most people will use their phones for navigation anyway, so it's kind of pointless to integrate it in the dash. I've ridden Harleys, but to me the Indian looks better, sounds better, is smoother and feels better built. They are amazing bikes. Go and try one!
Btw - excellent review. Very professional and so much better than many others from the U.K. on UA-cam - most of whom are annoying. However, you nailed it. Excellent point about the boot up and the electronic display - think I’d like analogue and simple on such a bike. Will date quickly as you point out. And that engine? Beautiful.
Really enjoyed this video, love yr enthusiasm Freddie 👍 but when ARE you going to return my finest linen Blazer?! 🤣
Great review Freddie, we really are spoilt for choice in this category!
Ohh Freddie, its been a while.
Poetry has always been your style for mechanical words. Louvers for cam covers & pipes for pushrod tubes.
I just love it!
The engineering force is strong within you.
Monika's filming & creativity is an art form. You are the artist. ⭐
My mechanical knowledge gets shown up very quickly😆 Glad you enjoyed it, Steve!
It is a beautiful bike, but that screen feels out of place.
I think I prefer analog gauges with small LCD screen for basic info (like the new Hayabusa) with something like the Beeline moto II nav system.
Also, I believe Bobber refers to the shortened fender.
Agreed👌🏻 And regarding the bobber element- I’m not sure why I referred to the ape bars as the bobber element😳
What jacket are you wearing? Looks absolutely fabulous
Nice video freddie. I wonder him many comments you’ll get from “Nigel’s” saying it’s illegal to make the reg plate smaller😂.
I thought exactly the same and expected a few comments! 😂
@@mickcresswell1031😂
I didn’t even think about this, but I shall prepare myself😆
@@FreddieDobbs As an Aussie, I can say that I shudder every time I see a Pommy rego plate. They just need to change the law on aesthetic grounds. Now I have got wound up, I also look askance whenever I see the amount of paint on your roads over there. Great video though.
I have my bike plates made smaller but using legal size digits. They aren't a fashion accessory and are there to be seen. I've been riding for 50 years and the last of my worries has been a number plate.😂🤪😅
I thought the bobber reference was the rear mudguard/ fender ?
It basically means stripped. But yeah, he's got the definition wrong. Nothing really to do with the handlebars.
Apologies- you’re absolutely right!
What a beast...1900cc, 900lbs, 19,000 bucks... can't stand the exhaust on the Indian bikes but saw one of these on the road the other day with some V&H pipes and it was awesome 👍
Freddie I agree what ever bike attracts you it should come down to how you feel on it , what ever the price
I get the issue with the slow speedo start up, but it’s easy to work around. Turn the bike on when you walk up to it. By the time you have put on your helmet and gloves it’s ready to go. It’s not ideal but it’s not a problem. As for the sat nav just use your phone and quad lock as normal.
14:00 onwards - bang on mate. As you say tech that is so very poor performing today in a few years will be deemed even slower. Working in tech I am guessing here, that the processor contained within the clock needs to be cool. Within the confines of the instrument panel within the clock is appalling for any chip to be kept cool. An excellent review. Reach out if you fancy having a ride on a real classic Freddie.
How many large, heavy & expensive bikes are selling in the UK, USA and Europe?
Hi Freddie, no biggie but 'Bobber' (bob-a-job) refers to a bike stripped back ('bobbed') and goes back to the ol vintage Scouts and Harley Sporters. A 'bobber seat' is often a small tractor seat. Bobber doesn't refer specifically to the bars used. Lovely bike, great pure air cooled motor when HD moved to oil-air cooled. Like the Norton or other air cooled motors = better sound. keep up the great content. JB
This bikes big selling point is it's nostalgia value & how it instills passion in a few people who yearn for it. Freddie you seem to be one of these people, you touched on a few drawbacks but in reality it's a lot worse than you describe. It's overweight, underpowered, overpriced and the slight bit of technological advancement it does have doesn't work properly. If you really loved it as much as you say you'd actually own one, but you don't, your triumph is a much more rounded prospect. There's a reason why Harley Davidson dealerships are closing down over here.
