Bike Elite: Indian Unveils Limited Edition Challenger and Chieftain
Indian is giving riders a truly exclusive treat. America’s first motorcycle company has introduced two new limited-edition baggers, both bearing the exclusive Elite title.
The 2022 Indian Challenger Elite and 2022 Indian Chieftain elite are both available in very limited numbers. The bikes sport custom-inspired designs that won’t be available on other Indians.
“From factory-custom details to premium amenities, and advanced ride-enhancing technology, we left no stone unturned when designing our new Elite baggers,” said Indian Motorcycle Vice President, Aaron Jax.
“These two Elites elevate both platforms with gorgeous custom-inspired design elements straight from the factory.”
2022 Indian Challenger Elite
The Challenger Elite makes its worldwide debut with only 200 bikes available. The motorcycle has a unique design and styling, inspired by muscle cars, and it packs plenty of punch for both urban and rural roads.
The bike has an exclusive Stealth Gray/BlackMetallic colorway with Indy Red accents. Red stitching on the seat and matching badging complete the performance-inspired look.
But that performance isn’t limited to looks. The Challenger Elite features a liquid-cooled 1769cc PowerPlus engine. The powerplant can put out 122 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque.
Three ride modes—Standard, Sport, and Rain—let riders customize throttle mapping based on their preferences and riding conditions. Each mode comes with distinct traction control settings to alter the engine’s performance.
The Challenger Elite has advanced ride-enhancing technologies, such as electronically adjustable Fox rear suspension preload. Indian’s Smart Lean Technology helps with handling and keeps the bike grounded in curves.
The bike features an integrated 400-watt PowerBand audio system with saddlebag speakers. The electronics are easy to control through the seven-inch touch screen with Ride Command that can connect to Apple CarPlay. Buyers also get a free year of Ride Command+ connectivity.
Other goodies on the Challenger Elite include an adaptive LED headlight, adjustable flare windscreen, heated grips, ABS, TPM, and remote-locking saddlebags with 18 gallons of space.
2022 Indian Chieftain Elite
The Challenger Elite was already exclusive, but the 2022 Indian Chieftain Elite has it beat. Only 150 of these bikes will be available worldwide, so they won’t be on sale for long.
In contrast to the muscle car-inspired styling of the Challenger, the Chieftain Elite’s look takes its cues from custom bikes. The Heavy Metal Smoke paint job is complemented by bronze finishes on the tank, saddlebags, center console, primary cover, and the airbox.
Adding to the bike’s style are the oil-rubbed bronze push rod tubes, horn cover, and cam cover. The Chieftain rides low and sports premium blacked-out finishes and a two-up comfort seat.
Powering the machine is the Thunderstroke 116 engine—Indian’s most powerful air-cooled motor with 126 lb-ft of torque. The Chieftain Elite comes with three ride modes (Standard, Tour, Sport) and has rear cylinder deactivation to make riding more comfortable in slow traffic.
The Chieftain Elite has the same electronic aids and goodies as the Challenger. On top of them, it features rear saddlebag LED lights and backlit switch cubes
Both bikes can be further customized with a slew of Indian accessories. The extensive list of upgrades includes driving and saddlebag lights, ClimaCommand seats, luggage and bag options, and hard lower fairings.
The bikes are available from Indian at MSRPs of $34,999 for the Challenger Elite and $32,999 for the Chieftain Elite.