2014 INDIAN CHIEF Vintage 1811

Why Buy an Indian Chief?

The Indian Chief is a motorcycle steeped in American heritage, offering a blend of classic styling with modern performance. For the discerning UK rider seeking a machine with character and a commanding presence, the Chief delivers in spades. Its large displacement V-twin engine provides effortless torque, making for relaxed touring and satisfying acceleration without the need to constantly chase the revs. The riding position is typically upright and comfortable, ideal for longer journeys through the British countryside. While not a sportsbike, the Chief handles with surprising grace for its size, offering stability and confidence-inspiring road holding. Owning a Chief is about more than just transportation; it’s about embracing a piece of motorcycling history with a timeless aesthetic that turns heads wherever you go. Its solid build quality and the promise of a smooth, powerful ride make it a compelling choice for those who appreciate true Americana on two wheels.

UK Price Guide (GBP)

The price of a used Indian Chief in the UK can vary significantly depending on the model year, condition, mileage, and specific variant. Here’s a general guide:

Note: These are approximate figures and specific examples may fall outside these ranges. Always check reputable dealers and private listings for the most accurate pricing.

Specs

While specifications can vary slightly between variants and model years, here are general figures for the modern Indian Chief:

• Engine: Air-cooled V-twin Thunderstroke 111 (1811cc) or 116 (1890cc)
• Torque: Approximately 119 ft-lbs (162 Nm) for the Thunderstroke 116
• Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection
• Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh
• Front Suspension: Telescopic forks
• Rear Suspension: Monoshock with air adjust
• Front Brakes: Dual hydraulic disc
• Rear Brakes: Single hydraulic disc
• Tyres: Typically tubeless
• Seat Height: Around 670mm (low and accessible)
• Dry Weight: Around 304kg

Common Issues

While generally well-built, like any motorcycle, some owners have reported minor issues:

• Comfort on long rides: While generally comfortable, some riders find the stock seat can become firm on very long journeys, leading to aftermarket upgrades.
• Infotainment system (on newer models): Early versions of the Ride Command system could occasionally be a little slow or unintuitive for some users. Software updates have largely addressed this.
• Heat from the engine: The large V-twin can produce noticeable heat, particularly in slow-moving traffic during warmer months. This is typical for this type of engine.
• Minor electrical niggles: Very occasionally, owners report minor electrical gremlins, though these are rare and usually easily rectified.

Running Costs

Running a Chief involves typical motorcycle expenses:

• Fuel Economy: Expect around 40-50 mpg, depending on riding style.
• Insurance: Group ratings vary, but it's a substantial machine, so expect moderate to high insurance premiums, especially for younger riders.
• Servicing: Regular scheduled servicing is essential. Costs will be comparable to other large V-twin cruisers. Specialist Indian dealers may charge more than independent garages.
• Tyres: Replacement tyres will be a significant expense due to the size and weight of the bike.
• Tax: Annual road tax (VED) is based on CO2 emissions, typical for a large-capacity motorcycle.

Variants

The Indian Chief has evolved over the years, with several key variants:

• Chief Classic: The original, minimalist cruiser focused on pure styling.
• Chief Vintage: Adds a large windscreen, leather panniers, and chrome accents for a more touring-oriented, retro feel.
• Chief Dark Horse: Features all-black styling for a more menacing, modern aesthetic.
• Chief Springfield: Named after the town where Indian was founded, it offers removable hard bags and a windscreen for versatile touring.
• New Generation Chief (2022 onwards): A complete redesign with a more modern chassis, updated electronics, and available in various trims like the Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber Dark Horse, and Chief. These new models offer different handlebar positions and styling cues.