These are all level headed points- I can’t argue with them
Had mine for a few months and the biggest con for me is actually the lack of easily accessible aftermarket parts. The stock seat is only good for about half an hour ride, but the choice of aftermarket seats is very limited. I want to add a sissy bar, the choices are even more limited. I'm really beginning to understand why people go for HD because their aftermarket is huge. I love my Chief but I feel like I'm going to have to learn how to weld and make my own parts.
Two interesting points for me, firstly it is air cooled, I imagine this is possible due to the modest power output. Secondly, it costs much less in the USA!
The price of these bikes are just crazy.
Especially considering the current financial climate being able to justify buying one is very difficult. I’ve recently brought a Kawasaki VN 2000 with just 18000 miles on the clock I’ve bobbed it out had a custom spray job replaced the front forks with firmer springs replaced the exhaust had it tuned and its cost me less than half of what Indian costs.
For me it makes no sense in buying a new bike unless of course money is no object then yes I can certainly see the appeal.
Great video though and very informative for the would be buyers and yes there are quite a few out there but for me personally I’ll stick with the mid two thousands Japanese cruisers. Ohhhhh I can hear the hissing and booing from here😂.
Nice part of the world around the Orwell bridge did you pop down to Pin Mill lock while you were there.
Yeah no wonder they went under
Who in their right mind would buy this Vs all the competition when you look at prices.
I'm sure some richer older people are happy to but majority of people will be struggling to buy it
Hi Freddie, Dark Horse not only has the engine blackout but also it is bigger. The non dark horse is 111cu vs 116cu. The bobber also have a thicker front wheel than regular chief
Hey Freddie, what make is your Brando Leather jacket?
It ticks almost every box but it needs an analogue speedo. Such a classic purists machine with a TFT screen just doesn't do it and you are right Freddie about this technology aging or worse, failing. It only needs a centre clock needle fuel display, which you won't rely on to be totally accurate. If I want satnav I'll use a separate device on a Quadlock.
I'd like you to ask that very question about the exhaust. Why is it able to sound like that?
Also the problem with tech now, is that it is junk immediately . I hate it other than in disposable crap, although it is increasingly hard to fight against
I genuinely would like to know why this sounds so incredible, when even the BMW R18 with exhaust upgrade option has no sound, and even Harleys now don’t have a good exhaust not from factory
Hi Freddie. Great Review. I have a 2023 chief dark horse, have put mini apes on it same as bobber and is so much better. I am trying to find a good low profile helmet the same as you have, can you tell me the make please and where to get it. Keep up the great vlogs
Your channel seems to be doing really well so maybe it’s time to buy your dream bike and this is obviously it. Bite the bullet and buy one and keep the triumph too.
Never heard you so passionate about a bike. I am pretty sure you could swap out the crap screen when it does for a nice chrome analogue so wouldn’t worry about that.
We all have our dream bikes. I had a few for different purposes , one being the vfr800 5th gen for those fast hair raising moments around Scotland and wales and the others the Triumph Bonneville T120, for those same bends in Wales and Scotland but when I want to take in the scenery.
It is great when you can buy your favourite bike of all time for £2000 , as I have done with the vfr. The Bonneville will have to wait so I make do with the Harley Street 750 , which is a similar ride and profile. One day though will have both.
And you can do too by keeping your loyal friend and buying the Chief . Bet you could get a deal on the one you have been riding for this review.
Loved hearing that passionate review , best one yet. Probably because you loved the bike so much.
Really glad you enjoyed it! Ahhhh the VFR: universally praised by owners on my podcast- very highly regarded bikes🖤🏍️
That was a very good honest review! You seem to really like that bike, think you should buy one 😁
Hello Freddie, I really enjoy your reviews... Can you please share, what would be your choice, if you would have to pick among Indian chief, HD roadking or bmw r18 roctane. I would really appreciate your honest opinion. Thanks an best regards... Love your channel...
