It’s becoming obvious Indian Motorcycle knows what it’s about and knows what it’s devotees want. While other manufacturers search for a way to promote modern styling to a mass market that seems less interested in riding motorbikes, Indian knows its buyers come to the brand because of its history and presence. In short, Indian riders like retro.
The new Roadmaster Classic embraces everything an Indian Motorcycle should be aesthetically on the outside, while installing all of the latest technology and engineering inside the styling. The result is an aspirational motorcycle combining comfort with eye-grabbing, truly vintage looks.
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This Roadmaster Classic is immediately recognizable as an Indian. From the traditional Indian Head front fender light to the standard tank logo, there’s no mistaking the bike for any of its rivals. The colors also hold true to history, mixing Indian red with black and cream.
The designers added quality leather and prerequisite saddlebags with that touch of wild west fringe. The leather trunk wrapping around the back fender can hold two full-faced helmets and adds a built-in passenger backrest. The trunk can also be detached when not touring for more of a cruiser look.
Valanced fenders, chrome detailing and standard two-tone paint options complete the looks. But, beyond the looks, the bike puts to work the latest 21st century riding technology to make sure rider and passenger travel in comfort and safety. A keyless ignition with proximity fob, throttle-by-wire cruise control, heated grips and seats, Pathfinder LED headlamps, power adjustable windscreen, adjustable passenger floorboards, tire pressure monitoring system, anti-lock brakes (ABS), 100 watt premium audio system and Indian Motorcycle’s seven-inch screen with Ride Command infotainment system all come standard.
The Classic employs Indian’s butter smooth Thunder Stroke 111 engine. Inspired by the Power Plus Motor of Indian Motorcycles circa the 1940s, the modern engine produces 119 ft-lbs of torque. The Roadmaster Classic rides on Indian Motorcycle’s telescopic fork front and air-adjustable single shock rear suspension. It brakes with dual 300 mm, semi-floating rotors with four-piston calipers up front — with a single 300 mm, semi-floating rotor with two-piston caliper in the rear.
As with all Indian Motorcycle creations, the Roadmaster Classic can be accessorized with various personal options, including additional leather and chrome accessories. Other customized touches can include a touring or flare windshield, lower fairings, leather extended reach seat and Infinite Highway Pegs.
The bike is available now, living near the top of Indian’s price range at $28,999.
