2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse Guide

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse
Contents: ReviewKey FeaturesFeatures & BenefitsSpecifications

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse 2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse 2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse 2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse 2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse 2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse

Contents: ReviewKey FeaturesFeatures & BenefitsSpecifications

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse: BLACKED-OUT BOBBER STYLE.

Introducing the 2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse…

Indian Motorcycle reimagined this iconic cruiser for the 100th anniversary of the Chief model, instilling cutting-edge technology with a timeless design.

BLACKED-OUT BOBBER STYLE WITH LOADS OF MUSCLE TO MATCH.
People will see and hear you coming—and wonder where you’re headed next.

THE STORY OF A LEGEND

1921
1921 marked the debut of the Indian Motorcycle Chief. Designed by the legendary Charles Franklin, the dirt track racer and engineer who also dreamed up the Scout, the Chief had a 61-cubic-inch V-twin, dual cams, a low seat, and graceful lines. Riders loved its reliable power, formidable torque, and agile frame, and the bike quickly gained fans around the world. In the 1940s, the Chief helped fuel the postwar era of bike racing and customization in America.

More than 100 years later…
In 2021, for its’ 100th anniversary, one of America’s most iconic bikes has been completely reimagined by America’s first motorcycle company. The new Chief is the perfect blend of old and new — a timeless design supplemented with modern technology and performance, and zero compromises. It retains its classic compact stance, simple steel frame, and 64-inch wheelbase. With the Chief’s timeless design, dedication to Indian Motorcycle’s legendary past, and unobtrusive modern technology, the only people it will disappoint are the ones who hoped to keep it in their rearview.

 

 

 

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

Headlining the 2023 model year news is the introduction of a new FTR mid-range trim, the FTR Sport. Replacing FTR S, the FTR Sport sits just below the premium FTR R Carbon, but above of the FTR and FTR Rally – creating four distinct trim models for riders to choose from.

 Designed for riders to cut loose and enjoy the pure sport of motorcycling, the FTR Sport’s bold aesthetics and sporty componentry, including a number plate, chin fairing and seat cowl, take the FTR’s energetic attitude to another level. A totally unique take on American V-twin performance with an unmistakable, muscular style, the FTR truly is an American original.

New for 2023, the FTR Sport and FTR R Carbon are upgraded with a four-inch round touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND, featuring navigation. Three ride modes (Sport, Standard, Rain) provide unique performance experiences for varying preferences and riding conditions, while Lean Angle Sensitive Stability Control and ABS provide confident, predictable handling in all conditions. The FTR R Carbon separates itself as the premium offering with carbon fiber components, premium seat, fully adjustable Öhlins gold front forks and a gold piggyback shock. The FTR Sport touts a new tank panel design and is available in Black Metallic with Indy Red accents and White Lightning with Indy Red and Black Metallic accents. The iconic Indian Script logo tank panels are exclusive to the FTR R Carbon, which is finished with a classy Cloud Silver and Championship Gold pinstriping.

While primary componentry carry-over for FTR and FTR Rally models, all four FTR models now offer a new sport exhaust muffler, and a retuned front braking system, which provides a firmer feel. Indian Motorcycle also moved the speedometer up for easier viewing and added a new clutch for improved feel and performance. With the new tank panel design, as seen on FTR Sport, and the addition of bold, vibrant colors, the refreshed FTR further broadens the appeal of the FTR lineup to more riders. The FTR is available in Metallic Black, contrasted by Lifted Lime branding with matching rear shock, and Stealth Gray, featuring Orange Burst branding, rear shock and wheels. Finally, the FTR Rally features 19- and 18-inch cast wheels wrapped with knobby tires. The FTR Rally is available in new Black Smoke paint, Desert Earth frame, and the iconic Indian Motorcycle Headdress logo emblazed across the tank. Pricing for the FTR lineup begins at $13,499.