I wish they still had a kickstart too, but thats just me, i love that.
I've never had the chance to try the Chief, but I own a Scout Bobber, and nothing else comes close. It's like Indian motorcycles exist in their own category, the sound, the feel, the sheer beauty of the bike. I've ridden many different motorcycles, from sport bikes to adventure bikes to city cruisers, from all kinds of brands. While each had something great to offer, none ever gave me the same feeling I get from the Scout. And that feeling is still there, every time I ride.
Great video again. You should watch the min series Harley & The Davidsons
All class these machines and pack a punch in sport mode. Looks great ✌️
I ride a Honda Rebel 1100 and I love it but this ... this is another level. Beauty.
No doubt at all this Amazing American Beast it's a real Master piece, so it's Majestic, Impressive, Imponent, Beautiful and Powerful, No doubt My favorite Cruiser, Excellent video, Thanks for sharing 👍👊✌️!!!
Freddie, gotta call you out on your repeatedly defining "bobber" by the riser handlebars. And it's not just on this Indian. Bobber came from the chopped rear mudguard - bobtail - and general removal of superfluous parts to lighten a bike. Handlebars didn't really come into it although it was relatively common to see shortened flat bars on a bobber, not, specifically, the mini ape hangers. That Indian is indeed a gorgeous bike. So well balanced as a whole.
Another excellent video,Freddie. I know they are smaller CC motorcycles, and perhaps smaller overall, but how does this bike compare to the Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster, or Bonneville Bobber? It’s been a while since you’ve reviewed the Speedmaster; perhaps you should get a 2024 or 2025 model and do a new review? :-)
I would like to see a chrome or blacked out badge on the tank not a sticker.
Usually I’d pick a proper badge, but this big Indian logo’s my favourite😍
Excellent video I'm thinking about indian at the moment I had a harley davidson low rider s 2020 model but the speedo would just mist up all the time brakes were terrible and same for the suspension now I have a bmw r1250r but I still miss a cruiser bike
Another great video. Technology, especially slow technology, on a bike is a worrying trend I've seen growing in recent years. I used to be a software developer and I would love to look closer at why so many bikes have slow dashboards. It's likely a combination of cost cutting on the processor, cheap slow memory and storage and poor quality programming using a high level language for speed of development. Yes I agree that in a few years aftera few software updates they will slow down even more. Give me a basic bike with ABS, maybe a digital speedo and that will do me fine thank you. If I want a satnav I will add one or use my phone. I don't need riding modes. I don't need a plethora of sensors that will go wrong. Just give me two wheels and a go button.
Freddie you need to take a look at the AJS Bilston and the upcoming Sedona I believe the look of those will be just to your liking
Mr. Tobbs has to chill. I bought the BMW R18 after I watched his video about it. I was unsure and it convinced me I need it. Never regreted my descission. Then I have seen the video about the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and I was thinking what a cool bike. How can it be so cheap. It's in my garage ever since and I also not regret it. Now I am sure I need the Indian Chief as well. Was looking at it in the net, but was unsure. This changed. I think I will have space in my garage for this one, too. After this it will get hard... 🙄
I must be made for an Indian as I don't own any kind of linen blazer whatsoever. However, as I'm more interested in "go" than "show" I was chastened by your remark that this lump can't even out-handle the Sport Glide. So far you've bought a giant Jeep which struggles to handle a wet roundabout and by the sound of this eulogy you'd love to add a bobber limited to "spirited cruising". I think you might as well make Ed China an offer for his motorised sofa. Good film and nice looking bike but the idea of HD & Indian duking it out reminds me of T-Rex & Triceratops scrapping while the meteorite approaches. Cheers!
Freddie, if you can get your hands on one. Take the Harley Lowrider ST for a spin.
I’m very keen to do this!
Can you start bike emediately and than wait all gatgets come life or you have to wait till display is on? So do you actualy need to wait 50 seconds to start??
