2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Review

2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary
ReviewKey FeaturesFeatures & BenefitsSpecifications

2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary

2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary: DESIGNED AND REFINED.

Reviewing 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary…

The Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition carries forward the blueprint that shaped American motorcycling, defined by Indian Motorcycle in the ’40s and ’50s. Its valanced fenders, iconic lit headdress, silver engine finishes, and vintage handlebars and floating seat create a timeless silhouette, adorned with meticulous hand-painted details and 125th anniversary badging throughout.

A striking tribute to an American classic from the heart of the golden age of motorcycling, the new Chief Vintage fuses classic design with power, precision, and innovation that has defined the brand for 125 years. More than a motorcycle, the 2026 Chief Vintage is a legend reborn for the road ahead.

In the wake of kicking off its year-long 125th anniversary celebration, Indian Motorcycle today unveiled the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary – honoring its heritage by reimagining a timeless classic into a new icon for today’s riders. Inspired by the 1940s Chief, its flowing valanced fenders and unmistakable silhouette pay tribute to Indian Motorcycle’s roots, while the Thunderstroke motor delivers the power and presence that set today’s standard. Built with thoughtful, American craftsmanship and obsessive attention to detail, Chief Vintage reflects Indian Motorcycle’s Never Finished spirit, defined by fearlessness, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to provide riders the choice they’ve always deserved in American motorcycling.

“Indian Chiefs from the 1940s remain one of the most recognizable 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 resonates today. It represents the spirit of Indian Motorcycle – bold, timeless, and always pushing forward.”

Honoring its iconic lineage, the Chief Vintage seamlessly blends a timeless design with modern performance and technology. Celebrating its 125th anniversary, Chief Vintage stands as a statement: The legacy of Indian Motorcycle isn’t a finish line, it’s a launchpad.

 

 

 

 

2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition
The Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition carries forward the design language Indian Motorcycle established in the 1940s—valanced fenders, a floating solo seat, wire wheels, and the unmistakable visual cues that made the Chief an icon then and still define it now.

 

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE CELEBRATES 125 YEARS OF AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED-EDITION LINEUP & APPAREL COLLECTION

  •  125th Anniversary Collection Features Four Hand-Painted Models Complete with Exclusive
  • 125th Anniversary Badging & Premium Componentry
  •  Limited-Edition DIXXON Flannel Headlines Indian Motorcycle’s Anniversary Apparel Collection, Including Men’s and Women’s 125th Anniversary Outerwear, T-Shirts and Accessories

 

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – In celebration of 125 years of iconic, American craftsmanship, Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced an exclusive, limited-edition motorcycle and apparel collection. Featuring four hand-painted models with exclusive 125th anniversary badging and premium componentry, the 125th Anniversary Collection and apparel line offers riders an exclusive opportunity to own a piece of Indian Motorcycle history.

“One hundred and twenty five years is a historic milestone and a true testament to the riders whose passion for the brand kept the spirit of Indian Motorcycle alive and remains our driving force to this day,” said Mike Kennedy, Indian Motorcycle CEO. “As we celebrate our anniversary, this special-edition collection of motorcycles and apparel reflects our pride as an iconic American brand and our unyielding commitment to craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and class-leading performance.”

Each model within the 125th Anniversary Collection is meticulously hand-painted, reflecting an exceptional level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. A 125th Anniversary Red with Black Crystal paint scheme delivers a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that celebrates the rich history of Indian Motorcycle. Base paint begins with the iconic Indian Motorcycle Red and is then enhanced with metallic micro-flakes that create a richer, more dynamic aesthetic, giving the lineup a distinctive presence unlike anything in Indian Motorcycle’s lineup. Obsessive attention to detail highlights Indian Motorcycle’s craftsmanship that has defined the brand since 1901, including 125th anniversary pinstriping on each model with ghosted details reading, “ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY.” With limited quantities globally, every bike dons a unique serial number, further proving the collection’s exclusivity.