For added personalization, Indian Motorcycle is launching nine new FTR accessories. Through a brand partnership with Gilles Tooling, Indian Motorcycle is offering co-branded pieces, including Performance Adjustable Rearsets, and three Billet components: Bar End Weights, an Oil Cap and a Radiator Cap. Performance Adjustable Levers will also be available in spring 2023. In addition, Indian Motorcycle has expanded its carbon fiber offering with three new pieces, including an Exhaust Heat Shield, Frame Guard and a Sprocket Cover. To enhance comfort, Indian Motorcycle has introduced a durable and weather-resistant Comfort+ Seat, which combines comfortable ergonomics with additional padding where needed most.

 

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE ANNOUNCES 2023 MODEL YEAR LINEUP; REVISES FTR LINEUP & DEBUTS INDIAN CHALLENGER ELITE

  • FTR Lineup Adds Fresh, Vibrant Colors, While New FTR Sport & FTR R Carbon Upgrade to Four-Inch Round Touchscreen Display with Navigation
  • Indian Challenger Elite Delivers the Ultimate in Style & Exclusivity
  • New Sapphire Blue Smoke Paint with Black Smoke & Titanium Metallic Smoke Combine Premium Quality with Head-Turning Style
  • From Scout to Indian Pursuit, the 2023 Lineup Offers Models & Styles for Any Rider
  • New Indian Motorcycle Accessories Further Expand Personalization Options

Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2023 model year lineup, featuring the new FTR Sport and Indian Challenger Elite, along with various model updates and new accessories across the line. In addition, the 2023 lineup features a variety of new color options, highlighted by vibrant color schemes for FTR and FTR Sport on newly designed tank covers.

“Fully loaded with models and styles for the widest range of riders, the 2023 lineup is a powerful testament to our team’s relentless effort to build and refine a truly comprehensive product offering over the past nine years,” said Mike Dougherty, President for Indian Motorcycle. “This effort has been focused across the line and within each model lineup, as evidenced by the introduction of the FTR Sport – the addition of which creates four unique FTR offerings, each with its own style and personality.”

For 2023, Indian Motorcycle is introducing an array of functional accessories. First, in partnership with CruzTOOLS®, Indian Motorcycle is launching three accessories, including two tool kits compatible with all models and an axle adapter for FTR models. To add storage to most models, a new All-Weather Vinyl Tailbag attaches to select passenger seats or luggage racks. In addition, a new Syndicate Heated Seat is available for Indian Challenger models, while a Reduced Reach Kickstand is now available for all Indian Challenger and Indian Pursuit models.

For the Chief line, Indian Motorcycle is launching two new bag options. The Chief Fork Bag attaches securely to the front of the handlebars and is perfect for storing smaller items like gloves, glasses, cell phones or water bottles. The new Chief Bobber Saddlebags are water-resistant and add convenient storage without sacrificing style.

For added comfort, Indian Motorcycle is offering Chief riders an upgraded Comfort+ Solo Seat and a two-up Syndicate Seat. The Comfort+ Solo Seat pulls design inspiration from old-school muscle car interiors. The top is more plush than the stock seat and contours to hold the rider securely and comfortably. The new Chief Syndicate Seat complements the bike’s distinct design, while adding comfort and support for both rider and passenger. The Syndicate Seat is made with a durable, weather-resistant black vinyl that won’t fade.

For Chief passengers, Indian Motorcycle is introducing the Low Profile Passenger Backrest, which complements the bike’s style and adds cushioned support to the passenger’s posterior.

Lastly, the new Quick Release Low Profile Trunk for bagger and touring models is expanding its colorway options. The streamlined Low Profile Trunk will now be available in 58 factory colors.

 

 

 

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

BLACKED-OUT BOBBER STYLE WITH LOADS OF MUSCLE TO MATCH.
People will see and hear you coming—and wonder where you’re headed next.

