Indian Motorcycle has followed up the news about its 2019 Scout models with details of its Big Twin offer for the year ahead – the 2019 Chief, Springfield and Roadmaster models “with new technology designed to enhance and customize the riding experience.”
Dark Horse models also get darker with premium gloss black finishes and expanded color options on the Springfield Dark Horse and, developed in direct response to rider feedback according to Indian, the new technology features “focus on improving performance, comfort, and providing more customization.”
The new features include Selectable Ride Modes, Rear Cylinder Deactivation, Improved Airflow on Roadmaster lower fairings and enhanced audio systems.
Riders can now choose between three Ride Modes on the fly – Tour, Standard or Sport – “for a ride experience that’s customized to their riding style. The throttle map for each Ride Mode was designed with a specific application in mind, resulting in one motorcycle with three distinct personalities.
“The ‘Tour’ mode features a smooth throttle response for relaxed cruising; ‘Standard’ mode features a crisp throttle response and well balanced power delivery for responsive passing power and predictable, slow-speed handling; the ‘Sport’ mode features an instant throttle response and aggressive power delivery for head-snapping acceleration.
“To increase rider comfort, all Thunder Stroke 111 models are now equipped with Rear Cylinder Deactivation. When the engine reaches operating temperature and the ambient temperature exceeds 59⁰ F, the rear cylinder will automatically deactivate when the bike is at a standstill, resulting in less engine heat for improved comfort in slow-moving or stopped traffic. The rear cylinder instantly reactivates when throttle is applied for a seamless transition to full power.
“The lower fairings on the 2019 Roadmaster have been redesigned and optimized to provide significantly more airflow to the rider. The redesigned airflow vent can be adjusted from all the way open for maximum airflow to fully closed for total weather protection. The new lowers can be retrofitted to bikes from past model years with the addition of new highway bars.”
Several enhancements have been made to the stock Indian audio system to “significantly improve sound quality.” The tweeters have been separated from the mid-range speakers to optimize sound output and clarity, and a fully customizable dynamic equalizer now adjusts specific frequencies at different vehicle speeds - as speed increases, the equalizer automatically adjusts each frequency to the optimal level to compensate for road, wind and engine noise.
“These enhancements for 2019 showcase our commitment to listening to riders and continuously improving their experience with our products,” said Steve Menneto, President, Indian Motorcycle. “We are laser-focused on delivering a best-in-class riding experience, and these new technologies represent a focus on quality that will continue long into the future of Indian Motorcycle.”
Also, the 2019 Chief Dark Horse and Springfield Dark Horse received several style updates that “further accentuate their mean, custom styling. These models now boast premium gloss black finishes on the engine, including the primary, valve and cam covers, push-rod tubes, as well as on the exhaust and saddlebag hinges.
Springfield Dark Horse is now offered in two colors and there is a 19” contrast-cut wheel. The front highway bars and windshield were removed to “punctuate its sleek, streamlined stance.”