- Table of Contents
- 1. A Brief Background of Indian Chief Vintage
- 2. Indian Chief Vintage at First Glance
- 3. Indian Chief Vintage: A Buyer’s Guide
- 3.1 What Is the Top Speed of the Indian Chief Vintage?
- 3.2 Is the Indian How Many CCs Chief Vintage?
- 3.3 How Much Horsepower Does the Indian Chief Vintage Have?
- 3.4 How Many Miles Per Gallon Does the Indian Chief Vintage Get?
- 3.5 How Much Does an Indian Chief Vintage Bike Weigh?
- 3.6 Did the Indian Motorcycle Company Discontinue the Chief Vintage Lineup?
- 4. Detailed Specifications: Indian Chief Vintage Specs
- 5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for Indian Chief Vintage
After Polaris Industries acquired the Indian Motorcycle Company (IMC) in 2011, the motorcycle manufacturing wing redesigned the PowerPlus engine. In 2013, the IMC introduced new technology in the form of the 1811 cc Thunder Stroke 111 engine.
The new Indian motorcycle lineups were to feature this new engine going forward. In 2014, the the Indian Chief Classic, Chief Vintage, and Chieftain lineups were launched. While all three lineups were successful, the Chief Vintage proved to be special with its traditional Indian looks, new engine, six-speed transmission, stylish handlebars , chrome accents, windshield, two-up leather seats, saddlebags , and low price.
The Indian Chief Vintage motorcycle is an example of magnificent craftsmanship. This article will discuss all about the Indian Chief Vintage’s specs, features, background, performance, and more.
1. A Brief Background of the Indian Chief Vintage
The Chief Vintage was introduced in 2014, with many Indian motorcycle fans falling in love with its powerful engine, impressive performance, and classy look. The design team had done an outstanding job showing off the glorious history of the Indian Motorcycle Company through this masterpiece.
Since both the Indian Chief Classic and the Indian Chief Vintage motorcycles were launched in 2014, they had the same engine, body frame, drive train, suspensions, and fuel control system. The factory-installed standard equipment of the Chief Vintage, inclduing the leather motorcycle luggage and wind protection, set it apart from the Chief Classic.
In 2020, the Chief Vintage got a longer rake similar to the Indian Springfield. On the surface, it appears that the Vintage has remained unchanged. However, there have been some noteworthy changes over the years as shown in the table below:
| INDIAN CHIEF VINTAGE - WHAT CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? | |
|---|---|
| Year | Changes |
| 2014 | The bikes came with an air cooler. |
| 2016 | The air cooler was removed. |
| 2017 | The switchgear was updated. |
| 2019 | The rear cylinder deactivation system was added. |
| Three standard riding modes were added: Standard mode Sport mode Tour mode |
|
Any aesthetic changes were restricted to new paint jobs. The lower prices also made this bike more favorable for customers. For further details, see the table below:
| INDIAN CHIEF VINTAGE COLOR & PRICE CHANGES | ||
|---|---|---|
| Model Year | Price | Colors |
| 2014 | $20,999 | Black Blue Red |
| 2015 | $20,999 | Black Red Gray w/ Red Black w/ Red Gray w/ Green |
| 2016 | $20,999 | Black Red Cream w/ Green Black w/ Silver |
| 2017 | $19,999 | Black Black w/ Springfield Blue Black w/ Silver Cream w/ Green |
| 2018 | $19,999 | Black Black w/ Silver Blue w/ White Cream w/ Green |
| 2019 | $19,999 | Black White w/ Sky Blue Cream w/ Green |
| 2020 | $19,999 | Black Cream w/ Green |
| 2021 | $21, 499 | Metallic Crimson Dirt Track Tan w/ Deep Water Blue |
It came as a shock when the Indian Motorcycle Company did not introduce a new motorcycle for the Chief Vintage lineup in 2022. Much to the dismay of the Chief Vintage fans, this model was discontinued in 2022 after an eight-year-long-production cycle.
Also Read: Indian Chief Classic: Specs, Background, Performance, & More
2. Indian Chief Vintage at First Glance
Indian Chief Vintage Styling
The Chief Vintage has the traditional cruiser look. The bike features beautiful whitewall Dunlop Elite tires. The deeply valanced color-matched full fenders feature a war bonnet fender light and cover more than half of the tires. The liberal use of chrome on the front forks, handlebars, mirrors, and crash bars give the bike a luxurious feel. The large headlight has a beautiful chrome nacelle that offers maximum visibility.
