American Motorcycle Design: Indian Motorcycle

Indian - MY2023

While describing Indian Motorcycle's 2023 Model Year line-up as mostly refinements and updates would be a bit of an exaggeration, it mostly is a question of derails and paint. Technically, while the new FTR S and Indian Challenger Elite are new models, "revolutionary" is not the word that comes to mind …

In announcing its 2023 model year line-up, Indian Motorcycle has confirmed two new models - the FTR Sport - a replacement for the FTR S - and a Challenger Elite to top a Bagger line-up that has been gaining traction thanks to its Bagger racing partnership with S&S Cycle.

The FTR Sport is part of a refresh for the FTR line-up. Described as having a "new FTR mid-range trim," it sits second in the pecking order behind an upgraded premium FTR R Carbon, but above the FTR and FTR Rally - "creating four distinct trim models for riders to choose from."

FTR Sport

"Designed for riders to cut loose and enjoy the pure sport of motorcycling, the FTR Sport's bold aesthetics and sporty componentry, including a number plate, chin fairing and seat cowl, take the FTR's energetic attitude to another level. A totally unique take on American V-twin performance with an unmistakable, muscular style, the FTR truly is an American original."

The FTR Sport and FTR R Carbon gain a four-inch round touchscreen display powered by its RIDE COMMAND with navigation. There are three ride modes (Sport, Standard, Rain), Lean Angle Sensitive Stability Control and ABS.

Indian Challenger Elite

The FTR R Carbon has carbon fiber components, a premium seat, fully adjustable Öhlins gold front forks and a gold piggyback shock. The FTR Sport touts a new tank panel design. While primary components carry over for FTR and FTR Rally models, all four FTR models now offer a new sport exhaust muffler and a retuned front braking system to provide a firmer feel. The speedo is also moved up for easier viewing and a new clutch delivers improved feel and performance. In the United States, MRSP for the FTR line-up begins at $13,499.

Through a brand partnership with noted bike and ADV parts maker Gilles Tooling (Luxembourg), Indian Motorcycle is offering a co-branded range of nine new FTR accessories, including performance adjustable rearsets and three billet components: bar end weights, an oil cap and a radiator cap. Performance adjustable levers will also be available in spring 2023.

In addition, Indian Motorcycle has expanded its carbon fiber offering with three new pieces, including an exhaust heat shield, frame guard and a sprocket cover. To enhance comfort, Indian Motorcycle has introduced a durable and weather-resistant Comfort+ seat, which combines comfortable ergonomics with additional padding where needed most.

Described as offering the "ultimate in style and exclusivity," the Indian Challenger Elite will be available in a limited edition run of just 150 units worldwide.

"The limited edition Bagger makes a bold statement with the perfect blend of style, performance and comfort - sure to turn heads on streets and crush miles on open highways.

"The PowerPlus engine touts a best-in-class 122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs of torque, and its premium amenities and advanced ride-enhancing technology deliver a ride experience that's second-to-none. Indian Challenger Elite's long list of premium features include the following: three selectable ride modes, electronically adjustable rear suspension preload from Fox, Smart Lean Technology, an adaptive LED headlight, LED driving lights, an adjustable flare windscreen, select floorboards, heated grips, 6.5" powerband audio with saddlebag speakers and a new precision-cut five-spoke wheel.

Elsewhere in the 2023 range, all Thunderstroke and PowerPlus models receive a new clutch - "improving the overall feel and forgiveness. This new slipper clutch reduces engine drag, which provides a smoother down-shifting experience and comfortable ride while improving the ability to maintain traction when facing poor road conditions. The larger friction zone and decreased lever effort reduces clutch fatigue."

Indian Springfield, Chieftain, Challenger, Roadmaster and Pursuit models feature a redesigned LED headlight. Integrated buttons on the heated seats and heated and cooled seats for PowerPlus and heavyweight Thunderstroke models now feature haptics, which allow riders to feel the buttons' responsiveness when wearing gloves.

Indian Pursuit with Premium Package models now offer lower fairing storage compartments as standard. Riders of models with the four-inch round touchscreen display can now tie their Indian Motorcycle app or website RIDE COMMAND account to the bike, allowing app and web-accessible features like vehicle health, vehicle locator and ride tracking.

For 2023, Indian Motorcycle is introducing an array of functional accessories. In partnership with CruzTOOLS, Indian Motorcycle is launching three accessories, including two tool kits compatible with all models and an axle adapter for FTR models. To add storage to most models, a new all-weather vinyl tailbag attaches to select passenger seats or luggage racks. In addition, a new Syndicate heated seat is available for Indian Challenger models, while a reduced reach kickstand is now available for all Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit models.

There are two new bag options for the Chief line, an upgraded Comfort+ solo seat and two-up Syndicate seat, and a low profile passenger backrest.

Gilles/Indian collaboration