T
he Indian Chieftain’s 2019 incarnation is more of an evolution
than a revolution in the model’s timeline, but the upgrades are
still noteworthy, and they add even more appeal to a bike that all
of us at HEAVY DUTY have always rated highly.
They take the improvements made over previous models – like
the inclusion of the outstanding dash-mounted infotainment system and
19in front wheel – and marry them with improved aesthetics, bodywork,
comfort, rear cylinder shutoff and the ability to select three different ride
modes – on the fly.
I had a chance to spend saddle time on both an ’18 and a ’19 Chieftain
Limited model during the Indian Motorcycle Ride Group’s (IMRG) Queens
Birthday rally on the Gold Coast.
It was a unique opportunity to hop between both models in quick
succession and directly compare them.
Body building
The first and most obvious change is the fairing style and shape although
the riders view from behind is very similar.
The dash mounted ‘Ride Command’ infotainment still nestles between
two round dials that carry an array of analogue and LCD displays for speedo,
tacho, gear indicator, fuel gauge and warning lights.
The sound system is very far removed from
the earliest incarnations of the Chieftain. It is
loud, clear and it really (really!) pumps. Bluetooth
phone connection was simple and there is a handy
compartment in the top of the dash to stow
your device – complete with power source.
The whole system is very easy to use.
Indian claim their 7in display is the
largest available on a motorcycle and
the bright, high-resolution screen is
positioned close to you, making it easy
to read and reach. It works really well,
wearing gloves or not. I used the navi-
gation system several times after I
took off from the group ride to do a
few photos and really appreciated its
capability and clarity. Zooming in and
out on the map display is as easy as
a two-digit pinch. Changing screens
and functions is as simple as pushing
a large, button below the screen. Quite
excellent.
A significant difference from previous
models is the three Ride Modes which can
now be selected from the touch screen. The
options are for ‘Standard’, “Sport’ and ‘Touring’
- depending on riding style. I kept it mainly in
Sport mode, well, because ... ‘Sport!’
In retrospect I should have selected one of the other
Dave heads east with the latest Chieftain ...