Indian Motorcycle's Chieftain is a bagger-type cruiser designed for long-distance adventures. Aesthetically, it recalls vintage Indians from the 1930s -- curvy silhouette, wraparound fender with the three-dimensional War Bonnet logo, and a large, chrome-clad centre console.

Powering the 2014 Indian Chieftain without ever flinching or bucking is the all-new, 1,811cc Thunder Stroke 111 engine. Polaris, which now owns the Indian brand, went back to the latter's roots to design a unique powerplant with a velvety exhaust note that perfectly embodies the spirit and feel of classic Indian bikes.

Of course, the 2014 Indian Chieftain uses modern-day technologies such as electronic ignition and injection, keyless start, ABS, cruise control, and a 6-speed transmission with belt final drive.


Geared for the long haul
The top-of-the-line member of the Indian family comes fully equipped. In addition to all the content found on the base model, it features a full fairing, a power-adjustable windshield, two hard saddlebags that preserve the bike's retro looks, a digital gauge cluster, an audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and even a pair of crash bars.

Similar to Victory (also owned by Polaris), Indian opts for aluminum to build frames and swingarms. The 2014 Indian Chieftain also benefits from a telescopic fork and a braking system that includes three 300-mm discs along with 4-piston front and dual-piston rear callipers. However, for a machine that aims to gobble up miles and miles of open road, the 20.8-litre fuel tank sure is a bit small.

The top-of-the-line member of the Indian family comes fully equipped. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comfort and stability
Despite its overall girth, the 2014 Indian Chieftain handles like a middleweight cruiser, so there are no worries to be had at low speeds. Even when you pick up the pace, changing directions poses no problem, and the long wheelbase contributes to a stable ride. What's more, the rake angle and steering offset are different from the Classic model to make up for the agility lost with the big fairing.

The 2014 Indian Chieftain proves smooth, sound, and comfortable thanks to a thickly padded leather seat, plenty of room to stretch, and a surprisingly compliant suspension setup for a slammed motorcycle. It also leans over freely and effortlessly courtesy of generous ground clearance (by cruiser standards, obviously).

On the highway, the 2014 Indian Chieftain's massive fairing and power-adjustable windshield simply work wonders. You can easily find the proper setting based on your size, speed, and weather conditions, thus ensuring that buffeting around the head is kept to a minimum.

Despite its overall girth, the 2014 Indian Chieftain handles like a middleweight cruiser, so there are no worries to be had at low speeds. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Classic meets modern
The smooth and efficient Thunder Stroke 111 is a perfect match for the 2014 Indian Chieftain. It never seems to tire, even at higher revs, and shows rare spirit for such a big V-twin. On long rides, this marvel of engineering considerably enhances comfort with a seamless power delivery.

All in all, the retro-styled 2014 Indian Chieftain proves that the iconic American brand is alive and well, cleverly mixing Indian Motorcycle heritage with a host of modern features and technologies.

The smooth and efficient Thunder Stroke 111 is a perfect match for the 2014 Indian Chieftain. It never seems to tire, even at higher revs, and shows rare spirit for such a big V-twin. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Pros

• Smooth, efficient operator
• Comfortable
• Easy to ride
• Power-adjustable windshield for minimum buffeting

Cons

• Small tank (20.8L)
• Heavy weight