Motorcycle specifications Indian1133 SCOUT 2016 The Spirit Lake offensive

As the 20th century began to take hold, the first of history's terrible wars was being fought, and the motorcycle industry was pulsating around the world, Indian decided to enter the medium-displacement market with what was to become a huge success: the Scout. Almost a century later, this model is back on the market. With conviction, style and modernism. The Indian 1133 Scout may be the youngest model in the range, but it is nonetheless the lightest, the most powerful, and the most surprising.

In terms of power? Let's see... The Scout makes 100 horsepower, a good ladleful more than the manufacturer's other models. And yet, its twin discharges a mere 1133 cm3, and is likely to pale in comparison with the big 1811 of the Chief and Roadmaster. Forget the numbers, and take a look at this brand-new block. It's ribbed, taut, modern and rather offbeat for a nostalgic custom. V-twin of course, looking as if it had been cut by Laser and not in a Kansas foundry; no fins; a big radiator making no effort to hide itself. There's no need to speculate: this new engine runs on water to cool itself. A first for Indian, and yet another culture shock. 15 years after Harley-Davidson, Indian is also introducing liquid cooling for a production model. And 40 years after the Japanese adopted it...

The brand is thus seeking to appeal to a new segment of motorcyclists, with this machine halfway between the power-cruiser and the custom classic. Alongside its 100 horsepower, the engine delivers 98 Nm of torque at 5,900 rpm. Fed by 60 mm fuel injection, it distributes watts through a 6-speed gearbox. Also (above all?), this block transpires a concern for finish: looke at the cavities dug into the cylinder heads, like anfractuosities in a cyborg's skull; pay attention to the carved initials; grasp the protrusions of a delicate milling cutter on the metal. The beast wants to be beautiful.

New engine, new chassis. The Scout is built on a new aluminum frame with a classic 41 mm fork and a pair of side shocks. With 130- and 150-mm tires, the tire set-up favours a certain liveliness rather than the muscular style of certain products. Braking feels light, with a 298 mm front disc clamped by a 2-piston caliper. Same diameter at the rear, but with a single-piston caliper. The brand doesn't panic, pointing out that the Scout, at just 244 kilos dry weight, is a lightweight. Well... Well, many American machines before it have done the same, and others will too. And then there's the ABS. It won't increase power, but it'll help you avoid a few spills.
The wheelbase is long (1562 mm), the seat low (643 mm), the styling extended, and cornering allowed up to 31°. The pleasure it provides seems to be shared solely with the rider. The Scout is originally designed for one rider only, with a seat in aged Havana leather.

With its return, the Indian Scout slips into its CV the memory of its performances: the conquest of the "Wall of Death", a production record in 1920, speed records with the famous Burt Monro in 1957, 1962 and 1967. The 1133 Scout is also a pebble thrown into the competitive pond. With a price tag of 12,990 euros, the machine gives serious pause for thought when compared to a V-Rod, Dyna or Thunderbird. But the charm of originality and the pride of riding an Indian will more than tip the balance.

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