THUNDERSTROKE 116
The air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 produces 162 Nm of raw torque for passing power in all 6 gears. It’ll catch eyes on the street and grab your soul from the saddle.

BLACKED-OUT BOBBER DESIGN
Loaded with attitude and blacked-out finishes from fender to bobbed fender. A welded steel tube frame, large headlight bucket with nacelle, and covered forks and rear shocks give a nod to traditional bobber style.

4″ RIDE COMMAND TOUCHSCREEN
The 4″ touchscreen maintains a classic aesthetic by disguising itself as an analog gauge. Use it as a speedo and a tach, but it also provides turn-by-turn navigation, controls ride modes, lets you answer and decline calls, and manage your music from any Bluetooth-connected device.

STYLE FOR MILES
Iconic Indian Motorcycle style ensure heads turn wherever the Chief roams.

BLACK, AND MORE BLACK
Dark by design with premium gloss-black finishes from fender to fender.

OWN THE ROAD
A low solo seat gives you a commanding feel, while the forward pegs and mini ape bars put your feet forward and your fists in the wind.

ICONIC STYLE
Rooted in history, designed for the present. The iconic Indian Motorcycle headdress logo is a celebration of the original Chief.

MODERN TECHNOLOGY HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT.
More of what you need, less of what you don’t.

FEATURES FOR THE WIN
Off the line, every Chief Bobber Dark Horse comes with keyless ignition, USB charging port, cruise control, ABS, and super-sticky Pirelli Night Dragon tires.

LIGHT YOUR WAY
Full LED lighting provides great visibility to the road ahead.

CHOOSE YOUR RIDE
Choose between three ride modes — Tour, Standard, and Sport — for an experience that’s tailored to your riding style.

 

 

 

 

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $19499 to $20,499 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $23,099 to $24,499 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £19,495 to £20,495 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Engine & Drivetrain

Bore x Stroke

4.063 in x 4.449 in (103.2 mm x 113 mm)

Compression Ratio

11.0:1

Displacement

116 cu in (1,890 cc)

Drive/Driven Clutch

Wet, Multi-Plate

Electronic Fuel Injection System

Closed loop fuel injection / 54 mm bore

Engine Type

Air-cooled Thunderstroke 116

Exhaust

Dual Exhaust w/ Crossover

Gear Ratio (1st)

9.403 : 1

Gear Ratio (2nd)

6.411 : 1

Gear Ratio (3rd)

4.763 : 1

Gear Ratio (4th)

3.796 : 1

Gear Ratio (5th)

3.243 : 1

Gear Ratio (6th)

2.789 : 1

Peak Torque

120 ft-lbs

Peak Torque RPM

2,900 rpm

Transmission/Final Drive

2.2 : 1

Transmission/Primary Drive

Gear Drive Wet Clutch

Dimensions

Fuel Capacity

4.0 gal (15.1 L)

Ground Clearance

4.9 in (125 mm)

GVWR

1,160 lb (522 kg)

Lean Angle

28.5°

Overall Height

53.1 in (1,349 mm)

Overall Length

90 in (2,286 mm)

Overall Width

36 in (915 mm)

Rake/Trail

29° / 5.2 in (132 mm)

Seat Height

26.0 in (662 mm)

Weight (As Shipped / Running Order)

670 lbs (304 kg) / 694 lbs (315 kg)

Wheelbase

64.0 in (1,626 mm)

Brakes

Front Brakes

Single / 300mm Semi-Floating Rotor / 4 Piston Caliper

Rear Brakes

Single / 300mm Floating Rotor / 2 Piston Caliper

Tires / Wheels

Front Tires

Pirelli® Night Dragon 130/90B16 67H

Front Wheel

Wire Spoke 16 in x 3 in

Rear Tires

Pirelli® Night Dragon 180/65 B16 81H

Rear Wheel

Wire Spoke 16 in x 5 in

Suspension

Front Fork Tube Diameter

46 mm

Front Suspension

Telescopic Fork

Front Travel

5.2 in (132 mm)

