The Roadmaster, Indian Motorcycle’s top-trunk-equipped full-dress touring machine, benefits this year from several important updates, including selectable ride modes. With the touch of a button, you can choose from Tour, Standard, or Sport to alter the performance of the torquey Thunder Stroke 111 V-twin based on how and where you are riding. In addition, when the engine is at operating temperature, ambient temperature is above 59 degrees Fahrenheit, and the bike is at a standstill, the rear cylinder will now automatically shut off, improving both rider and passenger comfort, especially when you are idling through slow-moving or stopped traffic. The rest of Indian’s heavyweight touring bikes also enjoys this feature.
Furthermore, the audio system is upgraded so you can really rock out while on the road. The tweeters have been removed from the midrange speakers and repositioned for improved output, and the fully adjustable equalizer now monitors and corrects specific frequencies at varying speeds to provide peak performance in different environments. Finally, the redesigned fairing is fitted with closable vents in the lower panels, and the saddlebags offer greater carrying capacity.
Likes: New selectable ride modes and stellar audio output
Dislikes: Styling too similar to that of other American V-twin tourers
Verdict: An open-road favorite made even better with recent upgrades
Do you want to make a rolling statement on the highways and back roads of middle America? Nothing speaks louder than a big-inch air-cooled V-twin. Styling changes made this year to the 2019 Indian Roadmaster definitely achieved the designers’ goals of making the bike look a touch more aggressive.
Are you after an American-made V-twin? The 2019 Indian Roadmaster is a great choice for anyone who wants to travel great distances in comfort and style. That said, the Roadmaster has a lot of competition, including the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Classic, Ultra Limited, and Ultra Limited Low.
The Roadmaster has many standard features, including Ride Command, a customizable system with a large touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, and vehicle information. The Roadmaster comes in five colors: Thunder Black, Burgundy Metallic, Polished Bronze/Thunder Black, Pearl White/Star Silver, or Steel Gray Smoke/Thunder Gray Smoke.