“This lineup represents the highest level of craftsmanship we’ve ever achieved. Every motorcycle was painstakingly designed and refined, not just to perform, but to tell a story.,” said Ola Stenegärd, Design Director for Indian Motorcycle. “The design of the 125th Anniversary Collection pays tribute to the legacy that built Indian Motorcycle, making every model not just a machine, but a lasting symbol of our history and our commitment to American craftsmanship.”

Each anniversary model comes equipped with Indian Motorcycle’s Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND+. Riders can operate their infotainment system via hand controls or the full-color 4-inch touchscreen display on Scout and Chief and the 7-inch touchscreen display on Indian Challenger and Roadmaster. Features across the lineup include vehicle locator, maintenance reminders, gauge configurations, detailed bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation with connected services, such as live weather and traffic overlays. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth® or USB.

In addition to its lineup of limited-edition 125th Anniversary motorcycles, Indian Motorcycle has developed a complementary limited-edition apparel collection, headlined by a collaboration with DIXXON Flannel. Reflecting the aesthetics of the 125th Anniversary motorcycle collection, the eight-piece, limited-edition apparel line features the same color palette and exclusive design details, underscoring the rarity of each item. The curated selection blends iconic motorcycle-inspired styles from past and present, including a limited-edition flannel by DIXXON, a leather jacket, varsity jacket, crewneck sweatshirt, men’s and women’s T-shirts and a hat.

Showcasing the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, each piece incorporates signature detailing both inside and out, with special-edition 125th graphics appearing as prints, embroidery, patches, and appliques. A nod to the 125th anniversary, there are only 125 leather jackets in quantity nationwide.

Designed with the same precision and heritage-inspired style as the 125th Anniversary Collection, the entire apparel collection is available exclusively at Indian Motorcycle dealerships. Pricing ranges from $12.99-$399.99 with women’s sizing from XS-3XL and men’s sizing from S-3XL.

The 125th Anniversary Collection will begin shipping to dealers this month.

 

 

 

2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

125th Anniversary Paint Scheme
The Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition takes that legacy further with 125th Anniversary Red that fades into Black Crystal, “One Hundred Twenty-Fifth Anniversary” branded pinstriping and hand-applied details refined at every edge. Each Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition is hand-painted and takes over 14 hours to complete.

Thunderstroke 116
The Thunderstroke 116 delivers power with purpose. With 120 ft-lbs of torque that demands attention, it doesn’t fade into the background. It announces itself. Painted cylinder heads, pushrod tubes, and non-machined fins reflect the manufacturing processes of the 1940s—black cylinders paired with silver-painted heads that echo the raw aluminum of the original Chief engines. Engineering exposed. Nothing hidden.

125th Anniversary Details
The floating solo seat on the Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition looks like it could’ve rolled out of a factory seventy years ago, but the ergonomics are thoroughly modern. The seat is crafted with premium leather and an embossed 125th Anniversary logo with color-matched stitching. Each unit is individually numbered and with only 250 units available globally, this Anniversary Edition exudes exclusivity.

Iconic Indian Motorcycle Headdress
The valanced fenders, narrow rear subframe, and Vintage Bars aren’t throwback, they’re the original blueprint we created. Wire wheels are tucked under the valanced fenders with an illuminated headdress up front, an Indian Motorcycle signature since 1947.

Rider Centric Features
Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition comes with three ride modes, Tour, Standard, or Sport, and modern features that include full LED lighting, keyless ignition, cruise control, rear cylinder deactivation, ABS, and Metzeler CruiseTec® tires that offer supreme traction.

Ride & Ownership Enhancements
Design detail meets modern function with the 4″ Display, powered by RIDE COMMAND. Experience effortless cruising with GPS navigation, Bluetooth® connection, and other ride-enhancing features. Go beyond the ride and elevate ownership with RIDE COMMAND+ connected technology, offering Bike Health, Bike Locator and more.

