Motorcycle specifications Indian1890 Super Chief Limited 2024 Excursion with Pat Hibulaire

What's new in the bowels of the Chief since 2023? Its big engine has had its clutch replaced, in order to install a model with a smoother, less effortful control system. All Indians equipped with a Thunderstroke or Powerplus cradle benefit from this update. However, the considerations under the windscreen don't seem to take much notice.

In this Super Chief version, the Indian becomes an alternative to the big Springfield or Chieftain baggers. Light touring, easily convertible, almost a little mischievous. A wild card for unexpectedly going further than expected. Based on the latest, modernized version of the Chief, this machine is the most comfortable and relaxed of the available models. Do you just turn the key, put it in first gear and ride till you drop?

Not at all. I mean, you don't turn the key. Not at all. The Super Chief is equipped with a Keyless Start system (and many other electronic systems). what we're interested in right now, however , are its special features. Going long-road? Then the footboards, large windscreen, large cruiser-style handlebars and leather saddlebags are just what you need. They don't hold much (36.7 liters), but they'll do for a short weekend. It's also possible for two people to ride, as this Chief comes with a passenger seat.

Other differences distinguish this Super Chief Limited from the original custom. The forks are streamlined, the rims are spoked, the front wheel is down to 16 inches, the top of the shocks are covered by a cover, the weight is up by around 30 kilos and the price by 25%.

The chassis and electronics are taken from the Chief Dark Horse: new tubular steel frame, shorter wheelbase and more tucked-in front axle than on the previous Chief 1811 for greater dynamism, a single 300 mm brake disc per wheel, medium-capacity fuel tank (15.1 liters), FTR-style LED headlight, cruise control, ABS, 4-inch TFT touchscreen with GPS function and smartphone control, three riding modes and USB charger.

the Super Chief Limited is also the 1890 Chief that shows off its engine to best advantage. Very dark on the Dark Horse and Bobber, the Thunderstroke 116 is sparkling in chrome here. Every part, every crankcase, every control, every bit of metal right down to the Crossover exhausts seems slick with shimmering cream. The American nobility of the air-cooled twin is totally expressive here. The heart loves to present itself, to glorify itself, to express itself. It can do so generously, thanks to its large displacement, offering 16.5 mkg of torque at 3200 rpm.

This little tourer is unprecedented in the Indian range. The idea is good, but not innovative; we can't help comparing it to the Softail Sport Glide, and much more to the old Dyna Switchback.
The name Super Chief will appeal to the nostalgia of American railroaders, reminiscent of the long journeys made by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. Its niche was the mid-twentieth-century link between Chicago and Los Angeles, with a level of comfort and luxury that brought it an elite clientele of artists and celebrities. The Indian Super Chief Limited is not exactly of the same calibre, this role being more akin to the Roadmaster - the manufacturer's ocean liner. This custom-tourer, on the other hand, is designed for those who want a Chief during the week and a long ride at the weekend.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos