2019 Indian Motorcycle Baggers Get New Tech

Tech Giants

All this new bagger tech is nice, Indian, but where’s my dashboard 3D printer with drink warmer? Get on that. We’ll talk later.
Indian Motorcycle has announced its 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 Springfield Dark Horse.

Developed in direct response to rider feedback, the new technology features focus on improving performance, comfort, and providing more customisability. The new features include:

Selectable Ride Modes
Riders can now choose between three Ride Modes on the fly – Tour, Standard or Sport – for a ride experience that’s customised 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. “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. And finally, “Sport” mode features an instant throttle response and aggressive power delivery for head-snapping acceleration.

Rear Cylinder Deactivation
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 15ºC, 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.

Improved Airflow on Roadmaster Lower Fairings
The lower fairings on the 2019 Roadmaster have been redesigned and optimised to provide significantly more airflow to the rider. This greatly improves comfort while cruising down the road. 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 retrofit to bikes from past model years with the addition of new highway bars.

Enhanced Audio System
Several enhancements have been made to Indian Motorcycle’s stock audio system to significantly improve sound quality. First, the tweeters have been separated from the mid-range speakers to optimise sound output and clarity. Second, a dynamic equaliser that’s fully customisable now adjusts specific frequencies at different vehicle speeds to provide peak system performance at all times. As speed increases, the equalizer automatically adjusts each frequency to the optimal level to compensate for road, wind and engine noise. The result is crystal clear, 100-watt premium audio at all speeds.

Springfield Dark Horse is now offered in two colours – Thunder Black Smoke and a new White Smoke option. Also, notable for the 2019 Springfield Dark Horse is the addition of the iconic Indian headdress on the front fender and a 19” contrast-cut wheel. The front highway bars and windshield were also removed to punctuate its sleek, streamlined stance.

Also for 2019, Chief Dark Horse and Springfield Dark Horse receive 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.