Indian Motorcycle soldiers on under the stewardship of Polaris. For 2013, the Chief Classic, Chief Vintage and Chief Dark Horse have all been revised, and a limited model joins the lineup: the Chief Vintage LE.


The 2013 Indian Chief Vintage LE will have a production run of only 35 units. A serialized plaque, unique styling, and upgraded equipment will help it stand out from the pack.

From a design standpoint, the Chief Vintage LE sports even more chrome, a Pearl White and Thunder Black paint scheme, distressed leather saddlebags with fringes, a wider windshield, a more comfortable seat, and a quick-detach passenger backrest and luggage rack. Let's not forget the analog instrument panel on the fuel tank and the arrow-shaped chrome shift rod.

Hail to the Power Plus 105 engine
Powering the 2013 Indian Chief Vintage LE is a big, shiny V-twin -- one of the most fantastic engines out there. Output is not exactly impressive for a 1,720cc (105ci) unit, but the 101 lb-ft of torque are accessible at very low revs to make it quite explosive. The 340kg Chief Vintage LE easily powers ahead while filling the rider's ears with a timeless piece of mechanical symphony. A nicely calibrated, six-speed transmission helps make the most of the burly engine.

The Power Plus 105 will find its way into other models for 2014, according to Polaris executives. For now, the American manufacturer is busy devising a strategy that will prevent internal competition between Indian Motorcycle and Victory. The former will likely become Polaris' premium vintage brand.

Announced at $37,899 US, the 2013 Indian Chief Vintage LE takes on the legendary Harley-Davidson CVO models as well as other specialized motorcycles. As mentioned, only 35 copies will be produced, so hurry!

The 340kg Chief Vintage LE easily powers ahead while filling the rider's ears with a timeless piece of mechanical symphony. (Photo: Polaris)