 

 

A LEGEND REBORN FOR THE ROAD AHEAD
Chief Vintage stands as the true expression of the American cruiser. Born from the lines of the original Chief it carries forward the design that defined an era and still defines a category. From the flowing valanced fenders to the commanding Thunderstroke motor Chief Vintage is built with purpose, precision, and pride. A continuation of what we started 125 years ago. Not a copy of it.

HERITAGE INSPIRED DESIGN
Wire wheels and valanced fenders made Indian Motorcycles unmistakable in the 1940s—and they still do. The Chief Vintage carries that same signature look, now paired with the handling and balance that riders of the past could only imagine. Wider tires, refined suspension, and blacked-out finishes give it a stance that’s both purposeful and poised.

THUNDERSTROKE ENGINE FINISHES
The Thunderstroke engine’s black cylinders and silver-painted heads reflect the manufacturing process of the 1940s, echoing a legacy of precision that still drives every build today. Classic character. Modern refinement. 120 ft-lbs of power to move you.

VINTAGE SOLO SEAT
The Vintage Solo Seat bridges eras of design. Its silhouette could have rolled off the line eighty years ago, yet its ergonomics are entirely modern—upright, relaxed, and built for long rides that go well past a full tank.

ICONIC LIT HEADDRESS
Up front, the illuminated headdress shines from the valanced fender—a hallmark of Indian Motorcycle since 1947 and a detail that still turns heads at every stoplight.

VINTAGE HANDLEBARS
Vintage Handlebars place your hands exactly where they belong, while floorboards let you shift your stance for all-day comfort.

RIDER CENTRIC FEATURES​
Chief Vintage comes with three ride modes, Tour, Standard, or Sport, and modern features that include full LED lighting, keyless ignition, cruise control, rear cylinder deactivation, ABS, and Metzeler CruiseTec® tires that offer supreme traction.

RIDE & OWNERSHIP ENHANCEMENTS
Classic design detail meets modern function with the 4″ Display powered by RIDE COMMAND. Experience effortless cruising with GPS navigation, Bluetooth® connection, and other ride-enhancing features. Go beyond the ride and elevate ownership with RIDE COMMAND+ connected technology, offering Account Sync and more.

MAKE CHIEF VINTAGE YOUR OWN
For 125 years, every detail has mattered. Our innovative motorcycles deserve accessories that reflect their spirit. Thoughtfully designed for performance, style, and comfort you can rely on. Make your Chief Vintage uniquely yours.

 

 

Modern Performance & Technology

Chief Vintage delivers modern performance and technology wrapped in heritage. Powering the Chief Vintage is Indian Motorcycle’s air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin engine, delivering 120 ft-lbs of torque for effortless passing power in every gear. Three selectable ride modes (Tour, Standard, and Sport) allow riders to tailor throttle response to their preference for a personalized experience.

Delivering industry-leading technology, Chief Vintage is equipped with Indian Motorcycle’s 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND. The 2026 system features an all-new software, improving startup time and loading times by approximately 25 percent. The new software, now available for all Scout and Chief models with the 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND, introduces Indian Motorcycle’s App Enhanced Navigation, delivering seamless integration between a rider’s mobile phone and their on-bike display. With App Enhanced Navigation, riders can intuitively search for destinations on their phone via platforms like Google Maps, Waze and Apple Maps and send them directly via Bluetooth® LE to their bike’s display.

Riders can operate Indian Motorcycle’s 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND via hand controls or the full-color IPS touchscreen. The display offers multiple interface options, including two gauge configurations, detailed bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation with connected services, such as live weather and traffic overlays. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth® or USB. Riders can also access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message history. When connected, incoming calls will appear and can be accepted or declined directly through the RIDE COMMAND system.