Speaking from experience with this bike. in the time the screen is loading up, do your jacket up, do your helmet up, your gloves on, voila screen useable. Wont notice the time
Great review of that beautiful machine
Freddie I think after seeing a number of your reviews I think a Kawa W800 would suit your fancy mate.
Freddy...I think that you've done a great disservice to Indian. You can start your Indian within 10 seconds without having to wait for all the instrument startup. I suggest you watch "The Truth About Indian Chief Startup Times" by the UA-camr 'Bikes I Like'. He's an Aussie who owns a Chief Bobber Dark Horse.
That's not an excuse for the loading time. If you did want to use the navigation and input a destination then you'd have to wait.
Great video! Yep, beautiful cruiser, but 100% that dial + tech would have to go. I love Indian motorcycles, adore the chief, the bobber and the sixty! ..but for 5k I could get a used Triumph Thunderbird 1600 .. if im wanting bass notes, power and bags of heritgage without poor tech and a high price.. that would be my bet ✌️🤍
I've got yo ask.. how do they do that shot from the front with the bike in motion?
The thing that worries me with the scouts models is mainly, I'm 5'11/180cm almost 100kg, and many of these look small when I see them, or I cannot imagine myself and a passenger on them.
"Top of the tree." I love your expressions.
Lovely video Freddie and nice edit Monika 😊
I think the tech on the bike is a tragedy, my office printer from 2010 has a better tech than this 20k bike.
Either put the best of the best in it or just make it analog or put android auto in it. The navigation from Google is better anyways.
On the other hand i can get 3 royal enfield super meteors for that price... think about it.
The price politics of Indian is as crazy as harley Davidson, they honestly deserve to go bancrupt.
20k for a bike is a heist.
You've done a great job in selling this bike to me, Freddie...if only I have £20k to throw at it!
Indian motorcycles truly have a history of ups & downs that could make a great documentary one day! ❤
Don’t they! The amount of twists, turns, highs and lows is insane
The technology is updatable , on my chieftain it checks for an update whenever the bike is switched on and updates as necessary
I considered a Harley or an Indian, but they both only had around 90 hp, so I bought a Triumph Rocket III Roadster which was considerably less and has 146 hp. I've since modified it and managed to get 170 rwhp out of it.
You're absolutely right, for me that would be a deal breaker. Or one must guarantee that this system will last a bike lifetime. We also see slow start-up on old PCs and see that in many middle class cars and cheaper bikes. The hardware is too light for the application and the amount of data that needs to be processed. It's a shame because it shouldn't have cost that much extra. And updating and adding new features will of course be a challenge if the software is already too heavy.
The technology updates itself when the ignition is switched on
No doubt its a great looking bike with some great features. However the price is a bit excessive. I dont see that and think 20k motorcycle. I see it and say 13k at most motorcycle.
To be fair regarding the boot up time, you can always switch to the analog gauge.
What's the jacket Freddie? Very sharp
Scout classic, middle model, analog dial + abs.
But this gauges thing, I would have let the customer choose, or all analog and the digital as a +option.
Money no obstacle, I think this would be the one for me. However probably will end up with a HD sport glide or street bob
The display is the reason I would rather have Scout Bobber Limited than a +Tech option.
It is a shame the TFT display is related to keyless ignition feature, so probably wiring harness is different, and swapping these parts will not be possible.
Thank you ! ... What a beautiful motorcycle .
A very enjoyable watch Freddie. Now off the ride my rv125😂
Its not just the cost of the bike , its the cost of insurance , at 59 and recovering from a heart attack in May , my insurance on my 2018 LOWRIDER WAS unaffordable at £2400 fully comp, with 17 years of accident free riding .
And look at the muck on the motor due to the fashionably short but stupid front guard! 🙄. Nice bike despite it though. How about a review of the Challenger or Pursuit now? 👍🇦🇺
I am sure some mechanical guru will be able to provide a way to bin that dial and put a proper one on. Other than classics, that is my dream bike now.