One of the most recognisable silhouettes in American motorcycling has been brought back into focus as Indian Motorcycles unveiled the 2026 Chief Vintage, a modern reimagining of a machine rooted firmly in the brand’s 1940s heritage.
The launch comes as Indian Motorcycle marks its 125th anniversary, with the Chief Vintage positioned not as a nostalgic throwback but as a contemporary cruiser shaped by the design language and values that defined the company’s early years.
Drawing heavily on the post war Chief models built in Springfield, Massachusetts, the new bike carries forward flowing valanced fenders, wire spoke wheels and a long, low stance that has become synonymous with America’s golden age of motorcycling.
Indian Motorcycle says the Chief Vintage is intended to bridge eras, pairing unmistakable historic cues with modern performance, technology and rider comfort suited to today’s roads.
Power comes from the air cooled Thunderstroke 116 V Twin engine, producing 156 Nm of torque and delivering the relaxed, muscular character that has long defined Indian’s heavyweight cruisers.
Three selectable ride modes allow riders to adjust throttle response for touring, everyday riding or a more responsive feel, offering flexibility whether covering long distances or navigating slower routes.
Design Director Ola Stenegard said the original Chief remains one of the most important motorcycles ever produced by the brand.
“The Indian Chief from the 1940s set a standard for performance and design that still resonates today, and it represents the spirit of Indian Motorcycle, bold, timeless and always pushing forward."
Much of the Chief Vintage’s visual identity is shaped by small, deliberate details, including painted engine finishes that echo early manufacturing techniques, non machined cylinder fins and silver accented cylinder heads and pushrod tubes.
The iconic lit headdress ornament sits atop the front fender, reinforcing the bike’s lineage, while vintage style handlebars and a narrow rear subframe help maintain the clean, uncluttered proportions of the original design.
A solo seat inspired by early Chief models has been reworked with modern ergonomics in mind, aiming to provide comfort and support on longer rides without compromising the bike’s classic profile.
Alongside its heritage focused design, the Chief Vintage incorporates modern technology through a 101 mm round touchscreen display powered by Indian Motorcycle’s RIDE COMMAND system.
The updated interface offers faster startup times, improved responsiveness and integrated navigation that allows riders to plan routes on their phone and send them directly to the bike’s display.
Connectivity features include music and call controls when paired with a compatible helmet system, alongside ride data and multiple display configurations.
For riders planning extended journeys, Indian Motorcycle has also introduced a range of accessories including quick release windscreens, highway bars, weather resistant saddlebags and optional passenger seating.
While deeply American in its design language, the Chief Vintage is likely to appeal to riders who value torque, comfort and character on long, open roads.
As part of Indian Motorcycle’s anniversary line up, the 2026 Chief Vintage stands as a statement of intent, celebrating a legacy more than a century old while remaining focused on the road ahead.
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Watch a video of the new Indian Chief by clicking HERE