The transparent windshield offers maximum wind protection and adds to the bike’s bagger look. Moreover, the large teardrop-shaped fuel tank has a well-finished paint job with minimal shine. The hand grips are wide and have beautiful brown leather covers. The brown leather rider and passenger seats and saddlebags come with decorative fringes that look striking against the bike’s chrome plating and paint job.
Indian Chief Vintage Engine
At the heart of the Chief Vintage cruiser lies a powerful 1811 cc V-twin, four-stroked, air-cooled engine that can produce a maximum torque of 161.6 Nm at 3000 rpm. The low-end to mid-range torque produced by the engine offers an enjoyable and relaxed cruising experience.
The engine also produces an impressive horsepower of 79 hp. The engine power is delivered to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission.
The closed loop fuel injection system is an efficient fuel system offering great engine outputs and a good fuel economy.
Indian Chief Vintage Handling
The Indian Chief Vintage is heavy when parked but is still able to ride at high speed despite its weight. Though heavyweight, this bike is very agile and easy to handle on long straight smooth roads, wide curves, and sharp corners.
The Chief Vintage got a longer rake in 2020, this change lead ingto greater stability and slow speed maneuvers when turning corners.
The earlier Chief Vintage models lacked the air adjustable rear shock absorbers. But the later models were upgraded with fantastic suspensions. You can enjoy a smooth ride regardless of the road conditions, making the Vintage a capable tourer.
Indian Chief Vintage Wheels
The Chief Vintage features classic chrome wire wheels and whitewall Dunlop tires. The 130 mm front tire and 180 mm rear tires are covered with embellished full fenders. The wheels bring out the vintage character of the bike and offer maximum traction for a comfortable and safe ride.
Indian Chief Vintage Brakes
The Chief Vintage’s disc brakes, floating rotors, and a standard ABS ensure reliable braking.
Indian Chief Vintage Instruments
The Vintage instruments are tank-mounted and include a speedometer, digital tachometer, dual trip meters, oil pressure check, cruise control, ABS activation light, fuel gauge, gear position indicator, odometer, high beam, mileage range, and clock.
Indian Chief Vintage Comfort
The comfortable leather seat allows you to ride for hours without any sores or discomfort. Fitted with wide handlebars, steering the bike is an easy task, but your hands are bound to freeze against the cold wind if your bike does not have heated grips. The floorboards are stylish and roomy so your feet can rest flat as you ride. The cruise control option on the Chief Vintage helps improve its riding comfort. A rider can choose different speeds to ride at and the cruise control system will help maintain the chosen speed. You can remove and relax your foot from the accelerator for some time.
Indian Chief Vintage Lighting
For forward lighting, the Chief Vintage has a light bar with a large headlight and two comparatively smaller lights on either side of the main headlight. The forward lights feature a halogen bulb.
The bike also possesses turn signals, brake lights, and a LED tail light. The forward and rear lighting ensure maximum visibility and road presence.
Indian Chief Vintage Touring Equipment
The Indian Chief Vintage motorcycle has a high touring capability thanks to its efficient engine and suspensions. The touring accessories, such as a windshield and saddlebags, allow riders to take this bike for relaxing motorcycle trips.
3. Indian Chief Vintage: A Buyer’s Guide
3.1 What Is the Top Speed of the Indian Chief Vintage?
The Indian Chief Vintage has a top speed of 115 mph.
3.2 How Many CCs Is the Indian Chief Vintage?
The Indian Chief Vintage is powered by a Thunder Stroke 111 engine with a displacement of 1811 cc or 111 cu in.
3.3 How Much Horsepower Does the Indian Chief Vintage Have?
The Indian Chief Vintage boasts a maximum horsepower of 79 hp.
3.4 How Many Miles Per Gallon Does the Indian Chief Vintage Get?
The closed loop fuel injected engine gives the Indian Chief Vintage an average mileage of 34 mpg.
3.5 How Much Does an Indian Chief Vintage Bike Weigh?
The Indian Chief Vintage has a dry weight of 804 lbs. With its 5.5-gallon fuel tank, the bike weighs 836 lbs on a full tank.
3.6 Did the Indian Motorcycle Company Discontinue the Chief Vintage Lineup?
Yes. The Indian Chief Vintage lineup was discontinued in 2022.
