of options for moving around on longer runs. Putting feet up on the engine bars also gives a chance to stretch legs on the go. It’ s a wonderful big-distance eater.
MORE TESTING Over the ensuing days I took the Chieftain over some of my favourite twisty loops and did some open country touring around the Scenic Rim region, south-west of the city. I thoroughly enjoyed every kilometre of it. The more I rode the motorcycle, the more I liked it. I did plenty of city riding with down-town photo stops too- and dealt with the usual number of passers-by who wanted to engage or ask questions about the latest Indians.“ Yes, they have been re-making them since 2014, yes, it does go as good as it looks.” I must have spouted any number of times. To that end, it is a striking looking motorcycle. The standard paint is some of the best I have seen in a very long time, with a rich, deep metallic fleck that catches the light perfectly. I found it has a pleasing line with
a fine curve and waist from most angles.
NICE TOUCHES The 68-litre panniers carried my camera kit comfortably and are remote locking. It has remote tyre pressure sensors, brilliant LED lighting and some features I have never before encountered. Mounted within the excellent mirrors are LEDs that indicate blind spot / lane change warnings, while rear-end and tailgate warnings are displayed on the touch screen. I actually came to appreciate these features. They mean it’ s not necessary to head-check a Freeway lane change – because I knew there was already a vehicle alongside but out of eye line. Nice.
INDIAN... EVOLVED The last Chieftain I tested was back in 2019. In 2026 I found that the model has evolved significantly over that time and the latest incarnation is quite easily the best and most sophisticated yet. In fact, as I discovered when I turned the on-board stereo’ s volume controls all the way up to maximum – it goes to 11.
KIWI RIDER 61