Rear Suspension

Dual Shocks w/adjustable preload

Rear Travel

3.0 in (75 mm)

Features

Color / Graphics

Black Smoke, Titanium Smoke, Silver Quartz Smoke. Icon: Copper Smoke

Factory Warranty

2 Years, Unlimited Miles

Gauges

Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, fuel gauge, compass, ambient temperature, Gear indicator

Infotainment

4 in Touchscreen powered by RIDE COMMAND. Model year 2023 bikes include a complimentary 1-year trial of RIDE COMMAND+ (after which, fees apply) which includes features like live weather/traffic and intuitive destination search. Touchscreen display includes real-time clock; ambient air temperature; heading; audio information display; map/navigation; Bluetooth status for phone and headset; vehicle status (voltage, engine hours, oil change); vehicle info (speed, fuel range, RPM, gear position); current ride data (distance, moving time, stop time, altitude, altitude change); trip meters; ride mode selection; screen brightness; and vehicle trouble code readout.

Lights

LED Headlight, LED Tail/Brake/Turn Signals

Standard Equipment

ABS, Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, USB charge port, 12V Charge Port, Rear Cylinder Deactivation

 

 

 

 

 

 

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details

Engine & Drivetrain

Bore x Stroke

4.063 in x 4.449 in (103.2 mm x 113 mm)

Compression Ratio

11.0:1

Displacement

116 cu in (1,890 cc)

Drive/Driven Clutch

Wet, Multi-Plate

Electronic Fuel Injection System

Closed loop fuel injection / 54 mm bore

Engine Type

Air-cooled Thunderstroke 116

Exhaust

Dual Exhaust w/ Crossover

Gear Ratio (1st)

9.403 : 1

Gear Ratio (2nd)

6.411 : 1

Gear Ratio (3rd)

4.763 : 1

Gear Ratio (4th)

3.796 : 1

Gear Ratio (5th)

3.243 : 1

Gear Ratio (6th)

2.789 : 1

Peak Torque

120 ft-lbs

Peak Torque RPM

2,900 rpm

Transmission/Final Drive

2.2 : 1

Transmission/Primary Drive

Gear Drive Wet Clutch

Dimensions

Fuel Capacity

4.0 gal (15.1 L)

Ground Clearance

4.9 in (125 mm)

GVWR

1,160 lb (522 kg)

Lean Angle

28.5°

Overall Height

53.1 in (1,349 mm)

Overall Length

90 in (2,286 mm)

Overall Width

36 in (915 mm)

Rake/Trail

29° / 5.2 in (132 mm)

Seat Height (Laden)

26.0 in (662 mm)

Weight (As Shipped / Running Order)

670 lbs (304 kg) / 694 lbs (315 kg)

Wheelbase

64.0 in (1,626 mm)

Brakes

Front Brakes

Single / 300mm Semi-Floating Rotor / 4 Piston Caliper

Rear Brakes

Single / 300mm Floating Rotor / 2 Piston Caliper

Tires / Wheels

Front Tires

Pirelli® Night Dragon 130/90B16 67H

Front Wheel

Wire Spoke 16 in x 3 in

Rear Tires

Pirelli® Night Dragon 180/65 B16 81H

Rear Wheel

Wire Spoke 16 in x 5 in

Suspension

Front Fork Tube Diameter

46 mm

Front Suspension

Telescopic Fork

Front Travel

5.2 in (132 mm)

Rear Suspension

Dual Shocks w/adjustable preload

Rear Travel

3.0 in (75 mm)

Features

Color / Graphics

Black Smoke, Titanium Smoke, Silver Quartz Smoke. Icon: Copper Smoke

Factory Warranty

2 Years, Unlimited Miles

Gauges

Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, fuel gauge, compass, ambient temperature, Gear indicator

Infotainment

4 in Touchscreen powered by RIDE COMMAND. Model year 2023 bikes include a complimentary 1-year trial of RIDE COMMAND+ (after which, fees apply) which includes features like live weather/traffic and intuitive destination search. Touchscreen display includes real-time clock; ambient air temperature; heading; audio information display; map/navigation; Bluetooth status for phone and headset; vehicle status (voltage, engine hours, oil change); vehicle info (speed, fuel range, RPM, gear position); current ride data (distance, moving time, stop time, altitude, altitude change); trip meters; ride mode selection; screen brightness; and vehicle trouble code readout.

