A new photograph of the accessory-laden Indian Scout shows something more than the optional extras. The motorcycle in the backdrop is the American brand’s upcoming tourer, the Challenger.
Also Read: Indian FTR 1200 range launched in India, prices start at INR 14.99 lakh
A few styling details and the brand name of the upcoming model were revealed in August this year through a leaked video (embedded at the end of the post) from a dealer meeting. The motorcycle will most likely make its public debut at the 2019 EICMA show in Milan.
The new photograph of the Indian Challenger reveals the front fender-mounted Indian “War Bonnet”, alloy wheels, semi-fairing setup, backward sweeping handlebar and an Indian Scout style fuel tank with flat sides. The headlight, as seen in the leaked footage last month, will be a full-LED unit.
The bagger-style touring motorcycle will come with hard panniers. The finer details are yet to be revealed, although we expect to see an electronically adjustable windscreen at the front and remote lock for the panniers – features that are available on the Indian Chieftain range of motorcycles. Typical cruiser-style ergonomics will include rear-set handlebar and forward placed footboard.
The cockpit will most likely include an Indian Roadmaster-style semi-digital instrument console. Thus, we may see an analogue speedometer and tachometer, while the rest of the information will be available on a touch screen display in the centre. The motorcycle will most likely feature a speaker set towards the edge of the fairing. Heated grips will most likely be part of the optional extras.
In terms of engine specifications, the Indian Challenger will use the new Powerplus 108 unit. The 108 cubic inches or 1,770 cc 60-degree V-Twin, liquid-cooled motor is expected to pump out 120 HP of maximum power. The peak torque should be lower than the 1,811 cc Thunder Stroke 111’s 161.6 Nm. The engine will be linked to a six-speed transmission. Electronic aids will include riding modes, traction control, ABS and cruise control.
The hardware specifications, as seen in the video and in the latest photograph, will include upside-down telescopic front forks. Anchoring department will comprise twin discs at the front and a single disc at the back – both featuring Brembo sourced callipers, to provide the stopping power.
The upcoming Indian Challenger will rival the Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special. When launched, the Indian tourer may cost approximately INR 35,00,000 (ex-showroom) in our market.
[Image Source: Canadamotoguide.com]
