After Indian massively revamped its entire Chief series in 2022, there still remained a noticeable gap in the lineup; a sportier, better handling version of the cruiser to take on the likes of Harley’s Low Rider. Enter the Sport Chief, introduced last year as the newest member of the family, and configured to run with the rest of the performance cruiser crowd thanks to its improved ergonomics and upgraded suspension and braking components.
And while it also carries the same new steel-tube frame with a cast-aluminum rear subframe, the Sport Chief’s geometry, component list, and rolling stock—as well as its appealing visuals—make it different enough to warrant its own model designation. The Sport’s tweaked geometry includes a 28-degree rake (1 degree less than the Chief and its variants) and slightly less trail with 4.4 inches, giving it a nice compromise between agility and stability, despite its slightly longer 64.6-inch wheelbase. Premium chassis components include a pair of Fox piggyback shocks with increased rear-wheel travel, an inverted KYB fork, and a pair of four-piston Brembo brakes and 320mm rotors working on the 19-inch front wheel. You’ll also find mid-mount foot controls and a 6-inch handlebar riser to put the rider in a better position to exploit the bike’s nimbler character, while the gunfighter saddle and quarter fairing nod to the Sport’s West Coast–style aspirations.
As you’d expect, the Sport Chief gets its motivation from the burly Thunderstroke 116 mill, said to produce 120 lb.-ft. of peak torque and flowing through a six-speed gearbox, with riders able to dial in power preferences via three ride modes. The Sport also features the round 4-inch TFT display with Ride Command to display the usual bike functions as well as offering turn-by-turn navigation and various weather and traffic overlays.
You’ll dole out $19,999 to claim the Sport Chief in Black Smoke, while the Ghost White Metallic Smoke, Sunset Red Smoke, or Granite Gray colors add $500 to that amount. The priciest option is Smoky Quartz Metallic Pearl, at $20,999.
