Following the launch of its year-long 125th anniversary celebrations, Indian Motorcycle has unveiled the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage, honouring its heritage by reimagining a timeless classic for today’s riders. Inspired by the iconic Chief of the 1940s, the new Chief Vintage pays tribute to the brand’s roots through its flowing valanced fenders and unmistakable silhouette, while the Thunderstroke engine delivers the power and presence expected of a modern Indian Motorcycle. Built with American craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, the Chief Vintage reflects Indian Motorcycle’s Never Finished spirit, defined by fearlessness, purpose and an unwavering commitment to rider choice. A striking tribute to a golden age of American motorcycling, the new Chief Vintage blends classic design with the power, precision and innovation that have defined the brand for 125 years. More than a motorcycle, the 2026 Chief Vintage is a legend reborn for the road ahead.
“The Indian Chief from the 1940s remains one of the most recognisable and celebrated motorcycles in American history,” said Ola Stenegärd, Design Director for Indian Motorcycle. “With its iconic V-Twin engine, valanced fenders and unparalleled reliability, the Chief set a standard for performance and design that still resonates today. It represents the spirit of Indian Motorcycle: bold, timeless and always pushing forward.”
Honouring its iconic lineage, the Chief Vintage seamlessly blends timeless design with modern performance and technology. As Indian Motorcycle celebrates its 125th anniversary, the Chief Vintage stands as a clear statement that the brand’s legacy is not a finish line, but a launchpad. With sculpted lines inspired by post-war classics, the Chief Vintage looks as though it could have rolled straight off the Springfield, Massachusetts production line of the 1940s. Its distinctive valanced front fender is complemented by the iconic illuminated headdress ornament, while the narrow rear subframe and vintage handlebars reference the era’s unmistakable design language. The vintage-style solo seat has been reimagined to deliver improved comfort and ergonomic support, and wire-spoke wheels complete the authentic American aesthetic.
Heritage details extend to the Thunderstroke engine finish, which captures the spirit of 1940s craftsmanship with non-machined black cylinders, silver-painted cylinder heads and pushrod tubes. These elements pay tribute to the raw aluminium finishes found on the original Chief models. Together, the valanced fenders, solo seat, handlebars, engine detailing and wire wheels are not simply retro touches, but defining design cues from a landmark era in motorcycling. While steeped in heritage, the Indian Chief Vintage delivers thoroughly modern performance and technology. Power comes from the air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin engine, producing 156 Nm of torque for strong, effortless acceleration in every gear. Three selectable ride modes, Tour, Standard and Sport, allow riders to tailor throttle response to their riding style and conditions.
Chief Vintage is equipped with Indian Motorcycle’s 101 mm round touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND. For 2026, the system features new software that improves start-up and loading times by approximately 25 percent. The updated system introduces App Enhanced Navigation, enabling riders to search for destinations on their smartphone using platforms such as Google Maps, Waze or Apple Maps and send directions directly to the bike’s display. The touchscreen display can be operated via the handlebar controls or directly through the full-colour IPS screen. Riders can access multiple interface options, detailed vehicle and ride data, turn-by-turn navigation with connected services, and integrated media controls. When paired via Bluetooth or USB, riders can manage music, calls and messages through the RIDE COMMAND system, with incoming calls displayed directly on the screen.
A curated range of premium accessories is available for Chief Vintage, designed to enhance comfort, protection and style. Options include front highway bars and lower closeouts for added protection and reduced wind buffeting, a quick-release low windshield for improved wind management, and durable, weather-resistant vinyl saddlebags offering more than 19 litres of storage per side. Premium handle grips and optional rider floorboards further enhance comfort and control. For riders who enjoy touring or carrying a passenger, the Classic Solo Seat can be paired with a matching passenger pillion, while an optional touring backrest pad adds further comfort for two-up riding without compromising the bike’s classic styling.
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