Lights

LED Headlight, LED Tail/Brake/Turn Signals

Standard Equipment

ABS, Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, USB charge port, 12V Charge Port, Rear Cylinder Deactivation

 

 

 

 

 

2023 Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse – Totalmotorcycle.com Europe Specifications/Technical Details

Engine
Engine Type Thunderstroke 116
Displacement 1890 cc
Bore x Stroke 103.2mm x 113mm
Compression Ratio 11.0:1
Electronic Fuel Injection System Closed loop fuel Injection / 54mm bore
Performance
Peak Torque RPM 3200 rpm
Peak Torque 162 Nm

Drivetrain
Primary Drive Gear Drive Wet Clutch
Clutch Wet, Multi-Plate
Gear Ratio (Overall)
1st 9.403 : 1
2nd 6.411 : 1
3rd 4.763 : 1
4th 3.796 : 1
5th 3.243 : 1
6th 2.789 : 1
Final Drive 2.2:1

Suspension
Suspension: Front – Type/Travel Telescopic Fork / 132 mm
Suspension: Rear – Type/Travel Dual Shocks w/ adjustable preload / 75 mm
Chassis
Brakes/Front Single / 300mm Semi-Floating Rotor / 4 Piston Calliper
Brakes/Rear Single / 300mm Floating Rotor / 2 Piston Calliper
Front Tyres Pirelli Night Dragon 130/90B16 67H
Rear Tyres Pirelli Night Dragon 180/65 B16 81H
Wheels Wire Spoke 16″ x 3 / 16″ x 5″
Exhaust Dual Exhaust w/ Crossover

Dimensions
Wheelbase 1626 mm
Seat Height 662 mm
Ground Clearance 125 mm
Overall Length 2286 mm
Overall Width 915 mm
Overall Height 1349 mm
Lean Angle 31°
Rake 29°
Trail 131.5 mm
Fuel Capacity 15.1 L
GVWR 522 kg
Weight (Empty tank / full of fuel) 304 kg / 315 kg

Features
Colour / Graphics Black Smoke, Titanium Smoke, Silver Quartz Smoke, Icon: Copper Smoke
Factory Warranty 2 years
Standard
Standard Equipment ABS, Ride Modes, Keyless Ignition, USB charge port, 12V Charge Port, Rear Cylinder Deactivation
Lights LED Headlight, LED Tail/Brake/Turn Signals
Electrical
Gauges Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, fuel gauge, compass, ambient temperature, Gear indicator
Infotainment 4″ Touchscreen powered by RIDE COMMAND. Touchscreen display includes real-time clock; ambient air temperature; heading; audio information display; map/navigation; Bluetooth status for phone and headset; vehicle status (voltage, engine hours, oil change); vehicle info (speed, fuel range, RPM, gear position); current ride data (distance, moving time, stop time, altitude, altitude change); trip meters; ride mode selection; screen brightness; and vehicle trouble code readout.

 

 

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

2026 Newest Bike Reviews

TMW 2026 Motorcycle Model Review Guides
About Michael Le Pard 11639 Articles
"Mr. Totalmotorcycle". Owner and Founder of Total Motorcycle, the World’s Largest Motorcycle Site with over 425 million readers since 1999. Total Motorcycle is my pride and joy and being able to reach 425 million people has been incredible and I could not have done it without the support of my visitors, readers and members...thank you so much! We are all making a difference to millions of riders worldwide.