[1] INDIAN Motorcycle is rapidly approaching the official launch of its new line of 2009 motorcycles and, in anticipation of this, has released the specifications of the new models.

The initial line-up of new Indian motorcycles will comprise of four Chief models; Chief Standard, Chief Deluxe, Chief Roadmaster and Chief Vintage. The bikes will be differentiated by trim levels, seating configurations, fender design, paint combinations, and included accessories.

[2] The brand new Indian Chiefs are the result of development and tests led by VP of Engineering Nick Glaja, who was Principal Engineer of Powertrain Technology at Harley-Davidson before he joined the Indian project. He said of the preparatory work done: “Our goal was quite simple: to focus on the premium nature of this brand and build the finest Indian motorcycle ever. We took a ‘clean sheet’ approach to the engineering of this world class American legend to ensure a solid engineering platform. Benchmarks were set high, and we believe our customers will be very happy.”

At the very center of the development work by Glaja and his team was the redesign of the classic PowerPlus motor. The new PowerPlus has 105ci capacity and closed loop sequential port fuel injection. Internally, the engine’s cylinders are Nikasil plated, a new crankshaft eliminates “scissoring”, and the exhaust system is a new design with an integrated three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensors.

The drivetrain is completed by the use of a Baker six-speed transmission and belt drive to a 16in wheel. Braking is taken care of across the range by dual Brembo four-piston calipers and 11.5in discs at the front and a single two-piston Brembo caliper and disc at the rear.

Overseeing the preparation of the new models ready for their launch has been General Manager Chris Bernauer, who previously spent eleven years with Harley-Davidson. He said: “We’re very excited about the new Indian Chiefs which are, in every way, both true to the legacy of the Indian brand and representative of the highest level of engineering expertise.”

Given the premium nature of the Indian Motorcycle brand, the company will be very selective in judging the quality and number of dealers it will supply. A new stand-alone dealership design of 10,000sq ft will be the flagship in major markets, although it is likely that these new structures will not be completed until some time in 2009.

At present, Indian dealers are already staged for opening at Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Detroit, Denver, Minneapolis and Los Angeles, with an additional twelve applications being processed.

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE
Kings Mountain, North Carolina, USA
Tel: 704 937 7333
Fax: 704 937 7776
E-mail: info@indianmotorcycle.com

[3] www.indianmotorcycle.com