4. Detailed Specifications (Indian Chief Vintage Specs)
4.1 General
| Manufacturer | Indian Motorcycle International, LLC (Polaric Inc.) |
|---|---|
| Production Years | 2014 - 2021 |
| Model | Chief Vintage |
| Category | Cruiser |
| Touring Ability | High |
| Base Price | $20,499 |
| Logistic Charges | $900 |
| Destination & Set-up Charges | Applicable + Variable |
| Colors | Metallic Crimson Tan/Blue |
| Warranty | Two Years Unlimited Miles |
4.2 Dimensions
| Max. Length | 101.7 in / 2583 mm |
|---|---|
| Height | 56.8 in / 1444 mm |
| Width | 39.4 in / 1000 mm |
| Max. Weight (Dry) | 804 lbs / 365 kg |
| Max. Weight (Wet) | 836 lbs / 379 kg |
| Max. Seat Height | 26 in / 662 mm |
| Rake | 25° |
| Lean | 31° |
| Wheel Base | 67 in / 1701 mm |
| Trail | 5.2 in / 133 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 5.6 in / 142 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.5 gal / 20.8 L |
| Fuel Economy/Mileage | 34 mpg |
| GVWR | 1260 lbs / 572 kg |
4.3 Chassis
| Frame Type | Cast Aluminum Downtube: Double |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension & Wheel Travel | Telescopic fork - 46 mm 4.7 in / 119 mm |
| Rear Suspension & Wheel Travel | Monoshock Air Adjustment 4.5 in / 114 mm |
| Wheels | Chrome Wire Front: 16 in x 3.5 in Rear: 16 in x 5 in |
| Front Tire Size | 130/90 B 16 67 H |
| Rear Tire Size | 180/65 B 16 81 H |
| Tire Brand (Front & Rear) | Dunlop Elite American |
| Brake Type - Disc | Front: Double Rear: Single Both w/ Floating Rotors |
| Brake Calipers (Front) | Four pistons |
| Brake Calipers (Rear) | Two pistons |
| Anti-Lock Braking System | Standard |
4.4 Engine
| Type | Four Stroke - Thunder Stroke 111 Air-cooled |
|---|---|
| Bore | 3.976 in / 101 mm |
| Stroke | 4.449 in / 113 mm |
| Displacement | 1811 cc / 111 cu in |
| Engine Details | V-Twin |
| Cylinder arrangement | Four Valves per Cylinder |
| Compression | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel System/ Induction | Fuel Injected: Closed Loop Bore: 54 mm |
| Exhaust system | Dual Exhaust: Split Crossover |
4.5 Performance
| Maximum Power | 79 hp |
|---|---|
| Maximum Torque | 161.6 Nm / 119 ft/lbs at 3000 rpm |
| Top Speed | 115 mph |
4.6 DriveTrain
| Clutch System | Assist Wet Clutch w/ Multiplates |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Six Speed |
| Primary Drive | Gear; Wet Clutch |
| Final Drive | 2.2:1 |
| 1st Gear | 9.403 |
| 2nd Gear | 6.411 |
| 3rd Gear | 4.763 |
| 4th Gear | 3.796 |
| 5th Gear | 3.243 |
| 6th Gear | 2.789 |
4.7 Electrical
| Gauges | Speedometer Odometer Tripmeters Tachometer Fuel Gauge Mileage Gear Position Clock Oil Pressure Cruise Control Neutral Position High Beam ABS Light |
|---|---|
| Starter | Electric |
| Ignition | Keyless |
| Lights | Headlight: Halogen Bulb Tail Light: LED Brake Lights Turn Signals Fender Light |
| Equipment | Windshield Leather Seats ABS Ride Modes Saddlebags |
5. Aftermarket Parts & Modification Options for Indian Chief Vintage
The Indian Chief Vintage is a classic cruiser designed for comfortable daily commutes, urban rides, long-distance camping trips, and motorcycle tours.
This bike is equipped with a windshield and soft leather saddlebags. The tan colored seat match the saddlebags and are quite comfortable.
The Indian Motorcycle Company kept its heritage alive through the Vintage lineup. But sometimes this bike looks a bit old school when compared to the trendy looks of modern cruisers. If you own this classy machine and want to give it a modern custom look, then add a few aftermarket parts.
These may include fairings , crash bars ,sissy bars , new seats , luggage racks , and rider and passenger backrests .
You can replace the factory-installed soft Indian saddlebags with hard saddlebags or you can opt for a different color scheme.
Installing different types of Indian motorcycle luggage such as a windshield bag or a handlebar bag will increase your bike’s storage capacity while giving it a new look.
Featured Products
Chief Vintage Saddlebags
Chief Vintage Handlebars
Chief Vintage Fairings
Indian Saddlebags
Indian Handle Bars
Indian Fairings
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