Authentic Accessories

 

Comfort & Style

Launching with Chief Vintage is a curated selection of premium accessories designed to elevate every ride. Riders can equip front Highway Bars for low-speed tip-over protection and add Highway Bar Lower Closeouts to reduce wind buffeting and shield against road debris. The 17.8-inch Quick Release Low Windshield delivers added wind protection while maintaining a sleek, low-profile aesthetic. Prioritizing practicality and comfort, Indian Motorcycle’s durable, weather-resistant Vinyl Saddlebags provide more than five gallons of storage per bag. Complementing the collection, select Premium Handle Grips elevate both style and tactile feel, while available rider floorboards offer a wider, more stable platform for increased comfort and control.

 

For two-up riding and all-day comfort, riders can pair the Classic Solo Seat with a matching Passenger Pillion. A Passenger Touring Backrest Pad can also be added, enhancing comfort and making two-up riding more accessible—all without compromising the bike’s classic styling.

 

Performance & Technology

Chief Vintage includes a range of premium accessories designed to elevate both performance and rider safety. The Pathfinder 5¾-inch Adaptive LED headlight delivers exceptional illumination, automatically adjusting for turns and providing an added layer of safety during night riding. The precision-engineered Chief Stage 1 Slip-On Exhaust produces a deep, powerful tone while improving acceleration and throttle response. Complementing the exhaust, the slash cut tips add bold visual flair and enhance the exhaust growl, with the Thunderstroke Stage 1 High-Flow Air Intake improving engine breathing for smoother, more responsive power delivery.

 

 

 

 

 

2026 Indian Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary – Totalmotorcycle.com Specifications and Technical Details
US MSRP Price: from $24,999 USD
Canada MSRP Price: from $31,324 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: from £22,855 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/ Collector at Catalyst

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 Gallons (15.1 L)

Ground Clearance

4.9 in (125 mm)

GVWR

1,160 lbs (526 kg)

Lean Angle

28.5°

Overall Height

46.3 in (1,175 mm)

Overall Length

96.1 in (2,441 mm)

Overall Width

34.9 in (887 mm)

Rake/Trail

29° / 5.2 in (131.5 mm)

Seat Height (Laden)

27 in (686 mm)

Weight (Dry Weight / Running Order)

698 lbs (317 kg) / 721 lbs (327 kg)

Wheelbase

64 in (1,626 mm)

BRAKES

Front Brakes

Single / 298mm Floating Rotor / 4 Piston Caliper

Rear Brakes

Single / 298mm Floating Rotor / 2 Piston Caliper

TIRES / WHEELS

Front Tires

Metzeler Cruisetec® 130/90 B16 73H

Front Wheel

Wire Wheel 16 in x 3.0 in

Rear Tires

Metzeler Cruisetec® 150/80B16

Rear Wheel

Wire Wheel 16 in x 3.5 in

SUSPENSION

Front Fork Tube Diameter

46 mm

Front Suspension

Telescopic Fork

Front Travel

5.2 in (132 mm)

Rear Suspension

Dual Shocks

Rear Travel

3.0 in (75 mm)

FEATURES

Color / Graphics

125th Anniversary Red with Black Crystal

Factory Warranty

2 Years, Unlimited Miles

Lights

Adaptive LED Headlight, LED Tail/Brake/Turn Signals

Passenger Accommodations

Solo Seat, 2-up Accessory Options

Standard Equipment

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

Storage

N/A, Optional Storage Accessories

TECHNOLOGY

Audio

N/A, Accessory Bluetooth® Speaker Available

Gauge

Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, Fuel Gauge, Compass, Ambient Temperature, Gear Indicator

RIDE COMMAND

4″ Display Factory-Installed with GPS Navigation, Bluetooth® Connectivity, Ride Stats, and More

RIDE COMMAND+

Factory-Installed TCU for One-Year Free* with Bike Health, Bike Locator, Account Sync and More *After which an annual fee applies.

STYLE

Design

125th Anniversary Paint Scheme, 125th Anniversary Badges, Valanced Fenders with Lit Headdress, Turbo Silver Engine Finishes, Vintage Floating Seat, Vintage Handlebars, Wire Wheels, and Floorboards.

 

 

 

 

 

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

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